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Vol. XXX IX BROOKLYN, X. Y., APRIL 1, 1918 No. 7 OUR SAFE REFUGE "Come, my people, enter thou into thy chambers, and shut thy doors about thee; hide thyself as it were for a little moment until the indignation be overpast. For, behold, the Lord cometh out of his plaee to punish the inhabitants of the earth for their iniquity ; the earth also shall disclose her blood, and shall no more cover her slain." — .Isaiah 26:20, 21. While standing upon the watch tower and beholding the terrible storm that is raging, the sea and the waves roaring, lashing with fury the more stable places of society; while hearing the rumbling thunder of the near approaching earthquake and beholding in the distance occasional flashes of destructive fire, what a wonderful privilege to be numbered among the people of God and to know that we are absolutely secure from all harm ! Who can enjoy such a privilege as this? Jehovah, through his Word, answers, "My people." What does it mean to be of the people of God? What are the requirements? Ah, it means much more than many think it means — much more, both on man's part and on God's part. On the part of man it means not merely the naming of the name of Christ and being a member of some organization which claims to be Christian. It means on man's part that he must recognize himself to be born a sinner and in need of a savior; he must recognize that Jesus Christ, by the grace of God, died and rose again for the purpose of redeeming mankind. Believing this, it means that man must take the further step of a full surrender of his own will to do the will of God — a full and complete consecration to the Lord. It means, further, full heart obedience to the will of God by dail/ taking up his cross and following in the footsteps of Jesus, and thus continuing faithful, even unto death. As the Psalmist expresses it, the thought of "my people 3 ' includes only those who have made a covenant with God by sacrifice. (Psalm 50:5) It includes all such consecrated and faithful children of God, however young or old, weak or strong, they may be, who possess a pure heart, firmly and resolutely fixed, and loyally obedient unto the heavenly Father. WHO CONSTITUTE GOD'S PEOPLE On the part of God it means that he has accepted uh at consecration through the merit of his beloved Son, Jesus, and that he has begotten us anew to a hope of life, reserved in heaven for those who are kept by his power, through faith, IG2U] April 1, 1918 THE IVA TCH TOWER (99-100> even unto the end; that he has given to such his exceeding great and precious promises, which promises guarantee the faithful one that she shall be a partaker of the first, or chief resurrection. It signifies that in this present life we have the fatherly love, care, counsel, discipline and protection of God. It means that such may claim the precious promises in his Word, which are given for their comfort in the hour of distress or tribulation. All such have the glorious hope set before them of being forever with the Lord. DIVINE' WBATH UPON FALSE SYSTEMS Thousands have been wrongly induced by the blind clergy to believe that they are God's people if they merely join themselves to some earthly organization and support the clergy, no matter what else they may do. These blindly follow the clergy, concerning whom Jesus said: "If the blind lead the blind, both shall fall into the ditch-" in the great time of trouble that is now impending. (Matthew 15:14) Through all the age, God has permitted his people to be among these organizations, some being fed by good shepherds, while others were ministered unto by false shepherds. Until the harvest time the wheat class has been scattered among the tares, the true sheep among the wolves. In due time the harvest of the age came ; the gathering and separating has been taking place, and now is about accomplished. Throughout the age, "his people" have been in the midst of these great man-made organizations, the nominal Christian church, which God designates as Babylon (meaning confusion), but which men call Christendom (meaning Christ's kingdom ) . These systems have contained some true, loyal Christians and many who have been merely Christians in name. Toward these great systems which have appropriated the name of Christ and claimed to represent his teachings and his spirit, although possessing the spirit of the world, God is now manifesting his displeasure and soon will pour upon them his indignation. For some time he has been warning his people in these systems, saying, "Come out of her, my people, that ye be not partakers of her sins, and that ye receive not of her plagues." — Revelation 18:4. In the text, Jehovah addresses himself to "his people." More than twenty centuries ago, God's prophet, Daniel, took his standpoint at the hour in which the church now finds herself, standing on this side the vail. God foreknew the condition now on the earth. He foresaw the great time of trouble that would come upon mankind because of the unfaithfulness of that class of men to which he had committed the privilege and obligation of proclaiming his coming kingdom . Through other prophets also he spoke of this time of trouble, He indicated that wars would first come, to be followed by revolution and anarchy. The great Master himself referred to such a time, saying, "Upon the earth distress of nations, with perplexity; the sea and the waves roaring; men's hearts failing them for fear and for looking after those things which are coming on the earth; for the powers of heaven shall be shaken," culminating, as he stated, in "great tribulation, such as was not since the beginning of the world to this time, no, nor ever shall be." — Luke 21:25, 26; Matthew 24:21. God foresaw *that sin would reach its fulness; that selfishness would ripen and go to seed; that a time of ill-will and hatred would prevail — a time of religious intolerant and persecution upon the faithful ones following in the Master 's footsteps. In our text, the Prophet seems to express the thought that the Lord bides his time; and when his due time arrives, he says: "For, behold, the Lord cometh out of his place to punish the inhabitants of the earth for their iniquity; the earth also shall disclose her blood, and shall no more cover her slain." GOD'S LOVING COUNSEL TO HIS PEOPLE The Lord likens his people unto sheep. Sheep are defenseless creatures. Again he likens them unto children. Children are guileless. But his description of the trouble is so terrible that even the strong and full-grown might well be expected to quake for fear. Amid all the storm and strife and turmoil, God -would have his children to rest in peace and quietness in his love. And so he causes his Prophet to say: "Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on thee ; because he trusteth in thee. Trust ye in the Lord forever; for in the Lord Jehovah is everlasting strength." (Isaiah 26:3, 4) When one becomes a child of God and follows in the footsteps of the blessed Master and Lord, those of the world cannot understand him. They look upon him as they did upon the Master — as despised ones. God foreknew that the time of great stress would come and that some of his people would be in the midst of it; and so he caused his Prophet to write the words of the text, which seem to apply so appropriately at the present hour. There is an affectionate tenderness and sweetness in his words. Like a loving, gentle father, he says: "Come, my people, enter thou into thy chambers, and shut thy doors about thee; hide thyself as it were for a little moment, until the indignation be overpast." How loving of our Father thus to provide a refuge, and sweetly to invite his people to enter in* Knowing the inability of his people to defend and protect themselves; knowing their desire for help and strength, he lovingly made provision by giving them numerous precious promises. Through another of his holy prophets, he put into our mouths the beautiful words of trust and confidence: "God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore will not we fear, though the earth [the present order of society] be removed, and though the mountains [governments] be carried into the midst of the sea [overthrown by the turbulent sea of world-wide anarchy] ; though the waters [peoples] thereof roar and be troubled, though the mountains shake with the swelling thereof. . . . The Lord of hosts is with bs; the God of Jacob is our refuge." (Psalm 46:1-7) With fatherly love he beholds his children, and Psalm 103:13) Lovingly he counsels them to full confidence and faith and to quiet trustfulness in his loving power and provision, saying to them "In quietness and in confidence shall be your strength."— Isaiah 30:15. Poor, sin-sick world; groaning and travailing in pain, waiting and hoping for deliverance, but not knowing how it will come. God is not lacking in love for them. In the midst of the great tribulation, gladly would we call their attention to the loving provision that Jehovah has made. The great indignation of Jehovah now upon the earth is permitted for a good purpose. Vailed behind the clouds of his expressed indignation against the sins pf men, he strikes with wisdom these heavy blows which will humble their pride to the dust and shatter their idols. Then he will pour in the balm of Gilead and commence their everlasting healing. Sweetly the Master gave expression to his Father's will when, in beautiful phrase, he said: "God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believe th in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.*' (John 3:16) Jehovah loved the world then, and his loving provision will soon be put into operation for them. Now he wields the rod for correction. Thus he shows his people his love for all mankind. While God's people, amid the storm, rejoice in the protection he has graciously provided for them, he would have them manifest his spirit toward the world. And while his blows of righteous indignation fall heavily upon the world, he would have his people point mankind to the cause of their calamities and to his, the only remedy. He would have them know that he is the mighty One who will rule the universe through his Christ, to bring blessings to the peoples and nations of earth. To them he says: "Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations; I will be exalted in the earth."-— Psalm 46010." OUE JOURNEY When first we knew the Lord and his gracious provision for the human race, our hearts responded with sincere joy. Born in sin, shapen in iniquity, having no right to life, children of wrath, without God and without hope, we wandered in the wilderness (of Babylon) in a solitary way and we found no place in any of her organizations in which we could dwell in peace and happiness. Hungry and thirsty, our souls fainted within us. and we cried unto the Lord in our trouble and he delivered us out of our distress. Then he led us forth by the right way, that we might go to the city (kingdom) of our everlasting abiding place. Feeling the warmth of his love, joy filled our t hearts, because the Lord had satisfied our longings and filled our hungry souls with goodness. Then we saw not only a hope for the consecrated of the Gospel age, buit a hope for all mankind in due time to turn away from the wrongful course and receive the\ blessings of restitution. Then was our mouth filled with laughter and our tongue with singing, and we said: "The Lord has made a wonderful provision for all, even the heathen." "The Lord hath done great things for U3, whereof we are glad." — Psalm 107:1-10; 126:1-3. Begotten of the holy Spirit, and having our minds illuminated , we perceived that we had entered the blessed condition of 'the Holy" and found that our heart's desire was beginning to be realized. As we have rested here, the words of the Psalmist have been sweet to us: "One thing have I desired of the Lord, that will I seek after ; that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, to behold the beauty of the Lord, and to inquire in his temple." (Psalm 27:4) Dwelling temporarily in the spirit-begotten condition, [6229] U01-102) THE WATCH TOWER Brooklyn, N. Y. we have looked forward to the spirit-torn state, when we may behold the Lord in all his glory, and worship him in the beauty of holiness. Gradually the knowledge was brought to us that some severe trials awaited us on the journey. "For even hereunto were ye called, because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example that we should follow in his steps." (1 Peter 2:21) The sufferings of The Christ must precede the everlasting joy. Christ Jesus, the Head, was made perfect through the things which he suffered. Likewise must the members of the body pass through the fiery trials. In no other way could a loving, sympathetic high priest be developed . The journey has been interspersed with some trials and some joys, the Lord granting to us just the experiences needful to develop his people. WARNED OF THE STOBM Graciously and lovingly our Father warned us of the storm coming upon the earth at the close of the age, to the end that we might be prepared for it, having our faith strong in him and in the power of his might. Wonderfully he has led us from time to time in greener pastures, and" lovingly fed us upon the precious promises, giving us a clearer vision thereof, that we might grow stronger in him. Through his chosen servant, he, time and again placed before us the meat in due season. We were told and expected that the Seventh Volume of Studies rx the Scriptures, the last of a series foretold in Revelation, would be given to us. and that it would bring greater trials and sufferings, because it would greatly anger Babylon. We were forewarned, that we might be fortified in faith and in the love of God. More than twenty years ago, the Lord of the harvest, through his servant, called our attention to the fact (Z. 1898-95) that King Ahab and his queen, Jezebel, typified the civil and ecclesiastical powers; that Elijah typed the church in her closing days; that likewise Herod and his unlawful wife, Herodias, typed the civil powers and the apostate church, long ago unlawfully united; that Salome, the daughter of Herodias, typified united Protestantism, and John the Baptist the last members of the church upon the earth. We were advised to expect a fulfillment of these types in antitype. Then it was that Brother Russell wrote: "It is altogether possible, indeed probable, we think, that John's course which brought him into conflict with Herod was in some degree typical of the course of the Gospel church in this present time; and of the course of events that may he expected. If it be a type, Herod would represent civil government, and the unlawful wife would represent the nominal church, which throughout the symbolic Scriptures is represented as a woman, Jezebel, etc. Should it prove to be a type by its fulfillment in antitype, the fulfillment will probably be on something like the following lines: "(1) A partial reunion of church and state. (This is now practically an accomplished fact.) "(2) In such case it would become the duty of the true church, the forerunners and announcers of the Messianic kingdom, to reprove the civil powers as well as the nominal church systems, and to declare their union unlawful — contrarv to the Word of God. "(3) The effect of this would pretty surely be to awaken the animosity of both civil and religious powers; but it would draw out especially the animosity and venom of the latter. "(4) The church nominal, in her false position, would be anxious to stifle the reproofs and to destroy the reprovers , and the effect would be that the civil power would be induced to pass such legislation as would restrain the liberty of the faithful ones and hinder them from public utterances — as John was hindered by imprisonment . ( *(fi) Herodias* personal influence being insufficient, it may subsequently be augmented by the influence of her daughter (united Protestantism) who will be so fully in sympathy with her as to become her tool in the destruction of the most loyal servants of God." In due time we received the Seventh Volume, and it caused some fiery trials among the consecrated. Others joyfully grasped the pointed sword and used it. We behold the picture being fulfilled. Is it not now time for all who have been disturbed in their minds and in doubt as to what should be done to get their eyes opened to the real situation? Long have we knowTi of the grudge held by Herodias. We have beheld now the dancing of Salome, and Herod has said to the John class. "No longer may you wield the Sword— 'The Finished Mystery' — and press it against the gates of Babylon." A place typifies a condition. John whs put in prison, and this would suggest that the John class would be restrained from the proclamation of the message of the kingdom. The John class is now in this condition. While in prison, John was in doubt as to whether or not Jesus was the Messiah. So he sent and asked him. Some are now in doubt as to whether or not the Lord is really here ani that the end is here, and if the kingdom of Messiah is about to be made visible. Some are in doubt as to whether or not a mistake has been made with reference to the use of the sword. Jesus sent word to John that the blind were seeing, the halt and lame were being healed, and other miracles wrought. He did not say, "I am the Messiah"; but be gave the evidences that would prove he was. Now the Lord is saying to the John class, "Look up, lift up your heads, behctld the fulfillment of my great prophecy set forth in Matthew 24. This is evidence that your deliverance is nigh. The kingdom of heaven is at hand. Rejoice!" DOOB CLOSING—WINDS BLOWING The evidence seems to point strongly to the fact that the door is closing. We are also seeing evidences of the winds being somewhat loosened, and these we may expect to be fully loosed and the great storm or whirlwind soon to be upon the world. Many are asking, "What are we to do when we see the door closing?" The words of Brother Russell, written more than eleven years ago, seem fittingly appropriate here: "The shutting of the door mentioned in one of our Lord's parables seems to imply something quite in harmony with the loosing of the winds when the sealing in the forehead shall have been accomplished. We cannot surmise just how this trouble will be precipitated and the door for further fellowship and promulgation of the truth be closed. It would not surprise us, however, if in some manner it would be accomplished through some governmental department. We cannot think now of what plea or pretext could be used to iaterfere with our legal rights and privileges under the law, but we are to expect that politicians will be ready at that time Co obey the united voice of the people, not the voice of God, and that, however illegal or unjust the procedure, they would be prepared to put a stop to our work. When that time shall come we will consider it to be our duty to use all reasonable energy to maintain our legal rights and privileges and to keep the door open. When it shall close, in spite of our every endeavor, we will accept the result as being of divine providence and apply the Master's words, 'Thou couldst have no power at all over me except it were given thee from above/ (John* 19:11 )"— Z. 1907-148. All of us realize that we are living in a peculiar time, a time in which the public mind is peculiarly affected. Few, indeed, are those who can understand our motive in withdrawing from the world and its various organizations and the nominal Christian church, to walk alone with God. Many are the reproaches which the Lord's people must endure for his sake. Let us not be dismayed with these trying experiences . Long ago the Lord warned that they would come, and now they are here. To us now he says: "Fear not, shut thy doors |"of faith] about thee [and heed not the reproaches] ; hide thyself as it were for a little moment, until the indignation be overpast," PLACE OF REFUGE The place of hiding is the secret place of the Most High, under the shadow of the Almighty. (Psalm 91:1-9) This secret place of the Most High, beloved, is the secret place of communion and intimate fellowship with God, through the blessed privilege of prayer and through faith in his precious Word and his promised providential" care. Beautifully the poet has expressed it: "When the storms of life are raging, Tempests wild on sea and land, I will seek a place of refuge In the shadow of God's hand. He will hide me, he will hide me, Where no harm can e'er betide me; He will hide mo, safely hide me. In the shadow of his hand." Oh, how precious is this hiding place! What rest and refreshment we find in the midst of the commotion that is [6230] April 1, 1918 THE WATCH TOWER (102-103) now upon the whole world and especially upon Christendom. We pity the poor, groaning creation. We rejoice to know that ere long God will bring order out of chaos, and peace to the people. It can come only in his own good way. "PEAR NOT" The day of persecution is at hand. The same religious intolerance manifested in the dark ages is still abroad in the land and is being manifested in a marked degree. Recently some of the Lord's dear little ones have been roughly treated. Their homes have been searched, without even a search warrant being presented, and their books and Bibles taken away from them. In some instances houses were broken into by force, in clear violation of the law. Some have been arrested and thrown into foul jails. The clergy have incited this work. They have openly charged from their pulpits and continue to charge that the International Bible Students Association is a pro-German organization, distributing "Hun propaganda under the cloak of religion." They have denounced the Bible Students as traitors and urged that they be prosecuted for treason. Verily, the spirit of Inquisition is in their hearts. But, beloved, be not at all disturbed by these things. The same charge was laid against the Master by the same class of men. Evidently Jesus had in mind the present condition when he said: "If the world hate you, ye know that it hated me before it hated you. The servant is not greater than his lord. If they have persecuted me, they will also persecute you." — John 15:18, 20, The Constitution of the United States guarantees that every man shall be free from search and his property from seizure, except upon presentation of a warrant, duly issued and served according to law. No person, not even an officer, has the right to go into the house of another and search it and take away his property unless he is armed with a warrant properly issued. "But they disregard the law," you say. Yes, even so. The inflamed condition of the public mind at* this time is such that men go to- all kinds of excesses. Usually it is the clergy that are the worst agitators. They stir up the people. But be not afraid, having in mind always that we are in the Lord's hands. The LoTd speaks to his people that their faith might be strong. He desires that they shall have a childlike trust in him; and, that they may be encouraged, he bids them turn a deaf ear to the reproaches of men, saying, "Hearken unto me, ye that know righteousness, the people in whose heart is my law : fear ye not the reproach of men, neither be ye afraid of their revHings I, even I, am he that comforteth you; who art thou that thou shouldest be afraid of a man that shall die. and of the son of man which shall be made as grass; and forgettest the Lord thy maker, that hath stretched forth the heavens, and laid the foundations of the earth; and hast feared continually every day because of the fury of the oppressor , as if he were ready to destroy? .... I have put my words in thy mouth, and I have covered thee in the shadow of mine hand, that I may plant the heavens [establish the new visible ruling powers] and lay the foundations of the earth [the new order of society], and say unto Zion [those tried and proved by these afflictions], Thou art my people." — Isaiah 51:7-16. How marvelously the Almighty God has made provision for his little ones! He would not have one of his children whom Christ has made free to come again under the bondage of the fear of man, which bringeth a snare. He would have every one in Christ realize bis liberty from sin and superstition , and his solemn accountability to God for all his thoughts and words and doings. The child of God who is strong in faith will claim the promises and say: "The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? the Lord is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid? ♦ . . . Though a host should encamp against me, my heart shall not fear; though war should rise against me, in this will I be confident. ... In the time of trouble he shall hide me in his pavilion ; in the secret place of his tabernacle shall he hide me; he shall set me up upon a rock." "The Lord is my rock, and my fortress, and my deliverer; the God of my rock; in him will 1 trust; he is my shield, and the horn of my salvation, my high tower, and my refuge, my savior; thou savest me from violence." — Psalm 27:1-10; 2 Samuel 22:2-4. If we have come to the end of the harvest, if the dark night is here, then we may expect to be required to stand for a while. To such the "words of the Apostle come as a consolation: "Wherefore take unto you the whole armor of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and, having done all, to stand." (Ephesians 6:13-18) In this time of great stress it is especially' needful that the Lord's people consider the value of the whole armor of God and have it all on. "Above all, take the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked." The experiences through which the church is now passing are real tests of faith.' The heavenly Father now sweetly says: "Hide thyself as it were for a Httle moment, until the indignation be overpast." Some of the afflictions through which the Lord's people are now passing seem indeed grievous to be borne ; but let us remember the Apostle's words, that these are light afflictions, enduring but for a moment, and working out for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory. (2 Corinthians 4:17) Having always in mind the glories that are before us, we can rejoice inj the tribulation, knowing that we have a home, not made with hands eternal in the heavens, into which it will soon be our privilege to enter. And there, in the presence of the Lord, we shall have fulness of joy and pleasures for evermore. —Psalm 16:11. THE KINGDOM HEBE It will be the policy of the Internationl Bible Students Association to do legally all in their power to keep the door of opportunity open for the proclamation of the message of the Lord's kingdom ; but when conditions become such that this can no longer be done in a lawful manner, then we will take it to be the Lord's will that we do no more. We know that nothing can happen to the Lord's little ones, except by the Lord's permission. "No weapon that is formed against thee shall prosper, and every tongue that shall rise against, thee in judgment thou shalt condemn. This is the heritage of the servants of the I^ord and their righteousness is of me, saith the Lord," — Isaiah 54:17. We believe that the end of the harvest is here and that the kingdom of heaven is at hand. And if so, then shortly after the great time of trouble ends, restitution blessings will begin. Marvelous are the times in which we are living. Daily the evidence accumulates that the Lord is taking control of things. The public press announces that "by the close of the present month (March) Palestine, the ancient home of the Jews, will again, after a lapse of many centuries, be under JewifJi administration. The Jewish Commission sent out by the English Zionist Federation, with the authority of the King of England and the British Parliament, left London a few days ago to take full charge of the reconstruction of the Holy Land and to lay the foundation of a new Jewish State. This commission will act not later than March 27, the eve of the Passover, the festival commemorating Jewish emancipation from Egyptian bondage." Forty years after the withdrawal of God's favor from the Jews, Judea was subjugated . Forty years from the beginning of the return of his favor to the Jews (1878), the Jews officially take possession of Jerusalem. They are returning to Jerusalem in unbelief. But soon the eyes of their understanding will be opened and they will recognize the Lord Jesus as the great long-looked-for Messiah. The great Master plainly Baid that for the elect's sake the time of trouble would be cut short and that some flesh will be saved, being brought through the fiery trouble. Therefore , confidently we may say that some now living on earth will never die. * What a wonderful privilege to announce that to the world at this time! Let every child of God do so, according to his several ability. Surely this is good tidings of great joy to fhe sin-sick, torn and bleeding world. Surely it is a wonderful honor and privilege to announce the kingdom. <; How beautiful upon the mountains [ kingdoms 1 are the feet of him TThe Christl that bringeth good tidings, that published peace, that bringeth good tidings of good, that published salvation ; that saith unto Zion, Thy God reigneth." (Isaiah 52:7) While the turmoil increases we can confidently announce the kingdom of the Lord and at the same time enjoy the blessed invitation of our Father: "Come, my people, enter thou into thy chambers and shut thy doors upon thee; hide thyself as it were for a little moment until the indignation be overpast." With full assurance of faith, then, we can say, "Lord, we will trust in the covert of thy wings." Glorious is the great Prince of Peace, taking unto himself his power to reign. Glorious his kingdom of peace and blessings , whose walls signify salvation, protection and blessing to all who enter it; whose foundations, laid in justice, can never he moved; whose builder and designer is God. It is in the light which will shine forth from this glorious kingdom of God that the nations and peoples of earth will walk up the highway of holiness, up to perfection and full harmony with Jehovah. By the eye of faith beholding the blessings that await us, with confidence and joy will we, by the Lord's grace, endure for a little while, until we shall see him face to face. [6231] OUR STRONG INCENTIVE TO COURAGE AND CONFIDENCE "Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace to help in time of The Jewish priesthood was, as we all know typical of the royal priesthood, Head and body, which has been developed during the Gospel age. Israel's high priest was a type of our great High Priest, Jesus Christ. The Jewish high priest made a typical atonement for his sins every year. Did he not possess sympathy for sinners, he would probably be very loath to undergo the experiences in which he risked his life, as he passed under the vail into the Most Holy, to sprinkle the blood of the sacrifice upon and before the Mercy Seat. This was a crucial test to the high priest. If he had done all the work in the proper manner, he would pass beyond the vail successfully and make the atonement. But if he had failed in any particular, the passing under the vail would mean his death. Hence the high priest was undertaking something which was fraught with the gravest danger and the most serious possibilities for himself. The apostle points out to us that, while there may have been more or less sympathy in the high priests of Israel, yet our High Priest is the one who has special sympathy, special feeling for human weakness. He is not one of the hard, callous kind, who could not or would not appreciate the difficulties of those for whom his sacrifice was made, and especially for those who are seeking to be hi 3 followers, to walk as he walked. God's Word assures us that he is "touched with the feeling of our infirmities." He was "tempted in all points like as we [his disciples] are, yet without sin." This gives him special ability to sympathize with us. — Hebrews 4:15. Some may inquire in what way our Lord Jesus could be tempted as we are, seeing that he was "holy, harmless, undefiled , and separate from sinners." We are to remember that this expression does not relate to the mere man Christ Jesus, but to our Lord after he had become our High Priest, after he had been begotten of God's holy spirit. He was not tempted in all points like as the unregenerate world are tempted; for he was not a fallen being, but was perfect, and was a new creature. Hence he was tempted, tried, as new creatures have ever since been tried. Jesus was never tempted to drunkenness, profligacy, debauchery, murder, theft, etc. Neither do his followers, as new creatures have any such temptations. If any of them are tempted along these lines, it is their perverted, fallen flesh that is tempted; it is because of a disordered and diseased condition df their mortal body resulting from a former life of sin or from inherited tendencies* These the new creatures must overcome by divine grace. NEW CREATURE'S PECULIAR TEMPTATIONS The temptations which are peculiar to the new creature, and to which our Lord was exposed are along the lines of loyalty to God, of trust in God, of persevering determination to obey him, however contrary to human inclination. They are temptations which would present themselves to any intelligent creature of God under like conditions. These were the lines of Jesus' temptations and testings. During the period of our Lord's temptation in the wilderness the adversary suggested to him that he should attract the public, to arouse their awe and admiration for him, that he might thus become their king — not according to God's will, but according to worldly policy. If he had leaped from the pinnacle of the temple he would have been tempting God, arid would have been guilty of presumptuous sin. God has never promised to protect any one who acts in violation of his will. Satan's quotation of Psalm 01:11, 12. presented to our Lord a temptation to misapply a Scriptural promise and to presume upon the Father's protection while seeking to gratify a desire for vain-glory, and to become a great king by a course contrary to God's purpose. And so Jesus promptly . said to the tempter, "Get thee behind me, Satan!" The Father, had mapped out a certain course for the Son to follow, a course that would bring suffering and death. But it was the only pathway to glory. He has mapped out the same course for those who have covenanted to walk in Jesus' footsteps; and we are to be loyal, as he was. If we are not thus loyal, we shall surely not reach our goal. As temptation to take any other plan or way than the one which God had purposed was one of the special lines of temptation that came to our great Head, so will it be* to each member of his body. Our temptations will be as strong as were those of Jesus; i.e., they will be as strong for us as his were for him. As he was" ft perfect man, he was much more able to reason into these things and to see his way through them than are we. Yet the same principle is involved. Jesus had perfect flesh, perfect mentality; but he also had larger ambitions. grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find need." — Hebrews 4:16. We have imperfect flesh, defective mentality, and have not the same degree of ambition. And so the Father has seemed to arrange that all his sons shall have practically the same amount of difficulty and testing. Jesus had all the vigor and energy of a perfect man, and naturally the greater dread of death. It is a comparatively small thing for a person who is weakened by disease and physical suffering, and who is drawing to the tomb, to say, "I am so tired, and would be so glad to die!" But for one who is enjoying perfection of life and vigor, to say, "Father, I yield up my life to thee," is a different matter. He would naturally desire to cling tenaciously to life, to shrink from letting ft slip from his grasp. THE TENDER SYMPATHY OF THE MASTER We are glad to know that the Master was "touched with a feeling of our infirmities." Although he was free from the weaknesses of the flesh which hamper his body members, yet be mangled with men for thirty-thee years; and he saw and realized their condition. Mloreover, "he took upon himself our weaknesses and sicknesses and bare our infirmities." In fulfilling the Father's will he gave out his vitality to the multitudes. "Virtue went out of him and healed them all." It is particularly recorded, in the case of the woman who had an issue of blood, that when she touched Jesus, he perceived that virtue [vitality, strength! had gone out of him. Thus was his own vitality depleted and some measure of their suffering transferred to his own person. When we recognize the loving, sympathetic character of the one who died for us, who afterward ascended up on high, and who tells us that he will apply of his sacrificial merit on our behalf to make good for all deficiencies and unintentional sins, we may well take courage and press on in the race set before ns, The realization of his tender love and care should enable us to lay hold with greater firmness upon the precious promises. Forgetting the things that are behind, and pressing forward to the glorious things just before us, let us run with patience and determination to win. Let us, as the apostle enjoins, "come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need." The apostle's thought is not that we are to come with boldness, with )elf-assurance, but rather with holy courage, stimulated by the Lord's own invitation and promise. Let us come trustingly, pouring out our hearts freely unreservedly, to our Father, in the name of our beloved Advocate, our High Priest. Let us not be discouraged by our difficulties, by our trials and cares, We are to proceed onward in our heavenward way with confidence not in ourselves, but in the Lord. Although the Captain of our Salvation was without sin, vet because of is own experiences while he was a man, he knows all about our temptations, our struggles, our besetments . Knowing this we can come to him with greater courage, and tell him all about our troubles, realizing his perfect sympathy. REASONS FOE COMING TO THE THRONE OF GRACE For two reasons we should come to the throne of grace: (11 That we may obtain mercy. There is not a son or daughter of Adam who has not done wrong. There is not a soul amongst the Lord's family who has not made many mistakes. The new creature does not meditate sin nor follow sin; but if any be overtaken in a fault, lot him come with courage to the'mercy seat, to the throne of favor, for mercy and pardon through our dear Redeemer. Let him remember that if his heart is still loyal and true, if he is grievpd because of his trespasses, the 'throne of prrace i3 open to him, for the Lord knows all about his difficulties. If he does not thus come, he will be under 1 a cloud, be cause of his wrong course and his failure to run quickly to his Father in heaven. He needs to have that earthborn cloud removed. But it will only grow more dense if he remains away from the mercy seat. The sin will remain; and thus another spot will appear upon his wedding robe, because of his lack of faith and obedience, in postponing the proper step of hastening to the Lord. The heavenly Father shows no mercy directly. All these applications of mercy and cleansing are made through the Son, our great Advocate and Head. We must come to the Father through the channel of his own arrangement, in order to obtain the promised mercy; for God himself has bidden us thus to come. In this way the cloud is entirely removed, and the erring one has full forgiveness of sins through the merit of our Savior. (2) Additionally, we need to come to the throne of grace to find help for future times of need. We need to keep close to the source of strength. Our mistakes should prove helpful (103-104) [6232] April J, 1918 THE WA T CH TOWER (105-110) lessons to us, as we remember what a season of distress our previous error brought to us. Therefore when the child of God sees the temptation coming, he will flee to the place where he may find the needed supply of gra-ce. Fleeing there, he obtains the help in advance of the temptation, and is kept from falling. Whenever we find ourselves under temptations, however, we should lift our heart at once to our Father in heaven. Let us do this in full assurance of faith, realizing his love, his wisdom and his power to give us the needed assistance, and his willingness to make all things work together for our own good because we love him. Our appeal for help in such times of need will surely draw to us the ministry of the heavenly messengers; and we shall receive strength for righteousness , for truth, for purity, for loyalty. Thus shall we be victorious in every battle, and be crowned a victor at last. JESUS SILENCES HIS ADVERSARIES [Paragraphs 1-13 of this article, aa it originally appeared in issue of April 1, 1918, were reprinted from article entitled, "Teaching With Authority," published in issue of September 1. 1906. The remainder was reprinted from article entitled, "Not Far from the Kingdom," published in issue of September 15, 1906. Please see the articles named.] JESUS WARNS AND COMFORTS HIS FRIENDS ["The first paragraph of this article was a. reprint of that entitled, "She hath Done What She Could," published in issue ot October 15, 1906. The remainder was .a reprint of article entitled, "Perfume Very Precious," published in issue of April 1, 1905. Please see the articles named.] THE WICKED HUSBANDMEN [Tli is article was a reprint of that published in issue of April 1, 1895, which please see.] BROOKLYN CONVENTION AND MEMORIAL Upwards of I20O brethren, mostly from points in the near Eastern states, have just been enjoying the privileges of a four- day convention with us in Brooklyn, terminating with the celebration of the Passover Memorial on the evening of Tuesday, March 26th. Opportunities for fellowship between the meetings were pleasantly employed by all, so far as we have any knowledge, the recent manifestation on the part of churchianity of the disposition to persecute the International Bible Students in a more open and pronounced way has doubtless contributed much to a sharpening of appreciation and zeal on the part of the friends generally. For many years the Lord's people have wondered whether or not each convention might be the last. Each one has always proved to be the last for some of the dear friends; but abundant evidence, not only from the Lord's Word, but also from corroborative occurrences pressing in upon us from all sides, seems to lend more basis for the hope that this might be the la*st in this vicinity, before the great convention beyond the vail. The convention opened with an address of welcome by Brother J. F. Stephenson, the chairman. Probably not more than 700 were present at this meeting, on Saturday afternoon in the Tabernacle. Then followed a discourse by Brother T. H. Thornton, in which he compared our heavenly Father with a great and provident housekeeper. He contrasted God's method with that of man in the matter of establishing a household. He called, attention to the fact that when a young man determines to get married the first thing he thinks about is a bride ; the . second thing he thinks about is his bride; and the third thing he thinks of is his bride. After the marriage has taken place he begins to think about the details of the home, children, and servants. All of these things God has provided for in connection with the nuptials of his Son and the glorified church. In the evening a discourse was heard from Brother F. H. Robison on the subject of Gratitude. He reminded the friends how that all we have, whether on the natural plane or spiritual plane, comes from God, because he is the giver of every good and perfect gift. We are indebted to him for life, and "for food, raiment and shelter to sustain even the imperfect ' life which we now have until we shall have learned the lessons and developed the character which will make us meet for the inheritance of the saints in light. Additional causes for gratitude were found in provisions which God has made for the delighting of our senses. These rightly used and directed will enable us to appreciate their giver and be a genuine help in the narrow way. Many other occasions for thankfulness were cited, touching more especially the opportunity for sacrifice, God's providential instruction, etc. Sunday morning dawned bright and clear, bringing with it several hundred friends from surrounding cities and towns who could not find it possible to attend^ all the sessions. At ten o'clock Brother R. J. Martin met with about 200 friends in the Bethel dining room, where also is located a baptistry, and reviewed for those present the Scripture teaching on the subject of baptism. Seventy- three were immersed at the close of this talk; 40 sisters and 33 brothers. While this meeting was going on at the Bethel Home, Brother Siewert delivered a discourse at the Tabernacle on the heavenly phases of the kingdom and its development. At eleven o'clock Brother Stephenson talked to the friends on St. Paul's words: "I have fought a good fight; I have kept the faith; I have finished my course; henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give me at that day." He dwelt on each phase of this text, showing that to keep the faith at all it is necessary to fight a good fight and that this fight itself is a fight of faith which, when properly waged, enables one to lay hold on eternal life. Sunday afternoon was a public session, held in the Brooklyn Academy of Music, and announced to a considerable extent through newspaper advertising and house to house distribution of special announcements. The topic was: "The World has Ended — Millions now Living will never Die." A two-column report of the lecture was given in one of the Brooklyn papers on Monday afternoon. Mlany prayers had gone up for the success of this meeting, all made, we trust, with entire submission to the Lord's will. The Academy Opera House seats about 2200 people, but close to 3000 were admitted, about 300 being seated on the stage back of the curtain and other hundreds standing in the rear of the main auditorium and balconies. Government officers were present to take stenographic report of all that was said. It is expected that this topic will be used quite extensively by brethren who have ability for speaking in public, so that a report of the discourse will not be necessary here. The great audience showed intense interest for two hours, and many points were received with distinct approval, as manifested by continued hand-clapping on several occasions. Our Lord's great prophecy, containing testimony by which we would be able to discern the end of the world, was taken as a basis for the discourse. Everything pointed to a deep interest on the part of the public — save ecclesiastics and ecclesiastical "hangers on" — in the general subject of religious tolerance as necessarily involved in a meeting of this kind. Sunday evening Brother R. H. Barber addressed the friends in the Music Hall of the Academy of Music. He traced the experiences of the "seed off the woman" and the "seed of the serpent," and pointed out how many attempts had been made, either overt or covert, on the part of Satan to make away with what he considered to be the promised "seed." Brother Barber's talk contained much encouragement to all in the na'rrow way at this present time. Considerable use was made of present day military terms and figures , even as the Apostle Paul used such similes in his time. He showed that we had entered the fight against the world, the flesh and the devil, and that it would be a fight to the finish, the complexity of the enemy 'making the situation a peculiarly difficult one and requiring extreme faith and obedience. [6233] (110-111) THE WATCH TOWER Brooklyn, N. Y. On Monday morning a moat enjoyable Praise and Testimony meeting was held in the Academy of Music, followed by a discourse by Brother J, A, Bohnet on various items mentioned in the eleventh chapter of Revelation, but bearing especially on the "two witnesses." He showed that God had given these witnesses to the church for her benefit, that she might be developed in character sufficient to make her pleasing and acceptable in the sight of her Lord. He showed that while the Bible had heen suppressed in large measure for the greater portion of the Gospel age, still God had preserved it despite all the efforts of the clergy class to effect its destruction. Finally the time came for the exaltation of the Word, and the Bible sprang into great circulation — it was "lifted up to the heavens 3, — it was exalted in the ecclesiastical heavens and came to be looked upon as a source of real authority by the most active denominations. He showed that efforts nad been made in times past to destroy the Scriptures by the burning of Bibles or ordering their destruction. Some refused to burn their books, so that God's word was not destroyed, though the clergy had hoped for its extinction in the common languages. Brother Bohnet was followed on the morning program by Brother R, 0. Hartley, who spoke on the text. "Fight the good fight of faith; lay hold on eternal life." He dealt especially with the necessity of having on the armor of God in order to be able to fight effectually this great fight of faith. He showed the Scriptural significance of the various pieces which compose the armor, and indicated the value of each one, drawing also example from the Apostle Paul's own course of faithfulness a^ a "good soldier of Jesus Christ." First in the afternoon Brother 0. L. Sullivan spoke from the 40th Psalm: "God U our refuge and strength/' Among many other things peculiarly dear to the Lord's people he gave expression to the love and appreciation which he had for his country, the country in which he was born and which had accorded him so many advantages. He stated that one of his sons was in the navy and the other in the army. He pointed out also that, though he loved his country, still God loved it much more than he was able to, and that Jehovah purposed to establish* conditions which will guarantee that the high ideals of America will be far more than fulfilled when his glorious plans and blessings for the world are more fully inaugurated. He said that no claim should be considered superior to the claim of one's country — saving fidelity to God himself. Brother Rutherford next spoke to the friends from 1 Peter 4:1: Forasmuch then as Christ hath suffered for us in the flesh, arm yoursejf likewise with the same mind." He suggested that the admonition "arm" implies combat with an enemy. This enemy was seen to be Satan and his minions of the air who seek to dominate in earth's affairs. Scripture testimony was adduced to show that the fallen angels would be released and bring about the great "whirlwind" which even now gives signs of approaching: further, that the hitter persecution which has broken out against the truth, and especially against the message contained in "The Finished Mystery ," is doubtless attributable to these fallen spirit beings. As before the great flood they had liberties with mankind and dominated public thought and action, so that it was possible to say, "The thoughts of men's hearts were evil and that continually," so now as they are allowed more and more liberty with mankind we may expect that many of the heretofore recognized standards of right and decency will he pushed aside, especially by those who seek to persecute the Lord's most earnest and active saints. Evidence pointed to the fact that the sealing of the servants of the Lord is about complete, and that thus the restraining influences hitherto e\creUed against the evil spirits would be withdrawn and that they would have to do with the great cataclysm upon the world. If permitted they would doubtless have wrecked the whole world long ago, but when now let loose the whole earth will be full of violence find there will be a saturnalia of crime and wickedness such as the earth has never known. But we should not be fearful under these conditions; for we have been forewarned and thus forearmed by the instructions of God's Word. We know that nothing can befall us except such as will constitute the proper test for our faith. Not only do these evil spirits seek to bring" outward persecution against the Lord's people, hut they attempt to bring dissension within the ranks. They suggest to one that he is not receiving proper honor in the church, not having enough recognition of his abilities and talents. This test comes chiefly upon those holding positions of responsibility and honor in the churches. Thus is will be seen that the mind of the saints becomes a battle ground for the fallen angels in conflict with the holy spirit. They can be most thoroughly repulsed if we "love one another," and "in honor prefer one another." The safe mind is the humble mind, filled with appreciation for the privilege of doing the JjQrd's will. Indeed, the usefulness of any is measured by humility rather than by natural ability. Just before the beginning of Brother Rutherford's discourse 22 children were presented by their parents to receive the Lord's blessing. This was understood as indicating the hopes and intents of the parents, rather than in any way obligating the children, when they shall become responsible. Monday evening Brother Burgess addressed the friends in the Tabernacle chapel on the subject of "the hope which is an anchor to the soul." He dealt somewhat with the necessity of faith as a foundation for our hope. He Bhowed that without hope there would he absolutely nothing accomplished, because it constitutes the stimulating element of our Christian experiences. If there were no hope or relief from suffering then it would be folly to engage voluntarily in it. The figure of a ship and the relationship which the anchor bears to it* welfare was elaborated upon with profit. Tuesday morning. Memorial day, after an enjoyable Praise and Testimony meeting Brother W. K. Van Amburgh addressed the friends, using the Tabernacle Chart as a basis for hi* remarks. He referred . to the step* of consecration, the begetting and developing of the new mind, and to the fact that the flesh shrinks from the experiences suggested by the brazen altar in the court. But as the bodies of the beasts offered must be consumed, so all the powers and energies possessed by the Lord's consecrated people must be used up in ways that meet with God's distinct approval. He showed how that the greatest progress and keenest enjoyment is had in the Christian way if one does not look back at the altar, but keeps his face toward the holy of holies, as it is written of our Lord: "who, for the joy set before him, endured the cross, disregarding the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the majesty on high." Tuesday afternoon Brother A. IT. Macmillan delivered an enthusiastic address on the text, "The end of all things is at hand." He expressed it as a belief, and brought forth several Scriptures to lend strong color to his thought, that the gate of entrance into the narrow way is closing, and that the Jewish commission now taking possession in Palestine is further proof of the dispensational change. The glories and beauties of the heavenly state were dwelt upon; and all were encouraged to press forward with renewed zeal and vigor and be faithful unto death. In the evening 1184 of the Lord's consecrated people assembled in the Music Hall to celebrate the memorial of our Lord's antity pica 1 Passover. After singing Hymn No. 1 22 prayer was "offered by Brother Van Amburgh. Then followed appropriate remarks by Brother Rutherford on the subject of the Passover in type and antitype. Song No. 98 was sung and then appropriate remarks were offered by Brother Van Amburgh on the significance of the loaf, followed by prayer by Brother Barber, that our hearts might be in the right attitude and that we might fully appreciate the privilege of partaking of this emblem. The assembly of friends was quietly served with bread, after which Brother Barber offered brief remarks on the significance of the cup. Brother Rutherford asked the Lord's blessing on the wine and upon the hearts of all assembled, that they might enter into fullest appreciation of its symbolic significance. After serving those present with the wine, true to the picture which our Lord established, we sang a hymn, No. 2, and went out, each heart solemn with the thought that this might be our last Memorial this side the vail, yet each willing to remain as long as the Father's love and wisdom indicates our presence to be most useful on the earth. MUCH WORK TO DO In no wise should the friends be discouraged because of the persecution that ia being carried on against the promulgation of the Truth. In due time the right to circulate the Seventh Volume will be tested in the courts. In the meantime , wo are asking all the Pilgrim brethren to have public meetings each Sunday in some well -located hall, each one using the subject, "The World Has Ended — -Millions Now Living Will Never Die." The meeting should be well ad- [6234] April 1, 1918 THE WATCH TOWER (98-115) vertised; and to this end we are furnishing Kingdom News announcing that a free public lecture will he given in the vicinity soon on the above topic, and for the people to watch newspapers for place and date of the meeting. These should he widely distributed, that the people might have the truth concerning the unwarranted action taken with reference to the Seventh Volume and the persecution by the clergy. The Constitution guarantees that no one's property shall be taken without due process of law. Therefore, when officers demand possession of the Seventh Volume, they should produce a search warrant; otherwise the friends are under no obligation to deliver up the property. We advise the friends everywhere to store their supply of the Seventh Volume and not to distribute them until the question is adjudicated. lie of good courage! Let every one be active and zealous now in arranging for public meetings. The adversary is desperately striving to thwart the Lord's purpose, but he cannot succeed beyond the Lord's permission. Let us be faithful and true and loyal to the Lord and to his cause. Vol. XXXIX BROOKLYN, X. V., AI'RIL 19.18 No. S ISRAEL'S DOUBLE ACCOMPLISHED WONDERFUL PROPHECY FULFILLED — EVENT FORETOLD OVER EIGHTEEN CENTURIES AGO NOW TRANSPIRING- — ANOTHER CRISIS IN HUMAN HISTORY Dispatches from Europe state that a commission of prominent Jews left London last month for Jerusalem, expecting to arrive at the holy city on March 27th, the date of the Jewish 1'assover. To all students of history this is indeed interesting news; but it is doubtful whether many are aware of the fact that this event was foretold by three of the great prophets of Israel and that the very date of this return of the Jews to Palestine as representatives of a nation — the day of the Passover, 1918 — was indicated by their prophecies, when viewed with the sidelight of secular historic records. Surely we are living in momentous times; yet only a few realize that today the God of Israel is actually taking part in the affairs of men, particularly with reference" to his chosen people. It is a noteworthy fact that the Jewish prophets clearly foretold many of the experiences of the children of Israel, including even those of the present time and of the immediate future. Most Bible scholars have recognized that a large portion of the Old Testament was written particularly to the Jews and for the Jews, and that the world's history is more or less associated with this peculiar people. But all may not have noticed the exactness with which the Scriptures outline Jewish history. In Romans 21:25 St. Paul informs us that God caused blindness, or ''hardness," to happen to the children of Israel until he had completed a certain work among the Gentiles, and had gathered from the Gentiles a sufficient number to fill of a pre-ordained class; and, that at the completion of this selection from the nations his favor would return to the Jews, as mentioned in verses 26-28. Notice, particularly, the following Scriptures : "For thus saith Jehovah, Like as I have brought all this great evil upon this people, so will I bring upon them all the good that I have promised them." (Jeremiah 32:42) "Behold, I will bring them health and cure and I will cure them and reveal unto them the abundance of peace and truth." (Jer. .33:6) "33ehold, the days come, saith the Lord, that I will perform that good thing which I have promised unto the house of Israel and to the house of Judah." — Jer. 33:14. From Amos 3:2 we learn that God's dealings with earthly nations have been principally confined to the children of Israel, saying. "You only have I known< [recognized as my people] of all the families of the earth; therefore I will punish you for all your iniquities." In Exodus 19:5 and Deuteronomy 14:2 we read that God chose this nation "to be a peculiar people unto himself above all the nations that are upon the earth." From Deuteronomy 28:15-29 we are informed that God told the Israelites that if they would not obey his laws lie would east them out of his favor. Jewish history of the last twenty centuries attests to God's faithfulness in carrying out his purpose. By comparison of the statements of three of the most prominent of the Old Testament prophecies, we learn that the Passover of this very year, 1918, is clearly indicated as a time for some special favor to be shown to the Jews. God advises that he is carrying out a plan of his own (Ephesians 1:11) and that this plan was purposed from the beginning. (Ephesians 3:11; Acts 15:18) In Isaiah 46:10, 11 we' read: "Declaring the end from the beginning, and from ancient times the things that are not yet accomplished, saying, My plan shall stand, and I will do all my good pleasure; .... I have spoken it, I will also bring it to pass; I have purposed it, I will also do it." ISRAEL'S PERIODS OF FAVOR AND DISFAVOR EQUAL Jeremiah 10:13-15 reads: "Therefore 1 will cast you out of this land [Palestine] into a land that ye know not, neither ye nor your fathers ; and there ye shall serve other gods [mighty ones, rulers] clay and night; where I will not show you favor. Therefore, behold, the days come, saith the Lord, "that it shall no more be said, The Lord liveth, that brought up the children of Israel out of the land of Egypt; but, The Lord liveth that brought up the children of Israel from the land of the north [the lands north of Palestine], and from all the lands whither lie had driven them; and 1 will bring them again into their land, that I gave unto their fathers." Notice particularly the 18th verse, which says: "And first [before 1 do this] 1 will recompense T requite them for] their iniquity and their sin double Ta repetition or counterpart in time] ; because they have defiled mine inheritance [my land]." This prophecy implies very strongly that God would grant Israel his special favor for a certain length of time, and that if they were not faithful he would then turn his face against them for an equal length of time, for "a double," or corresponding period. Zechariah 9:9 reads: ".Rejoice greatly, O daughter of Zion; shout, O daughter of Jerusalem; behold, thy King eometh unto thee: he is just, and having salvation; lowly, and riding upon an ass, and upon a eolt the foal of an ass." In verse 12 we read: "Turn you to the stronghold, ye prisoners of hope; even today do I declare that I will render [literally, turn hack] a double unto you." A CRISIS IK JEWISH HISTORY Matthew 21 :4, 5 identifies the incident mentioned in Zechariah 9:9; and our Lord's words in Matthew 23:37-39 identify Zechariah 9 : 12. Evidently, then, this is the beginning of the repetition count or double, the beginning of Israel's disfavor. Is it possible to locate the time when Israel's favor began? It is! The children of Israel were first recognized as the nation of Israel at the death of their father Jacob, as recorded in Genesis 49:28. The children of Israel were in favor with God from that event down to the time when they were cast off by Christ. Referring to Exodus 12*: 40, 41 we have the statement that the sojourning of the children of Israel was 430 years. In Galatiajis 3:16, 17 the same period is mentioned as the time intervening between the covenant given to Abraham when he was seventy-five years old (Genesis 12:3, 4, 7) and the time when the covenant was made with the children of Israel at Mount Sinai. Therefore, From the Abrahamic to the Law Covenant 430 years Abraham was 75 years old when the covenant was made with him, and his son Isaac was born 25 years later. (Gen. 17:17) 25 years Isaac's son Jacob was born 00 years later, (Gen. 25:26) 00 " Jacob lived 147 years. (Genesis 47:28) ..147 " From the time of God's covenant with Abraham down to the death of Jacob would then be 232 years Since the entire time of the sojourning was 430 years, and since Jacob died 232 years after the sojourning began, the time when the children of Israel were first recognized as a nation would be 198 years 'ZX B IT : 0I R-i^qumK u^im $;:p£ sjaqtnnx SutradnioQ sitjaX: sex ( 5SS — 0£fr ) enpoxg ©tft eiojeq also Xumbers 13:3 and Joshua 14:7-10, we find the period of time from the Exodus to the division of the land of Canaan among the tribes of Israel was . . 46 " Acts 13:19, 20 gives the period of the Judges as 450 years. (See footnote Wilson's Emphatic Diaglott) .450 " [6235] (116 117) THE WATCH TOWER Brooklyn, N\ Y. The twenty-one kings of Israel, from Saul to THE DESTRUCTION OF THE JEWISH POLITY Zedekiah reigned as follows: We quote as follows from Cornil's History of the People Saul (Acts 13:21) 40 years of Israel: "On the 15th of Nisan, i. e.,, of April, in the year David (1 Chronicles 29:26, 27) ."..'.'. .40 " 73 A. D., the first day of the Easter festival, the same day Solomon (2 Chronicles 9:30) 40 " on which, according to tradition, the God of Israel had led Rehoboam (2 Chronicles 12:13) 17 " 5" people out of Egyptian bondage into freedom, the last Abijah (2 Chronicles 13:1, 2) 3 " bulwark of Israel's liberty had fallen, and Israel was delivered Asa (2 Chronicles 16:13)' ...."'./..'.'.. 41 M into bondage." Jehosaphat (2 Chronicles 20:31) 25 " We quote again from the Jewish Encyclopedia: Masada Jehoram (2 Chronicles 21:1, 5) 8 " attained great importance in the war with the Romans Ahaziah (2 Chronicles 22:1, 2) 1 " . . . . With the fall of Masada the war came to an end, Athaliah (2 Chronicles 22:10-12)"..!'... 6 " on the 15th of Nisan, 73." Again from Morrison's Jews Jehoash (2 Chronicles 24:1} 40 " Under Roman Rule: "The capture of Masada, a Jewish Amaziah (2 Chronicles 25:1} 29 " fortress on the southwestern shore of the Dead Sea, put a Uzziah (2 Chronicles 26:3) 52 u termination to one of the fiercest struggles recorded in hisJotham (2 Chronicles 27:1) !.!!...!.. 16 " toiy." (73 A. D.) Graetz's History of the Jews, Vol. 2, Ahaz (2 Chronicles 28:1) 16 " says: "Judea was not entirely subjugated; for three strong Hezekiah, (2 Chronicles 29:1) 29 " fortresses were still in arms: Herodium, Machaerus, and Manasseh (2 Chronicles 33:1) 55 " Masada .... The heroes agreed to this proposal (of their Amon (2 Chronicles 33:21) 2 " leader Eleasar) even with enthusiasm, and on the first day Josiah (2 Chronicles 34:1) 31 i( of the great Feast of the Passover (A. D. 73), after slaying Jehoiakim (2 Chronicles 36:5) 11 " their own wives and children, they all perished on their own Zedekiah (2 Chronicles 36:11) 11 " swords." We quote further from Ewald's History of Israel, Vol. 7 (which is entitled "The Apostolic Age," and which Period of the kings 513 years Prof. Ewald makes to end with the year A. D. 73.) : "Eleasar The period of desolation, 70 years (Jeremiah accordingly persuaded all his people during that night to 9«.n i . %q if i 5> PhrnWl^ ^fi-22 2Isaiah 40:2 the statement is made: M Speak ye com- f the great movement and forty years after Christ's crucifortably to Jerusalem, and cry unto her that her warfare fixion, saw this end of the whole tragedy." Josephus also [marginal reading, appointed timel is accomplished [com- relates that Masada fell on the 15th of Nisan, April, A. D, 73. pleted, filled out], that her iniquity is pardoned; for she THE COMPLETION OF THE DOUBLE hath received of the Lord's hands double [a counterpart] The above quotations from standard authors show fully for all her sins." This statement assures Israel that the that the Jewish nationality came to an end just forty years time would come when her double, or time of disfavor, after their rejection of Christ and their being cast off as equivalent to former favor, would be accomplished, and that a nation, then he would turn his face towards her again. As the first sign of their rejection was the declaration If the foregoing be true, then just 1845 years after their f our Lord just before his crucifixion and was just 1845 rejection by Christ (Matthew 23:37-39) we should expect years prior to the year 1878, would not their recognition some historic event indicating that divine favor was begin- at the Berlin Congress imply the first indication of God's ning to return to the Jews. 1845 years from the spring of returning favor to them again as a nation? If we are right 33 A. D. would bring us to the spring of 1878. We should, in these conclusions, then just 1845 years after the spring therefore, expect to find gome occurrence in the early part of of A. D. 73 wq should expect some national recognition of the year 1878, as an indication of returning divine favor. the Jews as a nation. Does it not seem peculiar at least What do we find? that such a national recognition should occur this year exactly In June, 1878, the Berlin Congress assembled, Lord Bea- 1845 years to the month after their complete downfall? Does consfield (a Jew) was the chairman and the central figure, this not seem to imply to all reasoning students that divine the dominating mind that changed the treaty of San Stephano providence is now taking a hand in the affairs of the nations? between the Russians and the Turks, and so amended it that Would it be reasonable to account for all these exact correthe Turks; were to have suzerainty over Palestine and that spondencies as merely coincidence — especially since we find the Jews were to be permitted some measure of liberty. them so accurately stated in his Word? Tliis was the first act on the part of any of the nations of The Apostle Paul in the eleventh chapter of hi<* letter to Europe to recognize in any way the Jews as a nation. the Romans declares that the falling away of the Jews from A REMARKABLE PROPHECY LITERALLY FULFILLED divine favor meant the passing of that favor to the Gentiles. Note Zcchariah 8:23: "In those days it shall come to pass Recall the expression in Luke 21 :24: "And they shall /all that ten men shall take hold out of all [manner ofl languages by the edge of the sword and shall be led away captive into of the nations, even shall take hold of the skirt of him that all nations; and Jerusalem sha^l be trodden down of the is a Jew, saying We will go with you; for we have heard Gentiles until the times of the Gentiles be fulfilled. Is it that God is with you." It is a remarkable historic fart not reasonable to suppose .that the returning oi favor to the that this conference was attended by representatives from the Jews means to some extent the withdrawing- of that favor from following eleven nations: Great Britain, Russia, France, Italy, the Gentiles?— Romans 11 : 15 Turkey, Austria-Hungary, Germany, Greece, Roumania, Serbia Ezekiel 36:19-30 tells of the wanderings of the Jews and and Montenegro. Thus there were ten representatives in of the restoration of their land to its pristine holiness: attendance at that particular congress, in conference with "I scattered them among the heathen and they were dispersed the eleventh a Jew. (See Berlin 'Conference, International through the countries: according to their way and according Encyclopedia) to their d °i n gs I j ud ged them. And when they entered But did God have anything to do with the raising of a unto the heathen whither they went they profaned my holy Jew, Lord Beaconsfield, to the premiership of England, in name when they said to them, These are the people of the order that he might fulfill this very prophecy, and" in over- Lord and are gone forth out of his land; but 1 had pity on ruling that exactly ten other nations should be represented, mine holy name which the house of Israel had profaned and that the chairman should be the Jew? And did God among the heathen whither they went Therefore say unto have anything to do with the bringing about of that con- the house of Israel, saith the Lord God, I do not this fdr ference in the spring of 1878, exactly 1845 rears after he your sakes, house of Israel, but for my holy name's sake had cast the Jews into disfavor? It is surelv a remarkable which ye have profaned among the heathen, whither you coincidence, to say the least! The Lord's casting off of the went, for I will take you from among the heathen and gather Jewish people was in A. D. 33; but it was just 40 years you out of all countries and bring you into your own land, afterward that the nation was completely destroyed, and it and ye shall dwell in the land that I gave to your fathers, has not been recognized as a nation since that time until and ye shall be my people and I will be your God and 1 our day, will aiso save vou ^ rom V(mr uncleanness and I will call [6236] April 15, 1918 THE WATCH TOWER (117-118) for the corn and will increase it and lay no famine upon you, and I will multiply the fruit of the tree and the increase of the field, and ye shall receive no more reproach of famine among the heathen. And the desolate land shall be tilled, whereas it lay desolate in the sight of all that passed by and they shall say, This land that wag desolate is become like the garden of Eden, and the waste and desolate and ruined cities are become fenced and inhabited. Then shall the heathen [Gentiles] that are left round about you know that I the Lord built the ruined places and planted that that was desolate. I the Lord have spoken and I will do it/' Ezekiel 37:25: "And they shall dwell in the land that I have given unto Jacob, my servant, wherein your fathers have dwelt, and they sha 11 dwell therein , ev en they and their children and their children's children forever, and my servant David shall be their prince forever." Who shall say what great events may not soon follow the opening of this door for the Jews, and who can accurately appreciate all the blessing which is to come! — Jeremiah 3:17i 18. "ABOUT MIDNIGHT" "About midnight will J go out into the midst of Egypt." — Exodus 11:4. The children of Israel, in bondage to Egypt, were typical of the Lord's people of this Gospel age long in bondage to "Christendom." Egypt symbolizes that condition of middlecourse , compromising worldliness which the word "Christendom 5 ' represents, and which is identified by our blessed Lord as "the great city, which spiritually is called Sodom [typical of carnal union of church and state] and Egypt, where [in its ancient form of pagan Rome] also our Lord was crucified " (Revelation 11:8) and where the crucifixion of the Lord's body members has steadily progressed. Historic precedent and Scriptural suggestions combine in warranting the expectation that this crucifixion, this crucial testing is about to reach its final climax in oppression and persecution by nominal church and clergy, acting underhandedly or openly through the civil powers and the mob. Several divinely arranged plagues came upon Egypt* because of the unwillingness of Pharaoh, the king, to release the Hebrews from bondage. Spiritual Israel has long sought to be released from the world, the flesh and the devil, and especially from doctrines of devils, which constitute the strength of antitypical Egypt's oppression. Pharaoh, king of Egypt, typified Satan, prince of this world, order of things, or civilization. Several times Pharaoh had promised to let the Hebrews go, but each time "the Lord hardened Pharaoh's heart, so that he would not let the people go." — Exodus 10:20. "And the Lord said unto Moses [Christ, Head and body], stretch out thine hand [instrumentality or applied power] toward heaven [the powers of spiritual control, the clergy and churches of Christendom] that there may be darkness [lack of knowledge, understanding, love] over the land of Egypt [Christendom], even darkness that may be felt. And Moses stretched forth his hand toward heaven [the churches who claim to represent heaven] ; and there was a thick darkness in all the land of Egypt [all in the condition of worldliness , including worldly-minded clergymen] three days." The great world war among those nations that call themselves Christians has upset all theories about "Christ" -endom being Christian. During the first three years of the war from August, 1914, to August, 1917, there was no understanding by the world of the true, the Scriptural, significance of the war; all were in darkness, and remained so for three years, until enlightenment eame to them through the Lord's divinely appointed channel, the Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society, in the shape of the message in Volume Seven of Studies in the Scriptures. — Eixodus 10:22. "They saw not one another [comprehended not what they really were in God's sight] neither rose any from his place for three days." In proof of the antitypical correspondency we quote Rev. Joseph H. Odell, D. D., in the February, 1918, "Atlantic Monthly" ; "The vastest of the world's tragedies came, and the church was not its interpreter. The majority of the clergy have not even sensed the unique strategy which the convulsed and confused world conditions have made possible . There are ministers everywhere who are still busy building their denominational fences and feverishly staking their sectarian claims." Neither worldly clergyman nor layman "rose from his place for three years' 7 — from the old somnolent condition of dumb dogs (D.D.'s) and blind guides (B.G.'s). (Isaiah 56:10; Matthew 15 :H) The utmost darkness , something keenly and anxiously felt, pervaded the houses — churches — of the worldly-minded. "But the children of Israel [the Lord's truly loyal and devoted people] had light in their dwellings [understood the significance of the world war and the things to come, in all their humble ecclesias.]" — Exodus 10:23. OUE, CONSECRATION MUST BE COMPLETE "And Pharaoh called unto Moses and said, Go, ye, serve the Lord; only let your flocks and herds be stayed; let your little ones also go with you," (Exodus 10:24) In sacrificial rites the animals used typified the offerers of those animals; and the offering of an animal by a person pictured that person's consecration. Ecclesiasticism (the product of Satan, antitype of Pharaoh) is willing enough for the Lord's people, old or young in Christ, to serve Jehovah, if only they will not offer themselves in complete consecration, in such a consecration as consumes their- very bodies on the altar of sacrifice. "And Moses said, Thou must give us also sacrifices and burnt offerings, that we may sacrifice unto Jehovah, our God. Out cattle also shall go with us; there shall not an hoof be left behind; for thereof must we take to serve Jehovah our God ; and we know not with what we must serve Jehovah, until we come thither." — Exodus 10:25, 26. Those who start to serve the Lord cannot determine in advance just what or how much must be done ; yet the sincere ones purpose to hold nothing back, but to make a complete consecration of themselves and all that they have. "But Jehovah hardened Pharaoh's heart, and he would not let them go." (Exodus 10:27) No type can be taken to teach a doctrine; and we have no reason for supposing that Satan has intended to co-operate with God, but in the last analysis it must be admitted that he has done nothing which can successfully oppose the divine program. In this case it was really not God's purpose to have the people of Israel go until he had instituted the Passover type. Likewise, in recent years, it may be that Satan has been willing to make away with the Lord's people; but divine providence intervened , because the hour was not yet come. But whether this part of the account was intended to be pictorial or not we do not know. At all events the people did not go. Several times during the harvest, during the progress of what seemed plagues to Christendom, the Lord has permitted his people to think that they were about to go. Brother Russell expected the church to £0 beyond the vail in 1878, 1881, 1&10 and 1914 — just as with Elijah, who went with Elisha to four different places before he was actually taken. These seeming disappointments were divinely foreknown, "his appointments ." "And Pharaoh said unto him, Get thee from me, take heed to thyself, see my face no more; for in the day thou seest my face thou shalt die." (Exodus 10:28) Satan, speaking through ecclesiasticism is peeved at the claims of the Lord's people, and manifesting his displeasure, begins to utter threats. "And Moses said, Thou has spoken well, I will see thy face again no more." (Exodus 10:29) The face iB a sign of either favor or disfavor. The time has passed when the Lord will any longer show any favor toward ecclesiasticism, or when ecclesiasticism will show favor or intentional benefit to the Lord's people, THE ANTITTPIOAL TENTH PLAGUE "And the Lord said unto Moses, Yet will I bring one plague more upon Pharaoh [ecclesiasticism] and upon Egypt [Christendom — it will be to them an unprecedented plague] : afterwards he will let you go hence [this suggests that- the church now expecting to go to her Lord will not be disappointed this time; she shall surely be delivered after the divinely appointed last plague] : when he shall let you go, he shall surely thrust you out hence altogether." The final visitation of God's displeasure, amounting to the utmost expression of his wrath against Christendom, will so disturb the antitypical Egyptians that they may not confine themselves to words of chastisement against the Lord's people, but they may feel impelled to visit upon them tangible persecution, possibly culminating in imprisonment — through those civil powers which are deceived as to the true nature and character of the persecutors — and in bloody persecution and death. < Exodus 11:1) Here again we must not let the type teach us something which is not plainly stated elsewhere. This is no time to think "panicky" thoughts or to pose as martyrs unduly. But our Lord suffered such things, so did several VII— 27 [6237] (119-114) THE WATCH TOWER Brooklyn, N. Y. of the apostles, so have many of the most noble and faithful of this age. We, as servants, are not better than our Lord and we have no just claim for better treatment. The Lord's wiH be done. "Speak now in- the ears of the people, [proclaim the message of the seven Studies in the Scriptures to all Christendom ], and let every man borrow [ask] of his neighbor, and every woman of her neighbor [every truth ecclesia of the neighboring churches] jewels of silver and jewels of gold [the Lord's jewels in the great company and in the little flock]/'— Exodus 11:2. "And the Lord gave the people favor in the sight of the Egyptians. [In some respects, for their truly Christian character and lives the Lord's people are appreciated by the peoples of the world.] Moreover the man Moses [Christ, the Head] was very great [highly esteemed, theoretically] in the land of Egypt [throughout Christendom] in the sight of Pharaoh's servants [clergymen] and in the sight of the people" [the laity of Christendom], — Exodus ll:-3. "And Moses [Christ through the Studies 12* the Scbiptukes ] said [to ecclesiasticisml, Thus saith the Lord, About midnight will I go out into the midst of Egypt." (Exodus 11:4) If the year in which the remaining church is expected to begin, in a more pronounced degree, to go beyond the yail is the year beginning October, 1917, then midnight of that day (reckoning the days from sundown to sundown) would be about January, 1918. God, through some special word of indignation and wrath, may be looked for as going throughout the heart and center of Christendom about that time. "And all the firstborn [the firstborn of Egypt were set Aside to the deity and typified the clergy-ministers of Christendom , set apart, in fact to the social service of Christendom] in Egypt, shall die [cease to be firstborns, or be divinely declared not to be what they claim and think themselves to be], from the firstborn [the leading ecclesiastic, the pope of Romel of Pharaoh that sitteth upon his throne [ Satan the god of priestcraft, is prince or ruler of this evil world], even unto the firstborn of the maidservant *that is behind the mill [down, to the lowliest minister of the smallest church grinding out its religious provender] and all the firstborn of beasts." — Exodus 11:5. "And there shall be a great cry throughout all the land of Egypt, such as there was none like it, nor shall be. like it any more." (Exodus 11:6) This suggests the final cry in Christendom. If this interpretation be correct, the next thing to look for is an unprecedented outcry on the part of Christendom's clergy and laity against the divine pronouncement which declares the end of Egypt's firstborn, the clergy, priestcraft, ecclesiasticism, churchianity- "But against any of the children of Israel shall not a dog move his tongue against man or beast; that ye may know that Jehovah doth put a difference between the Egyptians and Israel." (Exodus 11:7) How manifestly is God's favor with his own people who are dwelling in peace of heart amid a world in arms, and how markedly is his disfavor upon the people of Christendom torn with the sword and threatened with revolution, famine aAd pestilence! "And all these thy servants [the people of Christendom] shall come down unto me [Christ] and bow themselves down unto me [they will beseech the Lord's people to let their evil practices and institutions alonel, saying, Get thee out, and all the people that sit at thy feet [Afarginal reading. In this the day of the wrath of the Lamb, Christendom will want none of Christ or his members to trouble them any longer with their divinely authorized plagues] ; and after that I will go out. [Not till things have taken some such a turn will the feet members of Christ pass over to 'be ever with the Lord*]. And he went out from Pharaoh in a great anger." (Exodus 11:8) As the church turns her back forever in disfavor upon ecclesiasticism it is with a message containing all "the fierceness and wrath of Almighty God" (Revelation 19:15), in Volume Seven of Studies in the SCRrPTUBES. THE EFFECT OF THE PLAGUE UPON EGYPT "And Jehovah said unto Moses, Pharaoh will not hearkeji unto you; [ecclesiasticism will not heed the awful warnings of Ezekiel and Revelation, as shown forth in 'The Finished Mystery'] ; that my wonders may be multiplied in the land of Egypt." (Exodus 11:9) As a result of Christendom's failure to turn to God in a godly repentance, the words of God against her will be promptly and wonderfully fulfilled. "And it came to pass that at midnight [about January of the year 1918, through the enormous circulation of 'The Finished' Mystery' and the distribution of 10,000,000 'Fall of Babylon'] Jehovah [through his Word] smote all the firstborn in the land of Egypt [declared plainly and explicitly that the clergy, who insist on being first and foremost in everything, are really in his estimation dead, incapable of doing what they claim to do, because of iniquities which they committed in the dark ages and for which they are still unrepentant] from the firstborn of Pharaoh that sat on his throne unto the firstborn of the captive that was in the dungeon [literally, 'house of the pit,' church of eternal torment] ; and all the firstborn of cattle."— Exodus 12:29. "And Pharaoh rose up in the night, he, and all M3 servants , and all the Egyptians [if the suggestive interpretation set forth in these comments be right, then we may consistently look for an uprising of all worldly "Christians" because of and against the pronouncements of the wrath of God] ; and there was a great cry in Egypt [such a cry has begun to rise from the clergy, who are seeking to enlist the civil powers in a campaign of persecution of the Lord's people ] ; for there was not a house where there was not one dead." Not a church where there was not a clergyman against whom this divine denunciation had gone forth. "And he [ecclesiasticism] called for Moses and Aaron by night, [before the spring or summer of 1918] and said, Rise up ['rise to heights unknown,' to 'sit with Christ in the heavens'] and get you forth from among my people, both ye and the children of Israel; and go, serve Jehovah, as ye have said." — Exodus 12; 31. "And take your flocks and your herds, as ye have said [the Lord's people are completely consecrated], and be gone [there will be nothing the antitypical Egyptians will wish so heartily as to see gone forever those in whom is the present word of God. The wish may be father to their thought to hasten the going of the spiritual Israelites] ; and bless me also." (Exodus 12:32) When an antitypical Egyptian is in peril or fear, he seeks a blessing from somewhere. "And the Egyptians were urgent upon the people, that they might send them out of the land ih haste [aroused nominal churchianity may be inclined to find quick means?, to expedite the passage of the Lord's people beyond the vaill for they said, We be all dead, men." (Exodus 12:33) It wa* the atrociously false alarm, "If we don't kill them, they will kill us," that caused the weak king of France to sign the wicked order for the utter destruction of all Protestants on St. Bartholomew's Might. "And the people took their Sough before it was leavened [the Lord's people have the unadulterated truth, the divine Word, without any of the leaven, evil teachings, traditions and theories of the clergy], their dough [marginal reading] being hound up in their clothes upon their shoulders," (Exodus 12:34) The pure word of truth is bound up with the robe of Christ's righteousness and with the promises, with which the Lord's people are invested. "And the children of Israel did according to the word of Moses [of Christ, as set forth in the Bible] ; and they borrowed of the Egyptians jewels of silver and jewels of gold, and raiment; and Jehovah gave the people favor in the sight of the Egyptians, so' that they lent unto them. And they spoiled the Egyptians." (Exodus 12:35, 30) When the Lord's people go forth from Christendom to be ever with their Lord, they will take with them every Christian having the Lord's spirit; not a single one of the Lord's jewels will be left in Christendom when the approaching exodus of the last members of the body of Christ is finished. "It is a night [the dark night even now settling down] to be much observed unto Jehovah [it will be memorable forever] for bringing them out of the land of Egypt [out of the bondage of Christendom] ; this is that night of Jehovah to be observed [remembered] of all the children of Israel in their generations." —Exodus 12:42. COLPORTEUR AND PASTORAL WORK The great amount of advertising the public press has given Pastor Russell's books recently, particularly "The Finished Mystery," has doubtless, created a demand for these books ; and while it is not proper at thi3 time to circulate "The [6238] Finished Mystery," we advise the friends to colporteur for the other six volumes, especially the fourth, and to carry on the pastoral work, bearing the good tidings to as many as desire to hear. JESUS FACES BETRAYAL AND DEATH [With the exception of the first paragraph (printed below) Memorials," published in issue of Nothing connected with the Gospel narrative appeals to human judgment more forcibly than does its simplicity. The fact that the weaknesses, failures and stumblings of the apostles themselves are faithfully narrated, without apologies or excuses or attempts to gloss over the defects, shows a sincerity, a truthfulness of intention, very rarely found in other writings. Nowhere is this characteristic more conspicuous than in today's lesson, which records the shameless perfidy of Judas and the weakness of the remaining eleven. this article was a reprint of that entitled, "Two Passover September 15, 1914, which please see.l In our Lord's darkest hour these all forsook him and fled, seeking personal safety; and one of them subsequently denied knowing him. Had the writers of the Gospels interjected excuses and explanations • for their course, they would have been excusable; but the narrative is really stronger as it stands, and we are perhaps: inclined to furnish excuses for them which we might have been loath to receive had they offered similar ones for themselvesJESUS ON THE CROSS [The last twelve paragraph? of this article were reprinted from article-entitled, "Smitten of God— Afflicted," published in issue of November 15, 1914, which please seel .Tune 16.— Mark 15:22-39. AN ILLEGAL AKRKST— AN INIQUITOUS TRIAL— OUR LORD TAKEN BEFORE THE ROMAN GOVERNOR— CONDEMNED BY NEITHER PILATE NOR JIKHOD THK ROMAN GOVERNOR'S ATTEMPTS TO FREE OUR LORD— LEADERS OF RELIGIOUS THOUGHT COMPEL PILATK TO ACT CONTRARY TO HIS DESIRES— WHY DEATH BY CRUCIFIXION WAS NECESSARY IN OUR LORD'S CASE. "Truly this man ivas the Son of God."— Verse 39. Following the institution of the Memorial Supper our Lord the garden and strengthened him, gave him the Father's and his disciples sang a hymn, and then went out of the city to the Mount of Olives, a distance of perhaps a mile. Apparently several important lessons were given to the disciples en route to Gethsemane. These are recorded in John 15-17. After they had arrived at the garden of Gethsemane, the Master left eight of the apostles near the entrance, and went a little further into its shades with Peter, James and John. All were to watch, to be on guard against something which was to occur, something of which Jesus knew, but- which seemed most improbable to the apostles. It was midnight, and thev were accustomed to retire early. The strain of the evening, and the weighty lessons which the Master had imparted, reacted in drowsiness; and they slept, instead of watching and praying. This was true even of the three nearest the Master. Wishing to be alone in his communion with the heavenly Father, our Lord went a stone's throw farther into the shadows by himself. Time and again, in the agony which fell upon him, he came seeking human sympathy, only to find his dearest ones oblivious in sleep. Well had it been expressed by the prophet: "Of the people there was none with me." (Isaiah 63:3) He trod the winepress of grief alone. For three and a half years he had devoted his life to the doing of the divine will. Had he done that will completely and absolutely, in a spirit that had been pleasing to the heavenly Father? More than this, could he, would he, pass through the experiences of the next few hours with proper courage, proper faith, proper obedience? Or would he fail, and lose his all in death? STRENGTHENED FROM OK HIGH Had the Master failed, there was no one to make good for him. He had no advocate. His failure meant, not only death everlasting for himself, but the loss of the great privilege of uplifting humanity from sin and death conditions through the Messianic kingdom. The Master's personal eternal life was in the balance that night in Gethsemane, as also were all his prospects of glory, honor, immortality find hi^h exaltation at the right hand of the. Father, far above angels, principalities and powers. No wonder the Master, realizing all this, was overwhelmed with the thought! No wonder he wished that if the divine plan could be otherwise worked out, he might be spared from the special tribulations and horribly misrepresenting experiences just before him I Apparently the ignominy of being crucified as a malefactor and blasphemer, a terrible experience to one of his refinement and nobility of soul, was the thing which he prayed might pass away. He did not ask that he might not die; for he knew that for this very purpose he had come into the world, and that only by hia death could the penalty resting upon the human family be removed. He had not thought of escaping death, but he hoped that the Father might have some way of eliminating the special ignominy of that hour. Yet even in his greatest distress the Master prayed: "Nevertheless , not my will, but thine, be done." St. Faul assures us that the Master's Gethsemane experiences were linked with the fear of remaining in the death condition, fear of not being accounted of the Father as worthy of that glorious resurrection which he had been promised. (Hebrews 5:7) He was saved out of death, however; and more than this, he was given the assurance by the Father that he would be saved out of death. This is the explanation of the statement that an angel of God appeared to him in assurance that he had been faithful up to that moment, and that the divine blessing would be with him during the hour of trial just at hand. From that moment onward, all the fear and agony were gone. If the Father's blessing and smile went with him, he could endure all things come what might. VIOLATION OP LAW AND OF JUST PRINCIPLES Our Lord was arrested, neither by Pilate's nor Herod's instructions, nor by their soldiers. His arrest was made at the instance of the Jewish high priest and his associates, who had concluded that his life and ministry were inimical to their plans and projects and to what they considered to be the best interests of Judaism. The murder of Jesus was plotted in advance. But the murderers sought some excuse for their conduct, as all murderers do; and being politicians, they also sought an outward form or semblance of justice, having regard for the opinions of others of more tender conscience than theirs. Under the charge of the priests were men who served as policemen in the Temple and its precincts. Armed with maces, swords and lanterns, these servants of the priests followed Judas, who* knew beforehand that on this particular night Jesus did not intend to go to Bethany as usual, but had purposed to rendezvous with his disciples in the Gethsemane olive orchardAfter they had apprehended our Lord, the Temple police brought him directly to the house of Annas, a superannuated high priest, whose son-in-law Caiaphas officiated in his stead. Annas attempted an examination of Jeaus, hut met with little success, and so turned him over to Caiaphas, whose house was in the same courtyard. There, at probably three o'clock in the morning, the Sanhedrin had assembled. The plot for Jesus' death was deeply laid. The hours between the time when Judas had left Jesus and the other apostles at the Passover supper and the hour of this trial were spent in gathering the members of the Sanhedrin from their various homes throughout the city. Conditions were considered desperate enough to justify all this arrangement for the murder of him who "spake as never man spake." This was because he taught the people, because his teachings were weakening the power of the Scribes and the Pharisees and of the traditions of the elders. — John 7:46; Matt. 26:55. The theory of erroneous religious teachings is that ignorance and superstition are necessary to the preservation of sacerdotal power. Thus always has error hated the truth. Thus always has darkness hated the light. Jesus' condemnation was merely another triumph of darkness over light. Yet it was a triumph only in appearance ; for the divine plan was thus being carried out. The great atonement for sin was thus being arranged for, the result of- which will be the ultimate overthrow of Satan, sin and death, and the world-wide establishment of righteousness and truth forever. THE CASE BROUGHT BEFORE PILATE As quickly as possible the high priest and representatives of the Sanhedrin hurried Jesus to the Preetorium, asking Pilate to condemn him. The Roman governor inquired as to what charge they had against Jesus. They evasively answered that of course he was a wicked man, worthy of death, or they would not be there accusing him. Pilate reminded them that under Roman usage they had great liberty in dealing with all disputes of a religious kind, that he was not posted in the tenets of Judaism, and that [6239] (120 122) (123-125) THE WATCH TOWER Brooklyn, N. Y. therefore they should deal with the case themselves. The priests responded that they knew this, but that they had no power to inflict the death penalty. Thus they revealed the depth of their wickedness. They had deliberately plotted to have Pilate inflict the death sentence upon an innocent person. Then they began to accuse Jesus, claiming that he was perverting the nation, turning it away from loyalty and obedience to the Roman government, that he wae telling the people not to pay taxes to Cseaar, and that he claimed to be the Jewish King. These were serious charges, and the Roman governor was in duty bound to consider them. We note that these were altogether different charges from those brought against Jesus at the trial before the Sanhedrin. Although the charges were false, our Lord made no defense. He knew that the time had come for him to die; and he would not attempt to turn aside that which he knew to be a part of the divine program for him. OTTO LORD ACCUSED OF TREASON The wicked shrewdness of the Sanhedrin is very manifest, in preferring the charge of blasphemy for its effect upon the people, before whom they desired to appear very zealous for the divine law, while they brought an entirely different, but equally false, set of charges against him before Pilate, who cared nothing for their religious opinions. The accusation made before Pilate involved the charge of treason, a charge most likely to arouse the indignation and wrath of the Roman rulers. The Jewish religionists accused our Lord of seditious agitation, of prohibiting the payment of tribute money and of assuming wie title of king of the Jews, and thus apparently of conspiring against the Koman government. While the second charge was entirely false (Matthew 22:21), the other two had an- appearance of truth; and to these were added numerous petty individual charges. Rut to none of them did our Lord make reply, so that Pilate marvelled that he made no effort at self-defense in the midst of such danger. Pilate's several efforts to release his innocent prisoner who, he discovered, had been delivered to him because of envy, were unavailing before the boisterous mob. These, instigated by their rulers, loudly clamored for our Lord's death, and that by the most ignominious and cruel method, crucifixion, so that his memory should ever be covered with infamy. Then Pilate, who was influenced more by considerations of policy than by principle, delivered Jesus to be scourged. Yet at the same time he protested the innocncc of his prisoner, and washed his hands in token of his own innocence in thus* delivering up to them this just person. Not until he himself was pressed by the mob with the threat that he could be reported to Cresar as one hostile to the government and a traitor to his trust in encouraging sedition and conspiracy aganist the government did he relinquish his efforts to save Jesus. OUE LOED'S LAST EARTHLY JOURNEY The Master had been on a constant strain, without sleep, from the time he had sent his disciples to prepare the Passover . This period had included the trying experiences connected with the Passover and the institution of the Memorial Supper, the journey to Gethsemane, the agony and physical weakness there, the trial by the Sanhedrin, the trials before Pilate and Herod, the scourging, etc. All this must have been an enervating strain on him. Now, condemned to crucifixion by those for whom he had sacrificed his heavenly home and the glory which he had with the Father before the world came into existence, he was additionally required to carry his own cross. He did so until his weakness under it3 weight hindered, and a passing farmer was compelled to assist. PERSECUTION CRYSTALLIZES CHRISTIAN CHARACTER "All that will live godly in Christ Jesus When St. Paul wrote the words of this text he seemingly had in mind the very closing experiences of the church on earth. While it is true that the principle of persecution of those who live godly in Christ Jesus has applied throughout the entire age, yet in a marked degree was that to be expected in the end of the harvest period. We reach this conclusion bcause in the context the apostle saysi "This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come; for men shall be lovers of their own selves, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient, .... heady, high-minded, lovers of pleasure more than lovers of God; having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof." The best lexicographers define persecution as the act of doing injury to another; to beset with cruelty or malignity; to harass; especially to punish by loss, pain or death for adherence to a particular creed or mode of worship. Men with inflamed minds are apt to persecute any one who does not agree with them. Some have been persecuted by being put in prison; others by slander, libel, misrepresentation, which the Scriptures describe as bitter words shot out like arrows by the wicked. (Psalm 64:2-4) As civilization has advanced, methods of persecution have changed. In their turn, Lutherans, Baptists, Methodists, Presbyterians and others were persecuted ; and in course of time have themselves become persecutors. We are now living in a day when gross, vile persecution is not so popular as in olden times. The state of the public mind has much to do with determining the character of persecution inflicted, and which will be tolerated. At a time when the country is in stress, many take advantage of the situation to persecute those with whom they do not agree. They do this cunningly by misrepresentation. As an illustration, recently the clergy of the various denominations, Catholic and Protestant , have represented that members of the International Bible Students Association are engaged in the spreading of "Hun propaganda/' and are in the employ of the German government . Nothing would have a greater tendency to inflame the public mind than such a charge, If the charge were true, it would be a heinous crime. Therefore, if the charge be false, it is a great crime to make such an accusation. These misrepresentations, carried by the clergy and their emissaries to petty public officials and by these officials reported to officials in higher station, often result in action which amounts to persecution. For instance, Dr. Case, of the Divinity School of Chicago University, recently published a statement referring to the work of the International Bible Students shall suffer persecution."— 2 Timothy 3:12. Association, saying, "Two thousand dollars a week is being spent to spread their doctrine. Where the money comes from is unknown; but there is a strong suspicion that it emanates from German sources. In my belief, the fund would be a profitable field for government investigation." This, stimulated by similar charges from other nominal churchmen , evidently had something to do with Army Intelligence officers seizing the books of the Treasurer of the Society. The authorities doubtless thought that they would find some evidence to substantiate the charge that our Society is working in the interest of the German government. Of course, the books disclose nothing of the kind. AH the money used by our Society is contributed by those who are interested in preaching the Gospel of Jesus Christ and his kingdom, and nothing else. The wide publication by newspapers throughout the country of the fact that the Society's books have been seized had a tendency to excite suspicion in the minds of others. In many places, local officers have attempted to prohibit the holding of any kind of meetings, either public or private, for the preaching of the Gospel. Certain local officials have required every one to bring in their books and deliver them up. This, of course, is without legal authority, because the Constitution guarantees that no one shall be compelled to surrender his property except by due process of law. All of this persecution really emanates from a class of religionists who hold views antagonistic to the Scriptures and the Society 's teachings. Our information is that the Department of Justice has instructed the District Attorneys to prosecute any one who sells "The Finished Mystery" from and after the date the order was made (some time in March). There was nothing in the order authorizing local officers to interfere with Bible study, nor with public meetings which are held for the purpose of preaching the Gospel. It is in no wise a violation of law to meet together to study the Bible; and, acting under advice of legal counsel, we are advising all the Bible classes to meet in the usual manner and continue the Berean studies, including the study of Volume VII. We advise, however, that the objectionable pages (247 to 253, inclusive) be removed from all books, in order that there may be no semblance of violating the law. It is the duty of everyone to be lawabiding ; but frequently men who think they are enforcing the law ar« themselves violating it. No Bible class should teach, instruct, or otherwise do any act or thing that will [6240] April 15, 1918 THE WATCH TOWER (125-126) interfere with the Government's prosecution of the war. Our business is to declare the message of the kingdom. The Scriptures and the facts both lead us to the conclusion that the persecutions will increase. Those who make themselves the persecutors are to be pitied. Jn a measure we can sympathize with them, because once our eyes were blinded. We should have patience with these and speak to them kindly, trusting in the Lord to give us opportunity to open their eyes to the true situation. In the text the Apostle declares that some form of persecution will attach to any one who lives a godly life. This infliction of injury may come directly upon an individual, or he may suffer indirectly by being associated with others who are persecuted. (Hebrews 10:32-34) Whatever injury is done to one of the Lord's little ones, all who are of that same class will likewise suffer. ^Whether one member suffer, all the members suffer with it." (1 Corinthians 12:26) With consolation we remember the words of the Master: "Tf ye were of the world, the world would love his own ; but because I have chosen you out of the world, therefore the world hateth yon All these things will they do unto you for my nnme's sake, because they know not him that sent me." (John 15 : 10-21 ) In a general way, every person who is in opposition to the Lord's consecrated may be said to be of the world. All who have not the spirit of Christ are of the world. The clergy, manifesting the spirit of the world, are of the world; and history, from the beginning of the Christian era, shows that they have been the chief persecutors. LIVING GODLY IN OHBIST JESUS It is those who live godly in Christ Jesus that suffer persecution. To live godly means to live after the manner which Cod would approve; that is to say, to live in opposition to sin and in harmony with righteousness. It means to live according to the divine law, practising the golden rule. In the world there are two classes: one marching under the banner of Satan; the other, under the banner of the Lord. The first class is in darkness, not out of choice, hut because they were born that way — all coming under the influence of the "prince of the power of the air." The other class have escaped from darkness only by reason of a full consecration to the Lord. Such have come into Christ. In some respects the world has attained a very good standard. As a general rule the laws are very just; but because of the imperfection of man it is impossible to rightly construe and enforce the law. Every Christian realizes this and deeply sympathizes with those who are striving to enforce the law. Our text applies to those who live godly in Christ Jesus, which means more than keeping the Ten Commandments. It means that such a one must he fully consecrated to the Lord, begotten of the holy Spirit being accepted by the Father in the Beloved One; and then that such a one should seek faithfully and consistently to carry out the vow of consecration even unto death. Such consecration vow requires the one making it to follow faithfully in the Master's footsteps . His commission is to make proclamation of Cod's message concerning the establishment of his kingdom. It is hia present duty to announce that the kingdom is here. All who do this will be opposed by those who say, "The kingdom is not here; things are going on as they were from the beginning ." A true patriot is one who is willing to lay down his life in the interest of his fellow-men. The Christian who consecrates himself unto death is a real patriot, because he has agreed to be faithful to the Lord even unto death, in order that he might be associated with Christ Jesus in uplifting and blessing the human race. He, then, is the real friend of the people. Those who take a view opposite to his and who have not the mind of the Lord, readily become persecutors. Thzis we see that those who are in Christ Jesus and who live godly have a difficult and narrow path to travel. Those who faithfully follow in the Master's footsteps bring upon themselves persecution. All who are loyal to God and to his message of truth must thus suffer. They must expect persecution. A good soldier is one who patiently endures the hardships incident to the performance of his duty. The good soldier of Christ Jesus must learn to endure patiently all hardships and persecutions that come to him. (2 Timothy 2:3) God in his perfect wisdom knows what is best for his children; hence the persecutions that come must be for the good of his children. WHY PERSECUTION IS PERMITTED The word "suffer" as used in the, text means to experience . Therefore, he who will live godly in Christ Jesus is certain to experience persecutions as a part of his lot. The Lord Jesus and the apostles all suffered persecutions at the hands of those who did not understand them. Misunderstanding is generally the cause of persecution. Had the Jews known that Jesus was the great Messiah whom they were expecting, doubtless they never would have persecuted him, Did the world know the real purpose of Christians who are striving to follow in the Master's footsteps, doubtless the world would never persecute them. God's arrangement is such and the Scriptures everywhere tell us that those who belong to the royal priesthood will suffer persecution if they live godly, and that those amongst this class who do not experience such suffering may be sure they are not living according to God's will. It is clearly God's will that in the end; of the age his vengeance should be declared against the Babylonish systems. (Isaiah 61:1-3; Jeremiah 5*1:0) It is unpopular to take this course, but since it is the will of God, those in Christ must call attention to the manner of Babylon's deception. They must call attention to the fact that the Lord's kingdom is at hand, and that the great King is now present and will soon set up his kingdom. Any other course would be ungodly. Following the right course brings what the Apostle said it would — persecution. The conditions imposed upon the church are designed by the Lord to be crucial tests of loyalty to him and the principles of righteousness. Trials, difficulties and persecutions are useful in demonstrating whether or not our covenant of consecration is really from the heart. Those who have merely made a covenant with the Lord by words, and not in truth and in fact, in due time will be sifted out. The faithful and loyal ones God has promised shall be made joint-heirs with Jesus Christ in his kingdom. It is for this reason that the church was called while evil still was permitted to reign in the earth arid while the majority of mankind were under the blinding influence of the adversary. Now it seems that the calling is ended and the final crucial test of patient endurance is upon the church. The truly consecrated would have been disappointed had not the events developed as they have. This fiery experience is absolutely necessary, that the dross may he burned away and that the true character might be made manifest. The end is here. The great crucial test is upon God's people. l^et every one, then, who has hope of^being of the kingdom class know that he must suffer persecution; and in doing this, remember the Apostle's words: "If we suffer, we shall also reign with him. If we deny him, he also will deny us." All things of the world, all of its hopes and prospects, we have left behind us. We have hurned every bridge connecting us with things earthly and the hope of earthly blessings. There is nothing to which we could turn back. All things are before us: life everlasting, with a perfect, glorious organism; jointheirship with Christ Jesus in his kingdom: the loving smile and approval of Jehovah. There is no inducement to relax. There is every inducement to firmly press on, enduring hardness as good soldiers of Jesus Christ — patiently and cheerfully bearing whatsoever experiences the Father permits us to have, having in mind that soon we shall see him face to face and be forever with our" Lord and King, Be patient, dear brethren. Look up and lift up your heads!* The evidence is conclusive that our deliverance draweth nigh. TWO KINDS OF LOVE Question : Would you kindly explain the distinction between the two Greek words "philia" and "agapee," as used in the New Testament? Answer: These are elusive words to translate into English , but may be approximated by our terms love and friendship . In languages older than our own, the distinction between the love that craves and the love that goes out uncravingly is indicated in equivalents of "love" and "friendship." Thus the Sanskrit — elder sister in our family of tongues— gives [6 for "love" [lubh) "covetousness" or "greediness" ; and for "friendship" (pri) "unselfish love". The Greek has pkilia for that love which goes out "lovingly" after its object, "an inclination prompted by sense and emotion"; while in the Septuagint and the New Testament it has agapee, "a love without desire," The Latin correspondingly has amo as representing the love that turns to another in the spirit of agreement and of longing ; but, as an equivalent of agapao, it has diligo for the act of "a distinguishing love — without desire," 241] (126 127) THE WATCH TOWER Brooklyn, N. Y* a love that selects and rests on the one selected without asking any return. Failing to preserve clearly the distinction between a love that instinctively grows out of a relationship, or that is based upon a natural desire for possession, and a voluntary and distinguishing love that goes out unselfishly and admiringly toward its chosen object, New Testament critics and commentators generally have been confused in their minds, while seeking to account for the apparent difference 'between the two words — philia and agapee — employed in the sacred text for the designation of "love*'. It is admitted by practically all that philia was a word in common use in New Testament times, as expressive of the love between parents and children, and brothers and sisters, and also of craving love between the sexes. It is also admitted that the word agapee comes into new prominence in New Testament use, as applicable to man's love to God, and to love that is otherwise peculiarly pure and sacred. But these two words seem at times to be employed interchangeably ; and many an eminent scholar has confessed his inability to see the real difference between the words in their using, as accounting for the often indicated superiority of agapee, in spite of the greater warmth and intensity of philia, Cramer, in his "Biblico-Theological Lexicon of New Testament Greek," covers the simple facts in the case when he says : "We find agapee used to designate a love unknown to writers outside of the New Testament — love in its fullest conceivable form ; love as it is the distinguishing attribute in all humanity , but, in the strictest sense, of divinity." Trench, in seeking to differentiate the meanings of the two words agapee and philia, says: "The first expresses a more resting attachment , of choice and selection — diligere=deligere — from seeing in the object on which it is bestowed that which is worthy of regard; while the second, without being necessarily an unresting attachment, does yet oftentimes give less account of itself to itself; is more instinctive, has more of the feelings, implies more passion." Woolsey, after an exhaustive study of the histories of the two terms, says of Trench's definition: "We believe that this is a true statement of the difference between the two words and notions." And all this is in confirmation of the claim made here that philia represents a love that grows out of relationship or craving, while agapee represents a love that goes out voluntarily without any intermingling of selfishness — the one being ordinary love, and the other the higher form of friendship love. Men are said to love, or crave (philein) , "the chief place at feasts" (Matthew 23:6), and "salutations in the market places" (Luke 20:46) and to have this self -interested love (philein), as growing out of relationship, for "father or mother", or for "son or daughter". (Matthew 10:37) On the other hand, the Roman centurion is said by the Jews to have had an unselfish, friendship love ' {agapan) for their nation, as evidenced by his building for them a synagogue. (Luke 7:5) God's children are commanded to have friendship love (agapan) for their "neighbors" (Matthew 5:43; Galatians 5:14), and for their "enemies" (Matthew 5:44), because love does not go out in those directions instinctively, but must be given unselfishly, and of deliberate choice. The saints are enjoined to have a feeling of family love [philein) for their Lord (1 Corinthians 16:22} and for one another in the household of faith. (Titus 3:15) "The world" is said to give a selfish, interested love (philein) to "its own," because of the mutual relation between the two. (John 15:19) But Jesus is said to give a pure and unselfish friendship love [agapan) to Mary and Martha and their brother Lazarus, in the home so dear to him at Bethany. (John 11:5) God is said to be governed by unselfish, friendship love (agapan) toward the world, in the gift of his Son. (John 3:16) But Jesus says the Father loves as with a feeling of family love (philein) those who have come into his inner family circle through Tove for his Son. (John 16:27) And many another passage seems to recognize and accentuate these distinctions iir the force of the two words severally. A striking illustration of the significant uses of the two words in the same conversation is found in the narrative of the interview of Jesus with Peter, on the shore of the Sea of Galilee, after the resurrection. (John 21:15-19) Jesus asks Peter if he gives him friendship love (agapan) more truly than the other disciples, as Peter had asserted that he was ready to do. Peter, remembering his denial of his Lord, replies that Jesus knows that he gives him longing love (philein) . The second time Jesus asks Peter if he can claim to give him any measure of friendship love (agapan), apart from all comparison with others. Again, Peter affirms that the Lord Ipows that he gives him a longing love (philein) . Then Jesus changes his form of question, and asks Peter if he is sure that he gives him even a longing love (philein). At this Peter is "grieved", not because the question is repeated a third time, but because in its third putting it seems to imply a doubt whether Peter has any love for his Lord, even on the lower plane; and his earnest answer is: "Lord, thou knowest all things; thou knowest that I love thee" — with a longing love (philem) ; and Jesus quietly goes on to say that he would have Peter bear himself towards his dear ones just as he would if he were a devoted friend above all the other disciples. Tims the way is opened for Jesus to tell Peter plainly of what is in store for him in his faithful service. Only in the light of the distinction here pointed out isthe full force of divine love to be comprehended in the teachings of the New Testament. SOME INTERESTING LETTERS EUPHRATES BEING DBIED TTP Dear Brethren: — Just a few minutes of your valuable time to let you know of another joyful experience in the harvest field. On one of my regular visits to the Syrian class in Mt. Pleasant, Pa., one of the elders informed me that he had a Free Methodist friend to whom ho had often spoken about the truth, but could not make him see the true meaning of "hell," etc. We went together to the home of his friend, who was a Sunday School superintendent. After a few minutes we turned our conversation onto the real subject. He said he had bought the first three volumes several times and burned them at the instigation of the clergy, and that nothing under the sun rould convince him that there is no hell-fire and eternal toTment . He said his church was the true church. Then I said: Dear Brother, if that is true, why is the Methodist church divided into 16 different sections! Ts Christ divided? FTc was -speechless with surprise. He, said he did not know that the Methodist church had 16 different divisions. Our conversation lasted about an hour and a half; his wife and four daughters and a few Syrian brethren were the audience. After wc finished he said: "Please send me that booklet on 'hell* because I want to read it." After he read the hell booklet it dispelled the eternal torment idea from his mind and he is rejoicing over it. Soon after he procured the first three volumes of Scripture Studiks. This month he knew that I was coming and arranged to attend the meeting, but he did not show up. Later we learned why. He said that the preacher and some of the church officials had come and hindered him by their presence at that hour. The preacher told him not to come to our meeting. He turned to the preacher and said: "Reverend, 1 believed your misrepresentations in the past without proof, but now you cannot fool me any longer, because I have proved Pastor Russell's teachings to be the real truth by the Word." The preacher and those with him were greatly astonished. Again He said: "Now please take my name oft your church roll/' I just received a letter from him saying that he is reading the books and walking in the light as far as he sees it. Are there not many like him? Yours with best Christian love, Geo. E. Kafoory. — Pa. NOW VIEWS MATTERS DIFFERENTLY Dear Brethren in CnRtST: — You will doubtless have had my answer to your letter of October 23 last, returning the Vow slip unsigned. That was the true expression of my heart as to the Vow at that time. 1 have been opposed to the Vow ever since I came to know present truth in 1910, yet not opposed to individual liberty in taking it; nor did I think that it contained anything wrong. But T objected to its being made a test for holding any office in the church. ' That part of the Vow which speaks of the relationship of the sexes I used to think the most objectionable. I used to think that all who had put on Christ would not need any such help by vowing to abstain from all appearances of evil— as the Vow suggests. The w T ords of Brother Hollister come back to me now. When talking over this matter with me he said: "You do not seem to realize the great -stress that is upon mankind during this evil day and the powers of evil that are agrainst us for our downfall." Since that faithful servant has passed beyond the vail and the magnitude of his great office has become more apparent , and the fact that the Lord is still using only the one channel to give us meat in due season, I come to the one conclusion that it muet be of the LoTd that such a safeguard is now set before us. I wish to do the will of God in ftll [6242] April 15, 1918 THE WATCH TOWER (127 ir> things and I have rest about t]ie matter when 1 realize after careful thought and prayer that by subscribing to the Vow T am doing his holy will. I have always appreciated the Morning Resolve. If the V. D. M. questions were being answered by me now I believe I would give more care to the work, yet I think on the whole the answers were very close to the truth. I shall sign and date separate slip for attachment to Vow form, or you can return me the slip itself and I will sign it. I have deeply appreciated the article, "The Price of Exaltation " in Nov. 15th Watch Tower. It is clear evidence to me the Lord is still at the helm. Your brother in hope of eternal life, J. R. Douglas. — Aus. APPRECIATES FREE PRESS AND SPEECH Dear Sirs: — My attention has been called through a news item to a book published by you called "The Finished Mystery/* which the Canadian press censor proscribed as pro-German. If there is no law in this country against your supplying the book, please let me Jcnowits price. Catalogue of other publications of yours would be appreciated. As I understand it, a free press is one of the fundamentals upon which this government is based. I like to see for myself why certain lx>oks and publications are so greatly feaTed by the ruling class. Thus far I have usually found that there is some unpleasant truth which they hope by these tyrannical and undemocratic methods to suppress. All autocrats hate to let the people do their thinking. I believe that nothing that could be done would do more to create dissatisfaction and unrest in a country supposedly free than to attempt autocratically to say what the people shall be allowed to read or not read. I am far from being a pro-German, but I pride myself on being a free and independent American, and nothing stirs me more than to see efforts made to suppress fTee-speeeh, freepress and free-assembly. Sincerely, F. H. S.— N. Y.