In his second letter, the apostle Peter expressed deep concern for Christians living in the time of the end. These two articles will help us to keep Jehovah’s day close in mind. We will consider what we must avoid and what we must do to be prepared for Jehovah’s great day.

STUDY ARTICLE 3 PAGES 16-20

We are living in the time of a great spiritual harvest. What qualities do we need in order to have a full share in the preaching work? How can we do our best under adverse circumstances? This article will address these questions.

STUDY ARTICLE 4 PAGES 20-24

This article considers what we personally can do to benefit fully from the role that God’s spirit plays in helping us to understand his Word.

ALSO IN THIS ISSUE:

“Do Not Be Afraid. I Myself Will Help You” 12

Instill in Your Children a Love for Reading and Studying 25

“Continue Applying Yourself . . . to Teaching” 29

Alertness Leads to Fine Results 32

What Jehovah’s Day Will Reveal

pp. 3–7

What Jehovah’s Day Will Reveal

“Jehovah’s day will come as a thief, . . . and earth and the works in it will be discovered.”—2 PET. 3:10.

1, 2. (a) How will the present wicked system of things end? (b) What questions will we consider?

THE present wicked system of things is founded on the fundamental lie that man can successfully rule the earth independent of Jehovah. (Ps. 2:2, 3) Can anything founded on falsehood stand forever? Absolutely not! Still, we do not have to wait for Satan’s world to end of its own accord. Rather, it will be destroyed by God at his appointed time and in his way. God’s action against this wicked world will perfectly reflect both his justice and his love.—Ps. 92:7; Prov. 2:21, 22.

² “Jehovah’s day,” wrote the apostle Peter, “will come as a thief, in which the heavens will pass away with a hissing noise, but the elements being intensely hot will be dissolved, and earth and the works in it will be discovered.” (2 Pet. 3:10) What are “the heavens” and the “earth” mentioned here? What are “the elements” that will be dissolved? And what did Peter mean by the “earth and the works in it” being “discovered”? Knowing the answers to these questions will help us to be prepared for the fear-inspiring events that will occur in the near future.

The Heavens and the Earth That Will Pass Away

3. What are the “heavens” mentioned at 2 Peter 3:10, and how will they pass away?

³ When used symbolically in the Bible, the term “heavens” often refers to ruling powers, which are elevated above their subjects. (Isa. 14:13, 14; Rev. 21:1, 2) “The heavens [that] will pass away” represent human rule over ungodly society. Their passing away with a loud “hissing noise”—or “a mighty roar,” according to another rendering—may indicate the swift annihilation of these heavens.

4. What is the “earth,” and how will it be destroyed?

⁴ The “earth” represents the world of mankind alienated from God. Such a world existed in Noah’s day and, by divine decree, ended with the Flood. “By the same word the heavens and the earth that are now are stored up for fire and are being reserved to the day of judgment and of destruction of the ungodly men.” (2 Pet. 3:7) Whereas the Flood destroyed the ungodly all at one time, the coming destruction will occur in stages during “the great tribulation.” (Rev. 7:14) In the first phase of that tribulation, God will move the political rulers of this world to destroy “Babylon the Great,” thus showing his contempt for that religious harlot. (Rev. 17:5, 16; 18:8) Then, in the war of Armageddon, the final phase of the great tribulation, Jehovah himself will wipe out the rest of Satan’s world.—Rev. 16:14, 16; 19:19-21.

“The Elements . . . Will Be Dissolved”

5. The figurative elements include what?

⁵ What are “the elements” that “will be dissolved”? A Bible dictionary defines “elements” as “first principles,” or “rudiments.” The term, it says, “was used of the letters of the alphabet, as elements of speech.” Thus, “the elements” mentioned by Peter refer to the fundamental things that give the world its ungodly characteristics, attitudes, ways, and goals. “The elements” include “the spirit of the world,” which “operates in the sons of disobedience.” (1 Cor. 2:12; read Ephesians 2:1-3.) That spirit, or “air,” pervades Satan’s world. It impels people to think, plan, speak, and act in ways that reflect the mind of Satan, the proud, defiant “ruler of the authority of the air.”

6. How does the spirit of the world manifest itself?

⁶ Therefore, knowingly or unknowingly, those infected by the world’s spirit allow their minds and hearts to be influenced by Satan, so that they reflect his thinking and attitude. As a result, they do what they want, without regard for the will of God. They react to situations on the basis of pride or selfishness, they manifest a rebellious attitude toward authority, and they give free rein to “the desire of the flesh and the desire of the eyes.”—Read 1 John 2:15-17.a

7. Why must we “safeguard [our] heart”?

⁷ How important, then, that we “safeguard [our] heart” by exercising godly wisdom in our choice of associates, reading matter, entertainment, and Web sites that we may visit on the Internet! (Prov. 4:23) The apostle Paul wrote: “Look out: perhaps there may be someone who will carry you off as his prey through the philosophy and empty deception according to the tradition of men, according to the elementary things of the world and not according to Christ.” (Col. 2:8) That injunction becomes all the more urgent as Jehovah’s day approaches, for its unprecedented ‘heat’ will melt away all “the elements” of Satan’s system, exposing them as totally lacking in fire-resistant qualities. This calls to mind the words of Malachi 4:1: “The day is coming that is burning like the furnace, and all the presumptuous ones and all those doing wickedness must become as stubble. And the day that is coming will certainly devour them.”

“Earth and the Works in It Will Be Discovered”

8. How are the earth and the works in it “discovered”?

⁸ What did Peter mean when he wrote that “earth and the works in it will be discovered”? The word “discovered” can also be rendered “found out” or “laid bare.” Peter meant that during the great tribulation, Jehovah will lay bare Satan’s world, exposing it as being against Him and His Kingdom and thus deserving of destruction. Speaking prophetically of that time, Isaiah 26:21 reads: “Jehovah is coming forth from his place to call to account the error of the inhabitant of the land against him, and the land will certainly expose her bloodshed and will no longer cover over her killed ones.”

9. (a) What should we reject, and why? (b) What should we cultivate, and why?

⁹ During Jehovah’s day, those who have been molded by the world and its evil spirit will display their true nature, even slaughtering one another. In fact, it could well be that the numerous forms of violent entertainment popular today are conditioning the minds of many for the time when each man’s hand “will actually come up against the hand of his companion.” (Zech. 14:13) How important, then, that we reject anything—movies, books, video games, and so on—that may engender within us traits that are detestable to God, such as pride and the love of violence! (2 Sam. 22:28; Ps. 11:5) Rather, let us cultivate the fruitage of God’s holy spirit, for such qualities will prove to be incombustible when the figurative heat is on.—Gal. 5:22, 23.

A “New Heavens and a New Earth”

10, 11. What are the “new heavens” and “new earth”?

¹⁰ Read 2 Peter 3:13. The “new heavens” is God’s heavenly Kingdom, which was established in the year 1914 when “the appointed times of the nations” ended. (Luke 21:24) This royal government is made up of Christ Jesus and his 144,000 corulers, most of whom have received their heavenly reward. In the book of Revelation, these chosen ones are portrayed as “the holy city, New Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God and prepared as a bride adorned for her husband.” (Rev. 21:1, 2, 22-24) Just as earthly Jerusalem was the seat of government in ancient Israel, the New Jerusalem and her Bridegroom make up the government of the new system of things. This celestial city will ‘come down out of heaven’ by directing its attention to the earth.

¹¹ The “new earth” refers to the new earthly society of humans who will have demonstrated their willing submission to God’s Kingdom. The spiritual paradise that God’s people enjoy even now will at last be in its rightful setting in that beautiful “inhabited earth to come.” (Heb. 2:5) How can we be a part of that new system of things?

Prepare for Jehovah’s Great Day

12. Why will Jehovah’s day come as a shock to the world?

¹² Both Paul and Peter foretold that Jehovah’s day would come “as a thief”—stealthily, unexpectedly. (Read 1 Thessalonians 5:1, 2.) Even true Christians, who are keeping in expectation of that day, will be surprised by its suddenness. (Matt. 24:44) The world, however, will experience much more than surprise. Paul wrote: “Whenever it is that they [who are alienated from Jehovah] are saying: ‘Peace and security!’ then sudden destruction is to be instantly upon them just as the pang of distress upon a pregnant woman; and they will by no means escape.”—1 Thess. 5:3.

13. How can we avoid letting the cry “Peace and security!” deceive us?

¹³ The cry “Peace and security!” will be just another demon-inspired lie; yet, it will not fool Jehovah’s servants. “You are not in darkness,” wrote Paul, “so that that day should overtake you as it would thieves, for you are all sons of light and sons of day.” (1 Thess. 5:4, 5) So let us stay in the light, far away from the darkness of Satan’s world. Peter wrote: “Beloved ones, having this advance knowledge, be on your guard that you may not be led away with them [false teachers within the Christian congregation] by the error of the law-defying people and fall from your own steadfastness.”—2 Pet. 3:17.

14, 15. (a) How does Jehovah dignify us? (b) What inspired words should we take to heart?

¹⁴ Note that Jehovah does not simply tell us to ‘be on our guard’ and then leave it at that. Rather, he dignifies us by kindly granting us “advance knowledge” in the form of a general outline of what is to occur in the future.

¹⁵ Sadly, though, some have become casual or even cynical about reminders concerning the need to stay awake. ‘We have heard that same reminder for decades,’ they may say. However, those individuals should keep in mind that by making such remarks, they are actually questioning Jehovah and his Son, not just the faithful slave class. “Keep in expectation,” Jehovah said. (Hab. 2:3) Likewise, Jesus stated: “Keep on the watch . . . because you do not know on what day your Lord is coming.” (Matt. 24:42) In addition, Peter wrote: “What sort of persons ought you to be in holy acts of conduct and deeds of godly devotion, awaiting and keeping close in mind the presence of the day of Jehovah!” (2 Pet. 3:11, 12) Never will the faithful slave class and its Governing Body take a casual view of those earnest words!

16. What attitude should we avoid, and why?

¹⁶ Indeed, it is the “evil slave” who concludes that the Master is delaying. (Matt. 24:48) That evil slave is part of a group described at 2 Peter 3:3, 4. “In the last days,” wrote Peter, “there will come ridiculers” who, “according to their own desires,” mock those who obediently keep Jehovah’s day close in mind. Yes, rather than focus on Kingdom interests, such ridiculers focus on themselves and on their own selfish desires. Let us never develop such a disobedient and dangerous frame of mind! Rather, may we “consider the patience of our Lord as salvation” by keeping busy in the Kingdom-preaching and disciple-making work and by not being overly anxious about the timing of events that belongs to Jehovah God.—2 Pet. 3:15; read Acts 1:6, 7.

Trust in the God of Salvation

17. How did faithful Christians respond to Jesus’ admonition to flee Jerusalem, and why?

¹⁷ After the Roman armies invaded Judea in 66 C.E., faithful Christians acted on Jesus’ admonition to flee the city of Jerusalem at the first opportunity. (Luke 21:20-23) Why did they act promptly and decisively? No doubt, they had kept Jesus’ warning close in mind. To be sure, they expected that their decision would involve hardship, as Christ had forewarned. But at the same time, they knew that Jehovah would never forsake his loyal ones.—Ps. 55:22.

18. How do Jesus’ words found at Luke 21:25-28 influence your view of the coming great tribulation?

¹⁸ We too must fully trust in Jehovah, for he alone will be our salvation when the present system undergoes the greatest tribulation of all human history. At some point after the beginning of the great tribulation but before Jehovah executes his judgment upon the rest of the world, people will “become faint out of fear and expectation of the things coming upon the inhabited earth.” However, while God’s enemies tremble with fear, Jehovah’s loyal servants will feel no dread. On the contrary, they will rejoice because they know that their deliverance is near.—Read Luke 21:25-28.

19. What will be considered in the next article?

¹⁹ Yes, what a thrilling future awaits those who remain separate from the world and its “elements”! As the next article explains, however, if we want to gain life, we must do more than merely avoid what is bad. We need to develop qualities that please Jehovah and perform works that are acceptable to him.—2 Pet. 3:11.

[Footnote]

a For a more complete description of the traits fostered by the world’s spirit, see Reasoning From the Scriptures, pages 389-393.

Can You Explain?

• What are represented by . . .

the present ‘heavens and earth’?

“the elements”?

the ‘new heavens and new earth’?

• Why do we put our full trust in God?

[Picture on page 5]

How can you “safeguard your heart” and remain separate from the world?

[Picture on page 6]

How do we demonstrate that we “consider the patience of our Lord as salvation”?

“What Sort of Persons Ought You to Be!”

pp. 7–11

“What Sort of Persons Ought You to Be!”

“Since all these things are thus to be dissolved, what sort of persons ought you to be in holy acts of conduct and deeds of godly devotion!”—2 PET. 3:11.

1. Why was Peter’s second letter a timely exhortation to Christians in his day?

WHEN the apostle Peter wrote his second inspired letter, the Christian congregation had already endured much persecution, but this had not dampened its zeal or slowed its growth. So the Devil employed another tactic, one that had succeeded many times before. As revealed by Peter, Satan tried to corrupt God’s people by means of false teachers who had “eyes full of adultery” and “a heart trained in covetousness.” (2 Pet. 2:1-3, 14; Jude 4) Accordingly, Peter’s second letter is a heartfelt exhortation to faithfulness.

2. What is the focus of 2 Peter chapter 3, and what questions should we ask ourselves?

² Peter wrote: “I consider it right, as long as I am in this tabernacle, to rouse you up by way of reminding you, knowing as I do that the putting off of my tabernacle is soon to be . . . So I will do my utmost also at every time that, after my departure, you may be able to make mention of these things for yourselves.” (2 Pet. 1:13-15) Yes, Peter knew that his death was near, but he desired that his timely reminders would live on. And, indeed, they became part of the Bible and can be read by all of us today. Chapter 3 of Peter’s second letter is of particular interest to us, for it focuses on “the last days” of the present system of things and on the destruction of the figurative heavens and earth. (2 Pet. 3:3, 7, 10) What counsel does Peter have for us? How will applying his counsel help us to merit Jehovah’s approval?

3, 4. (a) What exclamation did Peter make, and what warning did he give? (b) What three points will we consider?

³ After mentioning the dissolution of Satan’s world, Peter stated: “What sort of persons ought you to be in holy acts of conduct and deeds of godly devotion!” (2 Pet. 3:11, 12) Evidently, he was not posing a question but making a rousing statement, an exclamation. Peter knew that only those who do Jehovah’s will and exhibit godly traits will be preserved through the coming “day of vengeance.” (Isa. 61:2) Thus, the apostle added: “You, therefore, beloved ones, having this advance knowledge, be on your guard that you may not be led away with them [false teachers] by the error of the law-defying people and fall from your own steadfastness.”—2 Pet. 3:17.

⁴ Being among those who had “advance knowledge,” Peter knew that in the last days, Christians would have to be especially on guard in order to maintain their integrity. Later, the apostle John clearly explained why. He foresaw Satan’s eviction from heaven and his “great anger” against those “who observe the commandments of God and have the work of bearing witness to Jesus.” (Rev. 12:9, 12, 17) God’s loyal anointed servants along with their faithful “other sheep” companions will come off victorious. (John 10:16) But what about us individually? Will we maintain our integrity? We will be helped to do so if we strive to (1) cultivate godly qualities, (2) remain morally and spiritually spotless and unblemished, and (3) have the right view of trials. Let us consider these points.

Cultivate Godly Qualities

5, 6. What qualities should we strive to cultivate, and why does this take “earnest effort”?

⁵ Early in his second letter, Peter wrote: “By your contributing in response all earnest effort, supply to your faith virtue, to your virtue knowledge, to your knowledge self-control, to your self-control endurance, to your endurance godly devotion, to your godly devotion brotherly affection, to your brotherly affection love. For if these things exist in you and overflow, they will prevent you from being either inactive or unfruitful regarding the accurate knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.”—2 Pet. 1:5-8.

⁶ True, it takes “earnest effort” to share in activities that help us cultivate godly qualities. For example, it takes effort to attend all Christian meetings, to read the Bible daily, and to maintain a good personal study program. And it may require hard work along with good planning to have a regular, enjoyable, and meaningful Family Worship evening. But once we get into a good routine, wholesome habits become easier—especially when we taste the benefits.

7, 8. (a) What have some said about the Family Worship evening? (b) How are you benefiting from your family worship?

⁷ Concerning the family worship arrangement, a sister writes: “It allows us to learn about so many subjects.” Another says: “To be honest, I did not want the book study to end. It was my favorite meeting. But now, as we have our Family Worship night, I realize that Jehovah knows what we need and when we need it.” A family head states: “Family worship helps us tremendously. Having a meeting tailored to our specific needs as a couple is great! We both feel that we are improving in displaying the fruitage of the holy spirit, and we are finding more joy than ever in our ministry.” Another family head says: “The children are doing their own research and are learning much—and they enjoy it. The arrangement just makes us more confident that Jehovah knows our concerns and answers our prayers.” Do these sentiments reflect your view of this wonderful spiritual provision?

⁸ Do not allow minor things to interfere with family worship. A married couple said, “Every Thursday night for the last four weeks, something happened in our family that almost stopped us from having our study, but we did not let it interfere.” Of course, at times you may have to adjust your schedule. Still, be determined not to cancel your Family Worship evening—not even for one week!

9. How did Jehovah sustain Jeremiah, and what can we learn from his example?

⁹ The prophet Jeremiah serves as a fine example for us. He needed the spiritual sustenance he received from Jehovah and deeply appreciated it. That nourishment enabled him to preach with endurance to an unresponsive people. “The word of Jehovah . . . proved to be like a burning fire shut up in my bones,” he said. (Jer. 20:8, 9) It also helped him to endure the hard times that climaxed with the destruction of Jerusalem. Today, we have the complete written Word of God. When we study it diligently and make God’s thoughts our thoughts, we, like Jeremiah, will be able to endure joyfully in the ministry, stay faithful through trials, and remain morally and spiritually clean.—Jas. 5:10.

Remain “Spotless and Unblemished”

10, 11. Why must we do our utmost to remain “spotless and unblemished,” and what does that require of us?

¹⁰ As Christians, we know we are living in the time of the end. Therefore, we are not surprised that the world has become obsessed with things that Jehovah detests, such as greed, sexual depravity, and violence. Satan’s strategy might be summed up in this way: ‘If God’s servants cannot be frightened, perhaps they can be corrupted.’ (Rev. 2:13, 14) Hence, we must take to heart Peter’s loving admonition: “Do your utmost to be found finally by [God] spotless and unblemished and in peace.”—2 Pet. 3:14.

¹¹ The expression “do your utmost” is similar to Peter’s earlier exhortation to contribute “all earnest effort.” Clearly, Jehovah—the one who inspired Peter to express those sentiments—knows that we need to exert ourselves to remain “spotless and unblemished,” untainted by the filth of Satan’s world. Exerting ourselves includes protecting our heart from being overtaken by wrong desires. (Read Proverbs 4:23; James 1:14, 15.) It also includes standing firm against those who are puzzled about our Christian way of life and who “go on speaking abusively of [us].”—1 Pet. 4:4.

12. What assurance do we find at Luke 11:13?

¹² Because of our imperfection, it is a struggle to do what is right. (Rom. 7:21-25) We can hope to succeed only if we turn to Jehovah, who generously gives holy spirit to those sincerely asking him. (Luke 11:13) That spirit, in turn, nurtures within us qualities that merit God’s approval and that help us to cope not only with life’s temptations but also with its trials, which may well increase as Jehovah’s day draws near.

Let Trials Strengthen You

13. When trials arise in our life, what will help us to endure?

¹³ As long as we live in this old system of things, trials of one form or another are inevitable. But instead of becoming downhearted, why not view trials as an opportunity to confirm your love for God and to refine your faith in him and his Word? The disciple James wrote: “Consider it all joy, my brothers, when you meet with various trials, knowing as you do that this tested quality of your faith works out endurance.” (Jas. 1:2-4) Remember, too, that “Jehovah knows how to deliver people of godly devotion out of trial.”—2 Pet. 2:9.

14. How does Joseph’s example encourage you?

¹⁴ Consider the example of Jacob’s son Joseph, who was sold into slavery by his own brothers. (Gen. 37:23-28; 42:21) Did Joseph’s faith crumble as a result of that act of cruelty? Did he become embittered against God for allowing evil to befall him? God’s Word clearly answers no! Moreover, that was not the end of Joseph’s trials. Later, he was falsely accused of attempted rape and was imprisoned. Once again, though, he never wavered in his godly devotion. (Gen. 39:9-21) Rather, he let trials strengthen him, and for this he was richly rewarded.

15. What can we learn from the example of Naomi?

¹⁵ Granted, trials can sadden or even depress us. Perhaps Joseph felt that way at times. Other faithful servants of God certainly did. Consider Naomi, who lost both her husband and her two sons. “Do not call me Naomi,” she said. “Call me Mara [meaning “Bitter”], for the Almighty has made it very bitter for me.” (Ruth 1:20, 21, ftn.) Naomi’s reaction was natural and understandable. Like Joseph, though, she neither stumbled spiritually nor wavered in her integrity. Jehovah, in turn, rewarded that precious woman. (Ruth 4:13-17, 22) What is more, in the earthly Paradise to come, he will undo all the harm caused by Satan and his wicked world. “The former things will not be called to mind, neither will they come up into the heart.”—Isa. 65:17.

16. What should be our attitude toward prayer, and why so?

¹⁶ No matter what trials may befall us, God’s love is there to sustain us. (Read Romans 8:35-39.) Though Satan will not stop trying to discourage us, he will fail if we remain “sound in mind” and “vigilant with a view to prayers.” (1 Pet. 4:7) Jesus said: “Keep awake, then, all the time making supplication that you may succeed in escaping all these things that are destined to occur, and in standing before the Son of man.” (Luke 21:36) Note Jesus’ use of the word “supplication,” which is a very earnest form of prayer. By admonishing us to make supplication, Jesus emphasized that this is no time to be casual about standing before him and his Father. Only those standing in an approved condition will have the prospect of surviving Jehovah’s day.

Keep Active in Jehovah’s Service

17. If your witnessing territory is a challenge, how can you benefit from the good example of the prophets of old?

¹⁷ Sharing in spiritual activities refreshes us. This calls to mind Peter’s words: “What sort of persons ought you to be in holy acts of conduct and deeds of godly devotion!” (2 Pet. 3:11) Foremost among those deeds is the proclaiming of the good news. (Matt. 24:14) True, in some territories the preaching work may be a challenge, perhaps because of apathy or opposition or simply because people are preoccupied with the everyday concerns of life. Jehovah’s servants of old had to contend with similar attitudes. Yet, they never gave up but kept going back “again and again” with their God-given message. (Read 2 Chronicles 36:15, 16; Jer. 7:24-26) What helped them to endure? They viewed their assignment from Jehovah’s point of view, not from that of the world. Also, they considered it the greatest honor to bear God’s name.—Jer. 15:16.

18. What bearing will the Kingdom-preaching work have on the future magnifying of God’s name?

¹⁸ We too have the privilege of announcing Jehovah’s name and purpose. Think of this: As a direct result of our preaching work, God’s enemies will not be able to plead ignorance when they come face-to-face with him during his great day. Indeed, like Pharaoh of old, they will know that it is Jehovah who is acting against them. (Ex. 8:1, 20; 14:25) At the same time, Jehovah will honor his faithful servants by making it abundantly clear that they were, indeed, his representatives.—Read Ezekiel 2:5; 33:33.

19. How can we show that we desire to make good use of Jehovah’s patience?

¹⁹ Near the end of his second letter, Peter wrote to his fellow believers: “Consider the patience of our Lord as salvation.” (2 Pet. 3:15) Yes, let us continue to make good use of Jehovah’s patience. How? By developing qualities that please him, by remaining “spotless and unblemished,” by having the right attitude toward trials, and by keeping busy in Kingdom service. In so doing, we put ourselves in line for the endless blessings associated with the ‘new heavens and new earth.’—2 Pet. 3:13.

Do You Recall?

• How can we cultivate godly qualities?

• How can we remain “spotless and unblemished”?

• What can we learn from Joseph and Naomi?

• Why is sharing in the preaching work a great privilege?

[Picture on page 9]

What will help you husbands to cultivate godly qualities in you and your family?

[Pictures on page 10]

What can we learn from how Joseph dealt with trials?

“Do Not Be Afraid. I Myself Will Help You”

pp. 12–15

“Do Not Be Afraid. I Myself Will Help You”

JESUS forewarned his followers: “The Devil will keep on throwing some of you into prison that you may be fully put to the test.” However, just before that warning, Jesus stated: “Do not be afraid of the things you are about to suffer.” Since Satan continues to use the threat of imprisonment as a means to stop Kingdom preaching, the possibility that some governments will persecute true Christians is real. (Rev. 2:10; 12:17) Hence, what will help us to be prepared for Satan’s schemes and “not be afraid,” as Jesus admonished?

Of course, most of us have at one time or another experienced some feelings of fear. Still, God’s Word assures us that with Jehovah’s help, we can avoid succumbing to fear. How? One way Jehovah helps us to be prepared to deal with opposition is by identifying the tactics used by Satan and his agents. (2 Cor. 2:11) To illustrate how this is the case, let us consider an event that took place in Bible times. We will also look at some modern-day examples of faithful fellow believers who ‘stood firm against the machinations of the Devil.’—Eph. 6:11-13.

A God-Fearing King Faces an Evil Ruler

In the eighth century B.C.E., evil King Sennacherib of Assyria won a string of victories over several nations. Flushed with confidence, he then set his sights on Jehovah’s people and their capital city, Jerusalem, where God-fearing Hezekiah ruled as king. (2 Ki. 18:1-3, 13) No doubt, Satan was exploiting the situation, inciting Sennacherib to carry out his plans so that true worship could be annihilated from the earth.—Gen. 3:15.

Sennacherib sent a delegation to Jerusalem to demand that city’s surrender. Included in the delegation was Rabshakeh, who acted as the king’s chief spokesman.a (2 Ki. 18:17) Rabshakeh’s goal was to demoralize the Jews and make them give up without a fight. What methods did Rabshakeh use in his efforts to put fear in the hearts of the Jews?

Faithful Despite Isolation

Rabshakeh told Hezekiah’s representatives: “This is what the great king, the king of Assyria, has said: ‘What is this confidence in which you have trusted? . . . Look! you have put your trust in the support of this crushed reed, Egypt, which, if a man should brace himself upon it, would certainly enter into his palm and pierce it.’” (2 Ki. 18:19, 21) Rabshakeh’s accusation was false, for Hezekiah had not made an alliance with Egypt. Still, the accusation emphasized what Rabshakeh wanted the Jews to remember clearly: ‘No one will come to your aid. You are on your own—isolated.’

In more recent times, opposers of true worship similarly used the threat of isolation in an effort to put fear in the hearts of true Christians. One Christian sister, who was imprisoned for her faith and isolated from fellow believers for years, later recounted what helped her not to succumb to fear. She said: “Prayer helped me to draw close to Jehovah . . . I remembered the assurance at Isaiah 66:2, that God looks ‘to the one afflicted and contrite in spirit.’ This was always a source of strength and great comfort to me.” Likewise, a brother who spent years in solitary confinement said: “I came to realize that the small rectangle of a cell could also be a universe when one enjoys an intimate relationship with God.” Yes, having a close relationship with Jehovah gave these two Christians the strength needed to cope with isolation. (Ps. 9:9, 10) Their persecutors could separate them from family, friends, and fellow believers, but the imprisoned Witnesses knew that their opposers could never isolate them from Jehovah.—Rom. 8:35-39.

How important it is, then, that we use every available opportunity to strengthen our relationship with Jehovah! (Jas. 4:8) We should regularly ask ourselves: ‘How real is Jehovah to me? Do his words deeply influence me as I make decisions, small and big, in daily life?’ (Luke 16:10) If we work hard to maintain our close relationship with God, there is no reason for us to be afraid. The prophet Jeremiah, speaking representatively for the afflicted Jews, stated: “I have called out your name, O Jehovah, from a pit of the lowest sort . . . You have drawn near in the day that I kept calling you. You said: ‘Do not be afraid.’”—Lam. 3:55-57.

Planting Doubts Fails to Succeed

Rabshakeh used cunning reasoning in an effort to plant doubts. He said: “Is [Jehovah] not the one whose high places and whose altars Hezekiah has removed? . . . Jehovah himself said to me, ‘Go up against this land, and you must bring it to ruin.’” (2 Ki. 18:22, 25) Thus Rabshakeh argued that Jehovah would not fight for His people because He was displeased with them. But the opposite was true. Jehovah was pleased with Hezekiah and the Jews who had returned to true worship.—2 Ki. 18:3-7.

Today, scheming persecutors may share bits of truthful information with which they aim to establish common ground, but they subtly intersperse that truth with lies, hoping to plant doubts. For example, imprisoned brothers and sisters have at times been told that a brother taking the lead in their country compromised and it would therefore also be all right for them to do so and to give up their convictions. However, such reasoning fails to raise doubts in Christians who are discerning.

Consider what happened to a Christian sister during World War II. While in prison, she was shown written statements indicating that a responsible brother had abandoned his faith. The interrogator asked if she believed in that Witness. The sister answered, “[He] is only an imperfect human.” She added that as long as he followed Bible principles, he was used by God. “But since his statements have deviated from the Bible, he is no longer my brother.” That faithful sister prudently followed the Bible’s admonition: “Do not put your trust in nobles, nor in the son of earthling man, to whom no salvation belongs.”—Ps. 146:3.

Having accurate knowledge of God’s Word and applying its counsel will help us to guard against deceptive reasoning that could weaken our resolve to endure. (Eph. 4:13, 14; Heb. 6:19) Hence, to prepare ourselves to be able to think clearly when under pressure, we need to give priority to daily Bible reading and personal study. (Heb. 4:12) Yes, now is the time to deepen our knowledge and fortify our faith. One brother who endured many years of solitary confinement said: “I would like to encourage everyone to show proper appreciation for all spiritual food that is given us, since we do not know just how it will be of value to us at some time.” Indeed, if we carefully study God’s Word and the publications provided by the slave class today, then, at critical moments in life, holy spirit will “bring back to [our] minds” what we have learned.—John 14:26.

Shielded Against Intimidation

Rabshakeh tried to intimidate the Jews. “Make a wager, please, with my lord the king of Assyria,” he said, “and let me give you two thousand horses to see whether you are able, on your part, to put riders upon them. How, then, could you turn back the face of one governor of the smallest servants of my lord?” (2 Ki. 18:23, 24) Humanly speaking, Hezekiah and his people did not stand a chance against the powerful Assyrian army.

Persecutors today can also appear to be overwhelmingly powerful, especially when the full weight of the State is behind them. That was surely the case with the Nazi persecutors during World War II. They tried to intimidate many of God’s servants. One of our brothers, who spent years in prison, later described how he was threatened. On one occasion, an officer asked him: “Did you see how your brother was shot? What lesson did you learn from that?” His answer was: “I am a witness for Jehovah and will remain such.” “Then you are the next one to be shot,” the officer threatened. Nevertheless, our brother stood firm, and the enemy backed down. What enabled him to face such a threat? He answered: “I trusted in the name of Jehovah.”—Prov. 18:10.

By having full faith in Jehovah, we carry a large shield that protects us against all the resources Satan brings to bear in order to harm us spiritually. (Eph. 6:16) Hence, we do well to ask Jehovah in prayer to help us fortify our faith. (Luke 17:5) We also need to make good use of the faith-strengthening arrangements provided by the faithful slave class. When faced with threats, we are strengthened when we recall the assurance that Jehovah gave to the prophet Ezekiel, who had to deal with obstinate people. Jehovah told him: “I have made your face exactly as hard as their faces and your forehead exactly as hard as their foreheads. Like a diamond, harder than flint, I have made your forehead.” (Ezek. 3:8, 9) If needed, Jehovah can help us to be as diamond-hard as Ezekiel had to be.

Resisting Temptations

Opposers have found that when all else fails, tempting rewards can at times break a person’s integrity. Rabshakeh also employed this method. He said to those in Jerusalem: “This is what the king of Assyria has said: ‘Make a capitulation to me, and come out to me . . . until I come and I actually take you to a land like your own land, a land of grain and new wine, a land of bread and vineyards, a land of oil-olive trees and honey; and keep living that you may not die.’” (2 Ki. 18:31, 32) The prospect of eating fresh bread and drinking new wine must have been very appealing to those cooped up behind the besieged city’s walls!

Such a prospect was once raised in order to try to weaken the determination of an imprisoned missionary. He was told that he would be taken to a “pleasant home” in a “beautiful garden” for six months so that he would be able to think. However, the brother remained spiritually alert and did not compromise his Christian principles. What helped him? He later explained: “I used to think about the Kingdom as the real hope. . . . Being fortified with a knowledge of God’s kingdom, being sure of it, never doubting it for a moment, I couldn’t be moved.”

How real is God’s Kingdom to us? The patriarch Abraham, the apostle Paul, and Jesus himself were all able to endure difficult trials because the Kingdom was a reality to them. (Phil. 3:13, 14; Heb. 11:8-10; 12:2) If we continue to put the Kingdom first in our life and keep its lasting blessings in mind, we too can resist the temptation to accept offers of temporary relief from trials.—2 Cor. 4:16-18.

Jehovah Will Not Forsake Us

Despite all of Rabshakeh’s efforts to frighten the Jews, Hezekiah and his subjects put their unwavering trust in Jehovah. (2 Ki. 19:15, 19; Isa. 37:5-7) Jehovah, in turn, answered their prayers for help by sending an angel to strike down in one night 185,000 warriors in the camp of the Assyrians. The very next day, Sennacherib hurried back in disgrace to his capital, Nineveh, with what little was left of his army.—2 Ki. 19:35, 36.

Clearly, Jehovah did not forsake those who put their trust in him. Modern-day examples of our brothers and sisters who stand firm under trial show that the same is true of Jehovah today. It is with good reason, then, that our heavenly Father assures us: “I, Jehovah your God, am grasping your right hand, the One saying to you, ‘Do not be afraid. I myself will help you.’”—Isa. 41:13.

[Footnote]

a “Rabshakeh” was a title of a prominent Assyrian official. The man’s personal name is not revealed in the account.

[Blurb on page 13]

Over 30 times in his Word, Jehovah himself assures his servants: “Do not be afraid”

[Picture on page 12]

How were Rabshakeh’s tactics similar to those used by enemies of God’s people today?

[Pictures on page 15]

A close relationship with Jehovah enables us to maintain integrity under trial

Have a Full Share in the Great Spiritual Harvest

pp. 16–20

Have a Full Share in the Great Spiritual Harvest

‘Have plenty to do in the work of the Lord.’—1 COR. 15:58.

1. What invitation did Jesus extend to his disciples?

WHILE traveling through the region of Samaria at the close of 30 C.E., Jesus paused to rest at a well near the town of Sychar. There he said to his disciples: “Lift up your eyes and view the fields, that they are white for harvesting.” (John 4:35) Jesus was referring, not to a literal harvest, but to a spiritual ingathering of righthearted individuals who would become his followers. His words were, in effect, a call to action. There was much work to be done and only a brief space of time in which to accomplish it!

2, 3. (a) What indicates that we are living in the harvesttime? (b) What will this article consider?

² Jesus’ words about a harvest have special meaning for our day. We live at a time when the world field of humanity is “white for harvesting.” Yearly, millions of people receive the invitation to take in life-giving truths, and many thousands of new disciples are baptized. Ours is the privilege to take part in the greatest harvest of all time, under the supervision of the Master of the harvest, Jehovah God. Are you having “plenty to do” in this harvest work?—1 Cor. 15:58.

³ During his three-and-a-half-year earthly ministry, Jesus groomed his disciples for their role as harvest workers. This article will consider three of the many important lessons that Jesus taught his disciples. Each lesson highlights a quality that is of great value to us as we strive to do our best in the modern-day ingathering of disciples. Let us consider these qualities one at a time.

Humility Is Essential

4. How did Jesus illustrate the importance of humility?

⁴ Picture the scene: The disciples have just argued about who is the greatest. Feelings of distrust and ill will are likely still visible on their faces. So Jesus calls a young child to stand in their midst. Focusing attention on the small figure, he says: “Whoever will humble himself [or, “whoever makes himself small,” Byington] like this young child is the one that is the greatest in the kingdom of the heavens.” (Read Matthew 18:1-4.) Instead of thinking like the world, which measures a person by his power, wealth, and position, the disciples needed to understand that their greatness depended on ‘making themselves small’ in the eyes of others. Jehovah would bless them and use them only if they showed true humility.

5, 6. Why must you be humble in order to have a full share in the harvest work? Illustrate.

⁵ To this day, many in the world dedicate their lives to the pursuit of power, wealth, and position. As a result, they have little or no time for spiritual interests. (Matt. 13:22) In contrast, Jehovah’s people are happy to ‘make themselves small’ in the eyes of others in order to win the blessing and approval of the Master of the harvest.—Matt. 6:24; 2 Cor. 11:7; Phil. 3:8.

⁶ Consider the example of Francisco, who serves as an elder in South America. As a young man, he quit the university to become a pioneer. “When I later got engaged to be married,” he recalls, “I could have found a job that would have brought my wife and me greater financial security. Instead, we decided to simplify our lives and continue together in the full-time service. Later, children came along, and the challenges increased. But Jehovah helped us stick to our decision.” Francisco concludes: “For more than 30 years, I have enjoyed the privilege of serving as an elder, in addition to many other special assignments. Never for a moment have we regretted living a simple life.”

7. How have you tried to apply the counsel found at Romans 12:16?

⁷ If you say no to the “lofty things” of this world and allow yourself to be “led along with the lowly things,” you too can expect to enjoy many additional blessings and privileges in the harvest work.—Rom. 12:16; Matt. 4:19, 20; Luke 18:28-30.

Diligence Brings Rewards

8, 9. (a) Summarize Jesus’ illustration of the talents. (b) For whom especially can this illustration be encouraging?

⁸ Another quality that we need in order to have a full share in the harvest work is diligence. Jesus illustrated this in the parable of the talents.a That illustration is about a man who, before traveling abroad, entrusted his belongings to three slaves. The first and second slave received five and two talents respectively; the third, one talent. After their master left, the first two slaves acted with diligence and immediately “did business” with their talents. In contrast, the third slave was “sluggish.” He buried his talent in the ground. Upon returning, the man rewarded the first two slaves by appointing them “over many things.” He took away the talent that he had given to the third slave and expelled that slave from his household.—Matt. 25:14-30.

⁹ No doubt your heart’s desire is to imitate the diligent slaves in Jesus’ parable and have as full a share as possible in the disciple-making work. But what if circumstances severely limit what you are currently able to do? Perhaps harsh economic conditions force you to work long hours to provide for your family. Or maybe you no longer enjoy youthful vigor and good health. If that is the case, the parable of the talents contains an encouraging message for you.

10. How did the master in the parable of the talents show reasonableness, and why do you find this encouraging?

¹⁰ Note that the master in the parable recognized that each of his slaves had different potential. He indicated this when he assigned talents to “each one according to his own ability.” (Matt. 25:15) As expected, the first slave produced significantly more than the second slave. However, the master recognized the diligent efforts of both of these slaves by pronouncing the slaves “good and faithful” and giving them identical rewards. (Matt. 25:21, 23) Similarly, the Master of the harvest, Jehovah God, knows that your circumstances affect what you are able to do in his service. He will not fail to recognize your whole-souled efforts to serve him and reward you accordingly.—Mark 14:3-9; read Luke 21:1-4.

11. Illustrate how diligence in trying circumstances can result in rich blessings.

¹¹ The example of Selmira, a Christian sister living in Brazil, shows that being diligent in God’s service does not depend on having favorable circumstances in life. Twenty years ago, Selmira’s husband was gunned down in a robbery, leaving her with three young children to rear. Her job as a maid involved working long hours and making tiring journeys in packed urban transportation. Despite these difficulties, she organized her affairs so that she could serve as a regular pioneer. Two of her three children later joined her in the pioneer service. “Over the years, I have studied the Bible with more than 20 people, and they have become members of my ‘family,’” she relates. “To this day, I enjoy their love and friendship. It is a treasure that money cannot buy.” The Master of the harvest has certainly rewarded Selmira’s diligent efforts!

12. How can we show diligence in the preaching work?

¹² If current circumstances in life limit the time that you have available to spend in the ministry, you could still try to increase your share in the harvest work by making your ministry more productive. When you carefully apply the practical suggestions presented at the weekly Service Meeting, you will hone your preaching skills and explore new witnessing opportunities. (2 Tim. 2:15) Also, if it is possible, you could reschedule or sacrifice nonessential activities so that you can regularly support congregation field service arrangements.—Col. 4:5.

13. What is the key to cultivating and maintaining diligence?

¹³ Keep in mind that diligence springs from an appreciative heart. (Ps. 40:8) The third slave mentioned in Jesus’ parable was afraid of his master, viewing him as a demanding and unreasonable person. As a result, the man buried his talent instead of using it to increase his master’s belongings. To avoid a similar negligent attitude, we need to cultivate and maintain a warm relationship with the Master of the harvest, Jehovah. Set aside time to study and meditate on his appealing qualities—his love, patience, and mercy. In that way, you will be moved from the heart to do your best in his service.—Luke 6:45; Phil. 1:9-11.

“You Must Be Holy”

14. What important requirement must be met by those who want to be harvest workers?

¹⁴ Quoting from the Hebrew Scriptures, the apostle Peter states God’s express will for his earthly servants, saying: “In accord with the Holy One who called you, do you also become holy yourselves in all your conduct, because it is written: ‘You must be holy, because I am holy.’” (1 Pet. 1:15, 16; Lev. 19:2; Deut. 18:13) This statement highlights that harvest workers need to be morally and spiritually clean. We can meet that important requirement by taking steps to be washed clean, figuratively speaking. How can that be done? With the help of God’s word of truth.

15. The truth of God’s word has the power to do what in our behalf?

¹⁵ God’s word of truth is likened to water that cleanses. For instance, the apostle Paul wrote that the congregation of anointed Christians is clean in the sight of God, like a chaste bride for Christ, who cleansed it “with the bath of water by means of the word . . . , that it should be holy and without blemish.” (Eph. 5:25-27) Earlier, Jesus too had spoken of the cleansing power of the word of God, which he proclaimed. In speaking to his disciples, Jesus stated: “You are already clean because of the word that I have spoken to you.” (John 15:3) Hence, the truth of God’s word has power to carry out moral and spiritual cleansing. Only if we allow God’s truth to cleanse us in this way will our worship be acceptable to him.

16. How can we keep ourselves spiritually and morally clean?

¹⁶ Thus, to become workers in God’s harvest, we first eliminate all morally and spiritually defiling practices from our life. Yes, in order to continue to qualify for the privilege of being a harvest worker, we must be exemplary in upholding Jehovah’s high moral and spiritual standards. (Read 1 Peter 1:14-16.) Just as we give constant attention to our physical hygiene, so we must regularly submit to the purifying influence of God’s word of truth. This involves reading the Bible and attending Christian meetings. It also means making a sincere effort to apply God’s reminders in our life. Doing so will enable us to combat our own sinful tendencies and resist the contaminating influences of this world. (Ps. 119:9; Jas. 1:21-25) Yes, how comforting it is to know that with the help of God’s word of truth, we can be “washed clean” of even serious sin!—1 Cor. 6:9-11.

17. In order to remain clean, what Bible counsel must we heed?

¹⁷ Do you welcome the cleansing influence of God’s word of truth in your life? How do you react, for example, when you are alerted to the dangers of this world’s degrading entertainment? (Ps. 101:3) Do you avoid unnecessary fellowship with schoolmates and fellow workers who do not share your beliefs? (1 Cor. 15:33) Are you sincere in your efforts to overcome personal weaknesses that could make you impure in Jehovah’s eyes? (Col. 3:5) Do you keep separate from this world’s political disputes and the nationalistic spirit that permeates many competitive sports?—Jas. 4:4.

18. How will being morally and spiritually clean help us to be productive harvest workers?

¹⁸ Your faithful compliance in such matters will bring excellent results. Comparing his anointed disciples to the branches of a vine, Jesus stated: “Every branch in me not bearing fruit [my Father] takes away, and every one bearing fruit he cleans, that it may bear more fruit.” (John 15:2) As you submit to the cleansing water of Bible truth, you will produce even more fruit.

Blessings Now and in the Future

19. How were Jesus’ disciples blessed in their efforts as harvest workers?

¹⁹ The faithful disciples who responded to Jesus’ training were later empowered by holy spirit at Pentecost 33 C.E. to be witnesses “to the most distant part of the earth.” (Acts 1:8) They went on to serve as members of the governing body, as missionaries, and as traveling elders, and they played a key role in preaching the good news “in all creation that is under heaven.” (Col. 1:23) What blessings they reaped, and what joy they brought to others!

20. (a) What blessings have you received from having a full share in the spiritual harvest? (b) What are you determined to do?

²⁰ Yes, by demonstrating humility, displaying diligence, and upholding the high standards of God’s Word, we will continue to enjoy a full and meaningful share in the great spiritual harvest now under way. While many suffer the pain and frustration that accompany this world’s materialistic and pleasure-seeking lifestyle, we experience genuine joy and contentment. (Ps. 126:6) Most important of all, our “labor is not in vain in connection with the Lord.” (1 Cor. 15:58) The Master of the harvest, Jehovah God, will reward us eternally for ‘our work and the love we show for his name.’—Heb. 6:10-12.

[Footnote]

a The parable of the talents is primarily about how Jesus deals with his anointed disciples, but it contains principles that apply to all Christians.

Do You Recall?

As you strive to have a full share in the harvest work . . .

• why is it essential to display humility?

• how can you cultivate and maintain diligence?

• why is it important to keep morally and spiritually clean?

[Picture on page 17]

Humility can help us to lead a simple life that centers on Kingdom interests

“The Spirit Searches Into . . . the Deep Things of God”

pp. 20–24

“The Spirit Searches Into . . . the Deep Things of God”

“The spirit searches into all things, even the deep things of God.”—1 COR. 2:10.

1. What role of the holy spirit is highlighted by Paul at 1 Corinthians 2:10, and what questions arise?

HOW grateful we can be for the operation of Jehovah’s holy spirit! The Scriptures speak of the spirit as a helper, a gift, a witness bearer, and one that pleads for us. (John 14:16; Acts 2:38; Rom. 8:16, 26, 27) The apostle Paul highlighted another vital role that the holy spirit plays: “The spirit searches into all things, even the deep things of God.” (1 Cor. 2:10) Indeed, Jehovah uses his holy spirit to reveal deep spiritual truths. Without this help, where would we be in our understanding of Jehovah’s purposes? (Read 1 Corinthians 2:9-12.) However, several questions arise: How does ‘the spirit search into the deep things of God’? Through whom did Jehovah reveal these things in the first century C.E.? How and through whom does the spirit search into these deep things in our day?

2. In what twofold way would the spirit operate?

² Jesus indicated a twofold way in which the spirit would operate. Shortly before his death, he told his apostles: “The helper, the holy spirit, which the Father will send in my name, that one will teach you all things and bring back to your minds all the things I told you.” (John 14:26) The holy spirit would thus act as a teacher and as a remembrancer. As a teacher, it would help Christians grasp things not previously understood. As a remembrancer, it would help them recall and apply correctly what had been explained.

In the First Century

3. What words of Jesus indicated that “the deep things of God” would be revealed progressively?

³ Jesus himself taught his disciples many truths that were new to them. They still had much to learn, however. Jesus told the apostles: “I have many things yet to say to you, but you are not able to bear them at present. However, when that one arrives, the spirit of the truth, he will guide you into all the truth.” (John 16:12, 13) Jesus thus indicated that by means of holy spirit, deep spiritual things would be progressively revealed.

4. On the day of Pentecost 33 C.E., how did the holy spirit act as a teacher and as a remembrancer?

⁴ On the day of Pentecost 33 C.E., “the spirit of the truth” arrived, being poured out on about 120 Christians gathered together in Jerusalem. There were visible and audible evidences of this. (Acts 1:4, 5, 15; 2:1-4) The disciples spoke in a variety of tongues “about the magnificent things of God.” (Acts 2:5-11) It was now time for something new to be revealed. The prophet Joel had foretold this outpouring of holy spirit. (Joel 2:28-32) Onlookers were witnessing the fulfillment in a way none of them had expected, and the apostle Peter took the lead in explaining this development. (Read Acts 2:14-18.) The holy spirit thus acted as a teacher in making clear to Peter that what the disciples had experienced was in fulfillment of that ancient prophecy. The spirit also acted as a remembrancer, for Peter quoted not only Joel but two psalms of David as well. (Ps. 16:8-11; 110:1; Acts 2:25-28, 34, 35) What all those assembled saw and heard were truly deep things of God.

5, 6. (a) After Pentecost 33 C.E., what important questions regarding the new covenant needed to be answered? (b) Through whom were these issues raised, and how were decisions made?

⁵ Many matters still needed clarification for the first-century Christians. For example, there were questions about the new covenant that had gone into effect on that day of Pentecost. Was the new covenant limited to Jews and Jewish proselytes? Could Gentiles also be accepted into it and be anointed with holy spirit? (Acts 10:45) Would Gentile males first need to be circumcised and to submit to the Mosaic Law? (Acts 15:1, 5) These were momentous questions. Jehovah’s spirit was needed to search into these deep things. Through whom, though, would it operate?

⁶ It was through responsible brothers that each issue was raised for consideration. Peter, Paul, and Barnabas were at that meeting of the governing body and recounted how Jehovah had been dealing with uncircumcised Gentiles. (Acts 15:7-12) After considering this evidence in the light of indications in the Hebrew Scriptures and with the help of holy spirit, the governing body made a decision. Then they informed the congregations in writing about that decision.—Read Acts 15:25-30; 16:4, 5; Eph. 3:5, 6.

7. By what means were deep truths revealed?

⁷ Many other matters were clarified through the inspired writings of John, Peter, James, and Paul. But at some point after the Christian Scriptures were completed, gifts of prophesying and miraculously revealed knowledge ceased. (1 Cor. 13:8) Would the spirit continue to act as a teacher and a remembrancer? Would it continue to help Christians to search into the deep things of God? Prophecy indicated that it would.

During the Time of the End

8, 9. Who would “shine” with spiritual insight during the time of the end?

⁸ Speaking about the time of the end, an angel foretold: “The ones having insight will shine like the brightness of the expanse; and those who are bringing the many to righteousness, like the stars to time indefinite, even forever. . . . And the true knowledge will become abundant.” (Dan. 12:3, 4) Who would be the ones having insight and who would shine? Jesus provided a clue in his illustration of the wheat and the weeds. Speaking about the “conclusion of a system of things,” he stated: “At that time the righteous ones will shine as brightly as the sun in the kingdom of their Father.” (Matt. 13:39, 43) In his explanation, Jesus identified “the righteous ones” as “the sons of the kingdom,” anointed Christians.—Matt. 13:38.

⁹ Would all anointed Christians “shine”? In a sense, yes, for all Christians would participate in preaching, in disciple making, and in building one another up at meetings. Anointed ones would set the example. (Zech. 8:23) In addition to this, however, deep things were to be revealed during the time of the end. The very prophecy Daniel recorded was “sealed up” until that time. (Dan. 12:9) How and through whom would the spirit search into these deep things?

10. (a) Through whom does the spirit reveal deep truths during the last days? (b) Explain how truths regarding Jehovah’s great spiritual temple were clarified.

¹⁰ When the time comes to clarify a spiritual matter in our day, holy spirit helps responsible representatives of “the faithful and discreet slave” at world headquarters to discern deep truths that were not previously understood. (Matt. 24:45; 1 Cor. 2:13) The Governing Body as a whole considers adjusted explanations. (Acts 15:6) What they learn, they publish for the benefit of all. (Matt. 10:27) As time goes on, further clarifications may be needed, and these too are honestly explained.—See the box “How the Spirit Revealed the Meaning of the Spiritual Temple.”

Benefiting From the Spirit’s Role Today

11. How do all Christians today benefit from the holy spirit’s role in revealing the deep things of God?

¹¹ All faithful Christians benefit from the holy spirit’s role in revealing the deep things of God. Like the first-century Christians, we today study and later recall and apply information that the holy spirit helps us to understand. (Luke 12:11, 12) We do not need extensive formal education in order to comprehend deep spiritual truths that have been published. (Acts 4:13) How might we go about improving our understanding of the deep things of God? Consider a few suggestions.

12. When should we pray for holy spirit?

¹² Pray for holy spirit. When we are about to consider Scriptural material, we should first ask in prayer for holy spirit to guide us. This is true even if we are alone or the time we have available is short. Such humble petitions will surely warm our heavenly Father’s heart. As Jesus indicated, Jehovah will provide his holy spirit freely at our sincere request.—Luke 11:13.

13, 14. What role does preparing for meetings play in understanding the deep things of God?

¹³ Prepare for meetings. We receive “food at the proper time” through the slave class. The “slave” fulfills its assignment by supplying Scriptural material and by arranging programs for study and meetings. There are well-thought-out reasons for asking “the whole association of brothers” to consider certain information. (1 Pet. 2:17; Col. 4:16; Jude 3) We cooperate with the holy spirit when we do our best to follow the recommendations provided.—Rev. 2:29.

¹⁴ When preparing for Christian meetings, we do well to look up the cited Scriptures and to try to discern how each applies to the subject at hand. This practice will gradually deepen our understanding of the Bible. (Acts 17:11, 12) Looking them up makes a mental impression that the holy spirit can help us recall. Additionally, if we see the text on the page in the Bible, this will leave a visual impression that can help us find the passage when we need to.

15. Why should we keep up-to-date with published material, and how do you accomplish this?

¹⁵ Keep up-to-date. Some published material is not reviewed at our meetings, but it is prepared for our benefit. Even issues of our journals that are offered to the public are prepared with us in mind. In this complicated world, we often have to wait for someone or something. If we carry with us a publication that we have not read or have only partially read, we may be able to use these opportunities to read a portion. Some keep up-to-date by listening to audio recordings of our publications while walking or while riding in a vehicle. Carefully researched but written for enjoyment by average readers, all this material deepens our appreciation for spiritual things.—Hab. 2:2.

16. What benefit is there in noting and pursuing questions that come to mind?

¹⁶ Meditate. When you read the Bible or publications based on it, take time to think. As you carefully follow the line of thought, questions may occur to you. You might make a note of such questions and follow up on them later. It is often when we pursue matters that intrigue us that we delve the deepest. The understanding we acquire becomes part of the personal treasure we can draw from as we need to.—Matt. 13:52.

17. What program do you follow for family or personal study?

¹⁷ Schedule a time for family worship. The Governing Body has encouraged all of us to set aside an evening or other period each week for personal or family study. Our adjusted meeting schedule opens the way for us to apply this counsel. What do you consider during Family Worship evenings? Some read the Bible, researching verses that raise questions in their mind and making brief explanatory notes in their Bible. Many families take time to make family application of the material studied. Certain family heads select material that they feel the family needs to consider or that deals with subjects or questions the family has asked to consider. You will no doubt think of other subjects to consider as time goes on.a

18. Why should we not shrink back from studying the deeper truths of God’s Word?

¹⁸ Jesus said that the spirit would act as a helper. So we should not shrink back from studying the deeper truths of God’s Word. Such truths are part of the precious “knowledge of God,” and we are invited to search into them. (Read Proverbs 2:1-5.) They reveal much about “the things that God has prepared for those who love him.” As we make the effort to learn more about Jehovah’s Word, holy spirit will help us, for “the spirit searches into all things, even the deep things of God.”—1 Cor. 2:9, 10.

[Footnote]

How Would You Answer?

• In what twofold way does the spirit help us to search into “the deep things of God”?

• Through whom did the holy spirit reveal deep truths in the first century?

• How does the holy spirit operate to clarify matters in our day?

• What can you do to benefit from the spirit’s role?

[Box on page 22]

How the Spirit Revealed the Meaning of the Spiritual Temple

Among “the deep things of God” revealed during the first century was that the tabernacle and later the temples foreshadowed a much greater spiritual reality. Paul called that reality “the true tent, which Jehovah put up, and not man.” (Heb. 8:2) This was a great spiritual temple, an arrangement for approach to God made possible by the sacrifice and priesthood of Jesus Christ.

“The true tent” came into existence in 29 C.E. when Jesus was baptized and Jehovah accepted him as the one to become a perfect sacrifice. (Heb. 10:5-10) After his death and resurrection, Jesus entered the Most Holy of the spiritual temple and presented the value of his sacrifice “before the person of God.”—Heb. 9:11, 12, 24.

Elsewhere, the apostle Paul wrote of anointed Christians as “growing into a holy temple for Jehovah.” (Eph. 2:20-22) Was this temple to be the same as “the true tent” that he later described in his letter to the Hebrews? For decades, Jehovah’s servants thought that it was. It seemed that anointed Christians were being fitted on earth to become “stones” in the heavenly temple of Jehovah.—1 Pet. 2:5.

Toward the year 1971, however, responsible members of the slave class began to discern that the temple spoken of by Paul in Ephesians could not be Jehovah’s great spiritual temple. If “the true tent” were composed of resurrected anointed Christians, it would first come into existence after their resurrection began during “the presence of the Lord.” (1 Thess. 4:15-17) But referring to the tabernacle, Paul wrote: “This very tent is an illustration for the appointed time that is now here.”—Heb. 9:9.

By carefully comparing these and other scriptures, it became clear that the spiritual temple is not in the process of being built and that anointed Christians are not “stones” being fashioned on earth for inclusion in it. Rather, anointed Christians are serving in the courtyard and in the Holy of the spiritual temple, daily offering to God “a sacrifice of praise.”—Heb. 13:15.

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How can we improve our understanding of “the deep things of God”?

Instill in Your Children a Love for Reading and Studying

pp. 25–26

Instill in Your Children a Love for Reading and Studying

FEW endeavors have greater potential for shaping your children’s future than teaching them to read and study. And what joy these activities can bring! Some individuals’ fondest childhood memories are of their parents reading to them. Reading can in itself be pleasurable, as can be its results. This is especially true for servants of God, since spiritual growth is greatly enhanced by Bible study. One Christian parent observed, “The things we value most are associated with reading and study.”

Good study habits can help your children to develop a closer relationship with God. (Ps. 1:1-3, 6) Though knowing how to read is not a requirement for salvation, the Bible does associate reading with great spiritual benefits. For example, Revelation 1:3 says: “Happy is he who reads aloud and those who hear the words of this prophecy.” Moreover, the value of concentration, an important element of study, is clearly implied in the apostle Paul’s inspired counsel to Timothy: “Ponder over these things; be absorbed in them.” Why? “That your advancement may be manifest.”—1 Tim. 4:15.

Of course, simply knowing how to read and study is in itself no guarantee that these abilities will benefit a person. Many who have these skills neglect to use them; instead, they pursue less profitable occupations. So how can parents nurture in their children a thirst for beneficial knowledge?

Your Love and Your Example

Children learn to enjoy study sessions when these come wrapped in love. Owen and Claudia, a Christian couple, recall about their two children: “They looked forward to study time because it was a special time—they felt protected and comfortable. They came to associate this activity with a warm environment.” Even as children grow into their potentially challenging teen years, a loving atmosphere surrounding a family’s study activities will continue to shape their view. Owen and Claudia’s children are now pioneers and continue to benefit from the love for reading and study that was instilled in them.

A powerful ally of love is example. Children who often see their parents reading and studying are more likely to view these activities as a natural part of their own lives. But how can you as a parent set such an example if reading does not come easily to you? It may mean adjusting your priorities or your attitude toward reading. (Rom. 2:21) If reading is a prominent part of your daily routine, this will speak to the heart of your children. Your diligence—particularly in Bible reading, preparation for meetings, and family study—will send a clear message about the value of such activities.

Thus, your love and example are fundamental in instilling in your children a desire to read. But what practical steps can you take to encourage them?

A Love That Begins With Reading

What are some important steps in your children’s journey toward loving to read? Make books available to them at an early age. One Christian elder whose parents instilled in him a love for reading recommends: “Let your children get used to handling books. That way, books become their friends and a part of their life.” Bible-based books, such as Learn From the Great Teacher and My Book of Bible Stories, thus become close companions to many children long before they are able to read. When you read such publications with your children, you expose them not only to language but also to “spiritual matters” and “spiritual words.”—1 Cor. 2:13.

Regularly read out loud. Build a routine of reading with your children each day. Doing so teaches them correct pronunciation and reinforces the habit of reading. The way you read is also important. Be enthusiastic, and they will be too. In fact, you may find that your children will ask you to read the same story over and over. Indulge them! In time, they will want to explore new topics. But be careful not to make reading a forced exercise. Jesus set the example by teaching his hearers only “as far as they were able to listen.” (Mark 4:33) If you do not push your children, they will eagerly anticipate each reading session, and you will move ever closer to your goal of instilling in them a love for reading.

Encourage participation, and discuss what you read. To your delight, your young children will soon be able to recognize, pronounce, and grasp the meaning of many words. Discussing what you read can greatly enhance their progress. Conversation helps children “learn the words they will later need to recognize and understand when reading,” explains a book on the subject of how to help children to become good readers. “For young children whose developing minds are striving to become literate,” continues the same source, “talk is essential—the more meaningful . . . the better.”

Get your children to read to you, and encourage them to ask questions. You may want to pose questions yourself and suggest possible answers. That way, children learn that books are a source of information and that there is a meaning behind the words they are reading. This approach is especially helpful when what you read is based on God’s Word, the most meaningful text of all.—Heb. 4:12.

Never forget, though, that reading is a complex skill. It takes time and practice to master it.a So be sure to feed young ones’ growing love for reading with generous commendation. Commending your children will encourage them to embrace reading with affection.

Worthwhile and Pleasurable

Teaching your children how to study gives purpose to reading. Study involves learning facts and grasping their relationship to one another. It calls for the ability to organize, remember, and make use of information. Once a child has learned how to study and can see the practical value of study, then it becomes both worthwhile and pleasurable.—Eccl. 10:10.

Introduce the essentials of study. Family Worship evenings, daily text discussions, and similar occasions provide excellent opportunities for introducing study skills to your children. Sitting still and focusing on a particular subject for short periods will teach them concentration, which is essential for learning. Further, you can encourage your son to tell you how what he just learned is related to what he already knows. This teaches him to make comparisons. What about asking your daughter to summarize in her own words what she has read? This will help her to grasp its meaning and remember it. Reviewing, that is, restating key points after reading an article, is another memory aid you can introduce them to. Even young children can be taught to take brief notes during study sessions or congregation meetings. What a boon to their concentration this can be! These simple techniques keep the learning process fresh and meaningful for both you and your children.

Create circumstances that promote study. Good ventilation and lighting, along with a quiet and comfortable setting, make concentration easier. Of course, the way parents view study is crucial. “It is very important for you to be regular and consistent in making time for reading and study,” observes one mother. “This helps your children become organized. They learn that this or that needs to be accomplished at a particular time.” Many parents simply ban other activities at study times. According to one authority, this approach is a major influence in teaching children good study habits.

Highlight the value of study. Finally, help your children see the practical benefits of study. Putting information to use underscores the real purpose behind study. One young brother admits: “If I don’t see any practical value of what I’m studying, I really struggle with wanting to study it. But if I can apply it personally, it becomes something I want to understand.” When young people see study as a means to an important end, they will become absorbed in it. They will begin looking forward to study, as they did to reading.

The Best Reward

It would take volumes to list all the positive benefits of instilling a love for reading in your children. Success in school, in work, in human relations, in understanding the world we live in, and in forging closer bonds of love between parent and child are just some of them, not to mention the sheer satisfaction that reading and study bring.

Above all, a love for study can help your children to become spiritually-minded people. Love for study is the key to opening their minds and hearts to obtain “the breadth and length and height and depth” of Scriptural truth. (Eph. 3:18) Of course, Christian parents have much to teach their children. As parents dedicate time and attention to their children and do everything possible to give them a good start in life, they hope that their children will eventually choose to become worshippers of Jehovah. Teaching your children good study habits gives them the means to secure their spiritual well-being and build a good relationship with God. By all means, then, prayerfully seek Jehovah’s blessing as you strive to incite in your children a love for reading and studying.—Prov. 22:6.

[Footnote]

a Reading and studying present special challenges for children with learning disabilities. For what parents can do to help them, see Awake! February 22, 1997, pages 3-10.

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Reading . . .

• Make books available

• Read out loud

• Encourage participation

• Discuss what you read

• Get your children to read to you

• Encourage your children to ask questions

Studying . . .

• Set a good parental example

• Train your children to . . .

○ concentrate

○ compare

○ summarize

○ review

○ take notes

• Create circumstances that promote study

• Highlight the value of study

“Continue Applying Yourself . . . to Teaching”

pp. 29–31

“Continue Applying Yourself . . . to Teaching”

“YOU address me, ‘Teacher,’ and, ‘Lord,’ and you speak rightly, for I am such.” (John 13:13) With those words to his disciples, Jesus highlighted his role as a teacher. Then, shortly before Jesus ascended to heaven, he commanded his followers: “Go therefore and make disciples of people of all the nations, . . . teaching them to observe all the things I have commanded you.” (Matt. 28:19, 20) Later, the apostle Paul also emphasized the importance of being teachers of God’s Word. He admonished the Christian elder Timothy: “Continue applying yourself to public reading, to exhortation, to teaching. . . . Ponder over these things; be absorbed in them, that your advancement may be manifest to all persons.”—1 Tim. 4:13-15.

Today, as then, teaching is an outstanding feature of both our field ministry and our Christian meetings. How can we continue to apply ourselves to teaching, and in what ways will this help us to make advancement, or progress, as teachers of God’s Word?

Imitate the Great Teacher

Jesus’ way of teaching appealed to many of his hearers. Notice the effect of his words on those who attended the synagogue in Nazareth. Gospel writer Luke recorded: “They all began to give favorable witness about him and to marvel at the winsome words proceeding out of his mouth.” (Luke 4:22) Jesus’ disciples patterned their preaching on their Master’s example. Indeed, the apostle Paul encouraged his fellow Christians: “Become imitators of me, even as I am of Christ.” (1 Cor. 11:1) Because of imitating Jesus’ methods, Paul became highly effective in ‘teaching publicly and from house to house.’—Acts 20:20.

Teaching “in the Marketplace”

An outstanding example of Paul’s ability to teach publicly is found in Acts chapter 17. There we read about his visit to Athens, Greece. Wherever Paul looked in that city—on the streets, in public places—there were idols. No wonder Paul was greatly disturbed! Still, his emotions did not get the better of him. Rather, he “began to reason in the synagogue . . . and every day in the marketplace with those who happened to be on hand.” (Acts 17:16, 17) What a fine example for us! By approaching people of all backgrounds, not in a condemnatory manner, but in a respectful manner, we can pave the way for some to listen and eventually break free from bondage to false religion.—Acts 10:34, 35; Rev. 18:4.

Paul faced a challenging audience in the marketplace. Among his listeners were philosophers whose views were incompatible with the truths that he was preaching. When Paul encountered controversy, he certainly took account of their comments. Some called him a “chatterer” (literally, “seed picker”). Others said: “He seems to be a publisher of foreign deities.”—Acts 17:18.

However, Paul was not discouraged by the disparaging remarks of his listeners. On the contrary, when he was asked to explain his teachings, Paul seized the occasion to present an insightful discourse that well demonstrated his teaching skills. (Acts 17:19-22; 1 Pet. 3:15) Let us review his discourse in detail and learn lessons that may help us improve our teaching skills.

Establish Common Ground

Paul said: “Men of Athens, I behold that in all things you seem to be more given to the fear of the deities than others are. For instance, while . . . carefully observing your objects of veneration I also found an altar on which had been inscribed ‘To an Unknown God.’ Therefore what you are unknowingly giving godly devotion to, this I am publishing to you.”—Acts 17:22, 23.

Paul paid close attention to his surroundings. From what he had carefully observed, he learned much about those he was addressing. We too can learn something about a householder if we are observant. For example, toys in a yard or signs on a door can reveal much. If we have an idea of the possible circumstances of the householder, we can choose carefully not only what we say but also how we say it.—Col. 4:6.

Paul was positive in his message. He found, though, that the “godly devotion” of the Athenians was misdirected. Paul clearly pointed out how they could direct their worship to the true God. (1 Cor. 14:8) How important it is for us to speak both clearly and positively when we proclaim the Kingdom good news!

Be Tactful and Impartial

Paul continued, saying: “The God that made the world and all the things in it, being, as this One is, Lord of heaven and earth, does not dwell in handmade temples, neither is he attended to by human hands as if he needed anything, because he himself gives to all persons life and breath and all things.”—Acts 17:24, 25.

Paul here directed attention to Jehovah as our Life-Giver, doing so tactfully by referring to him as “Lord of heaven and earth.” What a privilege it is to help honesthearted people from different religious and cultural backgrounds come to realize that all life originates with Jehovah God!—Ps. 36:9.

Next, Paul stated: “And he made out of one man every nation of men, . . . and he decreed the appointed times and the set limits of the dwelling of men, for them to seek God, if they might grope for him and really find him, although, in fact, he is not far off from each one of us.”—Acts 17:26, 27.

By the way we teach, we can exemplify the kind of God we worship. Without partiality, Jehovah allows people of all nations to “grope for him and really find him.” Similarly, we speak impartially to all we meet. We try to help those who believe in a Creator to develop a closeness to him that can lead to everlasting blessings. (Jas. 4:8) But how do we help those who doubt God’s existence? We follow Paul’s example. Notice what he said next.

“By him we have life and move and exist, even as certain ones of the poets among you have said, ‘For we are also his progeny.’ Seeing, therefore, that we are the progeny of God, we ought not to imagine that the Divine Being is like gold or silver or stone.”—Acts 17:28, 29.

Paul here sought to gain a hearing ear by quoting poets whom the Athenians knew and accepted. We likewise seek to establish common ground by reasoning on what we know that our listeners will accept. For example, Paul’s illustration in his letter to the Hebrews is equally convincing today: “Every house is constructed by someone, but he that constructed all things is God.” (Heb. 3:4) Getting our householders to reason on this simple illustration can help them acknowledge the truthfulness of what we say. Notice in Paul’s discourse another element of effective teaching—motivation.

Stress the Urgency

Paul stated: “True, God has overlooked the times of such ignorance, yet now he is telling mankind that they should all everywhere repent. Because he has set a day in which he purposes to judge the inhabited earth in righteousness by a man whom he has appointed.”—Acts 17:30, 31.

God’s temporary permission of evil has afforded all of us the opportunity to show him what is truly in our hearts. It is vital that we stress the urgency of our times and that we speak convincingly of the blessings of the Kingdom rule, now so close at hand.—2 Tim. 3:1-5.

Varied Reactions

“Well, when they heard of a resurrection of the dead, some began to mock, while others said: ‘We will hear you about this even another time.’ Thus Paul went out from their midst, but some men joined themselves to him and became believers.”—Acts 17:32-34.

Some respond to our teaching immediately; others may require more time to be convinced by our reasoning. But when our clear and simple explanation of the truth helps even one individual come to an accurate knowledge of Jehovah, how grateful we are to be used by God to draw people to his Son!—John 6:44.

Lessons We Can Learn

As we reflect on Paul’s discourse, we can learn much about how to explain Bible truths to others. If we are privileged to give public talks in the congregation, we can strive to imitate Paul by using tactful expressions that will help an unbeliever to understand and accept Bible truths. We want to present such truths with clarity, but we will be careful not to belittle the convictions of any unbeliever who may be present. At the same time, in our public preaching work, we endeavor to manifest persuasiveness and tactfulness. By doing so, we truly follow Paul’s counsel to ‘apply ourselves to teaching.’

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Paul’s teaching was clear, simple, and tactful

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We imitate Paul by considering the feelings of those to whom we preach

Alertness Leads to Fine Results

p. 32

Alertness Leads to Fine Results

ARE you alert to preaching opportunities that may unexpectedly present themselves in your congregation territory? Our Christian brothers in the historical seaport city of Turku, Finland, were, and their alertness led to fine results.

Some time ago, the brothers in Turku noticed that a group of Asian men had arrived in town to finish the work on a huge cruise ship that was being constructed at a local shipyard. Later, a brother found out which hotels the foreign workers were staying in. He also learned that early in the morning, the workers were taken by buses from their downtown hotels to the harbor. Immediately, he alerted the brothers in the English-speaking congregation in Turku.

The elders in that congregation realized that the presence of so many foreigners offered an unexpected opportunity to share the Kingdom message with them, and they quickly arranged for a special campaign. On Sunday of that week, ten publishers gathered near the bus stop at seven o’clock in the morning. At first, no workers appeared. ‘Are we too late?’ the brothers wondered. ‘Did they leave Turku?’ But then, one worker dressed in overalls came around the corner. Another worker followed, and more appeared. Before long, a swarm of workers had gathered near the stop. The publishers swung into action, approaching the workers with English-language publications. Fortunately, it took about an hour before all the workers had found a seat on the buses, which gave the brothers enough time to talk to most of them. When the buses drove off, the workers carried with them 126 booklets and 329 magazines!

The fine results encouraged the brothers to repeat the campaign the following week, during the visit of the circuit overseer. On a rainy day, at half past six in the morning, the circuit overseer conducted the meeting for field service, and 24 publishers headed for the bus stop. This time, they also carried with them literature in Tagalog because they had found out that many of the foreigners were from the Philippines. That morning, when the buses drove off to the harbor, the workers took with them 7 books, 69 booklets, and 479 magazines. Imagine the joy and excitement of the brothers and sisters who shared in the campaign!

Before the workers returned to their countries of origin, the brothers were able to visit several of them at the hotels where they stayed and to explain the Kingdom message in more detail. Some workers said that they had been contacted by Witnesses before in other parts of the world. The workers expressed their appreciation to the brothers for having taken the initiative to contact them during their stay in Finland.

Are you alert to opportunities that may unexpectedly arise in your congregation territory? Do you take the initiative to reach out to people of different backgrounds? If so, you too may have experiences like the ones enjoyed by our brothers in Turku.

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(For fully formatted text, see publication)

FINLAND

HELSINKI

Turku

[Credit Line]

STX Europe