Learn how Satan challenged God. Consider how Jesus upheld and magnified the righteousness of Jehovah’s sovereignty. Reflect on the cost of Jesus’ ransom sacrifice, and note how it can save you. Such points are discussed in these articles.

STUDY ARTICLE 3 PAGES 21-25

Learn what loving-kindness is and how it can affect the tongue. Reflect also on ways that this godly quality can be displayed in daily speech.

STUDY ARTICLE 4 PAGES 28-32

Foregleams of the Thousand Year Reign of God’s Son, Jesus Christ, are provided in Psalm 72. Your heart will be warmed as you study this article and meditate on how Jehovah God will use the Greater Solomon to deliver those crying for help.

ALSO IN THIS ISSUE:

Resist the Pressure of Public Opinion 3

Questions From Readers 6

An Open Invitation! 17

Do You Remember? 20

Why Be Punctual? 25

Resist the Pressure of Public Opinion

pp. 3–5

Resist the Pressure of Public Opinion

IDEAS concerning what is appropriate or unacceptable and what is praiseworthy or reprehensible differ from place to place. They also change over the course of time. Therefore, when reading Scriptural accounts of events that took place in the distant past, we need to consider popular opinion and values in Bible times rather than impose our own standards on what we read.

For example, take two concepts repeatedly mentioned in the Christian Greek Scriptures—honor and shame. In order to gain a better understanding of the passages that speak of honor and shame, we should reflect on how they were perceived by the people living back then.

Values of the First Century

“Greeks, Romans, and Judeans all considered honor and shame to be pivotal values in their cultures,” says one scholar. “Men lived and died in quest of honor, reputation, fame, approval, and respect.” Such values made them susceptible to the opinions of others.

Status, position, and honor were everything in a society characterized by an acute awareness of rank, ranging from nobility to slavery. Honor was a person’s value not only in his own eyes but in the eyes of others as well. To honor a person meant to acknowledge publicly that he behaved in a way expected of him. Rendering honor also meant being outwardly impressed by a person’s wealth, office, or nobility and therefore according him due attention. Honor could be won by performing virtuous deeds or by excelling over others. In contrast, shame, or dishonor, accompanied public humiliation or ridicule. More than a personal feeling or a response of one’s conscience, it was the result of condemnation by society.

When Jesus spoke about a person’s being assigned “the most prominent place” or “the lowest place” at a feast, it was a matter of honor or shame according to the culture of the day. (Luke 14:8-10) On at least two occasions, Jesus’ disciples disputed over “which one of them seemed to be greatest.” (Luke 9:46; 22:24) They were manifesting a major concern of the society in which they lived. Meanwhile, proud and competitive Jewish religious leaders saw Jesus’ preaching as a challenge to their honor and authority. Their attempts to get the better of him in public debates before crowds, however, invariably resulted in failure.—Luke 13:11-17.

Another concept current in first-century Jewish, Greek, and Roman thinking was the shamefulness of being “seized and publicly charged with wrongdoing.” For a person to be bound or confined was viewed as degrading. Such treatment insulted an individual before friends, family, and the general community—whether he was convicted of a crime or not. The stigma thereafter attached to his reputation could shatter his self-respect and damage his relationship with others. More shameful than being bound was the indignity of being stripped or flogged. Such treatment incited contempt and derision, depriving the person of his honor.

Execution on a torture stake subjected the victim to the worst of all possible indignities. Such an execution was “the penalty for slaves,” says scholar Martin Hengel. “As such it symbolized extreme humiliation, shame and torture.” Social pressure to renounce a person who was dishonored in this way was brought upon his family and friends. Since Christ died in this manner, all who wanted to be Christians in the first century C.E. thus had to face the challenge of public ridicule. Most people likely considered it absurd for someone to identify himself as a follower of a man who suffered impalement. “We preach Christ impaled,” wrote the apostle Paul, “to the Jews a cause for stumbling but to the nations foolishness.” (1 Cor. 1:23) How did the early Christians face this challenge?

A Different Set of Values

First-century Christians obeyed the law and endeavored to avoid the shame that resulted from wrong conduct. “Let none of you suffer as a murderer or a thief or an evildoer or as a busybody in other people’s matters,” wrote the apostle Peter. (1 Pet. 4:15) However, Jesus foretold that his followers would suffer persecution for his name’s sake. (John 15:20) “If [a person] suffers as a Christian,” wrote Peter, “let him not feel shame, but let him keep on glorifying God.” (1 Pet. 4:16) Not feeling shame when suffering as a follower of Christ amounted to rejecting social norms of the day.

Christians could not allow other people’s standards to dictate their conduct. An impaled Messiah was folly to first-century society. That view could have exerted pressure on Christians to conform to the accepted way of thinking. However, their faith that Jesus was the Messiah required that they follow him, even if they were scoffed at. Jesus stated: “Whoever becomes ashamed of me and my words in this adulterous and sinful generation, the Son of man will also be ashamed of him when he arrives in the glory of his Father with the holy angels.”—Mark 8:38.

Today, we may face pressures aimed at causing us to abandon Christianity. These may come from schoolmates, neighbors, or colleagues who try to involve us in immoral, dishonest, or otherwise questionable activities. Such individuals may try to make us feel ashamed because of our stand for right principles. How should we react?

Imitate Those Who Despised Shame

In order to maintain his integrity to Jehovah, Jesus underwent the most dishonorable execution possible. “He endured a torture stake, despising shame.” (Heb. 12:2) Jesus’ enemies slapped him, spat on him, stripped him, flogged him, impaled him, and reviled him. (Mark 14:65; 15:29-32) Yet, Jesus despised the shame that they attempted to heap on him. How? He refused to shrink from such treatment. Jesus knew that he lost no dignity in Jehovah’s eyes, and he certainly sought no glory from men. Even though Jesus died the death of a slave, Jehovah dignified him by resurrecting him and giving him the most honorable place next to Him. At Philippians 2:8-11, we read: “[Christ Jesus] humbled himself and became obedient as far as death, yes, death on a torture stake. For this very reason also God exalted him to a superior position and kindly gave him the name that is above every other name, so that in the name of Jesus every knee should bend of those in heaven and those on earth and those under the ground, and every tongue should openly acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord to the glory of God the Father.”

Jesus was not insensitive to the feelings of disgrace that accompanied his execution. Possible dishonor to his Father resulting from Jesus’ being condemned for blasphemy was a matter of concern to God’s Son. Jesus asked Jehovah to spare him such indignity. “Remove this cup from me,” he prayed. But Jesus submitted to God’s will. (Mark 14:36) Still, Jesus withstood the pressures brought to bear on him and despised the shame. After all, such shame would be felt only by those who fully accepted the values common to his day. Jesus clearly did not.

Jesus’ disciples were also arrested and flogged. Such treatment dishonored them in the eyes of many. They were looked down upon and despised. Yet, they were not deterred. True disciples resisted the pressure of public opinion and despised shame. (Matt. 10:17; Acts 5:40; 2 Cor. 11:23-25) They knew that they were to ‘pick up their torture stakes and follow Jesus continually.’—Luke 9:23, 26.

What about us today? Things the world considers foolish, weak, and ignoble, God views as wise, powerful, and honorable. (1 Cor. 1:25-28) Would it not be foolish and shortsighted for us to be influenced entirely by public opinion?

Any who desire honor must give weight to what the world thinks of them. On the other hand, like Jesus and his first-century followers, we desire to have Jehovah as our Friend. Therefore, we will honor what is honorable in his eyes and view as shameful that which he views as shameful.

[Picture on page 4]

Jesus was not influenced by worldly concepts of shame

Questions From Readers

pp. 6–7

Questions From Readers

Why could Jesus tell a woman who was known to be a sinner that her sins were forgiven?—Luke 7:37, 48.

As Jesus was reclining at a meal in the house of a Pharisee named Simon, a woman ‘took a position behind Jesus at his feet.’ She wet his feet with her tears and wiped them off with the hair of her head. She then tenderly kissed his feet and greased them with perfumed oil. The woman “was known in the city to be a sinner,” says the Gospel account. Of course, every imperfect human is a sinner, but the Scriptures usually use this term to describe a person whose sins are notorious or who has a reputation for sinning. Likely, the woman was a prostitute. It was to such a person that Jesus said: “Your sins are forgiven.” (Luke 7:36-38, 48) What did Jesus mean by that? Since the ransom sacrifice had not yet been offered, how was this forgiveness possible?

After the woman had washed and anointed Jesus’ feet but prior to his forgiving her, Jesus used an illustration to explain an important point to his host, Simon. Likening sin to a debt too big to be repaid, Jesus said to Simon: “Two men were debtors to a certain lender; the one was in debt for five hundred denarii, but the other for fifty. When they did not have anything with which to pay back, he freely forgave them both. Therefore, which of them will love him the more?” In answer Simon said: “I suppose it is the one to whom he freely forgave the more.” Jesus replied: “You judged correctly.” (Luke 7:41-43) All of us owe God obedience, so when we disobey him and sin, we fail to pay God what is due him. Thus we accumulate debt. Jehovah, though, is like a lender who is willing to forgive debts. That is why Jesus encouraged his followers to pray to God and ask: “Forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors.” (Matt. 6:12) Luke 11:4 identifies these debts as sins.

On what conditions had God forgiven sins in the past? His perfect justice requires the penalty of death for sin. Thus, Adam paid for his sin with his life. Under the Law that God gave to the nation of Israel, however, a transgressor could have his sins forgiven by sacrificing an animal to Jehovah. The apostle Paul noted: “Nearly all things are cleansed with blood according to the Law, and unless blood is poured out no forgiveness takes place.” (Heb. 9:22) The Jews knew of no other way by which forgiveness could be obtained from God. It is not surprising, therefore, that onlookers in Jesus’ day objected to what he said to the woman. Those reclining at the table with Jesus said within themselves: “Who is this man who even forgives sins?” (Luke 7:49) On what basis, then, could the transgressions of the sin-laden woman be forgiven?

The very first prophecy uttered after the original human couple rebelled spoke of Jehovah’s purpose to raise up a “seed” who would be bruised in the heel by Satan and his “seed.” (Gen. 3:15) This bruising occurred when Jesus was put to death by God’s enemies. (Gal. 3:13, 16) Christ’s shed blood serves as the ransom that frees mankind from sin and death. Since nothing can prevent Jehovah from accomplishing what he has purposed to do, as soon as the words recorded at Genesis 3:15 were spoken, the ransom was as good as paid from God’s viewpoint. He could now forgive those who exercised faith in his promises.

During pre-Christian times, Jehovah counted a number of individuals as righteous. Among them were Enoch, Noah, Abraham, Rahab, and Job. In faith, they looked forward to the fulfillment of God’s promises. “Abraham put faith in Jehovah,” wrote the disciple James, “and it was counted to him as righteousness.” Concerning Rahab, James said: “In the same manner was not also Rahab the harlot declared righteous by works?”—Jas. 2:21-25.

King David of ancient Israel committed several serious sins, but he had strong faith in the true God and manifested genuine repentance each time. Furthermore, the Scriptures state: “God set [Jesus] forth as an offering for propitiation through faith in his blood. This was in order to exhibit his own righteousness, because he was forgiving the sins that occurred in the past while God was exercising forbearance; so as to exhibit his own righteousness in this present season, that he might be righteous even when declaring righteous the man that has faith in Jesus.” (Rom. 3:25, 26) Based on the ransom sacrifice of Jesus that was to be provided in the future, Jehovah could pardon David’s transgressions without compromising His own requirements for justice.

Evidently, the situation of the woman who anointed Jesus’ feet was similar. She had lived an immoral life, but she had repented. She recognized her need for redemption from sin and showed by her actions that she truly appreciated the person through whom Jehovah provided that redemption. Though still future, that sacrifice was so certain that its value could already be applied to individuals like her. Hence, Jesus told her: “Your sins are forgiven.”

As this account clearly shows, Jesus did not shun sinners. He did good to them. Moreover, Jehovah is willing to forgive repentant sinners. What a wonderful and heartwarming assurance that is for us imperfect humans!

[Picture on page 7]

It was counted to them as righteousness

How Jesus Magnifies God’s Righteousness

pp. 8–12

How Jesus Magnifies God’s Righteousness

“God set [Christ] forth as an offering for propitiation through faith in his blood. This was in order to exhibit his own righteousness.”—ROM. 3:25.

1, 2. (a) What does the Bible teach us about mankind’s condition? (b) What questions will this article consider?

THE Biblical account about rebellion in the garden of Eden is well-known. All of us feel the effects of Adam’s sin as explained in these words: “Through one man sin entered into the world and death through sin, and thus death spread to all men because they had all sinned.” (Rom. 5:12) No matter how hard we try to do what is right, we make mistakes, for which we need God’s forgiveness. Even the apostle Paul lamented: “The good that I wish I do not do, but the bad that I do not wish is what I practice. Miserable man that I am!”—Rom. 7:19, 24.

² Our sinful nature gives rise to these important questions: How was it possible for Jesus of Nazareth to be born free from inherited sin, and why was he baptized? How did Jesus’ life course magnify Jehovah’s righteousness? Most important, what did Christ’s death accomplish?

God’s Righteousness Challenged

3. How did Satan deceive Eve?

³ Our first parents, Adam and Eve, foolishly rejected God’s sovereignty in favor of being ruled by “the original serpent, the one called Devil and Satan.” (Rev. 12:9) Consider how this happened. Satan questioned the righteousness of Jehovah God’s way of ruling. He did so by asking Eve: “Is it really so that God said you must not eat from every tree of the garden?” Eve repeated God’s clear command that one specific tree was not to be touched, on pain of death. Satan then accused God of lying. “You positively will not die,” said the Devil. He went on to deceive Eve into believing that God was withholding something good and that by eating the fruit, she would become like God, having moral independence.—Gen. 3:1-5.

4. How did mankind come under Satan’s rival sovereignty?

⁴ Basically, Satan implied that mankind would be happier following a path of independence from God. Instead of upholding the righteousness of God’s sovereignty, Adam listened to his wife and joined her in eating the forbidden fruit. Thus Adam forfeited his perfect standing with Jehovah and brought us under the cruel yoke of sin and death. At the same time, mankind came under the rival sovereignty of Satan, “the god of this world.”—2 Cor. 4:4, King James Version; Rom. 7:14.

5. (a) How did Jehovah prove true to his word? (b) What hope did God give Adam and Eve’s descendants?

⁵ True to his infallible word, Jehovah passed the sentence of death on Adam and Eve. (Gen. 3:16-19) But that did not mean God’s purpose had failed. Far from it! When sentencing Adam and Eve, Jehovah gave their future descendants a bright ray of hope. He did so by announcing his purpose to raise up a “seed” whom Satan would bruise in the heel. That promised Seed, however, would recover from the heel wound and would “bruise [Satan] in the head.” (Gen. 3:15) The Bible elaborates on this theme by stating the following respecting Jesus Christ: “For this purpose the Son of God was made manifest, namely, to break up the works of the Devil.” (1 John 3:8) But how did Jesus’ conduct and death magnify God’s righteousness?

The Meaning of Jesus’ Baptism

6. How do we know that Jesus did not inherit sin from Adam?

⁶ As a full-grown man, Jesus was to be the exact equivalent of the once perfect Adam. (Rom. 5:14; 1 Cor. 15:45) This means that Jesus had to be born perfect. How was that possible? The angel Gabriel gave this clear explanation to Jesus’ mother, Mary: “Holy spirit will come upon you, and power of the Most High will overshadow you. For that reason also what is born will be called holy, God’s Son.” (Luke 1:35) Early in Jesus’ life, Mary apparently disclosed to Jesus certain facts about his birth. Thus, on one occasion when Mary and Jesus’ adoptive father, Joseph, found Jesus in God’s temple, the young child asked: “Did you not know that I must be in the house of my Father?” (Luke 2:49) Evidently from an early age, Jesus knew that he was God’s Son. Magnifying God’s righteousness was therefore of great importance to him.

7. Jesus had what precious possessions?

⁷ Jesus showed his keen interest in spiritual things by regularly attending meetings for worship. With his perfect mind, he must have absorbed everything he heard and read in the Hebrew Scriptures. (Luke 4:16) He also had another precious possession—a perfect human body that could be sacrificed in behalf of mankind. When he was baptized, Jesus was praying and may have been thinking about the prophetic words of Psalm 40:6-8.—Luke 3:21; read Hebrews 10:5-10.a

8. Why did John the Baptizer try to prevent Jesus from getting baptized?

⁸ John the Baptizer initially wanted to prevent Jesus from getting baptized. Why? Because John was immersing Jews in symbol of their repentance over sin against the Law. As a close relative, John must have known that Jesus was righteous and therefore in no need of repentance. Jesus assured John that it was fitting for Him to be baptized. “In that way,” Jesus explained, “it is suitable for us to carry out all that is righteous.”—Matt. 3:15.

9. What did Jesus’ baptism symbolize?

⁹ As a perfect human, Jesus could have concluded that he, like Adam, had the potential for fathering a perfect race. However, Jesus never desired such a future because it was not Jehovah’s will for him. God had sent Jesus to the earth to fulfill the role of the promised Seed, or Messiah. This included Jesus’ sacrificing his perfect human life. (Read Isaiah 53:5, 6, 12.) Of course, Jesus’ baptism did not have the same meaning as ours does. It did not involve dedication to Jehovah, since Jesus was already part of God’s dedicated nation of Israel. Rather, Jesus’ baptism symbolized the presentation of himself to do God’s will as outlined in the Scriptures for the Messiah.

10. What did the doing of God’s will as the Messiah include, and how did Jesus feel about this?

¹⁰ Jehovah’s will for Jesus involved preaching the good news of God’s Kingdom, making disciples, and preparing them for future disciple-making work. Jesus’ presentation of himself also included his willingness to endure persecution and a cruel death in support of Jehovah God’s righteous sovereignty. Because Jesus truly loved his heavenly Father, he was delighted to do God’s will and found it deeply satisfying to present his body as a sacrifice. (John 14:31) It also pleased him to know that the value of his perfect life could be offered to God as a ransom to buy us back from slavery to sin and death. Did God approve of Jesus’ presentation of himself to shoulder these great responsibilities? He did indeed!

11. How did Jehovah show his acceptance of Jesus as the promised Messiah, or Christ?

¹¹ All four Gospel writers testify to Jehovah God’s clear expression of approval as Jesus came up from the waters of the Jordan River. “I viewed the spirit coming down as a dove out of heaven,” testified John the Baptizer, “and it remained upon [Jesus] . . . And I have seen it, and I have borne witness that this one is the Son of God.” (John 1:32-34) Moreover, on that occasion Jehovah declared: “This is my Son, the beloved, whom I have approved.”—Matt. 3:17; Mark 1:11; Luke 3:22.

Faithful Till Death

12. What did Jesus do for three and a half years after his baptism?

¹² For the next three and a half years, Jesus poured himself out in teaching people about his Father and the righteousness of God’s sovereignty. Journeying the length and breadth of the Promised Land on foot tired him out, but nothing could stop him from bearing thorough witness to the truth. (John 4:6, 34; 18:37) Jesus taught others about God’s Kingdom. By miraculously healing the sick, feeding the hungry crowds, and even raising the dead, he demonstrated what the Kingdom would accomplish for mankind.—Matt. 11:4, 5.

13. What did Jesus teach regarding prayer?

¹³ Instead of personally taking the credit for his teachings and works of healing, Jesus set an outstanding example by humbly directing all praise to Jehovah. (John 5:19; 11:41-44) Jesus also made known the most important matters about which we should pray. Our prayers should include requests that God’s name, Jehovah, “be treated as holy” and that God’s righteous sovereignty replace Satan’s wicked rule so that His “will take place, as in heaven, also upon earth.” (Matt. 6:9, 10; ftn.) Jesus also urged us to act in harmony with such prayers by “seeking first the kingdom and [God’s] righteousness.”—Matt. 6:33.

14. Although Jesus was perfect, why did it require effort for him to fulfill his role in God’s purpose?

¹⁴ As the time for his sacrificial death drew near, Jesus became increasingly aware of the weighty responsibility he bore. His Father’s purpose and reputation depended upon Jesus’ enduring an unjust trial and a cruel death. Five days before his death, Jesus prayed: “Now my soul is troubled, and what shall I say? Father, save me out of this hour. Nevertheless, this is why I have come to this hour.” After expressing these natural human feelings, Jesus unselfishly switched his focus to the matter of greater importance and prayed: “Father, glorify your name.” Jehovah immediately responded: “I both glorified it and will glorify it again.” (John 12:27, 28) Yes, Jesus was willing to go through the greatest test of integrity any human has ever had to face. But hearing those words of his heavenly Father undoubtedly gave Jesus strong confidence that he would succeed in magnifying and vindicating Jehovah’s sovereignty. And succeed he did!

What Jesus’ Death Accomplished

15. Just before he died, why did Jesus say: “It has been accomplished”?

¹⁵ As Jesus hung on the torture stake about to take his last agonizing breath, he said: “It has been accomplished!” (John 19:30) What great things Jesus was able to accomplish with God’s help during the three and a half years from his baptism until his death! When Jesus died, there was a violent earthquake, and the Roman army officer in charge of the execution was moved to say: “Certainly this was God’s Son.” (Matt. 27:54) The officer had apparently seen Jesus being mocked for claiming to be God’s Son. Despite everything that he suffered, Jesus maintained his integrity and proved Satan to be a monstrous liar. Regarding all who support God’s sovereignty, Satan had made this challenge: “A person will give up everything he has to save his life.” (Job 2:4, Complete Jewish Bible) By his faithfulness, Jesus showed that Adam and Eve could have proved faithful under their much easier test. Most important of all, Jesus’ life and death upheld and magnified the righteousness of Jehovah’s sovereignty. (Read Proverbs 27:11.) Has Jesus’ death accomplished anything more? Indeed it has!

16, 17. (a) Why was it possible for pre-Christian witnesses of Jehovah to have a righteous standing with him? (b) How did Jehovah reward the faithfulness of his Son, and what does the Lord Jesus Christ continue to do?

¹⁶ Many servants of Jehovah lived before Jesus came to the earth. They enjoyed a righteous standing with God and were given the hope of a resurrection. (Isa. 25:8; Dan. 12:13) But on what legal basis could the holy God, Jehovah, bless sinful humans in such a wonderful way? The Bible explains: “God set [Jesus Christ] forth as an offering for propitiation through faith in his blood. This was in order to exhibit his own righteousness, because he was forgiving the sins that occurred in the past while God was exercising forbearance; so as to exhibit his own righteousness in this present season, that he might be righteous even when declaring righteous the man that has faith in Jesus.”—Rom. 3:25, 26.b

¹⁷ Jehovah rewarded Jesus with a resurrection to a position superior to the one he had before coming to the earth. Jesus now enjoys immortality as a glorious spirit creature. (Heb. 1:3) As High Priest and King, the Lord Jesus Christ continues to help his followers to magnify God’s righteousness. And how thankful we are that our heavenly Father, Jehovah, is the Rewarder of all who do this and loyally serve him in imitation of his Son!—Read Psalm 34:3; Hebrews 11:6.

18. What will be the focus of the next study article?

¹⁸ Faithful humans all the way back to Abel enjoyed a close relationship with Jehovah because they exercised faith and had confidence in the promised Seed. Jehovah knew that his Son would be an integrity keeper and that his death would provide a perfect covering for “the sin of the world.” (John 1:29) Jesus’ death also benefits people living today. (Rom. 3:26) So, what blessings can Christ’s ransom bring you? That will be the subject of the next study article.

[Footnotes]

a The apostle Paul here quotes from Psalm 40:6-8 according to the Greek Septuagint translation, which includes the words “you prepared a body for me.” This phrase is not found in available manuscripts of the ancient Hebrew Scriptures.

b See “Questions From Readers” on pages 6 and 7.

How Would You Answer?

• How was God’s righteousness challenged?

• What did Jesus’ baptism symbolize?

• What did Jesus’ death accomplish?

[Picture on page 9]

Do you know what was symbolized by Jesus’ baptism?

How the Ransom Saves Us

pp. 12–16

How the Ransom Saves Us

“He that exercises faith in the Son has everlasting life; he that disobeys the Son will not see life, but the wrath of God remains upon him.”—JOHN 3:36.

1, 2. What was one reason why Zion’s Watch Tower was originally published?

“NO CAREFUL student of the Bible can fail to be impressed with the stress that is laid on the death of Christ,” stated the fourth issue of this magazine back in October 1879. That article concluded on this serious note: “Let us beware of anything that belittles, or sets aside the death of Christ, as the offering and propitiation for sin.”—Read 1 John 2:1, 2.

² One of the reasons why Zion’s Watch Tower was first published in July 1879 was to defend the Bible teaching of the ransom. Its pages provided “food at the proper time,” for in the late 1800’s, a growing number of professed Christians began to question how Jesus’ death could be a ransom for our sins. (Matt. 24:45) At that time, many were falling victim to the theory of evolution, an idea that conflicts with the fact that man has fallen from a perfect state. Evolutionists teach that man is naturally improving and has no need for a ransom. Especially appropriate, then, is the apostle Paul’s counsel to Timothy: “Guard what is laid up in trust with you, turning away from the empty speeches that violate what is holy and from the contradictions of the falsely called ‘knowledge.’ For making a show of such knowledge some have deviated from the faith.”—1 Tim. 6:20, 21.

3. What questions will we now consider?

³ No doubt you are determined not to ‘deviate from the faith.’ To that end, it would be good to consider these questions: Why do I need the ransom? What did it cost? How can I benefit from this precious provision that can save me from God’s wrath?

Saved From God’s Wrath

4, 5. What proves that God’s wrath remains upon the present wicked system of things?

⁴ The Bible and the hard facts of history show that ever since Adam’s fall into sin, God’s wrath ‘has remained upon’ the human race. (John 3:36) This is evident in that no human has been able to escape eventual death. Satan’s rival sovereignty has been totally unable to protect mankind from ongoing calamities, and no human government has been capable of fulfilling the basic needs of all its citizens. (1 John 5:19) So mankind continues to be plagued by war, crime, and poverty.

⁵ Clearly, then, Jehovah’s blessing is not upon the present wicked system of things. Paul said that “God’s wrath is being revealed from heaven against all ungodliness.” (Rom. 1:18-20) Therefore, those who unrepentantly live ungodly lives will not escape the consequences of their conduct. Today, God’s wrath is being made known in the judgment messages that are being poured out like plagues upon Satan’s world, and such information appears in many of our Bible-based publications.—Rev. 16:1.

6, 7. What work is being spearheaded by anointed Christians, and what opportunity is still open to individuals who are part of Satan’s world?

⁶ Does this mean that it is too late for individuals to break free from Satan’s domination and come into God’s favor? No, for the door leading to reconciliation with Jehovah is still wide open. Anointed Christians, who are “ambassadors substituting for Christ,” are spearheading a public ministry by means of which people of all nations are being entreated: “Become reconciled to God.”—2 Cor. 5:20, 21.

⁷ The apostle Paul said that Jesus “delivers us from the wrath which is coming.” (1 Thess. 1:10) That final expression of Jehovah’s anger will result in the everlasting destruction of unrepentant sinners. (2 Thess. 1:6-9) Who will escape? The Bible states: “He that exercises faith in the Son has everlasting life; he that disobeys the Son will not see life, but the wrath of God remains upon him.” (John 3:36) Yes, all who are alive and who are exercising faith in Jesus and the ransom when this system reaches its end will escape the consequences of God’s final day of wrath.

How the Ransom Works

8. (a) What grand prospect lay before Adam and Eve? (b) How did Jehovah prove to be a God of perfect justice?

⁸ Adam and Eve were created perfect. If they had remained obedient to God, the earth would now be full of their happy offspring living together with them in Paradise. Sadly, however, our first parents willfully broke God’s command. As a result, they were sentenced to eternal death and were expelled from the original Paradise. By the time that Adam and Eve had children, sin had affected humankind, and the first man and woman eventually grew old and died. This proves that Jehovah is true to his word. Moreover, he is a God of perfect justice. Jehovah had warned Adam that partaking of the forbidden fruit would result in death—and it did.

9, 10. (a) Why do Adam’s descendants die? (b) How can we escape eternal death?

⁹ As descendants of Adam, we have inherited an imperfect body prone to sin and eventual death. When Adam sinned, we were in his loins, so to speak. So the sentence of death included us. If Jehovah were to reverse the death process without the payment of a ransom, he would be untrue to his word. In effect, Paul spoke for all of us when he said: “We know that the Law is spiritual; but I am fleshly, sold under sin. Miserable man that I am! Who will rescue me from the body undergoing this death?”—Rom. 7:14, 24.

¹⁰ Only Jehovah God could provide the legal basis whereby he could justly forgive us our sins and free us from the penalty of eternal death. This he did by sending his beloved Son from heaven to be born as a perfect human, who could give his life as a ransom for us. Unlike Adam, Jesus remained perfect. Indeed, “he committed no sin.” (1 Pet. 2:22) Jesus thus had the potential for fathering a perfect human race. Instead, however, he allowed God’s enemies to put him to death so that he could adopt Adam’s sinful descendants and make it possible for those exercising faith in him to receive everlasting life. The Scriptures explain: “There is one God, and one mediator between God and men, a man, Christ Jesus, who gave himself a corresponding ransom for all.”—1 Tim. 2:5, 6.

11. (a) How can the benefits of the ransom be illustrated? (b) How far-reaching are the benefits of the ransom?

¹¹ How the ransom works can be illustrated by the situation of people who have been defrauded of all their savings by a corrupt bank and thus fell into debt. The owners of the bank are justly sentenced to years in prison. But what about the innocent victims? Reduced to poverty, they have no way out of their circumstances unless a kind and wealthy man takes over the bank and restores to the victims all their savings, relieving them of debt. In like manner, Jehovah God and his beloved Son have purchased Adam’s offspring and canceled their debt of sin on the basis of Jesus’ shed blood. That is why John the Baptizer could say of Jesus: “See, the Lamb of God that takes away the sin of the world!” (John 1:29) The world of mankind whose sins are taken away includes not only the living but also the dead.

What the Ransom Cost

12, 13. What can we learn from Abraham’s willingness to offer up Isaac?

¹² It is impossible for us to grasp exactly how much the ransom cost our heavenly Father and his beloved Son. But the Bible relates experiences that can help us to meditate on this matter. For instance, imagine how Abraham must have felt as he made a three-day journey to Moriah in obedience to God’s command: “Take, please, your son, your only son whom you so love, Isaac, and make a trip to the land of Moriah and there offer him up as a burnt offering on one of the mountains that I shall designate to you.”—Gen. 22:2-4.

¹³ Abraham finally arrived at the place designated. Think about how heartrending it must have been for him to bind Isaac’s hands and feet and have him lie on the altar that Abraham himself had built. How painful it must have been for Abraham to lift the knife with which he was to kill his son! Imagine Isaac’s feelings as he lay on the altar, awaiting the sharp, piercing pain that would lead to his death. Jehovah’s angel stopped Abraham just in time. What Abraham and Isaac did on that occasion helps us to understand what it must have cost Jehovah to allow Satan’s agents to murder His Son. Isaac’s cooperation with Abraham well illustrates Jesus’ willingness to suffer and to die for us.—Heb. 11:17-19.

14. What incident in the life of Jacob helps us to appreciate the cost of the ransom?

¹⁴ The cost of the ransom can also be illustrated by an incident in the life of Jacob. Of all his sons, the one Jacob loved most was Joseph. Sadly, Joseph’s brothers envied and hated him. Yet, Joseph was willing to be sent by his father to see how his brothers were faring. At the time, they were shepherding Jacob’s flock some 60 miles [100 km] north of their home in Hebron. Imagine how Jacob felt when his sons returned with Joseph’s garment covered with blood! “It is my son’s long garment!” he exclaimed. “A vicious wild beast must have devoured him! Joseph is surely torn to pieces!” All of this had a great impact on Jacob, who mourned over Joseph for many days. (Gen. 37:33, 34) Jehovah does not react to situations exactly as imperfect humans do. Yet, meditating on this incident in the life of Jacob may help us to grasp, to some extent, how God must have felt when his beloved Son was mistreated and cruelly put to death as a man on earth.

Benefiting From the Ransom

15, 16. (a) How did Jehovah show his acceptance of the ransom? (b) How have you benefited from the ransom?

¹⁵ Jehovah God resurrected his faithful Son with a glorious spirit body. (1 Pet. 3:18) For 40 days, the resurrected Jesus appeared to his disciples, strengthening their faith and preparing them for a great evangelizing work ahead. Then he ascended to heaven. There he offered to God the value of his shed blood, to be used in behalf of his true followers, who exercise faith in the value of his ransom sacrifice. Jehovah God showed his acceptance of Christ’s ransom by assigning Jesus to pour out holy spirit upon his disciples who were gathered together in Jerusalem on the day of Pentecost 33 C.E.—Acts 2:33.

¹⁶ These anointed followers of Christ immediately began to urge their fellow men to escape God’s wrath by getting baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for forgiveness of their sins. (Read Acts 2:38-40.) From that historic day until now, millions of people from all nations have been drawn into a relationship with God on the basis of faith in Jesus’ ransom sacrifice. (John 6:44) Having come this far, we need to consider two more questions: Were any of us given the hope of everlasting life because of our own good works? Once having received this wonderful hope, could we possibly lose it?

17. How should you view the wonderful blessing of being a friend of God?

¹⁷ The ransom is totally undeserved. But by exercising faith in it, millions today have become friends of God, with the hope of everlasting life on a paradise earth. Becoming Jehovah’s friends, however, is not an assurance that we will remain in such a relationship with him. To escape God’s future day of wrath, we must keep on showing our deep appreciation for “the ransom paid by Christ Jesus.”—Rom. 3:24; read Philippians 2:12.

Keep On Exercising Faith in the Ransom

18. What does exercising faith in the ransom include?

¹⁸ The theme text of this article, John 3:36, shows that exercising faith in the Lord Jesus Christ includes being obedient to him. Appreciation for the ransom should move us to live in harmony with Jesus’ teachings, including what he taught about morals. (Mark 7:21-23) “The wrath of God is coming” upon all who unrepentantly engage in such practices as fornication, obscene jesting, and “uncleanness of every sort,” which would encompass the persistent viewing of pornography.—Eph. 5:3-6.

19. In what positive ways can we show our faith in the ransom?

¹⁹ Our appreciation for the ransom should keep us busy with “deeds of godly devotion.” (2 Pet. 3:11) Let us set aside ample time for regular and earnest prayer, personal Bible study, meeting attendance, family worship, and zealous Kingdom-preaching activity. And may we “not forget the doing of good and the sharing of things with others, for with such sacrifices God is well pleased.”—Heb. 13:15, 16.

20. All who continue to exercise faith in the ransom can expect what future blessing?

²⁰ When Jehovah’s wrath breaks out upon this wicked system of things, how happy we will be that we have exercised faith in the ransom and have shown an ongoing appreciation for it! And in God’s promised new world, we will be eternally grateful for this wonderful provision that saved us from God’s wrath.—Read John 3:16; Revelation 7:9, 10, 13, 14.

How Would You Answer?

• Why do we need the ransom?

• What was the cost of the ransom?

• What benefits come from the ransom?

• How do we exercise faith in Jesus’ ransom sacrifice?

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The door to reconciliation with Jehovah is wide open

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Meditating on these incidents involving Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob can help us to appreciate the great cost of the ransom

An Open Invitation!

pp. 17–19

An Open Invitation!

AN OPEN invitation to what? To visit one of the branch offices of Jehovah’s Witnesses, generally referred to as Bethel. There are 118 of these centers located in various lands. Visitors often express their heartfelt appreciation for what they observe taking place at Bethel.

After seeing many hard workers happily serving Jehovah at the branch office in Mexico, one young Bible student was so impressed that he asked: “What do I have to do to stay here?” He was told: “First, you have to be baptized. Then, it is good to serve as a pioneer—a full-time Kingdom proclaimer.” The young man followed the recommendations, and two years later he was invited to serve at Bethel in Mexico, where he has served for the past 20 years.

What Is Bethel?

In the Hebrew language, “Bethel” means “House of God.” (Gen. 28:19, ftn.) The facilities at various branch offices are used to print and distribute Bibles and Bible literature and to provide spiritual assistance to over 100,000 congregations of Jehovah’s Witnesses worldwide. Close to 20,000 Bethel workers—men and women of many different social and cultural backgrounds—selflessly serve Jehovah and their spiritual brothers and sisters full-time. Those who have spent many years in this Christian work serve alongside energetic youths. On evenings and weekends, members of Bethel families enjoy associating with nearby congregations of Jehovah’s Witnesses at meetings and in the Christian ministry. They also use their free time for Bible study, recreation, and caring for personal matters.

Members of the Bethel family receive a small monthly monetary reimbursement. They enjoy tasty and nutritious meals and live in clean, comfortable quarters. Bethel homes are not designed to be luxurious. However, they are practical. Visitors are impressed not only by the well-kept buildings and grounds and the smooth-running organization but also by the spirit of kindness and cooperation that prevails at Bethel. Everyone works diligently, yet no one is too busy to be friendly. In Bethel there are neither social distinctions nor feelings of superiority because of one’s assignment. Every assignment is important, whether it is cleaning, gardening, cooking, or working in a printery or an office. Bethelites, as those in Bethel service are known, work together as a team to support the ministry of Jehovah’s Witnesses.—Col. 3:23.

Meet Some of the Bethelites

Let us take a closer look at those who make up this international family. What moved them to want to serve at Bethel? Consider the case of Mario. At the time he became one of Jehovah’s Witnesses, Mario had a lucrative job with a prestigious German automotive company and had opportunity for advancement. Not long after his baptism, he volunteered to spend one week at Bethel in his country. He was put to work helping in the printery. Mario could see the marked contrast between his Bethel workmates and those at his secular job. So he applied for full-time Bethel service. Although many of his relatives and colleagues found his decision hard to understand, Mario is now happily serving at Bethel in Germany.

Many enter Bethel service without any special education or skills. That was true of Abel, who has served at Bethel in Mexico for 15 years. “Bethel has been a real school for me,” he remarks. “I have learned to operate very sophisticated printing presses. I know that with this knowledge, I could make a lot of money outside of Bethel, but I would not have what I enjoy here—a tranquil, satisfying life without the worries and competitiveness of many commercial workplaces. I feel that I have received the finest possible education, one that has helped me to develop both spiritually and intellectually. I could not have received such spiritual benefits even in the best university.”

A Visit Can Be Upbuilding

Just visiting Bethel can have a positive effect on a person’s spirituality. This was the case with Omar, in Mexico. His mother taught him the truths of the Bible. But at the age of 17, Omar stopped attending Christian meetings and sharing in the public ministry. He eventually got caught up in vices and a materialistic way of life. Later, when working for a communications company, Omar was part of a delegation that visited Bethel in Mexico to demonstrate some equipment. Omar comments: “After our demonstration, our hosts gave us a tour of the facilities. What I saw and the kind treatment I received made me reflect on the life I was leading, alienated from Jehovah. I immediately began to attend meetings again and to study the Bible. Six months after my visit to Bethel, I was baptized. I thank Jehovah for the motivation I received through that visit to Bethel.”

Masahiko, in Japan, was also reared in a Witness family. However, he began to think of the Christian way of life as too restrictive. He became very involved in school activities and stopped attending meetings and participating in the preaching work. Masahiko recalls: “One day our family and a few Christian friends decided to tour Bethel. At my family’s insistence, I went along. Touring Bethel, I felt refreshed as never before. The enjoyment I got from association with other Christians during the trip was something I never experienced with my non-Witness friends. The desire to live the Christian way of life grew in me, and I decided to ask for a Bible study.” Masahiko now serves as a full-time minister in his congregation.

A Witness from France moved to Moscow to work. There she lost contact with Jehovah’s people and became spiritually weak. She became involved in wrongdoing and eventually married a non-Witness. Then a spiritual sister from France came to see her, and together they traveled to St. Petersburg, Russia, to visit the Bethel home there. She writes: “At Bethel we were warmly welcomed, and this touched me. There was such peace. I felt Jehovah’s spirit. How could I have made the mistake of drifting away from Jehovah’s organization? After my visit to Bethel, I prayed for Jehovah’s help and began teaching my children the Bible with renewed determination.” In addition to other spiritual assistance this then spiritually weak Witness may have received, she was greatly fortified by her visit to Bethel and thereafter made good progress.

What about the impression a visit to Bethel may make on those who are not familiar with Jehovah’s Witnesses? In 1988, Alberto, who was deeply involved in politics, visited Bethel in Brazil. The cleanliness, orderliness, and particularly the openness with which the work was carried out greatly impressed him. Not long before touring Bethel, Alberto had visited the seminary where his brother-in-law served as a priest. Alberto noticed the contrast. “Everything in the seminary was done in secret,” says Alberto. Shortly after his visit to Bethel, he accepted a Bible study, abandoned politics, and now serves as a congregation elder.

Come Visit Bethel!

Many have put forth extraordinary efforts to visit the branch office in their country. In Brazil, for example, Paulo and Eugenia saved for four years in order to make the two-day, 2,000-mile [3,000 km] bus trip to see the Bethel facilities in that country. They say: “It was worth all the effort. We now have a much broader view of Jehovah’s organization. When we explain the work done at Bethel to our Bible students, they sometimes ask, ‘Have you ever been there?’ Now we can say yes.”

Is there a branch office and Bethel home in your country or in a nearby land? We invite you to visit the facilities. You will surely receive a warm welcome and derive great spiritual benefit from visiting Bethel.

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Mario

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Abel

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Germany

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Japan

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Brazil

Do You Remember?

p. 20

Do You Remember?

Have you appreciated reading the recent issues of The Watchtower? Well, see if you can answer the following questions:

• What will help you to raise responsible children?

“Set the pattern” for your child as to responsible behavior. (John 13:15) Have reasonable expectations; as he grows older, you can ask more of him in matters of cleanliness, punctuality, and schoolwork. Provide specific instructions in order to train your child to handle his responsibilities.—5/1, pages 19-20.

• Why did God not punish Aaron for making the golden calf?

Aaron did break God’s law about idolatry. (Ex. 20:3-5) Yet, Moses supplicated God in Aaron’s behalf, and his supplication had “much force.” (Jas. 5:16) Aaron had a record of faithfulness. And though the people persuaded Aaron to make the calf, he later showed that his heart was not with them, for he joined the sons of Levi in taking Jehovah’s side. (Ex. 32:25-29)—5/15, page 21.

• Where was Ophir, mentioned in the Bible as a source of gold?

To bring gold from Ophir, Solomon constructed ships in Ezion-geber. (1 Ki. 9:26-28) That port was at the head of the Gulf of Aqaba near present-day Elat and Aqaba, on the Red Sea. Thus, Ophir may have been in Arabia near the Red Sea or on the African or Indian coasts.—6/1, page 15.

• To what does “balsam in Gilead” refer? (Jer. 8:22)

Balsam oil was an aromatic, resinous oil secreted by various plants found, among other places, in Gilead, east of the Jordan River. Having medicinal properties, it was applied to wounds. Israel’s pitiable condition should have moved the nation to seek a cure, but the people did not. (Jer. 8:9)—6/1, pages 21-22.

• What may help a Christian cope with a spouse’s adultery?

If the innocent mate has tried to live by Bible principles, there is no need to feel guilty over the betrayal by the adulterer. God knows your need for comfort and encouragement. He may provide comfort through fellow Christians.—6/15, pages 30-31.

• What can you do to help one who is ill?

Be a good listener. (Eccl. 3:1, 7) Be empathetic and considerate. (Rom. 12:15) Be upbuilding and helpful. (Col. 4:6; 1 John 3:18) Stay connected. (Prov. 17:17)—7/1, pages 10-13.

• How do we know that God did not have a beginning?

Moses indicated this in prayer. (Ps. 90:2) Accordingly, Jehovah bears the unique title “King of eternity.” (1 Tim. 1:17)—7/1, page 28.

• How can you instill in your children a love for reading?

A loving atmosphere and parental example help to instill a love for reading. Also, make books available. Read out loud. Encourage participation, discussing what you read. Have your children read to you, and urge them to ask questions.—7/15, page 26.

• Why did Jesus not hurry to his sick friend Lazarus and heal him?

By the time Jesus arrived, Lazarus had been dead for four days. By waiting, Jesus gave a better witness about his Father. Thus, many became believers. (John 11:45)—8/1, pages 14-15.

• What were the “high places”?

In most cases, the references are to open-air hilltop sites or other places of false worship. Sometimes altars, sacred pillars or poles, and other religious trappings were set up at sites to carry on practices that God condemned. (Num. 33:52)—8/1, page 23.

Let “the Law of Loving-Kindness” Safeguard Your Tongue

pp. 21–25

Let “the Law of Loving-Kindness” Safeguard Your Tongue

“Her mouth she has opened in wisdom, and the law of loving-kindness is upon her tongue.”—PROV. 31:26.

1, 2. (a) What quality are Jehovah’s worshippers encouraged to cultivate? (b) What will be discussed in this article?

THE weighty message that King Lemuel of ancient times received from his mother included an important qualification of a good wife. “Her mouth she has opened in wisdom,” he was informed, “and the law of loving-kindness is upon her tongue.” (Prov. 31:1, 10, 26) Loving-kindness is desirable upon the tongue of a wise woman as well as all others who want to please Jehovah God. (Read Proverbs 19:22.) Loving-kindness should be evident in the speech of all true worshippers.

² What is loving-kindness? Toward whom is it to be displayed? What will help us to put “the law of loving-kindness” upon our tongue? How will doing so affect our communication with family members and fellow Christians?

When Kindness Is Motivated by Loyal Love

3, 4. (a) What is loving-kindness? (b) How does loving-kindness differ from general kindness, or human kindness?

³ As the very term suggests, loving-kindness includes the traits of love and kindness. It involves kindness, that is, taking a personal interest in others and showing that concern by helpful deeds and thoughtful words. Since love is also a factor, displaying loving-kindness calls for taking an interest in the welfare of others out of love for them. However, the original-language word for loving-kindness means more than kindness stemming from love. Loving-kindness is the kindness that willingly and loyally attaches itself to someone until its purpose regarding that person comes to fruition.

⁴ Loving-kindness differs from kindness in yet another sense. General kindness, or human kindness, can be expressed even toward strangers. The apostle Paul and 275 others who were shipwrecked with him were shown this type of kindness by the inhabitants of the island of Malta—people they had never even met. (Acts 27:37–28:2) On the other hand, loving-kindness has to do with the loyal attachment between individuals who have already developed a relationship.a This was what the Kenites showed to “all the sons of Israel at the time of their coming up out of Egypt.”—1 Sam. 15:6.

Meditation and Prayer Essential

5. What will help us to bridle our tongue?

⁵ Reflecting loving-kindness in our speech is by no means easy. Referring to the tongue, the disciple James wrote: “Not one of mankind can get it tamed. An unruly injurious thing, it is full of death-dealing poison.” (Jas. 3:8) What can help us to bridle this body member that is so difficult to control? Jesus’ words to the religious leaders of his day give us insight. He said: “Out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks.” (Matt. 12:34) To have loving-kindness safeguard our tongue, we need to implant that quality in our heart—our inner person. Let us see how meditation and prayer help us to do just that.

6. Why should we appreciatively meditate on Jehovah’s acts of loving-kindness?

⁶ Jehovah God is “abundant in loving-kindness,” states the Bible. (Ex. 34:6) “Your loving-kindness, O Jehovah,” sang the psalmist, “has filled the earth.” (Ps. 119:64) The Scriptures contain numerous accounts of how Jehovah showed loving-kindness to his worshippers. Taking time to meditate appreciatively on ‘Jehovah’s dealings’ can instill in us the desire to cultivate this godly quality.—Read Psalm 77:12.

7, 8. (a) What act of loving-kindness did Jehovah perform toward Lot and his family? (b) How did David feel about being a recipient of God’s loving-kindness?

⁷ For example, think about how Jehovah delivered Abraham’s nephew Lot and his family when He brought about the destruction of Sodom, the city where they lived. As that time drew closer, the angels who had come to Lot urged him to take his family and quickly leave the city. “When he kept lingering,” says the Bible, “then in the compassion of Jehovah upon him, the [angels] seized hold of his hand and of the hand of his wife and of the hands of his two daughters and they proceeded to bring him out and to station him outside the city.” Are not our hearts touched when we reflect on this saving act, and are we not moved to acknowledge that it was an expression of God’s loving-kindness?—Gen. 19:16, 19.

⁸ Consider also the example of King David of ancient Israel, who sang: “[Jehovah] is forgiving all your error, [he] is healing all your maladies.” How David must have appreciated being shown forgiveness for his sin with Bath-sheba! He extolled Jehovah, saying: “As the heavens are higher than the earth, his loving-kindness is superior toward those fearing him.” (Ps. 103:3, 11) Meditating on these and other Scriptural accounts fills our hearts with gratitude for Jehovah’s loving-kindness, and we are moved to praise and thank him. The more grateful we are at heart, the more inclined we are to become imitators of the true God.—Eph. 5:1.

9. What powerful reason is there for Jehovah’s worshippers to display loving-kindness in their daily life?

⁹ Scriptural examples show that Jehovah extends his loving-kindness—his loyal love—to those who already have an approved relationship with him. What about those who lack such a bond with the living God? Is Jehovah harsh or unkind toward them? Not at all. “[God] is kind toward the unthankful and wicked,” states Luke 6:35. “He makes his sun rise upon wicked people and good and makes it rain upon righteous people and unrighteous.” (Matt. 5:45) Before learning the truth and acting on it, we were recipients of God’s kindness, or general kindness. As his worshippers, however, we have become the objects of his loyal love—his steadfast loving-kindness. (Read Isaiah 54:10.) How thankful we can be for that! And what a powerful reason that is for displaying loving-kindness in our speech as well as in other aspects of our daily life!

10. Why is prayer an invaluable aid in making loving-kindness a part of our personality?

¹⁰ An invaluable aid in our cultivating loving-kindness is the privilege of prayer. This is because love and kindness—elements of loving-kindness—are aspects of the fruitage of Jehovah’s holy spirit. (Gal. 5:22) We can instill loving-kindness in our hearts by coming under the influence of that spirit. The most direct way to receive Jehovah’s holy spirit is to ask for it in prayer. (Luke 11:13) It is appropriate that we repeatedly pray for God’s spirit and accept its guidance. Yes, meditation and prayer are essential if we are to have the law of loving-kindness upon our tongues.

Upon the Tongues of Marriage Mates

11. (a) How do we know that Jehovah expects husbands to show their wives loving-kindness? (b) In what way can the law of loving-kindness help a husband safeguard his tongue?

¹¹ The apostle Paul exhorts husbands: “Continue loving your wives, just as the Christ also loved the congregation and delivered up himself for it.” (Eph. 5:25) Paul also reminds them of what Jehovah told Adam and Eve. The apostle writes: “A man will leave his father and his mother and he will stick to his wife, and the two will become one flesh.” (Eph. 5:31) Clearly, Jehovah expects husbands to stick loyally to their wives, always showing them loving-kindness. A husband whose tongue is governed by loyal love does not expose the faults of his wife in public or speak disparagingly of her. He is happy to praise her. (Prov. 31:28) If for some reason friction arises in the relationship, loving-kindness moves the husband to restrain his tongue from humiliating his wife.

12. How can a wife’s speech show that the law of loving-kindness governs her tongue?

¹² The law of loving-kindness should also govern the tongue of the wife. Her speech should not be influenced by the spirit of the world. Having “deep respect for her husband,” she speaks well of him in public and increases the respect others may already have for him. (Eph. 5:33) Not wanting to diminish the respect the children have for their father, she refrains from disagreeing with him or questioning his opinion in front of them. She resolves such matters in private. “The truly wise woman has built up her house,” says the Bible. (Prov. 14:1) Her home is a pleasant and comfortable place for the entire family.

13. Where in particular should the law of loving-kindness rule, and how can it do so?

¹³ Even in the privacy of their home, marriage mates must continue to use their tongues in a way that shows that they have respect for each other. “Put them all away from you,” wrote Paul, “wrath, anger, badness, abusive speech, and obscene talk out of your mouth.” He added: “Clothe yourselves with the tender affections of compassion, kindness, lowliness of mind, mildness, and long-suffering. . . . Clothe yourselves with love, for it is a perfect bond of union.” (Col. 3:8, 12-14) When children are accustomed to hearing loving and kind speech in the home, not only will they thrive but they will be more likely to imitate their parents’ way of speaking.

14. In what way can family heads use their tongue to comfort those under their care?

¹⁴ The psalmist wrote of Jehovah: “May your loving-kindness serve, please, to comfort me.” (Ps. 119:76) An outstanding way in which Jehovah comforts his people is by giving them exhortation and guidance. (Ps. 119:105) How can family heads benefit from the example of our heavenly Father and use their tongue to comfort those under their care? They can do so by providing needed direction and encouragement. What a fine opportunity the Family Worship evening provides to discover spiritual treasures!—Prov. 24:4.

Show Loyal Love to Fellow Believers

15. How may elders and other spiritually mature ones use their tongue to safeguard others in the congregation?

¹⁵ “Let your loving-kindness and your trueness themselves constantly safeguard me,” prayed King David. (Ps. 40:11) How may Christian elders and other spiritually mature ones in the congregation imitate Jehovah in this regard? Using our tongue to direct attention to Scriptural information certainly is an act of loving-kindness.—Prov. 17:17.

16, 17. What are some ways in which we can show that our speech is governed by the law of loving-kindness?

¹⁶ What should we do if we observe a Christian heading in a direction that conflicts with Bible principles? Would not loving-kindness move us to use our tongue to try to correct him? (Ps. 141:5) If we come to know of a serious sin committed by a fellow believer, loyal love moves us to encourage the wrongdoer to “call the older men of the congregation to him” so that they can “pray over him, greasing him with oil in the name of Jehovah.” (Jas. 5:14) If the wrongdoer fails to contact the elders, our not reporting the matter is neither loving nor kind. Some among us may be discouraged, lonely, afflicted with feelings of unworthiness, or overwhelmed by disappointments. A fine way for us to demonstrate that the law of loving-kindness is upon our tongue is that we “speak consolingly to the depressed souls.”—1 Thess. 5:14.

¹⁷ How should we respond when rumors about fellow believers are circulated by God’s enemies? Rather than questioning the integrity of our brothers, we ought to dismiss such talk silently or ask the accuser, if he is reasonable, whether he is really sure that there is a basis for his remarks. If enemies of God’s people seek to know the whereabouts of our Christian brothers in order to bring them harm, loyal love for our brothers dictates that we not provide the information.—Prov. 18:24.

The Man of “Loving-Kindness Will Find Life”

18, 19. Why should the law of loving-kindness not depart from our tongue in dealings with fellow worshippers?

¹⁸ Loyal love should be evident in all our dealings with fellow worshippers of Jehovah. Even under difficult circumstances, the law of loving-kindness should not depart from our tongue. When the loving-kindness of the sons of Israel became “like the dew that early goes away,” Jehovah was displeased. (Hos. 6:4, 6) On the other hand, Jehovah takes pleasure in a regular pattern of loving-kindness. Consider how he blesses those who pursue it.

¹⁹ Proverbs 21:21 states: “He that is pursuing righteousness and loving-kindness will find life, righteousness and glory.” Among the blessings such a person will experience is that he will find life—not a brief existence but life without end. Jehovah helps him to “get a firm hold on the real life.” (1 Tim. 6:12, 19) By all means, then, let us “carry on with one another loving-kindness.”—Zech. 7:9.

[Footnote]

a For further discussion of how loving-kindness differs from loyalty, love, and kindness, see the May 15, 2002, issue of The Watchtower, pages 12-13, 18-19.

Can You Explain?

• How would you define loving-kindness?

• What will help us to have the law of loving-kindness upon our tongue?

• How may marriage mates show loyal love in their speech?

• What shows that the law of loving-kindness is upon our tongue in our dealings with fellow believers?

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David extolled Jehovah’s loving-kindness

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Do you have a regular Family Worship evening?

Why Be Punctual?

pp. 25–28

Why Be Punctual?

BEING punctual, or on time, is not always easy. Among the challenges that we may have to overcome are long travel distances, heavy traffic, and busy schedules. Yet, being on time is important. In the workplace, for example, a punctual person is generally considered reliable and diligent. On the other hand, an individual who arrives late can affect the work of others and the quality of products and services. Tardiness can cause a student to miss certain classes and hinder his scholastic progress. Being late for a medical or dental appointment may affect the treatment one receives.

In some places, though, punctuality is not considered that important. In such an environment, being late can easily become our habit. If that is so, it is vital that we cultivate a desire to be on time. Appreciating the importance of punctuality will certainly help us to be punctual. What are some reasons for being punctual? How can we meet the challenge of punctuality? And what benefits can we expect to reap from being on time?

Jehovah—A Punctual God

The foremost reason we want to be punctual is that we want to imitate the God we worship. (Eph. 5:1) Jehovah provides an excellent example of punctuality. He is never late. He adheres strictly to his schedule in the fulfillment of his purposes. For example, when Jehovah decided to destroy the ungodly world in a deluge, he said to Noah: “Make for yourself an ark out of wood of a resinous tree.” As the time for the end drew near, Jehovah told Noah to enter into the ark and informed him: “In just seven days more I am making it rain upon the earth forty days and forty nights; and I will wipe every existing thing that I have made off the surface of the ground.” Then right on time, “seven days later it turned out that the waters of the deluge came upon the earth.” (Gen. 6:14; 7:4, 10) Imagine what might have happened to Noah and his family had they not been inside the ark on time. Like the God they worshipped, they had to be punctual.

Some 450 years after the Flood, Jehovah told the patriarch Abraham that he would have a son through whom the promised Seed would come. (Gen. 17:15-17) God said that Isaac would be born “at this appointed time next year.” Did that happen? The Scriptures tell us: “Sarah became pregnant and then bore a son to Abraham in his old age at the appointed time of which God had spoken to him.”—Gen. 17:21; 21:2.

The Bible abounds with examples showing God’s punctuality. (Jer. 25:11-13; Dan. 4:20-25; 9:25) The Bible tells us to keep in expectation of Jehovah’s future day of judgment. Even if it seems to “delay” from a human viewpoint, we are assured that “it will not be late.”—Hab. 2:3.

Punctuality Important in Worship

All Israelite men had to be present and on time at the place designated for “the seasonal festivals of Jehovah.” (Lev. 23:2, 4) God also determined the times at which certain sacrifices were to be offered. (Ex. 29:38, 39; Lev. 23:37, 38) Does this not indicate that God wants his servants to be punctual in their worship?

In the first century when the apostle Paul instructed the Corinthians about how Christian meetings should be conducted, he urged them: “Let all things take place decently and by arrangement.” (1 Cor. 14:40) Accordingly, Christian gatherings for worship were to begin at an appointed time. Jehovah’s view of punctuality has not changed. (Mal. 3:6) What measures, then, can we take to be punctual at these Christian gatherings?

Facing the Challenge of Punctuality

Some have found that advance planning is a great help. (Prov. 21:5) For instance, if we have to travel a certain distance to arrive at a designated time, would it be wise to start off at a time that would permit us just barely to make it? Would it not be prudent to allow a few extra minutes so that we will not be late, even if an “unforeseen occurrence” takes place on the way? (Eccl. 9:11) “Something that can help anyone to arrive on time is to have a good idea of how much travel time is needed,” says a punctual young man named José.a

For some, it may be necessary to make arrangements to leave their workplace early enough to allow them to arrive for Christian meetings in good time. This is what one Witness in Ethiopia did when he realized that he would be 45 minutes late for congregation meetings because of shift changes. He arranged for a fellow worker to come to work early to relieve him on meeting nights. In return, the Witness agreed to work an extra seven-hour shift for his workmate.

If we have young children, arriving on time at meetings presents a special challenge. The responsibility of getting the children ready generally falls on the mother, but other members of the family can and should help. A Mexican mother named Esperanza has cared for eight children alone. Their ages now range from 5 to 23. Esperanza explains how her family manages to be punctual: “My older daughters help get the younger ones ready. This allows me to finish my housework and get myself ready to leave for the meetings at a set time.” This family has a set time to leave the house, and everyone cooperates in order to do so.

Benefiting From Being Punctual in Your Worship

Reflecting on the blessings we receive from arriving at Christian meetings on time can strengthen our desire and resolve to do everything possible to be punctual. A young woman named Sandra, who has cultivated the habit of getting to the meetings in good time, comments: “What I like about arriving early is that I have a chance to greet the brothers and sisters, talk with them, and get to know them better.” When we arrive at the Kingdom Hall early, we can benefit from hearing about the endurance and faithful service of others in attendance. By our presence and upbuilding conversation, we can also have a good effect on our brothers and sisters, ‘inciting them to love and fine works.’—Heb. 10:24, 25.

The song and prayer that open each Christian meeting are an essential part of our worship. (Ps. 149:1) Our songs praise Jehovah, remind us of qualities that we should cultivate, and encourage us to participate joyfully in the ministry. And what about the opening prayer? In ancient times, Jehovah called the temple his “house of prayer.” (Isa. 56:7) Today, we gather to offer prayers to God at our meetings. The opening prayer not only requests Jehovah’s guidance and holy spirit but also prepares our minds and hearts to receive the information that will be considered. We should be determined to arrive at our meetings on time for the opening song and prayer.

When speaking about her reason for arriving early at the meetings, 23-year-old Helen says: “I think that it is a way to show my love for Jehovah, since he provides all the information that is presented, including the songs and opening prayer.” Should we not view the matter the same way? Yes, we should. Therefore, let us strive to cultivate the habit of punctuality in all our activities, especially in those having to do with our worship of the true God.

[Footnote]

a Names have been changed.

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Prepare well in advance

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Allow time for “unforeseen occurrence”

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Reap the benefits of arriving early at meetings

Who Can Deliver Those Crying for Help?

pp. 28–32

Who Can Deliver Those Crying for Help?

“O God, give your own judicial decisions to the king . . . For he will deliver the poor one crying for help.”—PS. 72:1, 12.

1. In the case of David, what do we learn about God’s mercy?

HOW heartwarming are those words, apparently penned by King David of ancient Israel! Years before writing them, he experienced remorse after committing adultery with Bath-sheba. At that time, David begged God: “According to the abundance of your mercies wipe out my transgressions. . . . My sin is in front of me constantly. . . . Look! With error I was brought forth with birth pains, and in sin my mother conceived me.” (Ps. 51:1-5) Mercifully, Jehovah takes into account our inherited sinful condition.

2. How can Psalm 72 help us?

² Jehovah understands our lamentable situation. As foretold, however, God’s anointed King “will deliver the poor one crying for help, also the afflicted one and whoever has no helper. He will feel sorry for the lowly one and the poor one, and the souls of the poor ones he will save.” (Ps. 72:12, 13) How will relief be provided? Psalm 72 tells us. Composed regarding the kingship of David’s son Solomon, this song provides foregleams of how the rule of God’s Son, Jesus Christ, will relieve mankind of distress.

A Preview of Christ’s Rule

3. What did Solomon ask for, and what did God give him?

³ After directing that Solomon be made king, elderly David gave him specific instructions that Solomon faithfully carried out. (1 Ki. 1:32-35; 2:1-3) Jehovah later appeared to Solomon in a dream and said: “Request what I should give you.” Solomon made only one request: “You must give to your servant an obedient heart to judge your people, to discern between good and bad.” As a result of Solomon’s humble request, God gave him what he asked for and more.—1 Ki. 3:5, 9-13.

4. How was Solomon’s reign described by a contemporary ruler?

⁴ With Jehovah’s blessing, the reign of Solomon resulted in the most remarkable period of peace and prosperity ever realized under any government on earth. (1 Ki. 4:25) Among those who came to see what Solomon’s rule was like was the queen of Sheba, along with her large entourage. She told Solomon: “True has the word proved to be that I heard in my own land . . . I had not been told the half. You have surpassed in wisdom and prosperity the things heard.” (1 Ki. 10:1, 6, 7) Yet, far greater wisdom was displayed by Jesus, who could rightly say with reference to himself: “Look! something more than Solomon is here.”—Matt. 12:42.

Relief Under the Greater Solomon

5. What does Psalm 72 reveal, and what preview does it provide?

⁵ Let us now examine features of the 72nd Psalm with a view to learning about blessings under the rule of Jesus Christ, the Greater Solomon. (Read Psalm 72:1-4.) This psalm reveals how Jehovah feels about “the princely rule” of his Son, the “Prince of Peace,” Jesus Christ. (Isa. 9:6, 7) Under God’s direction, the Greater Solomon will ‘plead the cause of the afflicted ones and save the sons of the poor one.’ His rule will be one of peace and righteousness. While on earth, Jesus provided a preview of what his coming Thousand Year Reign will accomplish.—Rev. 20:4.

6. Jesus gave what glimpses of blessings under Kingdom rule?

⁶ Consider some of the activities of Jesus Christ that give us a glimpse of what he will do for mankind in fulfillment of Psalm 72. We are rightly impressed with his great compassion for those who were suffering. (Matt. 9:35, 36; 15:29-31) For instance, a man afflicted with leprosy approached Jesus and pleaded: “If you just want to, you can make me clean.” Jesus replied: “I want to. Be made clean.” And the man was healed! (Mark 1:40-42) Later, Jesus met a widow whose only son had died. “Moved with pity,” Jesus said, “Get up!” and her son did so. He was alive again!—Luke 7:11-15.

7, 8. What were some demonstrations of Jesus’ healing power?

⁷ Jehovah empowered Jesus to perform miracles. This was illustrated in the case of “a woman subject to a flow of blood twelve years.” Although “she had been put to many pains by many physicians and had spent all her resources,” she actually got worse. The woman entered a crowd and touched Jesus—a violation of the Law for one with a ‘running discharge of blood.’ (Lev. 15:19, 25) Jesus perceived that power had gone out of him and therefore asked who touched him. “Frightened and trembling,” the woman “fell down before him and told him the whole truth.” Realizing that Jehovah had healed the woman, Jesus treated her kindly and said: “Daughter, your faith has made you well. Go in peace, and be in good health from your grievous sickness.”—Mark 5:25-27, 30, 33, 34.

⁸ Jesus’ God-given healing powers cured the sick but must also have had a dramatic effect on observers. For instance, many undoubtedly were impressed when they saw Jesus heal people before his famous Sermon on the Mount. (Luke 6:17-19) When John the Baptist sent two messengers to seek confirmation that Jesus was the Messiah, they found Him ‘curing many of sicknesses and grievous diseases and wicked spirits and granting many blind persons the favor of seeing.’ Jesus then told the two: “Report to John what you saw and heard: the blind are receiving sight, the lame are walking, the lepers are being cleansed and the deaf are hearing, the dead are being raised up, the poor are being told the good news.” (Luke 7:19-22) How that message must have encouraged John!

9. Jesus’ miracles were foregleams of what?

⁹ True, the relief from suffering that Jesus provided during his earthly ministry was only temporary. Those whom he healed or resurrected later died. Yet, the miracles that Jesus performed while on earth were foregleams of the lasting relief humankind will enjoy under his Messianic rule.

An Earth-Wide Paradise Ahead!

10, 11. (a) How long will Kingdom blessings last, and what will Jesus’ rule be like? (b) Who will be with Christ in Paradise, and how will he be able to live forever?

¹⁰ Try to imagine what life will be like in Paradise on earth. (Read Psalm 72:5-9.) Worshippers of the only true God will be able to enjoy life in Paradise for as long as the sun and the moon exist—yes, forever! The King Jesus Christ will prove to be refreshing, ‘like rain upon mown grass and copious showers that wet the earth.’

¹¹ As you envision the fulfillment of this psalm, is not your heart stirred by the hope of living forever in an earthly paradise? Surely the impaled evildoer was thrilled when Jesus told him: “You will be with me in Paradise.” (Luke 23:43) During Jesus’ Thousand Year Reign, that man will be restored to life. If he submits to Christ’s rulership, he will be able to live on earth forever in perfect health and happiness.

12. During Christ’s Millennial Rule, what opportunity will be open for resurrected unrighteous ones?

¹² Under the rule of the Greater Solomon, Jesus Christ, “the righteous one will sprout,” that is, flourish or prosper. (Ps. 72:7) Christ’s love and tender care will then be abundant, just as they were when he was on the earth. In God’s promised new world, even “the unrighteous” who are resurrected will be given a loving opportunity to conform to Jehovah’s standards and live. (Acts 24:15) Of course, those who refuse to act in harmony with divine requirements will not be allowed to continue living and mar the peace and tranquillity of the new world.

13. How extensive will Kingdom rule be, and why will its peace never be disrupted?

¹³ The earth-wide extent of the Greater Solomon’s rule is indicated by these words: “He will have subjects from sea to sea and from the River [Euphrates] to the ends of the earth. Before him the inhabitants of waterless regions will bow down, and his very enemies will lick the dust itself.” (Ps. 72:8, 9) Yes, Jesus Christ will rule over the entire earth. (Zech. 9:9, 10) Those who appreciate his rulership and its blessings will “bow down” in willing submission. On the other hand, unrepentant sinners will be cut off, as it were, at “a hundred years of age.” (Isa. 65:20) They “will lick the dust itself.”

Sympathetic Concern for Us

14, 15. How do we know that Jesus understands human feelings and “will deliver the poor one crying for help”?

¹⁴ Sinful humankind is in a pitiable state and is desperately in need of help. But there is hope for us. (Read Psalm 72:12-14.) Jesus, the Greater Solomon, has sympathy for us because he understands our imperfect condition. Moreover, Jesus suffered for righteousness’ sake, and God allowed him to face trials on his own. Why, Jesus suffered so much emotional distress that “his sweat became as drops of blood falling to the ground”! (Luke 22:44) Later, on the torture stake, he cried out: “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” (Matt. 27:45, 46) Despite everything he suffered, and although Satan made an all-out effort to turn him away from Jehovah, Jesus proved faithful to Jehovah God.

¹⁵ We can be sure that Jesus sees our pain and “will deliver the poor one crying for help, also the afflicted one and whoever has no helper.” With loving concern like that of his Father, Jesus will ‘listen to the poor ones’ and will ‘heal the brokenhearted ones, binding up their painful spots.’ (Ps. 69:33; 147:3) Jesus can “sympathize with our weaknesses,” for he “has been tested in all respects like ourselves.” (Heb. 4:15) How good it is to know that the King Jesus Christ is now ruling in heaven and is eager to bring suffering humans relief!

16. Why was Solomon able to sympathize with his subjects?

¹⁶ Because he had wisdom and insight, Solomon undoubtedly did “feel sorry for the lowly one.” Besides, his life was marked by sad and traumatic events. His brother Amnon raped his sister Tamar, and Solomon’s brother Absalom had Amnon killed for the crime. (2 Sam. 13:1, 14, 28, 29) Absalom usurped David’s throne, but his coup failed, and he was killed by Joab. (2 Sam. 15:10, 14; 18:9, 14) Later, Solomon’s brother Adonijah attempted to seize the kingship. If he had been successful, this would undoubtedly have meant death for Solomon. (1 Ki. 1:5) That Solomon understood human suffering seems evident because of what he said in prayer at the inauguration of the temple of Jehovah. With regard to his subjects, the king prayed: “They know each one his own plague and his own pain . . . You [Jehovah] must forgive and give to each one according to all his ways.”—2 Chron. 6:29, 30.

17, 18. What pain have some of God’s servants had to cope with, and what has helped them to do so?

¹⁷ ‘Our own pain’ may result from the effects of certain past experiences in life. Mary,a a Witness of Jehovah in her 30’s, writes: “I have every reason to be happy, but often my past brings up feelings of shame and disgust. Deep sadness results, and I tend to cry, as though everything happened yesterday. Ingrained memories still produce overwhelming feelings of worthlessness and guilt.”

¹⁸ Many of God’s servants can identify with these feelings, but what can help to give them the strength needed in order to endure? “Genuine friends and a spiritual family now bring me happiness,” Mary says. “I also try to focus on what Jehovah promises for the future, and I have confidence that my cries for help will be turned into cries of joy.” (Ps. 126:5) We need to place our hope in God’s provision of his Son, his appointed Ruler. Concerning him, it was foretold: “He will feel sorry for the lowly one and the poor one, and the souls of the poor ones he will save. From oppression and from violence he will redeem their soul, and their blood will be precious in his eyes.” (Ps. 72:13, 14) How reassuring that is!

A New World of Plenty Awaits Us

19, 20. (a) As indicated in Psalm 72, what problem will be solved by Kingdom rule? (b) To whom should primary credit go for Christ’s rule, and how do you feel about what it will accomplish?

¹⁹ Try again to visualize the future of upright humans in God’s new world under the rule of the Greater Solomon. “There will come to be plenty of grain on the earth,” we are promised. “On the top of the mountains there will be an overflow.” (Ps. 72:16) Since grain is not ordinarily produced on mountain tops, these words emphasize how productive the earth will become. Its produce “will be as in Lebanon,” a region that produced abundantly at the time of Solomon’s reign. Just think! No more food shortages, no one undernourished, nobody starving! All will then enjoy “a banquet of well-oiled dishes.”—Isa. 25:6-8; 35:1, 2.

²⁰ To whom will credit go for all these blessings? Primarily to the Eternal King and Universal Ruler, Jehovah God. In effect, all of us will then joyfully add our voices to the concluding portion of this beautiful and heartwarming song: “Let his name [that of the King Jesus Christ] prove to be to time indefinite; before the sun let his name have increase, and by means of him let them bless themselves; let all nations pronounce him happy. Blessed be Jehovah God, Israel’s God, who alone is doing wonderful works. And blessed be his glorious name to time indefinite, and let his glory fill the whole earth. Amen and Amen.”—Ps. 72:17-19.

[Footnote]

a Name has been changed.

How Would You Respond?

• Psalm 72 prophetically provided a preview of what?

• Who is the Greater Solomon, and how extensive will his rulership be?

• What do you personally find appealing about the blessings foretold in the 72nd Psalm?

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What was foreshadowed by the prosperity enjoyed during Solomon’s reign?

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It is worth every effort to attain life in Paradise under the rule of the Greater Solomon