The Watchtower — March 1, 2006

Where Are Christ’s Teachings Applied Today?

JESUS CHRIST is widely viewed as one of the greatest men who ever lived. Many consider him to be the greatest man. For almost two thousand years, his teachings have profoundly influenced lives​—“small unnoticed lives of kindness and goodness as well as ambitious philanthropic gestures,” writes English author Melvyn Bragg.

What About Christianity?

What about Christianity? It has been described as “one of mankind’s greatest spiritual advances.” One viewpoint was expressed by David Kelso of Glasgow Caledonian University, Scotland. He wrote: “Its two thousand years of history are studded with unparalleled achievements in the realms of art, architecture, philosophy, music and social action.”

Many others, however, view things differently. Their problem is not with Christianity as it is defined in one dictionary: “A religion that is based on the teachings of Jesus Christ and the belief that he was the son of God.” (Collins Cobuild) Rather, they are repelled by the conduct of the religious institutions and organizations that claim to represent Christianity.

Nineteenth-century German philosopher Friedrich Nietzsche, for example, described Christianity in the latter sense as “the one immortal blemish of mankind.” It is, he wrote, “the one great curse, the one enormous and innermost perversion, . . . for which no means are too venomous, too underhand, too underground and too petty.” Granted, Nietzsche had extreme views, but a number of more reasonable observers have come to similar conclusions. Why? Because over the centuries the conduct of those claiming to be Christians has been marked, not by the qualities of Jesus Christ, but by widespread “decadence, monstrous crimes and blasphemies.”

Is Christ in Christianity?

It is not unreasonable, then, to ask, “Is Christ still in Christianity?” “Of course he is!” some will immediately say. “Did he not promise his followers that he would be with them ‘even unto the end of the world’?” (Matthew 28:20, King James Version) Yes, Jesus did say that. But did he mean that he would be with everyone who claimed to be his follower, regardless of that person’s conduct?

Remember, some religious leaders in Jesus’ day felt that God was unconditionally with them. Since God had chosen Israel for a special role, some religious leaders thought that God would never abandon them​—no matter what they did. (Micah 3:11) Eventually, however, they went too far in their rejection of God’s laws and standards. As a result, Jesus Christ told them frankly: “Look! Your house is abandoned to you.” (Matthew 23:38) An entire religious system lost God’s favor. He rejected it and let the Roman armies destroy its capital city, Jerusalem, and its temple in 70 C.E.

Could something similar happen to Christianity? Let us consider what conditions Jesus attached to his promise to be with his followers till “the end of the world.”

[Pictures on page 2, 3]

The teachings of Jesus Christ have a profound influence on millions worldwide

Who Are Genuine Christians?

“CHRISTIANITY exists only where the memory of Jesus Christ is activated in theory and practice.” (On Being a Christian) With those words, Swiss theologian Hans Küng states a self-evident truth: Genuine Christianity exists only where sincere individuals put Jesus’ teachings into practice.

What, then, if individuals or institutions claim to be followers of Christ but do not, in fact, practice what Jesus taught? Jesus himself said that many would claim to be Christians. They would point to various activities to prove that they had served him, saying: “Did we not prophesy in your name, and expel demons in your name, and perform many powerful works in your name?” How, though, would Jesus react? His dramatic words express his judgment: “I never knew you! Get away from me, you workers of lawlessness.”​—Matthew 7:22, 23.

What a stark warning for “workers of lawlessness” who claim to follow Jesus! Consider two fundamental conditions that Jesus sets if he is to recognize people as genuine Christians rather than reject them as workers of lawlessness.

“If You Have Love Among Yourselves”

One condition Jesus sets is this: “I am giving you a new commandment, that you love one another; just as I have loved you, that you also love one another. By this all will know that you are my disciples, if you have love among yourselves.”​—John 13:34, 35.

Jesus requires his followers to have genuine love for one another and for the rest of mankind. Many individual Christians have fulfilled that condition during the centuries since Jesus walked the earth. But what about most of the religious organizations that have claimed to represent Christ? Has their history been marked by love? Certainly not. Instead, they have been in the forefront of countless wars and conflicts in which innocent blood has been spilled.​—Revelation 18:24.

That has been true right up to modern times. Nations claiming to be Christian took the lead in the slaughter that marked the two world wars of the 20th century. More recently, members of so-called Christian churches were in the forefront of the savage atrocities and attempted genocide that took place in Rwanda in 1994. “Those who had turned against one another in this gory fashion,” writes former Anglican archbishop Desmond Tutu, “espoused the same faith. Most were Christian.”

“If You Remain in My Word”

A second fundamental requirement for genuine Christianity was spelled out by Jesus when he said: “If you remain in my word, you are really my disciples, and you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.”​—John 8:31, 32.

Jesus expects his followers to remain in his word​—that is, to stick to his teachings. Instead, religious teachers claiming to follow Christ have “increasingly adopted Greek concepts,” notes theologian Küng. They have replaced Jesus’ teachings with, among others, ideas like the immortality of the soul, a belief in purgatory, worship of Mary, and a clergy class​—ideas borrowed from pagan religions and philosophers.​—1 Corinthians 1:19-21; 3:18-20.

Religious teachers also introduced the incomprehensible doctrine of the Trinity, elevating Jesus to a position he never claimed for himself. In the process, they distracted people from worshipping the one to whom Jesus always directed attention​—his Father, Jehovah. (Matthew 5:16; 6:9; John 14:28; 20:17) “When Jesus speaks of God,” writes Hans Küng, “he means the ancient God of the patriarchs Abraham, Isaac and Jacob: Yahweh . . . For him this is the one and sole God.” How many people today immediately associate Jesus’ God and Father with Yahweh, or Jehovah, as his name is commonly written in the English language?

Religious leaders have completely departed from Jesus’ command to stay neutral in political affairs. In Jesus’ day, Galilee “was the heartland of ethnic nationalism,” states writer Trevor Morrow. Many Jewish patriots took up arms to gain political and religious freedom. Did Jesus tell his disciples to get involved in such struggles? No. On the contrary, he told them: “You are no part of the world.” (John 15:19; 17:14) Instead of remaining neutral, however, church leaders developed what Irish writer Hubert Butler describes as “militant and political ecclesiasticism.” “Political Christianity,” he writes, “is almost always also militarist Christianity and when statesmen and ecclesiastics come to terms it always happens that, in return for certain privileges, the Church gives its blessing to the military forces of the state.”

False Teachers Disown Jesus

The apostle Paul warned of a falling away from genuine Christianity. He said that after his death, “oppressive wolves” from among professed Christians would “speak twisted things to draw away the disciples after themselves.” (Acts 20:29, 30) They would “publicly declare they know God,” but in reality they would “disown him by their works.” (Titus 1:16) The apostle Peter likewise warned that false teachers would “quietly bring in destructive sects and [would] disown even the owner that bought them.” Their bad conduct, he said, would cause people to speak “abusively” about “the way of the truth.” (2 Peter 2:1, 2) To disown Christ in this way, says Greek scholar W. E. Vine, means to “deny the Father and the Son, by apostatizing and by disseminating pernicious teachings.”

How would Jesus react if professed disciples deliberately failed to “remain in [his] word” and to meet other requirements that he set out? He warned: “Whoever disowns me before men, I will also disown him before my Father who is in the heavens.” (Matthew 10:33) Of course, Jesus does not disown someone who makes a mistake despite his earnest desire to be faithful. For example, although the apostle Peter denied Jesus three times, Peter repented and was forgiven. (Matthew 26:69-75) However, Jesus disowns individuals or institutions that turn out to be wolves in sheep’s clothing​—pretending to follow Christ but willfully and persistently rejecting his teachings. Of such false teachers, Jesus said: “By their fruits you will recognize those men.”​—Matthew 7:15-20.

Apostles Die, and Apostasy Develops

When did false Christians begin to disown Christ? Very shortly after Jesus’ death. He himself warned that Satan the Devil would quickly oversow “weeds,” or false Christians, among the “fine seed,” or genuine Christians, that Jesus planted during his ministry. (Matthew 13:24, 25, 37-39) The apostle Paul warned that deceptive teachers were already at work in his day. The fundamental reason for their deviation from the teachings of Jesus Christ, he said, was that they had no real “love of the truth.”​—2 Thessalonians 2:10.

The apostles of Jesus Christ acted as a restraint against this apostasy for as long as they lived. After the death of the apostles, however, religious leaders using “every powerful work and lying signs and portents and . . . every unrighteous deception” in order to mislead many turned more and more people away from the truths taught by Jesus and his apostles. (2 Thessalonians 2:3, 6-12) In time, writes English philosopher Bertrand Russell, the original Christian congregation was changed into a religious organization that “would astonish Jesus, and even Paul.”

Genuine Christianity Restored

The record is clear. Since the death of the apostles, Christ has not been in much of what has taken place in the name of Christianity. However, that does not mean that Jesus has failed to keep his promise to be with his followers “all the days until the conclusion of the system of things.” (Matthew 28:20) We can be sure that ever since he said those words, there have been faithful individuals among whom “the memory of Jesus Christ [has been] activated in theory and practice.” Jesus Christ has kept his promise to support such ones as they have endeavored to show the love that marks true Christians and to remain loyal to the truths that he taught.

Even better, Jesus promised that in the last days of this system of things, he would gather his faithful disciples into a clearly identifiable Christian congregation that he would use to accomplish his will. (Matthew 24:14, 45-47) He is right now using that congregation to gather together “a great crowd” of men, women, and children “out of all nations and tribes and peoples and tongues,” and he is uniting them under his headship into “one flock” under “one shepherd.”​—Revelation 7:9, 14-17; John 10:16; Ephesians 4:11-16.

Turn away, then, from any institutions or organizations that have besmirched the name of Christ and defamed Christianity over the past two thousand years. Otherwise, as Jesus Christ told the apostle John, you could “receive part of [their] plagues” when God executes his judgment on them in the near future. (Revelation 1:1; 18:4, 5) Make it your resolve to be among those spoken about by the prophet Micah when he said that “in the final part of the days,” true worshippers​—adherents of true Christianity—​would listen to God’s instructions and “walk in his paths” of restored pure worship. (Micah 4:1-4) The publishers of this magazine will be happy to help you identify those true worshippers.

[Pictures on page 5]

Why do genuine Christians not participate in warfare?

[Credit Lines]

Soldiers, left: U.S. National Archives photo; flamethrower, right: U.S. Army Photo

[Pictures on page 7]

“Have love among yourselves” and “remain in my word” are fundamental conditions that Jesus sets for genuine Christians

Jehovah’s Word Is Alive

Highlights From the Book of Esther

THE plan simply cannot fail. The massacre of the Jews will be thorough and efficient. On a single predetermined day, all the Jews living in the empire, which stretches from India to Ethiopia, will be annihilated. That is what the planner of the scheme thinks. One vital detail, though, has escaped his attention. The God of the heavens can deliver his chosen people out of any desperate situation. The deliverance is recorded in the Bible book of Esther.

Written by an elderly Jewish man named Mordecai, the book of Esther covers a period of some 18 years during the reign of the Persian King Ahasuerus, or Xerxes I. This dramatic narrative shows how Jehovah saves his people from the evil designs of their enemies, even though his servants are widely dispersed throughout a vast empire. Today, that knowledge is indeed faith-strengthening to Jehovah’s people, who are rendering sacred service to him in 235 lands. Moreover, the characters portrayed in the book of Esther provide examples for us to imitate and others that we want to avoid. Indeed, “the word of God is alive and exerts power.”​—Hebrews 4:12.

THE QUEEN MUST INTERCEDE

(Esther 1:1–5:14)

In his third regnal year (493 B.C.E.), King Ahasuerus holds a royal banquet. Queen Vashti, renowned for her loveliness, incurs the king’s great displeasure and is deprived of her rank. The Jewess Hadassah is selected from all the beautiful virgins of the land to take her place. At her cousin Mordecai’s direction, she conceals her Jewish identity and uses her Persian name, Esther.

In time, a haughty man named Haman is exalted to the position of prime minister. Haman is enraged at Mordecai’s refusal to ‘bow low or prostrate himself to Haman,’ so he schemes to annihilate all the Jews in the Persian Empire. (Esther 3:2) Haman persuades Ahasuerus to agree with him and succeeds in getting the king to issue a decree to accomplish this massacre. Mordecai is in “sackcloth and ashes.” (Esther 4:1) Esther must now intervene. She invites the king and his prime minister to a private banquet. When they gladly attend, Esther petitions them to come for another banquet the next day. Haman is joyful. However, he is infuriated by Mordecai’s refusal to honor him. Haman lays out a plan to kill Mordecai before the banquet the next day.

Scriptural Questions Answered:

1:3-5​—Did the banquet last for 180 days? The text does not state that the banquet lasted that long but that the king showed the officials the riches and the beauty of his glorious kingdom for 180 days. Perhaps the king used this lengthy event to show off the glory of his kingdom in order to impress the nobles and convince them of his ability to carry out his plans. In that case, verses 3 and 5 could refer to the 7-day banquet that took place at the end of the 180-day gathering.

1:8​—In what way was there ‘no one compelling as regards the time of drinking according to the law’? On this occasion, King Ahasuerus made an exception to what appears to have been a Persian custom of urging one another to drink a certain amount at such gatherings. “They could drink as much or as little as they desired,” says one reference work.

1:10-12​—Why did Queen Vashti keep refusing to come to the king? Some scholars suggest that the queen refused to obey because she chose not to degrade herself before the king’s drunken guests. Or perhaps this outwardly beautiful queen really was not submissive. While the Bible does not state her motive, the wise men of the day thought that obedience to the husband was definitely an issue and that Vashti’s bad example would influence all the wives in the provinces of Persia.

2:14-17​—Did Esther have immoral sexual relations with the king? The answer is no. The account says that in the morning the other women brought to the king were returned to the second house under the charge of the king’s eunuch, “the guardian of the concubines.” The women who spent the night with the king thus became his concubines, or secondary wives. However, Esther was not taken to the house of concubines after seeing the king. When Esther was brought before Ahasuerus, “the king came to love Esther more than all the other women, so that she gained more favor and loving-kindness before him than all the other virgins.” (Esther 2:17) How did she gain Ahasuerus’ “favor and loving-kindness”? The same way she had won the favor of others. “The young woman was pleasing in [Hegai’s] eyes, so that she gained loving-kindness before him.” (Esther 2:8, 9) Hegai favored her strictly on the basis of what he observed​—her appearance and good qualities. In fact, “Esther was continually gaining favor in the eyes of everyone seeing her.” (Esther 2:15) Similarly, the king was impressed with what he saw in Esther and therefore came to love her.

3:2; 5:9​—Why did Mordecai refuse to bow down to Haman? It was not wrong for the Israelites to acknowledge the superior position of an exalted personage by prostrating themselves. However, in the case of Haman, more was involved. Haman was an Agagite, probably an Amalekite, and Jehovah had marked Amalek for extermination. (Deuteronomy 25:19) For Mordecai, bowing down to Haman was an issue of integrity to Jehovah. He flatly refused, stating that he was a Jew.​—Esther 3:3, 4.

Lessons for Us:

2:10, 20; 4:12-16. Esther accepted direction and counsel from a mature worshipper of Jehovah. We are wise to “be obedient to those who are taking the lead among [us] and be submissive.”​—Hebrews 13:17.

2:11; 4:5. We should ‘keep an eye, not in personal interest upon just our own matters, but also in personal interest upon those of the others.’​—Philippians 2:4.

2:15. Esther showed modesty and self-control by not requesting additional jewelry or finer clothing than what was provided by Hegai. It was “the secret person of the heart in the incorruptible apparel of the quiet and mild spirit” that won Esther the king’s favor.​—1 Peter 3:4.

2:21-23. Esther and Mordecai were good examples of “subjection to the superior authorities.”​—Romans 13:1.

3:4. In some situations, it may be prudent to remain silent about our identity, as Esther was about hers. However, when it comes to taking a stand on important issues, such as Jehovah’s sovereignty and our integrity, we must not be afraid to make known that we are Jehovah’s Witnesses.

4:3. When faced with trials, we should prayerfully turn to Jehovah for strength and wisdom.

4:6-8. Mordecai sought a legal solution to the threat created by Haman’s conspiracy.​—Philippians 1:7.

4:14. Mordecai’s confidence in Jehovah was exemplary.

4:16. With full reliance on Jehovah, Esther faithfully and courageously faced a situation that could have resulted in her death. It is vital that we learn to rely on Jehovah and not on ourselves.

5:6-8. In order to win the goodwill of Ahasuerus, Esther invited him to a second banquet. She acted with prudence, as we should.​—Proverbs 14:15.

ONE REVERSAL AFTER ANOTHER

(Esther 6:1–10:3)

As the events unfold, the tables turn. Haman is hanged on the stake that he has made for Mordecai, and the intended victim becomes the prime minister! What about the planned massacre of the Jews? That too must undergo a dramatic reversal.

Faithful Esther speaks up again. Risking her life, she appears before the king with a plea in order to find some way to undo the scheme of Haman. Ahasuerus knows what needs to be done. So when the day of their massacre finally arrives, not the Jews, but those seeking to harm them are killed. Mordecai decrees that the Festival of Purim be held each year to commemorate this great deliverance. As second only to King Ahasuerus, Mordecai ‘works for the good of his people and speaks peace to all their offspring.’​—Esther 10:3.

Scriptural Questions Answered:

7:4​—How would an annihilation of the Jews bring “damage to the king”? By tactfully pointing out the possibility of selling the Jews as slaves, Esther brought to the fore the matter of damage to the king by their destruction. The 10,000 silver pieces that Haman had promised were far less profitable to the king’s treasury than the wealth that could have been generated if Haman had schemed to sell the Jews as slaves. The execution of the plot would also have meant the loss of the queen.

7:8​—Why did court officials cover Haman’s face? This was likely to suggest shamefulness or impending doom. According to one reference work, “the ancients sometimes covered the heads of those about to be executed.”

8:17​—In what way were ‘many of the peoples of the land declaring themselves Jews’? Many of the Persians evidently became Jewish proselytes, thinking that the counterdecree was an indication of God’s favor upon the Jews. The same principle is in operation in the fulfillment of a prophecy found in the book of Zechariah. It states: “Ten men out of all the languages of the nations will take hold, yes, they will actually take hold of the skirt of a man who is a Jew, saying: ‘We will go with you people, for we have heard that God is with you people.’”​—Zechariah 8:23.

9:10, 15, 16​—Even though the decree authorized plundering of the spoil, why did the Jews refrain from doing so? Their refusal left no doubt that their purpose was self-preservation, not self-enrichment.

Lessons for Us:

6:6-10. “Pride is before a crash, and a haughty spirit before stumbling.”​—Proverbs 16:18.

7:3, 4. Do we courageously identify ourselves as Jehovah’s Witnesses, even though doing so may mean persecution?

8:3-6. We can and should appeal to governmental authorities and judicial courts for protection from enemies.

8:5. Esther tactfully did not mention the king’s responsibility in the decree designed to annihilate her people. Similarly, we need to be tactful when giving a witness to high officials.

9:22. We should not forget the poor among us.​—Galatians 2:10.

Jehovah Will Provide “Relief and Deliverance”

Mordecai alludes to God’s purpose in Esther’s attaining royal dignity. When threatened, the Jews fast and pray for help. The queen appears before the king uninvited and is favorably received each time. The king cannot fall asleep precisely on the critical night. Indeed, the book of Esther is about Jehovah’s maneuvering of events for the benefit of his people.

The exciting account of Esther is of particular encouragement to us living in “the time of the end.” (Daniel 12:4) “In the final part of the days,” or in the final part of the time of the end, Gog of Magog​—Satan the Devil—​will make an all-out attack on Jehovah’s people. His aim will be nothing less than extermination of true worshippers. But as in Esther’s day, Jehovah will provide “relief and deliverance” for his worshippers.​—Ezekiel 38:16-23; Esther 4:14.

[Picture on page 10]

Esther and Mordecai before Ahasuerus

Life Story

Knowing What Is Right and Doing It

AS TOLD BY HADYN SANDERSON

Jesus once told his apostles: “If you know these things, happy you are if you do them.” (John 13:17) Yes, we may know what is right, but at times, the challenge is to do it! However, after living more than 80 years, 40 of which I have spent in missionary service, I am convinced that Jesus’ words are true. Doing what God says truly leads to happiness. Let me explain.

IN 1925, when I was three years old, my parents attended a Bible talk in our hometown of Newcastle, Australia. The talk, “Millions Now Living Will Never Die,” convinced my mother that she had found the truth, and she began to attend Christian meetings regularly. My father’s interest, though, quickly waned. He objected to Mother’s newfound faith and threatened to leave if she did not give it up. Mother loved my father and wanted to keep the family together. Nevertheless, she knew that obedience to God was paramount, and she was determined to do what was right in his eyes. (Matthew 10:34-39) My father left, and afterward I saw him only occasionally.

Looking back, I admire my mother’s loyalty to God. Her decision led to a life of spiritual blessings for my older sister, Beulah, and me. It also taught us an important lesson​—when we know what is right, we must strive to do it.

Tests of Faith

The Bible Students, as Jehovah’s Witnesses were then called, rallied around our family. My grandmother moved in with us and also embraced Bible truth. She and Mother became inseparable companions in the preaching work, where their dignified stature and warm manner won people’s respect.

Meanwhile, older Christian brothers took me under their wing and gave me valuable training. I soon learned to use a testimony card to give simple presentations to people in their homes. I also played recorded Bible talks on a portable gramophone and shared in placard marches through the main street of town. This was difficult, since I struggled with fear of man. However, I knew what was right and was determined to do it.

After completing school, I began working for a bank, which involved traveling to numerous bank branches throughout the state of New South Wales. Although there were few Witnesses in that part of the country, my training helped to keep my faith alive. Mother wrote encouraging letters that strengthened me spiritually.

Those letters gave me help at the right time. World War II had begun, and I faced military conscription. The bank manager was an ardent churchgoer and a local military commander. When I explained my neutral stand as a Christian, he presented me with an ultimatum​—leave my religion or leave the bank! Matters came to a head when I reported to the local army recruiting center. The manager was present and watched with keen interest as I approached the registration table. When I refused to sign the recruiting papers, the officials became hostile. It was a tense moment, but I was determined to do what was right. With Jehovah’s help, I remained calm and resolute. When I later learned that some bullies were looking for me, I quickly packed my things and caught the next train out of town!

After returning to Newcastle, I faced a court hearing along with seven other brothers who had refused military service. The judge sentenced us to three months in jail at hard labor. While prison was an unpleasant experience, doing what was right brought blessings. After our release, one of my cell mates, a fellow Witness named Hilton Wilkinson, invited me to work for him in his photo studio. There I met my future wife, Melody, who worked at the studio as a receptionist. Soon after my release, I was baptized in symbol of my dedication to Jehovah.

Reaching Out for Full-Time Service

After we got married, Melody and I opened our own photo studio in Newcastle. Soon we had so much work that our health and spirituality began to suffer. About that time, Ted Jaracz, who was then serving at the Australia branch office of Jehovah’s Witnesses and who is now a member of the Governing Body, talked to us about our spiritual goals. After that discussion, we decided to sell our business and simplify our life. In 1954 we bought a small trailer, moved to the city of Ballarat in the state of Victoria, and started serving as pioneers, or full-time evangelizers.

As we worked along with the small congregation in Ballarat, Jehovah blessed our efforts. Within 18 months, the number of people attending meetings swelled from 17 to 70. Then came an invitation to take up the traveling ministry, or circuit work, in the state of South Australia. For the next three years, we enjoyed visiting congregations in the city of Adelaide and in the wine and citrus regions along the Murray River. How our lives had changed! We were happy serving in the company of loving brothers and sisters. What a reward for doing what we knew was right!

A Missionary Assignment

In 1958 we advised the Australia branch office of our intention to attend the “Divine Will” International Assembly in New York City later that year. They replied by sending us application forms for the Gilead missionary school in the United States. Since we were in our mid-30’s, we thought that we were too old to attend Gilead. Nevertheless, we sent in our applications and were invited to attend the 32nd class. Halfway through the course, we received our missionary assignment​—India! Despite our initial apprehension, we wanted to do what was right and gladly accepted our assignment.

Traveling by ship, we arrived in Bombay (now Mumbai) early one morning in 1959. Hundreds of sleeping laborers lay sprawled across the wharf. Strange odors filled the air. When the sun rose, it gave us a taste of what lay ahead. Never before had we experienced such heat! A missionary couple, Lynton and Jenny Dower, who had pioneered along with us in Ballarat, welcomed us. They took us to the India branch office and Bethel Home, which consisted of a cramped upstairs apartment located close to the city center. Living in the home were six Bethel volunteer workers. Brother Edwin Skinner, who had served as a missionary in India since 1926, advised us to buy two holdalls, or canvas traveling cases, before we moved on to our assignment. The name holdall was apt, since travelers transported all kinds of items in them. They were a familiar sight on Indian trains and served us well during our later travels.

After a two-day journey by train, we reached our assignment in Tiruchchirappalli, a city in the southern state of Madras (now Tamil Nadu). There, we joined three Indian special pioneers who were witnessing to a population of 250,000 people. Living conditions were primitive. At one time, we had less than $4 (U.S.) left in our pockets. But when that money ran out, Jehovah did not forsake us. One person who was studying the Bible lent us money to rent a home suitable for holding meetings. Once when we were low on food, a neighbor kindly brought us some homemade curry. I loved it, but it was so spicy hot that it gave me hiccups!

Into the Field

Although some people in Tiruchchirappalli spoke English, the majority spoke Tamil. Therefore, we worked hard to learn a simple presentation for field service in that language. That won the respect of many local people.

We thoroughly enjoyed the house-to-house ministry. Indians are hospitable by nature, and most invited us in for refreshments. Since the temperature often hovered at 100 degrees Fahrenheit [40°C], we appreciated their hospitality very much. It was polite to discuss personal matters before we presented our message. Householders often asked my wife and me: “Where are you from? Do you have children? Why not?” At this point, they usually offered to refer us to a good doctor! All the same, those conversations allowed us to introduce ourselves and explain the importance of our Bible-based work.

Most people we witnessed to belonged to the Hindu religion​—a system of beliefs very different from Christianity. Rather than debate the complexities of Hindu philosophy, we simply preached the good news of God’s Kingdom​—and with good results. Within six months, nearly 20 persons began to attend the meetings at our missionary home. One of these individuals was a civil engineer named Nallathambi. He and his son, Vijayalayan, later helped about 50 persons to become servants of Jehovah. Vijayalayan also served for a time at the India branch.

On the Move

We had been in India less than six months when I was invited to serve as the country’s first permanent district overseer. This involved traveling throughout India, organizing assemblies and working along with nine different language groups. It was arduous work. We packed clothes and equipment for six months into three tin trunks and our trusty holdalls and set off from the city of Madras (now Chennai) by train. Since the territory covered by the district was about 4,000 miles [6,500 km] in circumference, we were constantly on the move. On one occasion, we finished an assembly in the southern city of Bangalore on Sunday. Then we traveled north to Darjeeling in the Himalayan foothills to serve another assembly the following week. The journey to Darjeeling involved traveling some 1,700 miles [2,700 km] and making five train changes along the way.

During our early travels, we enjoyed showing the motion picture The New World Society in Action. This film acquainted people with the scope and activity of Jehovah’s earthly organization. Often, hundreds of people attended these showings. On one occasion, we presented the film to a group assembled alongside a road. While the film was running, storm clouds gathered and rapidly bore down upon us. Since a crowd had once rioted when the film was interrupted, I decided to continue the show but to speed it up. Thankfully, the film ended without incident as the first drops of rain began to fall.

In the years that followed, Melody and I traveled to most parts of India. Since each region had its unique food, dress, language, and scenery, it was like traveling from one country to another. What wonderful diversity is found in Jehovah’s creation! This is also true of India’s wildlife. Once, while camping in the Nepalese jungle, we had a good view of a huge tiger. It was a magnificent animal. Seeing it strengthened our desire to be in Paradise, where there will finally be peace between humans and animals.

Organizational Improvements

During those early days, the brothers in India needed to come into closer alignment with Jehovah’s organizational arrangements. In some congregations, men sat on one side of the meeting room while women sat on the other. Meetings rarely started on time. In one location, a loud bell summoned Kingdom publishers to meetings. In other areas, publishers wandered in when the sun reached a certain position in the sky. Assemblies and visits of traveling overseers were irregular. The brothers were willing to do what was right, but they needed training.

In 1959, Jehovah’s organization instituted the Kingdom Ministry School. This worldwide training program helped circuit overseers, special pioneers, missionaries, and congregation elders to carry out their Scriptural responsibilities more effectively. When the school began in India in December 1961, I served as class instructor. Gradually, the results of that training filtered down to congregations around the country, and they moved ahead rapidly. Once the brothers knew what was right, God’s spirit motivated them to do it.

Large conventions also encouraged and unified the brothers. Outstanding among these conventions was the “Everlasting Good News” International Assembly held in New Delhi in 1963. Witnesses from across India traveled thousands of miles to attend that assembly, many spending their entire savings to do so. Since 583 delegates from 27 other lands were also present, it was the first time that local Witnesses could meet and associate with large numbers of visiting brothers.

In 1961, Melody and I were invited to become part of the Bethel family in Bombay, where I later served as a member of the Branch Committee. Other privileges followed. For many years, I served as a zone overseer throughout parts of Asia and the Middle East. Since the preaching work was restricted in many of these countries, the local publishers needed to be “cautious as serpents and yet innocent as doves.”​—Matthew 10:16.

Expansion and Changes

In 1959 when we first arrived in India, 1,514 publishers were active in the country. Today, that number has grown to over 24,000. To accommodate this growth, we twice moved into new Bethel premises in or near Bombay. Then, in March 2002, the Bethel family moved again​—this time to a new complex constructed near Bangalore, in southern India. This modern facility currently houses 240 Bethel members, some of whom translate Bible literature into 20 languages.

Although Melody and I eagerly anticipated moving to Bangalore, poor health forced us to return to Australia in 1999. We now serve as members of the Bethel family in Sydney. Even though we have left India, the love we have for our dear friends and spiritual children in that land remains strong. How enjoyable it is to receive letters from them!

Looking back over more than 50 years of full-time service, Melody and I feel richly blessed. Once, we worked to preserve people’s images on photographic paper, but working to preserve people alive in God’s memory was a far better choice. What precious experiences have resulted from our decision to put God’s will first in life! Yes, doing what God says is right truly leads to happiness!

[Maps on page 15]

(For fully formatted text, see publication)

INDIA

New Delhi

Darjeeling

Bombay (Mumbai)

Bangalore

Madras (Chennai)

Tiruchchirappalli

[Pictures on page 13]

Hadyn and Melody in 1942

[Picture on page 16]

The Bethel family in India, 1975

Wholesome Recreation That Refreshes

“Whether you are eating or drinking or doing anything else, do all things for God’s glory.”​—1 CORINTHIANS 10:31.

1, 2. Why may pleasurable activities be viewed as a “gift of God,” yet what frank warning does the Bible give?

IT IS natural to want to engage in activities that bring us pleasure. Our happy God, Jehovah, wants us to enjoy life, and he furnishes abundant provisions to make that possible. (1 Timothy 1:11; 6:17) Wise King Solomon wrote: “I have come to know that there is nothing better . . . than to rejoice . . . and also that every man should eat and indeed drink and see good for all his hard work. It is the gift of God.”​—Ecclesiastes 3:12, 13.

² Such rejoicing as one pauses to reflect on good work accomplished is indeed refreshing, especially in pleasant association with family or friends. It may properly be viewed as a “gift of God.” Of course, the Creator’s providing so abundantly does not give us license to engage in unrestrained merriment. The Bible condemns drunkenness, gluttony, and immorality, warning that those who practice such things “will not inherit God’s kingdom.”— 1 Corinthians 6:9, 10; Proverbs 23:20, 21; 1 Peter 4:1-4.

3. What will help us to stay spiritually awake and to keep in mind Jehovah’s great day?

³ In these critical last days, as never before, Christians are faced with the challenge of living circumspectly in a corrupt world without adopting its practices. (John 17:15, 16) As foretold, people of today’s generation have become “lovers of pleasures rather than lovers of God” to the extent that they take “no note” of the evidence that the “great tribulation” is just ahead. (2 Timothy 3:4, 5; Matthew 24:21, 37-39) Jesus warned his followers: “Pay attention to yourselves that your hearts never become weighed down with overeating and heavy drinking and anxieties of life, and suddenly that day be instantly upon you as a snare.” (Luke 21:34, 35) As servants of God, we are determined to heed Jesus’ warning. Unlike those in the ungodly world around us, we strive to stay spiritually awake and to keep in mind Jehovah’s great day.​—Zephaniah 3:8; Luke 21:36.

4. (a) Why is it difficult to find acceptable recreation? (b) What counsel found at Ephesians 5:15, 16 do we want to apply?

⁴ Keeping free of the corrupt practices of the world is not easy, since the Devil has made them so desirable and accessible. It is especially difficult when we seek entertainment or recreation. Most of what the world offers is designed to appeal to “fleshly desires.” (1 Peter 2:11) Harmful entertainment is available in public areas, but it can also penetrate the privacy of the home by means of the printed page, TV, the Internet, and videos. Therefore, God’s Word wisely counsels Christians: “Keep strict watch that how you walk is not as unwise but as wise persons, buying out the opportune time for yourselves, because the days are wicked.” (Ephesians 5:15, 16) Only if we follow this counsel closely can we make sure that harmful entertainment will not entice us, absorb us, yes, even destroy our relationship with Jehovah, ending in our destruction!​—James 1:14, 15.

5. From what do we receive our greatest refreshment?

⁵ Since Christians live busy lives, they understandably feel the need on occasion to enjoy some recreational activities. In fact, Ecclesiastes 3:4 says that there is “a time to laugh” and “a time to skip about.” So the Bible does not treat recreation as a waste of time. But recreation should refresh us, not endanger our spirituality or encroach on spiritual activities. Mature Christians know from experience that greater happiness comes from giving. They put the doing of Jehovah’s will foremost in their lives and experience genuine ‘refreshment for their souls’ in accepting Jesus’ kindly yoke.​—Matthew 11:29, 30; Acts 20:35.

Choosing Acceptable Recreation

6, 7. What can help you decide what is acceptable or unacceptable entertainment?

⁶ How can we be sure that a certain form of recreation is acceptable for a Christian? Parents provide guidance for their children, and elders help as needed. Really, though, it should not be necessary for others to tell us that a particular book, movie, game, dance, or song is unacceptable. Paul said that “mature people . . . through use have their perceptive powers trained to distinguish both right and wrong.” (Hebrews 5:14; 1 Corinthians 14:20) The Bible sets forth guiding principles. Your conscience, trained by God’s Word, will help you if you listen to it.​—1 Timothy 1:19.

⁷ Jesus said that “by its fruit the tree is known.” (Matthew 12:33) If a recreational pursuit produces the rotten fruitage of an attraction to violence, immorality, or spiritism, it should be rejected. It is also unacceptable if it endangers one’s life or health, if it causes economic hardship or discouragement, or if it causes others to stumble. The apostle Paul warned us that if we wound the conscience of our brother, we are sinning. Paul wrote: “When you people thus sin against your brothers and wound their conscience that is weak, you are sinning against Christ. Therefore, if food makes my brother stumble, I will never again eat flesh at all, that I may not make my brother stumble.”​—1 Corinthians 8:12, 13.

8. What dangers exist in using electronic games and videos?

⁸ Stores are flooded with electronic games and videos. Some may provide harmless fun and relaxation, but such entertainment increasingly features what the Bible condemns. Surely it is not just innocent fun when a game requires that its players maim and kill or act in a grossly immoral way! Jehovah hates those “loving violence.” (Psalm 11:5; Proverbs 3:31; Colossians 3:5, 6) And if playing a game promotes in you greed or aggression, drains you emotionally, or squanders valuable time, then recognize the spiritual harm it causes and quickly make adjustments.​—Matthew 18:8, 9.

Fulfilling Recreational Needs in Wholesome Ways

9, 10. What can discerning ones do to fulfill their recreational needs?

⁹ At times, Christians ask: “What is acceptable recreation? So much of what the world offers runs counter to Bible standards.” Be assured that satisfying recreation can be found, but it takes effort. It requires forethought and planning, especially on the part of parents. Many find rewarding relaxation within the family circle and in the congregation. Enjoying a leisurely meal while discussing the events of the day or a Bible topic is pleasant and upbuilding. Picnics, appropriate games, camping trips, or hikes can be arranged. Such wholesome recreation can be fun and rewarding.

¹⁰ An elder and his wife who have raised three children report: “From an early age, our children were involved in choosing where we would go on vacation. At times, we allowed each child to invite a good friend, which made the vacation more enjoyable. Certain milestones in our children’s lives were recognized. Periodically, we invited family and friends in the congregation to our home. We had cookouts and played games. We took drives and walks in the mountains, using such occasions to learn about Jehovah’s creation.”

11, 12. (a) What can you do to include others in your plans for occasional recreation? (b) What kind of gatherings have proved unforgettable for many?

¹¹ Can you widen out individually or as a family to include others when making plans for occasional recreation? Some, such as a widow, a single person, or a single-parent family, may need encouragement. (Luke 14:12-14) You might also include a few who are newly associated, being careful, of course, not to expose others to any harmful influence. (2 Timothy 2:20, 21) If infirm ones find it difficult to go out, perhaps arrangements can be made to bring a meal to share with them in their home.​—Hebrews 13:1, 2.

¹² Gatherings at which guests enjoy a simple meal, hear how others became Christians, and learn what has helped them to stay faithful to God have proved unforgettable for many. Bible topics can be brought up for discussion, with all present, including children, being invited to share. Such discussions can be profitable interchanges of encouragement without anyone having to feel uncomfortable or inadequate.

13. How did Jesus and Paul set the example in showing and accepting hospitality?

¹³ Jesus set the proper example in showing and accepting hospitality. He always used such occasions to impart spiritual blessings. (Luke 5:27-39; 10:42; 19:1-10; 24:28-32) His early disciples imitated his example. (Acts 2:46, 47) The apostle Paul wrote: “I am longing to see you, that I may impart some spiritual gift to you in order for you to be made firm; or, rather, that there may be an interchange of encouragement among you, by each one through the other’s faith, both yours and mine.” (Romans 1:11, 12) Similarly, our gatherings should provide the atmosphere for an interchange of encouragement.​—Romans 12:13; 15:1, 2.

Some Reminders and Cautions

14. Why are large social events not advisable?

¹⁴ Having large social events is not advisable, since supervision at such is often difficult. At a time that does not interfere with spiritual activities, a few families may decide to enjoy a picnic together or play a game that is not overly competitive. When some of the elders, ministerial servants, or other mature ones are present at a social gathering, they provide an influence for good and the occasion can be even more refreshing.

15. Why should hosting an event include proper supervision?

¹⁵ At social gatherings, those making the arrangements should not overlook the need for proper supervision. While you enjoy showing hospitality, would you not feel very bad if you learned that because of some negligence on your part, a guest was stumbled by what occurred in your home? Consider the principle discussed at Deuteronomy 22:8. The Israelite who constructed a new home was required to build a parapet around the flat roof, which was often used to entertain guests. Why? “That you may not place bloodguilt upon your house because someone falling might fall from it.” In a similar way, what you do​—without imposing unreasonable restrictions—​to protect your guests at a social gathering should be with their physical and spiritual interests at heart.

16. What discretion should be exercised if alcohol is served at a social gathering?

¹⁶ If alcohol is served at a social gathering, this should be done with great discretion. Many Christian hosts decide to serve alcoholic drinks only if they can personally oversee what their guests are served or consume. Nothing should be permitted that might stumble others or tempt anyone to overindulge. (Ephesians 5:18, 19) For various reasons, some guests may decide to abstain from alcohol. Many places have a minimum legal drinking age, and Christians will be obedient to Caesar’s laws even if these regulations seem overly restrictive.​—Romans 13:5.

17. (a) If music is played at a social event, why is it important that the host be very selective? (b) If there is dancing at a gathering, how should modesty be reflected?

¹⁷ The host should make sure that any music, dancing, or other entertainment is consistent with Christian principles. Musical tastes differ, and a wide variety of music is available. However, much of today’s music promotes a spirit of rebellion, immorality, and violence. There is a need for being selective. Decent music need not necessarily be sedate, but neither should it be sensuous or vulgar, with emphasis on noise and a loud beat. Be careful that you do not leave the choice of music to someone who has yet to appreciate the need for keeping the volume at a moderate level. A dance that involves immodest behavior, emphasizing erotic movements of the hips and breasts, would obviously not be proper for a Christian.​—1 Timothy 2:8-10.

18. How can parents safeguard their children by supervising their social activity?

¹⁸ Christian parents should find out what is planned for any social gatherings that their children are invited to attend, and it would be wise to go along with them in most instances. Sadly, some parents have allowed their children to attend unsupervised parties where several in attendance have been enticed into immorality or other unseemly conduct. (Ephesians 6:1-4) Even if youths are in their late teens and have shown that they can act responsibly, there is still a need to help them to “flee from the desires incidental to youth.”​—2 Timothy 2:22.

19. What reality can help us focus on what we should be “seeking first”?

¹⁹ Occasional recreation and entertainment that is wholesome and refreshing can make life more enjoyable. Jehovah does not deny us this pleasure, but realistically we know that such activities do not in themselves help us to store up any spiritual treasures in heaven. (Matthew 6:19-21) Jesus helped his disciples to understand that “seeking first the kingdom and [God’s] righteousness” is the important thing in life, not what we may eat or drink or wear, “things the nations are eagerly pursuing.”​—Matthew 6:31-34.

20. Faithful servants of Jehovah can anticipate what good things from the Grand Provider?

²⁰ Yes, whether we are “eating or drinking or doing anything else,” we can do “all things for God’s glory,” thanking the Grand Provider for good things enjoyed in moderation. (1 Corinthians 10:31) In his Paradise earth just ahead, there will be endless occasions to enjoy to the full Jehovah’s generosity, along with the wholesome fellowship of all who meet his righteous requirements.​—Psalm 145:16; Isaiah 25:6; 2 Corinthians 7:1.

Do You Remember?

• Why is it difficult for Christians today to find recreation that is wholesome?

• What are some forms of recreation that have proved to be satisfying for Christian families?

• When enjoying wholesome recreation, what reminders and cautions should one keep in mind?

[Picture on page 18]

Choose recreation that produces good fruitage

[Pictures on page 19]

What forms of recreation do Christians reject?

“Keep Your Senses Completely”

“Anyone inexperienced puts faith in every word, but the shrewd one considers his steps.”​—PROVERBS 14:15.

1, 2. (a) What does Lot’s experience in Sodom teach us? (b) What does the expression “keep your senses” mean?

WHEN Abraham offered Lot the first choice of the land, Lot’s eyes were drawn to a well-watered region that was “like the garden of Jehovah.” It must have seemed to be the perfect place to settle his family, since “Lot chose for himself the whole District of the Jordan” and set up camp near Sodom. However, outward appearances were deceptive, for nearby lived “the men of Sodom [who] were bad and were gross sinners against Jehovah.” (Genesis 13:7-13) As events unfolded, Lot and his family suffered terrible losses. Eventually, he and his daughters were reduced to living in a cave. (Genesis 19:17, 23-26, 30) What had looked so good to him at the outset turned out to be just the opposite.

² The account of what befell Lot provides a lesson for servants of God today. When we face decisions, we must be alert to possible dangers and guard against being deceived by first impressions. It is fitting, then, that God’s Word urges us: “Keep your senses completely.” (1 Peter 1:13) The Greek word here rendered “keep your senses” literally means “be sober.” According to Bible scholar R.C.H. Lenski, that soberness is “a calm, steady state of mind which weighs and estimates things aright and thus enables us to make the right decision.” Let us consider some situations that call for us to be sober-minded.

Weighing a Business Opportunity

3. Why is there a need for caution if we are approached with a business opportunity?

³ Suppose you are offered a business opportunity by a respected person, perhaps a fellow worshipper of Jehovah. He is enthusiastic about the prospects for success and encourages you to act quickly so as not to miss out. You may begin to envision a better life for you and your family, perhaps even reasoning that this would enable you to devote more time to spiritual pursuits. However, Proverbs 14:15 cautions: “Anyone inexperienced puts faith in every word, but the shrewd one considers his steps.” In the excitement that often accompanies starting a new business, risks may be underestimated, dangers overlooked, and the uncertainties of being in business not fully considered. (James 4:13, 14) In such a situation, how necessary it would be to keep your senses completely!

4. How can we ‘consider our steps’ when evaluating a business proposal?

⁴ A prudent person carefully examines a business proposal before making a decision. (Proverbs 21:5) Such an examination often reveals hidden dangers. Consider the following scenario: A person is seeking to borrow money in connection with his business plans and offers you a large profit if you lend him funds. The offer may sound tempting, but what are the risks? Does the borrower agree to repay the money regardless of how the business fares, or does repayment depend on the success of the business? In other words, could you lose your money if the business fails? You might also ask: “Why is money being sought from individuals? Do banks view the venture as too risky?” Taking time to consider the risks will help you to evaluate the proposal realistically.​—Proverbs 13:16; 22:3.

5. (a) What wise step did Jeremiah take when he bought a field? (b) Why is it beneficial to document all business arrangements in a formal written agreement?

⁵ When the prophet Jeremiah bought a field from his cousin, who was a fellow worshipper of Jehovah, he made a written record of the transaction before witnesses. (Jeremiah 32:9-12) A wise person today will make sure that all business arrangements he enters, including those with relatives and fellow believers, are documented in a formal written agreement.a Having a clear, well-prepared written agreement helps to prevent misunderstandings and preserve unity. On the other hand, failure to have a written agreement is often a contributing factor when business problems arise between servants of Jehovah. Sadly, such problems can result in heartache, bitterness, and even loss of spirituality.

6. Why do we need to guard against greed?

⁶ We must also guard against greed. (Luke 12:15) The promise of huge profits can blind one to the risks of an unsound business venture. Even some who have enjoyed fine privileges in Jehovah’s service have become entangled in this snare. God’s Word cautions us: “Let your manner of life be free of the love of money, while you are content with the present things.” (Hebrews 13:5) When contemplating a business opportunity, a Christian should consider, ‘Is it really necessary to get involved?’ Leading a simple life centered on our worship of Jehovah will protect us from “all sorts of injurious things.”​—1 Timothy 6:6-10.

Challenges Facing Single Christians

7. (a) What challenges do many single Christians face? (b) How does our choice of a marriage mate involve loyalty to God?

⁷ Many servants of Jehovah long to be married but have not yet found a suitable mate. In some lands, there is strong social pressure to marry. Yet, opportunities to meet a potential mate among fellow believers may be few. (Proverbs 13:12) Christians recognize, though, that heeding the Biblical injunction to marry “only in the Lord” is a matter of loyalty to Jehovah. (1 Corinthians 7:39) To stand firm against the pressures and temptations that they face, single Christians must keep their senses completely.

8. What pressure did a Shulammite girl come under, and how might Christian women today face a similar challenge?

⁸ In the Song of Solomon, a simple country girl called the Shulammite attracts the attention of the king. He woos her with an impressive display of wealth, prestige, and charm, although she is already in love with a young man. (Song of Solomon 1:9-11; 3:7-10; 6:8-10, 13) If you are a Christian woman, you too may find yourself the object of someone’s unwanted attention. A person at your place of employment, perhaps someone in a position of authority, may begin to pay you compliments, do you favors, and seek opportunities to be with you. Be wary of such flattering attention. Although such a person’s intentions are not always romantic or immoral, oftentimes they are. Like the Shulammite maiden, be “a wall.” (Song of Solomon 8:4, 10) Firmly reject unwanted advances. Make it known to your workmates from the very start that you are one of Jehovah’s Witnesses, and take every opportunity to witness to them. That will serve as a protection for you.

9. What are some dangers of entering into a relationship with a stranger on the Internet? (See also the box on page 25.)

⁹ Internet Web sites designed to help single individuals find a marriage partner are becoming popular. Some view these as a way to get to know people whom they would not otherwise meet. However, blindly entering into a relationship with a stranger involves real dangers. On the Internet, it can be difficult to distinguish fact from fiction. (Psalm 26:4) Not everyone who claims to be a servant of Jehovah really is. Moreover, with online dating, a strong attachment can develop quickly, and that can distort one’s judgment. (Proverbs 28:26) Whether via the Internet or by some other means, it is unwise to cultivate a close relationship with a person whom one knows very little about.​—1 Corinthians 15:33.

10. How can single Christians be encouraged by fellow believers?

¹⁰ Jehovah “is very tender in affection” for his servants. (James 5:11) He knows that the challenges facing Christians who are involuntarily single are at times disheartening, and he treasures their loyalty. How can others encourage them? We should regularly commend them for their obedience and self-sacrificing spirit. (Judges 11:39, 40) We can also include them in arrangements for upbuilding association. Have you done that recently? Moreover, we can pray for them, asking Jehovah to help them keep their spiritual balance and find joy in serving him. By our sincere interest, may we show that we appreciate these loyal ones as Jehovah does.​—Psalm 37:28.

Dealing With Health Problems

11. What challenges do serious health problems present?

¹¹ How distressing it is when we or a loved one faces serious health problems! (Isaiah 38:1-3) While we seek to find effective treatment, it is vital that we adhere to Scriptural principles. For example, Christians are careful to obey the Bible’s command to abstain from blood, and they avoid any diagnostic or therapeutic procedure that involves spiritism. (Acts 15:28, 29; Galatians 5:19-21) For those without medical training, however, evaluating treatment options can be perplexing and intimidating. What can help us to keep our senses completely?

12. How can a Christian keep his balance when considering treatment options?

¹² “The shrewd one considers his steps” by doing research in the Bible and Christian publications. (Proverbs 14:15) In parts of the earth where doctors and hospitals are few, traditional medicine, which makes use of herbal remedies, may be the only treatment available. If we are considering such treatment, we can find helpful information in the April 15, 1987, issue of The Watchtower, pages 26-9. It alerts us to potential dangers. For example, we may need to find out the following: Is the traditional healer known to practice spiritism? Is the treatment based on the belief that sickness and death are caused either by offended gods (or ancestral spirits) or by enemies who employ witchcraft? Are sacrifices, incantations, or other spiritistic rituals employed in the preparation or use of the medicine? (Deuteronomy 18:10-12) Such research will help us to heed the inspired counsel: “Make sure of all things; hold fast to what is fine.”b (1 Thessalonians 5:21) It will help us to keep our balance.

13, 14. (a) How can we demonstrate reasonableness in caring for our physical health? (b) Why is reasonableness needed when we discuss health and medical matters with others?

¹³ Reasonableness is needed in all areas of life, including the care of our physical health. (Philippians 4:5) Giving balanced attention to our health shows appreciation for the precious gift of life. When we face health problems, these rightly demand our attention. However, perfect health will not be attainable until God’s time arrives for “the curing of the nations.” (Revelation 22:1, 2) We must guard against becoming so preoccupied with physical health that our more important spiritual needs get pushed aside.​—Matthew 5:3; Philippians 1:10.

¹⁴ We also need to show balance and reasonableness when discussing health and medical matters with others. These topics should not dominate our conversations when we gather for spiritual fellowship at Christian meetings and assemblies. Furthermore, medical decisions often involve Bible principles, a person’s conscience, and his relationship with Jehovah. Therefore, it would be unloving to impose our views on a fellow believer or pressure him to ignore the dictates of his conscience. While mature ones in the congregation may be consulted for assistance, each Christian must “carry his own load” of responsibility for making decisions, and “each of us will render an account for himself to God.”​—Galatians 6:5; Romans 14:12, 22, 23.

When We Are Under Stress

15. How can stressful circumstances present a challenge?

¹⁵ Stressful circumstances can cause even loyal servants of Jehovah to speak or act unwisely. (Ecclesiastes 7:7) When under severe trial, Job became somewhat unbalanced and had to have his thinking corrected. (Job 35:2, 3; 40:6-8) Although “Moses was by far the meekest of all the men who were upon the surface of the ground,” on one occasion he became provoked and spoke rashly. (Numbers 12:3; 20:7-12; Psalm 106:32, 33) David had shown admirable self-control in not striking down King Saul, but when Nabal insulted him and screamed abuses at his men, David became infuriated and lost his good judgment. Only when Abigail intervened did he regain his senses, narrowly avoiding a calamitous mistake.​—1 Samuel 24:2-7; 25:9-13, 32, 33.

16. What can help us to avoid acting rashly?

¹⁶ We too may face stressful situations that could rob us of our good judgment. Carefully weighing the viewpoints of others, as David did, can help us to avoid acting rashly and hastening into sin. (Proverbs 19:2) Further, God’s Word admonishes us: “Be agitated, but do not sin. Have your say in your heart, upon your bed, and keep silent.” (Psalm 4:4) Where possible, it is wise to wait until we are calm before taking action or making decisions. (Proverbs 14:17, 29) We can turn to Jehovah in fervent prayer, “and the peace of God that excels all thought will guard [our] hearts and [our] mental powers by means of Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:6, 7) This God-given calmness will stabilize us and help us to keep our senses completely.

17. Why must we rely upon Jehovah to keep our senses completely?

¹⁷ In spite of our best efforts to avoid dangers and act wisely, all of us make mistakes. (James 3:2) We could be about to take a ruinous false step and be completely unaware of it. (Psalm 19:12, 13) More than that, as human creatures, we have neither the ability nor the right to direct our own step apart from Jehovah. (Jeremiah 10:23) How grateful we are that he assures us: “I shall make you have insight and instruct you in the way you should go. I will give advice with my eye upon you.” (Psalm 32:8) Yes, with Jehovah’s help, we can keep our senses completely.

[Footnotes]

How Would You Answer?

How can we keep our senses

• if offered a business opportunity?

• when seeking a marriage mate?

• when facing health problems?

• when under stress?

[Box on page 25]

Can You Trust It?

The following disclaimers appear on Web sites for singles:

“Even with our best efforts there is no guarantee of an individual’s true identity.”

“We do not guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or usefulness of any information on the service.”

“Opinions, advice, statements, offers, or other information or content made available through [this] service are those of their respective authors . . . and should not necessarily be relied upon.”

[Picture on page 23]

“The shrewd one considers his steps”

[Pictures on page 24, 25]

How can Christian women imitate the Shulammite maiden?

[Picture on page 26]

“Make sure of all things; hold fast to what is fine”

“Tell Us More!”

IN Nezlobnaya, Russia, a high school literature class was studying the works of the Russian author Mikhail Bulgakov. Among the works was a novel that describes Jesus Christ in a disparaging way, while it portrays Satan as a hero. After the class discussion, the teacher assigned the class a written test based on this novel. However, one of the students, a 16-year-old Witness of Jehovah named Andrey, politely asked to be excused from taking the test because his conscience did not allow him to study this type of literature. He offered instead to write an essay that would explain how he viewed Jesus Christ. The teacher agreed.

In his essay, Andrey explained that while he respects the opinion of others, he has found that the best way to learn about Jesus is to read one of the four Gospel accounts. By doing so, “you will learn about Jesus’ life and teachings as based on the accounts of eyewitnesses.” Andrey added: “Another concern is how Satan is portrayed. Some may find it amusing to read a book in which Satan is a hero, but I do not.” He explained that Satan is actually a powerful wicked spirit creature who turned away from God, bringing wickedness, affliction, and suffering to the human family. Andrey concluded his essay: “I do not believe that reading this novel will benefit me. Of course, I have nothing against Bulgakov. But personally, I would rather read the Bible to learn the historical truth about Jesus Christ.”

Andrey’s teacher was so pleased with the essay that she invited him to prepare an oral report on Jesus Christ. Andrey readily agreed. During their next literature class, Andrey read his report in front of the entire class. He explained why he felt that Jesus is the greatest man who ever lived. Then he read a chapter about Jesus’ death from the Bible book of Matthew. Since the allotted time for the report was running out, Andrey wanted to conclude it, but his classmates urged him: “Tell us more! What happened next?” So he continued reading from Matthew’s account about Jesus’ resurrection.

When Andrey finished, his classmates asked him many questions about Jesus and Jehovah. “I had prayed to Jehovah for wisdom, and he answered my prayer,” says Andrey. “I was able to answer all their questions!” After class, Andrey gave his teacher a copy of the book The Greatest Man Who Ever Lived,a which she eagerly accepted. Andrey commented: “She gave me high marks for my report and praised me for having my own convictions and not being ashamed of them. She also said that she shares some of my beliefs.”

Andrey rejoices that he decided to follow his Bible-trained conscience by not reading material that dishonors Jehovah and his Son, Jesus Christ. Such a stand not only protected him from unscriptural views but also opened up a marvelous opportunity to share vital Bible truths with others.

[Footnote]

Questions From Readers

What did the apostle Paul mean when he stated that women should “keep silent in the congregations”?

Paul wrote to the Christian congregation in Corinth: “As in all the congregations of the holy ones, let the women keep silent in the congregations, for it is not permitted for them to speak.” (1 Corinthians 14:33, 34) In order for us to understand this correctly, it is helpful to consider the context of Paul’s counsel.

In 1 Corinthians chapter 14, Paul discussed matters relating to meetings of the Christian congregation. He described what should be discussed at such meetings and recommended how they should be conducted. (1 Corinthians 14:1-6, 26-34) Further, he stressed the objective of Christian meetings​—“that the congregation may receive upbuilding.”​—1 Corinthians 14:4, 5, 12, 26.

Paul’s instruction to “keep silent” appears three times in 1 Corinthians chapter 14. Each time, it is addressed to a different group in the congregation, but in all instances, it is given for the same reason​—that “all things take place decently and by arrangement.”​—1 Corinthians 14:40.

First, Paul said: “If someone speaks in a tongue, let it be limited to two or three at the most, and in turns; and let someone translate. But if there be no translator, let him keep silent in the congregation and speak to himself and to God.” (1 Corinthians 14:27, 28) That did not mean that such a person was never to speak at meetings but that there were times when he should be silent. After all, the objective of the meetings​—to upbuild one another—​would not be attained if he spoke in a language no one understood.

Second, Paul stated: “Let two or three prophets speak, and let the others discern the meaning. But if there is a revelation to another one while sitting there, let the first one keep silent.” This meant, not that the first prophet was to refrain from speaking at meetings, but that he had to be silent at times. Then the one having the miraculous revelation could address the congregation, and the objective of the meeting​—that “all be encouraged”—​would be achieved.​—1 Corinthians 14:26, 29-31.

Third, Paul addressed Christian women only, stating: “Let the women keep silent in the congregations, for it is not permitted for them to speak, but let them be in subjection.” (1 Corinthians 14:34) Why did Paul give this command to sisters? To preserve order in the congregation. He says: “If, then, they want to learn something, let them question their own husbands at home, for it is disgraceful for a woman to speak in a congregation.”​—1 Corinthians 14:35.

Perhaps some sisters were challenging what was said in the congregation. Paul’s counsel helped sisters to shun such a disorderly spirit and humbly accept their position within Jehovah’s headship arrangement, particularly with regard to their husbands. (1 Corinthians 11:3) In addition, by keeping silent, sisters would show that they did not aspire to be teachers in the congregation. When he wrote to Timothy, Paul showed that it would be improper for a woman to assume the role of teacher: “I do not permit a woman to teach, or to exercise authority over a man, but to be in silence.”​—1 Timothy 2:12.

Does that mean that a Christian woman must never speak during a congregation meeting? No. In Paul’s day, there were occasions when Christian women, perhaps impelled by holy spirit, prayed or prophesied in the congregation. On such occasions, they acknowledged their position by wearing a head covering.a (1 Corinthians 11:5) Further, in Paul’s day and today, sisters along with brothers are urged to make a public declaration of their hope. (Hebrews 10:23-25) Besides doing this in the field ministry, sisters declare their hope and encourage others during congregation meetings by giving well-thought-out comments when invited to do so and by accepting assignments to share in demonstrations or student talks.

Hence, Christian women “keep silent” by refraining from trying to assume the role of a male and instruct the congregation. They do not raise argumentative questions that could challenge the authority of those who teach. By fulfilling their proper role in the congregation, Christian sisters greatly contribute toward an atmosphere of peace in which “all things [at congregation meetings] take place for upbuilding.”​—1 Corinthians 14:26, 33.

[Footnote]

2006 “Deliverance at Hand!” District Convention Locations

MAY 26-28

BAKERSFIELD, CA, Rabobank Arena, 1001 Truxtun Ave.

GAINESVILLE, FL, Stephen C. O’Connell Center Arena, University of Florida, North South Dr. & University Ave.

GREEN BAY, WI, Resch Center, 1901 S. Oneida St.

PORTLAND, ME, Cumberland County Civic Center, 1 Civic Center Sq.

WEST PALM BEACH, FL, Christian Convention Center of Jehovah’s Witnesses, 1610 Palm Beach Lakes Blvd.

JUNE 2-4

BILLINGS, MT, MetraPark Arena, 308 6th Ave. N.

FORT WORTH, TX, Convention Center, 1111 Houston St.

LONG BEACH, CA, Convention Center Arena, 300 E. Ocean Blvd.

PORTLAND, ME, Cumberland County Civic Center, 1 Civic Center Sq.

SAN FRANCISCO, CA, Cow Palace, 2600 Geneva Ave.

WEST PALM BEACH, FL, Christian Convention Center of Jehovah’s Witnesses, 1610 Palm Beach Lakes Blvd.

JUNE 9-11

BAKERSFIELD, CA (Spanish only), Rabobank Arena, 1001 Truxtun Ave.

BOSSIER CITY, LA, CenturyTel Center Arena, 2000 CenturyTel Center Dr.

CHARLESTON, WV, Civic Center Coliseum, 200 Civic Center Dr.

DULUTH, GA, The Arena at Gwinnett Center, 6400 Sugarloaf Pkwy.

FLORENCE, SC, Civic Center, 3300 W. Radio Dr.

KANSAS CITY, MO, Kemper Arena, 1800 Genessee St.

LOVELAND, CO, Budweiser Events Center, The Ranch, 5290 Arena Cir.

READING, PA, Sovereign Center Arena, 700 Penn St.

SAN DIEGO, CA, Qualcomm Stadium, 9449 Friars Rd.

SAN FRANCISCO, CA, Cow Palace, 2600 Geneva Ave.

WEST PALM BEACH, FL, Christian Convention Center of Jehovah’s Witnesses, 1610 Palm Beach Lakes Blvd.

JUNE 16-18

AMHERST, MA, The Mullins Center, University of Massachusetts, Commonwealth Ave.

BAKERSFIELD, CA (Spanish only), Rabobank Arena, 1001 Truxtun Ave.

FLORENCE, SC, Civic Center, 3300 W. Radio Dr.

FORT WORTH, TX (Spanish only), Convention Center, 1111 Houston St.

HUNTSVILLE, AL, Von Braun Center Arena, 700 Monroe St. SW

JACKSON, MS, Mississippi Coliseum, 1207 Mississippi St.

JOHNSON CITY, TN, Freedom Hall Civic Center Arena, 1320 Pactolas Rd.

LONG BEACH, CA, Convention Center Arena, 300 E. Ocean Blvd.

LOVELAND, CO, Budweiser Events Center, The Ranch, 5290 Arena Cir.

READING, PA, Sovereign Center Arena, 700 Penn St.

SAN DIEGO, CA (Spanish only), Qualcomm Stadium, 9449 Friars Rd.

SAN FRANCISCO, CA (Spanish only), Cow Palace, 2600 Geneva Ave.

WEST PALM BEACH, FL (Spanish only), Christian Convention Center of Jehovah’s Witnesses, 1610 Palm Beach Lakes Blvd.

JUNE 23-25

AMHERST, MA, The Mullins Center, University of Massachusetts, Commonwealth Ave.

COLUMBIA, SC, The Colonial Center, 801 Lincoln St.

DE KALB, IL, Convocation Center, Northern Illinois University, 1525 W. Lincoln Hwy.

FORT WORTH, TX (Spanish only), Convention Center, 1111 Houston St.

JACKSON, MS, Mississippi Coliseum, 1207 Mississippi St.

JOHNSON CITY, TN, Freedom Hall Civic Center Arena, 1320 Pactolas Rd.

LONG BEACH, CA (Spanish only), Convention Center Arena, 300 E. Ocean Blvd.

LOVELAND, CO, Budweiser Events Center, The Ranch, 5290 Arena Cir.

MACON, GA, Centreplex Coliseum, 200 Coliseum Dr.

READING, PA, Sovereign Center Arena, 700 Penn St.

RICHMOND, VA, Coliseum, 601 E. Leigh St.

SAN FRANCISCO, CA (Spanish only), Cow Palace, 2600 Geneva Ave.

TULSA, OK, Convention Center, 100 Civic Center

WEST PALM BEACH, FL (Spanish only), Christian Convention Center of Jehovah’s Witnesses, 1610 Palm Beach Lakes Blvd.

JUNE 30–JULY 2

AMARILLO, TX, Cal Farley Coliseum, Civic Center, 401 S. Buchanan St.

AMHERST, MA, The Mullins Center, University of Massachusetts, Commonwealth Ave.

BAKERSFIELD, CA, Rabobank Arena, 1001 Truxtun Ave.

BEAUMONT, TX (Spanish only), Ford Park Arena, 5115 Interstate 10 S.

BIRMINGHAM, AL, BJCC Arena, 19th St. & 9th Ave. N.

BLOOMINGTON, IL, U.S. Cellular Coliseum, 101 S. Madison St.

CLEVELAND, OH, Convocation Center Arena, Cleveland State University, Prospect Ave. & E. 21st St.

COLUMBIA, SC, The Colonial Center, 801 Lincoln St.

COLUMBUS, GA, Civic Center Arena, 400 4th St.

DE KALB, IL, Convocation Center, Northern Illinois University, 1525 W. Lincoln Hwy.

DULUTH, GA (Spanish only), The Arena at Gwinnett Center, 6400 Sugarloaf Pkwy.

EVANSVILLE, IN, Roberts Stadium, 2600 Division St.

FORT WORTH, TX, Convention Center, 1111 Houston St.

GAINESVILLE, FL, Stephen C. O’Connell Center Arena, University of Florida, North South Dr. & University Ave.

GLENDALE, AZ, Glendale Arena, 6520 N. 91st Ave.

HUNTSVILLE, AL, Von Braun Center Arena, 700 Monroe St. SW

JERSEY CITY, NJ (American Sign Language only), Assembly Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses, 2932 Kennedy Blvd.

KATY, TX, Leonard E. Merrell Center, 6301 S. Stadium Ln.

LINCOLN, NE, Bob Devaney Sports Center, University of Nebraska, 16th St. & Military Rd.

NEWBURGH, NY (Greek only), Assembly Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses, 23 Unity Pl.

NORMAN, OK, Lloyd Noble Center Arena, University of Oklahoma, 2900 Jenkins Ave.

OGDEN, UT, Dee Events Center, 4450 S. Harrison Blvd.

PORTLAND, OR, Memorial Coliseum Arena, One Center Ct.

READING, PA, Sovereign Center Arena, 700 Penn St.

RICHMOND, VA, Coliseum, 601 E. Leigh St.

ROANOKE, VA, Civic Center Coliseum, 710 Williamson Rd. NE

ROCHESTER, MN, Taylor Arena, Mayo Civic Center, 30 Civic Center Dr. SE

ROCHESTER, NY, Blue Cross Arena, Broad & Exchange Sts.

SAN FRANCISCO, CA, Cow Palace, 2600 Geneva Ave.

TACOMA, WA, Tacoma Dome, 2727 East D St.

TULSA, OK, Convention Center, 100 Civic Center

WEST PALM BEACH, FL (Spanish only), Christian Convention Center of Jehovah’s Witnesses, 1610 Palm Beach Lakes Blvd.

WINSTON-SALEM, NC, Lawrence Joel Veterans Memorial Coliseum, 2825 University Pkwy.

JULY 7-9

AMARILLO, TX, Cal Farley Coliseum, Civic Center, 401 S. Buchanan St.

AMHERST, MA (Spanish only), The Mullins Center, University of Massachusetts, Commonwealth Ave.

BAKERSFIELD, CA, Rabobank Arena, 1001 Truxtun Ave.

BISMARCK, ND, Civic Center Arena, 601 E. Sweet Ave.

BRONX, NY (TENTATIVE), Yankee Stadium, 157th St. & River Ave.

CLEVELAND, OH, Convocation Center Arena, Cleveland State University, Prospect Ave. & E. 21st St.

COLUMBUS, GA, Civic Center Arena, 400 4th St.

DAYTON, OH, Ervin J. Nutter Center, Wright State University, 3640 Colonel Glenn Hwy.

DULUTH, GA, The Arena at Gwinnett Center, 6400 Sugarloaf Pkwy.

EVANSVILLE, IN, Roberts Stadium, 2600 Division St.

FORT WORTH, TX, Convention Center, 1111 Houston St.

FREMONT, CA (Vietnamese only), Assembly Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses, 43400 Osgood Rd.

GLENDALE, AZ (Spanish only), Glendale Arena, 6520 N. 91st Ave.

HAMPTON, VA, Coliseum, 1000 Coliseum Dr.

HUNTSVILLE, AL (Spanish only), Von Braun Center Arena, 700 Monroe St. SW

JERSEY CITY, NJ (Korean only), Assembly Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses, 2932 Kennedy Blvd.

KATY, TX, Leonard E. Merrell Center, 6301 S. Stadium Ln.

KENNEWICK, WA, Toyota Center, 7100 W. Quinault Ave.

LONG BEACH, CA, Convention Center Arena, 300 E. Ocean Blvd.

LONG BEACH, CA (Japanese only), Convention Center Seaside Ballroom, 300 E. Ocean Blvd.

MIRA LOMA, CA (Tagalog only), Assembly Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses, 3300 Cornerstone Dr.

MOBILE, AL, Civic Center Arena, 401 Civic Center Dr.

PHILADELPHIA, PA, The Liacouras Center, Temple University, 1776 N. Broad St.

READING, PA (Spanish only), Sovereign Center Arena, 700 Penn St.

RICHMOND, VA, Coliseum, 601 E. Leigh St.

ROCHESTER, MN, Taylor Arena, Mayo Civic Center, 30 Civic Center Dr. SE

ROCHESTER, NY, Blue Cross Arena, Broad & Exchange Sts.

SAN ANGELO, TX (Spanish only), Convention Center Coliseum, 50 E. 43rd St.

SAN FRANCISCO, CA, Cow Palace, 2600 Geneva Ave.

TACOMA, WA, Tacoma Dome, 2727 East D St.

TOPEKA, KS (Spanish only), Landon Arena, Kansas Expocentre, One Expocentre Dr.

TUCSON, AZ, Convention Center, 260 S. Church St.

WEST PALM BEACH, FL (French only), Christian Convention Center of Jehovah’s Witnesses, 1610 Palm Beach Lakes Blvd.

WINSTON-SALEM, NC (Spanish only), Lawrence Joel Veterans Memorial Coliseum, 2825 University Pkwy.

JULY 14-16

AMARILLO, TX (Spanish only), Cal Farley Coliseum, Civic Center, 401 S. Buchanan St.

AMHERST, MA, The Mullins Center, University of Massachusetts, Commonwealth Ave.

BELTON, TX, Bell County Expo Center Arena, 301 W. Loop 121

FORT LAUDERDALE, FL (Portuguese only), Assembly Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses, 20850 Griffin Rd.

FREMONT, CA (Chinese only), Assembly Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses, 43400 Osgood Rd.

HAMPTON, VA, Coliseum, 1000 Coliseum Dr.

JERSEY CITY, NJ (French only), Assembly Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses, 2932 Kennedy Blvd.

KATY, TX, Leonard E. Merrell Center, 6301 S. Stadium Ln.

KENNEWICK, WA, Toyota Center, 7100 W. Quinault Ave.

LITTLE ROCK, AR, Barton Coliseum, Roosevelt Rd. & Dennison St.

LONG BEACH, CA (Spanish only), Convention Center Arena, 300 E. Ocean Blvd.

MIRA LOMA, CA (American Sign Language only), Assembly Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses, 3300 Cornerstone Dr.

PHILADELPHIA, PA, The Liacouras Center, Temple University, 1776 N. Broad St.

RICHMOND, VA, Coliseum, 601 E. Leigh St.

SAINT LOUIS, MO (Korean only), Assembly Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses, 953 Laredo Ave.

SAN FRANCISCO, CA (Spanish only), Cow Palace, 2600 Geneva Ave.

SUNNYSIDE, NY (Tagalog only), Assembly Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses, 44-17 Greenpoint Ave.

TOLEDO, OH, Seagate Convention Centre Arena, 401 Jefferson Ave.

TUCSON, AZ (Spanish only), Convention Center, 260 S. Church St.

WEST PALM BEACH, FL, Christian Convention Center of Jehovah’s Witnesses, 1610 Palm Beach Lakes Blvd.

WINSTON-SALEM, NC, Lawrence Joel Veterans Memorial Coliseum, 2825 University Pkwy.

JULY 21-23

AMHERST, MA, The Mullins Center, University of Massachusetts, Commonwealth Ave.

BELTON, TX, Bell County Expo Center Arena, 301 W. Loop 121

BRONX, NY (Spanish only) (TENTATIVE), Yankee Stadium, 157th St. & River Ave.

CLEVELAND, OH, Convocation Center Arena, Cleveland State University, Prospect Ave. & E. 21st St.

DAYTON, OH, Ervin J. Nutter Center, Wright State University, 3640 Colonel Glenn Hwy.

DE KALB, IL, Convocation Center, Northern Illinois University, 1525 W. Lincoln Hwy.

FREMONT, CA (Russian only), Assembly Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses, 43400 Osgood Rd.

JERSEY CITY, NJ (French only), Assembly Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses, 2932 Kennedy Blvd.

KATY, TX, Leonard E. Merrell Center, 6301 S. Stadium Ln.

KENNEWICK, WA, Toyota Center, 7100 W. Quinault Ave.

KISSIMMEE, FL, Silver Spurs Arena, 1875 Silver Spur Ln.

LAKE CHARLES, LA, Burton Coliseum, McNeese State University, 7001 Gulf Hwy.

LITTLE ROCK, AR, Barton Coliseum, Roosevelt Rd. & Dennison St.

MIRA LOMA, CA (Korean only), Assembly Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses, 3300 Cornerstone Dr.

PHILADELPHIA, PA, The Liacouras Center, Temple University, 1776 N. Broad St.

PLANT CITY, FL (American Sign Language only), Assembly Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses, 1904 N. Frontage Rd.

PORTLAND, OR, Memorial Coliseum Arena, One Center Ct.

SAN FRANCISCO, CA (Portuguese sessions also), Cow Palace, 2600 Geneva Ave.

SUNNYSIDE, NY (Japanese only), Assembly Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses, 44-17 Greenpoint Ave.

TOLEDO, OH, Seagate Convention Centre Arena, 401 Jefferson Ave.

TUCSON, AZ (Spanish only), Convention Center, 260 S. Church St.

WEST PALM BEACH, FL, Christian Convention Center of Jehovah’s Witnesses, 1610 Palm Beach Lakes Blvd.

JULY 28-30

AMHERST, MA, The Mullins Center, University of Massachusetts, Commonwealth Ave.

BELTON, TX (Spanish only), Bell County Expo Center Arena, 301 W. Loop 121

CLEVELAND, OH, Convocation Center Arena, Cleveland State University, Prospect Ave. & E. 21st St.

DAYTON, OH, Ervin J. Nutter Center, Wright State University, 3640 Colonel Glenn Hwy.

JERSEY CITY, NJ (Portuguese only), Assembly Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses, 2932 Kennedy Blvd.

KISSIMMEE, FL, Silver Spurs Arena, 1875 Silver Spur Ln.

LAKE CHARLES, LA, Burton Coliseum, McNeese State University, 7001 Gulf Hwy.

LONG BEACH, CA (Spanish only), Convention Center Arena, 300 E. Ocean Blvd.

NORCO, CA (Armenian only), Assembly Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses, 1001 Parkridge Ave.

PHILADELPHIA, PA, The Liacouras Center, Temple University, 1776 N. Broad St.

READING, PA (Spanish only), Sovereign Center Arena, 700 Penn St.

ROCHESTER, MN, Taylor Arena, Mayo Civic Center, 30 Civic Center Dr. SE

ROCHESTER, NY, Blue Cross Arena, Broad & Exchange Sts.

ROCKFORD, IL, Metrocentre Arena, 300 Elm St.

ROMEOVILLE, IL (Polish only), Assembly Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses, 800 N. Schmidt Rd.

SAGINAW, MI, Dow Events Center Arena, 303 Johnson St.

SAN FRANCISCO, CA, Cow Palace, 2600 Geneva Ave.

SUNNYSIDE, NY (Chinese only), Assembly Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses, 44-17 Greenpoint Ave.

TOLEDO, OH, Seagate Convention Centre Arena, 401 Jefferson Ave.

WEST PALM BEACH, FL, Christian Convention Center of Jehovah’s Witnesses, 1610 Palm Beach Lakes Blvd.

AUGUST 4-6

BELTON, TX (Spanish only), Bell County Expo Center Arena, 301 W. Loop 121

DAYTON, OH, Ervin J. Nutter Center, Wright State University, 3640 Colonel Glenn Hwy.

DE KALB, IL, Convocation Center, Northern Illinois University, 1525 W. Lincoln Hwy.

DULUTH, GA, The Arena at Gwinnett Center, 6400 Sugarloaf Pkwy.

GLENDALE, AZ, Glendale Arena, 6520 N. 91st Ave.

KENNEWICK, WA (Spanish only), Toyota Center, 7100 W. Quinault Ave.

KISSIMMEE, FL (Spanish only), Silver Spurs Arena, 1875 Silver Spur Ln.

LONG BEACH, CA (Spanish only), Convention Center Arena, 300 E. Ocean Blvd.

PORTLAND, OR, Memorial Coliseum Arena, One Center Ct.

ROCHESTER, MN, Taylor Arena, Mayo Civic Center, 30 Civic Center Dr. SE

ROCKFORD, IL, Metrocentre Arena, 300 Elm St.

SAGINAW, MI, Dow Events Center Arena, 303 Johnson St.

TOLEDO, OH (Spanish only), Seagate Convention Centre Arena, 401 Jefferson Ave.

WEST PALM BEACH, FL (Spanish only), Christian Convention Center of Jehovah’s Witnesses, 1610 Palm Beach Lakes Blvd.

AUGUST 11-13

BEAUMONT, TX (Spanish only), Ford Park Arena, 5115 Interstate 10 S.

BELTON, TX, Bell County Expo Center Arena, 301 W. Loop 121

CORPUS CHRISTI, TX (Spanish only), AmericanBank Center Arena, 1901 N. Shoreline Blvd.

DE KALB, IL, Convocation Center, Northern Illinois University, 1525 W. Lincoln Hwy.

KENNEWICK, WA (Spanish only), Toyota Center, 7100 W. Quinault Ave.

KISSIMMEE, FL (Spanish only), Silver Spurs Arena, 1875 Silver Spur Ln.

LONG BEACH, CA (Spanish only), Convention Center Arena, 300 E. Ocean Blvd.

LOVELAND, CO (Spanish only), Budweiser Events Center, The Ranch, 5290 Arena Cir.

ROCKFORD, IL (Spanish only), Metrocentre Arena, 300 Elm St.

SAGINAW, MI, Dow Events Center Arena, 303 Johnson St.

SAINT CHARLES, MO, The Family Arena, 2002 Arena Pkwy.

TOLEDO, OH, Seagate Convention Centre Arena, 401 Jefferson Ave.

WEST PALM BEACH, FL (Spanish only), Christian Convention Center of Jehovah’s Witnesses, 1610 Palm Beach Lakes Blvd.

AUGUST 18-20

BEAUMONT, TX (Spanish only), Ford Park Arena, 5115 Interstate 10 S.

CORPUS CHRISTI, TX (Spanish only), AmericanBank Center Arena, 1901 N. Shoreline Blvd.

KISSIMMEE, FL (Spanish only), Silver Spurs Arena, 1875 Silver Spur Ln.

LONG BEACH, CA (Arabic sessions also), Convention Center Arena, 300 E. Ocean Blvd.

LOVELAND, CO (Spanish only), Budweiser Events Center, The Ranch, 5290 Arena Cir.

READING, PA, Sovereign Center Arena, 700 Penn St.

ROCKFORD, IL (Spanish only), Metrocentre Arena, 300 Elm St.

SAINT CHARLES, MO, The Family Arena, 2002 Arena Pkwy.

TOLEDO, OH, Seagate Convention Centre Arena, 401 Jefferson Ave.

WEST PALM BEACH, FL (Spanish only), Christian Convention Center of Jehovah’s Witnesses, 1610 Palm Beach Lakes Blvd.

AUGUST 25-27

BEAUMONT, TX (Spanish only), Ford Park Arena, 5115 Interstate 10 S.

BRONX, NY (TENTATIVE), Yankee Stadium, 157th St. & River Ave.

CORPUS CHRISTI, TX (Spanish only), AmericanBank Center Arena, 1901 N. Shoreline Blvd.

KISSIMMEE, FL, Silver Spurs Arena, 1875 Silver Spur Ln.

LONG BEACH, CA (Spanish only), Convention Center Arena, 300 E. Ocean Blvd.

LOVELAND, CO, Budweiser Events Center, The Ranch, 5290 Arena Cir.

PORTLAND, OR, Memorial Coliseum Arena, One Center Ct.

ROCKFORD, IL (Spanish only), Metrocentre Arena, 300 Elm St.

WEST PALM BEACH, FL (Spanish only), Christian Convention Center of Jehovah’s Witnesses, 1610 Palm Beach Lakes Blvd.

SEPTEMBER 1-3

KISSIMMEE, FL, Silver Spurs Arena, 1875 Silver Spur Ln.

LONG BEACH, CA, Convention Center Arena, 300 E. Ocean Blvd.

SEPTEMBER 8-10

LONG BEACH, CA, Convention Center Arena, 300 E. Ocean Blvd.

Britain

JUNE 9-11

JERSEY, C.I., Fort Regent Leisure Centre, St. Helier

GILLINGHAM, Priestfield Stadium, Redfern Ave., Kent

JUNE 16-18

BOURNEMOUTH, Bournemouth Athletic Football Club, Dean Court Ground

NEWCASTLE-UPON-TYNE, Newcastle Arena, Arena Way

NOTTINGHAM, Nottingham Ice Rink, Lower Parliament St.

JUNE 23-25

COVENTRY, Ricoh Arena, Phoenix Way

PLYMOUTH, Plymouth Argyle Football Club, Home Park

JUNE 30–JULY 2

CARDIFF, Millennium Stadium, West Gate St.

LEEDS, Leeds United Football Club, Elland Rd.

LONDON (Italian only), North London Assembly Hall, 174 Bowes Rd.

STOKE, Britannia Stadium, Stanley Matthews Way

JULY 7-9

MANCHESTER, Manchester Arena, Hunts Bank

LONDON (Greek only), North London Assembly Hall, 174 Bowes Rd.

JULY 14-16

LONDON (Spanish only), North London Assembly Hall, 174 Bowes Rd.

NORWICH, Norwich City Football Club, Carrow Rd.

PERTH, St. Johnstone Football Club, McDiarmid Park, Crieff Rd.

JULY 21-23

BRIGHTON, The Brighton Centre, Kings Rd.

LONDON (Portuguese only), North London Assembly Hall, 174 Bowes Rd.

JULY 28-30

DUDLEY (Mandarin only), Dudley Assembly Hall, 22 Castle Hill

LONDON (French only), North London Assembly Hall, 174 Bowes Rd.

AUGUST 4-6

TWICKENHAM (also Russian), Rugby Football Union, Whitton Rd.

AUGUST 18-20

DUDLEY (Punjabi only), Dudley Assembly Hall, 22 Castle Hill

AUGUST 25-27

DUDLEY (British Sign Language only), Dudley Assembly Hall, 22 Castle Hill

Malta

SEPTEMBER 8-10

ST. PAUL’S BAY, New Dolmen Hotel Conference Centre, Qawra

Ireland

JULY 7-9

SWORDS, National Show Centre, Co. Dublin

JULY 14-16

SWORDS, National Show Centre, Co. Dublin

JULY 21-23

SWORDS, National Show Centre, Co. Dublin

Canada

JUNE 9-11

CORNWALL, ON, Ed Lumley Arena, Cornwall Civic Complex, 100 Water St. E.

GRANDE PRAIRIE, AB, Canada Games Arena, 10017 99th Ave.

NANAIMO, BC, Frank Crane Arena, Beban Park Recreation Centre, 2300 Bowen Rd.

PRINCE GEORGE, BC, CN Centre, 2187 Ospika Blvd.

SELKIRK, MB, Selkirk Recreation Complex, 180 Easton Dr.

SUDBURY, ON, Sudbury Community Arena, 200 Brady St.

JUNE 16-18

BELLEVILLE, ON, Belleville Yardmen Arena, 265 Cannifton Rd.

CALGARY, AB, Pengrowth Saddledome, 555 Saddledome Rise SE

CORNWALL, ON, Ed Lumley Arena, Cornwall Civic Complex, 100 Water St. E.

KITCHENER, ON, Kitchener Memorial Auditorium Complex, 400 East Ave.

MONCTON, NB, Coliseum Agrena, 377 Killam Dr.

SELKIRK, MB, Selkirk Recreation Complex, 180 Easton Dr.

VERNON, BC, Vernon and District Multiplex, 3445 43rd Ave.

JUNE 23-25

CORNWALL, ON (French only), Ed Lumley Arena, Cornwall Civic Complex, 100 Water St. E.

DARTMOUTH, NS, Dartmouth Sportsplex, 110 Wyse Rd.

KITCHENER, ON, Kitchener Memorial Auditorium Complex, 400 East Ave.

MONTREAL, QC (Arabic only), Assembly Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses, 12700, boul. Métropolitain Est, Pointe-aux-Trembles

NANAIMO, BC, Frank Crane Arena, Beban Park Recreation Centre, 2300 Bowen Rd.

SASKATOON, SK (American Sign Language also), Credit Union Centre, 3515 Thatcher Ave.

JUNE 30–JULY 2

EDMONTON, AB, Rexall Place, Northlands Park, 7424 118th Ave.

KITCHENER, ON (Spanish only), Kitchener Memorial Auditorium Complex, 400 East Ave.

QUEBEC CITY, QC (French only; Quebec Sign Language also), Colisée Pepsi, 250, boul. Wilfrid-Hamel

SURREY, BC (Spanish only), Assembly Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses, 15577 82nd Ave.

JULY 7-9

CHILLIWACK, BC, Prospera Centre, 45323 Hodgins Ave.

HAMILTON, ON, Copps Coliseum, 101 York Blvd.

KAMLOOPS, BC, Sport Mart Place, 300 Lorne St.

MONTREAL, QC (Italian only), Assembly Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses, 12700, boul. Métropolitain Est, Pointe-aux-Trembles

MOUNT PEARL, NL, Mount Pearl Glacier, Olympic Dr.

SHERBROOKE, QC (French only), Palais des sports, 360, rue du Parc

JULY 14-16

CHILLIWACK, BC, Prospera Centre, 45323 Hodgins Ave.

HAMILTON, ON, Copps Coliseum, 101 York Blvd.

SHERBROOKE, QC (French only), Palais des sports, 360, rue du Parc

JULY 21-23

CHILLIWACK, BC, Prospera Centre, 45323 Hodgins Ave.

SHERBROOKE, QC (French only), Palais des sports, 360, rue du Parc

SURREY, BC (Chinese only), Assembly Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses, 15577 82nd Ave.

JULY 28-30

CHILLIWACK, BC, Prospera Centre, 45323 Hodgins Ave.

Do You Want to Have Good Friends?

MOST people want to have good friends. Being able to share your experiences with close companions enriches your life. But how can you find genuine friendship? Nearly 2,000 years ago, Jesus showed that the key to success in all human relations is unselfish love. He taught: “Just as you want men to do to you, do the same way to them.” (Luke 6:31) This statement, often called the Golden Rule, shows that you need to be an unselfish, giving person to have friends. Simply put, to have a friend, you need to be one. How?

A close, warm friendship cannot be cultivated overnight. After all, friends are much more than acquaintances. They are individuals to whom you attach yourself emotionally. Developing and maintaining close bonds takes effort. Friendship often requires that you put your companion’s needs ahead of your own convenience. Friends share not only their joys but also their disappointments.

You show true friendship especially by giving emotional and practical support to a person in need. Proverbs 17:17 states: “A true companion is loving all the time, and is a brother that is born for when there is distress.” In fact, bonds of friendship may be even stronger than certain family ties. Proverbs 18:24 notes: “There exist companions disposed to break one another to pieces, but there exists a friend sticking closer than a brother.” Would you like to know more about how to cultivate such meaningful friendships? Would you like to become part of a group of people who are known for having love among themselves? (John 13:35) If so, Jehovah’s Witnesses in your community will be glad to show you how to find true friends.

Would You Welcome a Visit?

Even in this troubled world, you can gain happiness from accurate Bible knowledge of God, his Kingdom, and his wonderful purpose for mankind. If you would welcome further information or would like to have someone call at your home to conduct a free Bible study with you, please write to Jehovah’s Witnesses, 25 Columbia Heights, Brooklyn, NY 11201-2483, or to the appropriate address listed on page 2.