Does Superstition or Knowledge Govern You?

“The path of the righteous ones is like the bright light that is getting lighter and lighter until the day is firmly established. The way of the wicked ones is like the darkness; they have not known at what they keep stumbling. My son, to my words do pay attention.”—Prov. 4:18-20.

1. What is the spiritual condition of many people, and why?

HAVE you ever seen a small child who was afraid in a dark room? As soon as light is put into the room all his fears vanish. He sees everything that is in the room and knows there is nothing there to hurt him. With this knowledge he feels satisfied; he feels safe. We may say it is childish for anyone to be afraid in the dark; but today millions of grownups are filled with fear, uncertainty and superstition because they are in the darkness that Satan the Devil has brought upon this world. Paul described the spiritual condition of the mass of mankind, saying: “The god of this system of things has blinded the minds of the unbelievers, that the illumination of the glorious good news about the Christ, who is the image of God, might not shine through.” These fear-ridden, superstitious, bedarkened people are pitiable in the eyes of any enlightened person.—2 Cor. 4:4.

2, 3. What are some of the strange beliefs held by Arctic peoples?

² The prophet Isaiah foretold of our day: “The darkness shall cover the earth, and gross darkness the people.” (Isa. 60:2, AV) Down through the centuries Satan has held sway over the human race and has seen to it that they have come to believe many strange things. In every community today peculiar superstitions influence the lives of the people. From Arctic lands to the tropics Satan’s superstitions are found. The Eskimos believe in ghosts. Many also believe in the transmigration of souls, that spirits return in animals, winds, rocks, ice and water, and that they can be appeased by hoodoo rites. To change the wind they chant, drum and howl against it, and, as a last resort, fire the graves of the dead. So much superstition, with no reasoning! Though they have never been able to change the wind, their superstitious blindness keeps them trying it.

³ In some parts of Greenland when a child dies the natives bury a live dog with it, the dog to be used by the child as a guide to “the other world.” When questioned in regard to this peculiar superstition they will only answer, “A dog can find his way anywhere.”—The Encyclopedia Americana.

4, 5. How has lack of knowledge of the condition of the dead led to peculiar teachings and ideas?

⁴ The condition of the dead is a great mystery to many. Widespread is the belief that humans possess an immortal soul, and related to this unscriptural belief are many strange ideas and superstitions. Particularly in the Orient millions upon millions of persons hold the idea that the soul transmigrates. But belief in transmigration is nothing new. The ancient Egyptians, propounding the theory that the human soul is immortal, believed that souls went from one body to another. There is no doubt that the Egyptian custom of preserving the mummies of cats, crocodiles and some other creatures had its origin in the notion that they had been inhabited by souls that might someday reclaim these bodies for their own.

⁵ The ancient Pythagoras likewise believed in this metempsychosis or transmigration of souls and therefore preached against the eating of all animals, fish and even eggs. If his ancestors had passed down the information from God given to Noah, he would have known that “every creeping animal that is alive may serve as food for you.”—Gen. 9:3.

6. (a) What is one evidence of Satan’s darkness in Christendom? (b) What is the true condition of the dead, and how would you prove it from the Bible?

⁶ While millions of people in the world today may look on these practices and beliefs as ridiculous, are they so enlightened that they do not fall victim to similar superstitions? Consider for a moment the hundreds of millions of persons who now profess Christianity and yet who sincerely believe in the immortality of the human soul and that their dead loved ones suffer in purgatory fires and can be relieved of the suffering only through the giving of money to a priest for certain religious rituals to be performed. The person enlightened by God’s Word knows that those who have died are not in purgatory fires or alive anywhere, but are dead, unconscious and in the graves awaiting the resurrection, just as Christ Jesus said. But those who have been made victims of the purgatory teaching through darkness and superstition do not know man is a soul and does not possess an immortal soul; so they have been subjected to much worry and considerable loss of money. What a blessing accurate knowledge from God’s Word would be to them!—Gen. 2:7; Eccl. 9:5, 10; Ezek. 18:4, AS; John 5:28, 29.

7. How does the Bible account of the origin of man compare with some theories of men?

⁷ The Bible gives us accurate knowledge provided by God. It tells us of the origin of man through creation. (Gen. 1:27) Evolutionists may think they have a better idea that is modern and up to date; but for centuries many primitive peoples have held to erroneous ideas that are very similar, though without the backing of so-called men of learning and science. For example, there are some people in Madagascar who believe they are descended from crocodiles. They therefore deal with these animals as if they were men, their own brothers. Unless a crocodile kills a man no one ever kills a crocodile, dangerous as they are. When a crocodile does kill someone it is captured by means of a baited hook, given a trial, sentenced to death, executed, and then buried with as much ceremony as if the animal had been one of the family. Foolish superstition! we say; but they believe it.—Introducing Africa, by Carveth Wells.

8. By what means can one free himself of harmful superstitions?

⁸ There would be no end of telling of the strange ideas and superstitions found throughout the world. Satan has completely confused his bedarkened subjects and has brought them much injury thereby. Superstitions are harmful to mankind. Superstition will never lead anyone to the accepted service of Almighty God and life eternal in his new world. There is only one way to be free of the harmful superstitions and credulity, and that is by gaining accurate knowledge from Jehovah God. Knowledge is so important in our lives that Jehovah says people can be destroyed for the lack of it.—Hos. 4:6, 10, AS.

9, 10. (a) Is going to a school sufficient for the gaining of accurate knowledge? (b) What are some hindrances to gaining accurate knowledge? (c) Why is knowledge, not mere sincerity, needed?

⁹ Today there are more institutions of learning in the world than ever before in the history of man. Governments are emphasizing educational programs and constructing new schools, even in isolated districts. But what kind of learning is pursued? What knowledge do the people have? Not all learning is beneficial. Not all knowledge brings life. Years of university training and the reading of mountains of books will not guarantee one’s gaining the protective, life-giving knowledge. Some persons, the Bible says, are ‘always learning and yet are never able to come to an accurate knowledge of truth.’—2 Tim. 3:7.

¹⁰ Jehovah God has provided the Bible so man might gain accurate knowledge and light. But there are many obstacles in the way that hinder the people. The communistic governments object to the teaching of the Bible. In some lands the Bible is not available to the people in general. But one of the greatest obstacles in the way of the people to hinder their gaining accurate knowledge is false religion. The innumerable clergy put their superstitions and traditions of men ahead of the Word of God, deceptively claiming to represent God and at the same time withholding true knowledge of God from the people. These clergy are in the class that Christ Jesus judged, saying: “Woe to you who are versed in the Law, because you took away the key of knowledge; you yourselves did not go in, and those going in you hindered!” (Luke 11:52) The leaders of Christendom have the Bible and they speak about God. Like the ancient Jews, “they have a zeal for God; but not according to accurate knowledge; for, because of not knowing the righteousness of God but seeking to establish their own, they did not subject themselves to the righteousness of God.” (Rom. 10:2, 3) They will not humble themselves to learn from God through his Word. Selfishly they seek to establish their own false religious ideas, a false knowledge. Some of them may have become so superstitious themselves that they have convinced themselves they are right. But thinking one is right does not make one right and in full accord with the principles of God. God says: “There exists a way that is upright before a man, but the ways of death are the end of it afterward.” (Prov. 14:12) Such men who reject the true knowledge of Jehovah are the ones he spoke of prophetically at Hosea 4:6, 10 (AS): “My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge: because thou hast rejected knowledge, I will also reject thee, . . . they have left off taking heed to Jehovah.”

11. What is the only basis for complete knowledge?

¹¹ Although the clergy and world leaders may think they have much knowledge, no one can really have complete knowledge unless he humbly accepts the instruction from Jehovah, the Source of all knowledge and light. “The fear of Jehovah is the beginning of knowledge.” (Prov. 1:7) This fundamental knowledge of Jehovah is the primary part; it is the foundation of all true knowledge.

12, 13. (a) To what source must men go for true knowledge? (b) In what ways is this knowledge like a treasure?

¹² There is only one way to grow in knowledge of the truth and keep clear of harmful superstitions—by having the light. Jehovah says: “My son, if you will receive my sayings and treasure up my own commandments with yourself, so as to pay attention to wisdom with your ear, that you may incline your heart to discernment; if you keep seeking for it as for silver, and as for hid treasures you keep searching for it, in that case you will understand the fear of Jehovah, and you will find the very knowledge of God. For Jehovah himself gives wisdom; out of his mouth there are knowledge and discernment.”—Prov. 2:1, 2, 4-6.

¹³ Yes, accurate knowledge is like a hidden treasure. What could be worth more than the knowledge of Jehovah and Christ that means everlasting life? (John 17:3) But treasure must be sought for and found. Then it must be held on to. It can even be enlarged or increased. All of this takes effort on our part. How can this treasure be gained?

14. (a) What means has Jehovah provided for dispensing true knowledge? (b) Which people can gain this accurate knowledge?

¹⁴ Jehovah has provided his Word, his spirit and his organization. We must take in knowledge with the proper attitude, as “babes,” in humble recognition of Jehovah and his organization, which he uses today to dispense spiritual food. We should have an attitude of gratitude for all the provisions made through the organization of the anointed witnesses of Jehovah, the “faithful and discreet slave” mentioned by Jesus at Matthew 24:45. Jehovah has his own good way and purpose in providing the spiritual food as he does. What is provided is good and we should study it to learn. When a person realizes that he does not know everything, and is teachable like a child, then he can learn; then he will gain spiritual discernment. If he feels proud and wise as worldly men do who advance their theories instead of sticking to God’s principles, he will not understand. Jehovah will not give him his spirit. It is beyond the proud men of this world to understand the spiritual things. “A physical man does not receive the things of the spirit of God, for they are foolishness to him, and he cannot understand them, because they are examined spiritually. However, the spiritual man examines indeed all things.”—1 Cor. 2:14, 15.

15. Why is spiritual discernment so important?

¹⁵ But someone may ask, Do not the clergy and others who claim to be wise men have the Bible and quote from it? Do they not know what it says? There is a vast difference between knowing some Scripture and having spiritual discernment. In time of temptation of Jesus, Satan showed he knew something from the Scriptures and quoted some texts, misapplying them completely. But Jesus had the spiritual discernment. Satan could not understand the meaning of the Scriptures because he did not have the spirit of God with him. Jesus knew how to use the Scriptures, and he used them well in resisting Satan’s temptations. Spiritual things are discerned only by those devoted to Jehovah who humbly seek for his treasures and to whom he gives his spirit. “For it is to us God has revealed them through his spirit, for the spirit searches into all things, even the deep things of God.”—1 Cor. 2:10; Matt. 4:1-11.

16. Who gain the spiritual discernment?

¹⁶ So it is seen that Jehovah commits his sacred secret to his faithful servants, and not to worldly-wise men who would try therewith to bring honor to themselves and not to God. Christ Jesus saw this and gratefully exclaimed: “I publicly praise you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because you have hidden these things from the wise and intellectual ones and have revealed them to babes.” (Matt. 11:25) His disciples were given understanding because they humbly sought the treasure from Jehovah God. This spiritual discernment is not something common, to be treated lightly. It is not something one can buy. It is a gift from Jehovah to those who approach him in humility, who study Jehovah’s Word and who use their knowledge to honor him. It is a great hidden treasure. Seek it, every one of you.

STUDY

17, 18. Why is study necessary, and what should be our attitude toward it?

¹⁷ When we study our motive must be pure and our minds open. Our purpose should be the learning of something for future use in serving Jehovah rather than wanting to boast in our personal knowledge, feeling our own importance and having all our brothers come running to us so we can throw out our chest in pride when we can answer some Scriptural questions. By having the proper attitude toward the treasured light we can gain the spirit of Jehovah, which is the way to the understanding of the Word that was written under its inspiration.

¹⁸ Personal study is the foundation part of the life of the true minister of God. We cannot get along without it. Just as the strong physical man maintains strength through regular training, exercise and proper eating, so the spiritual man must exercise his mind by having proper spiritual food regularly. Busy though Jehovah’s servants are in ministering to others, they cannot neglect their personal study. For a little while one may get by with hastily taking in his spiritual food while on the run, but later on he will feel a loss. Time must be set aside for this personal study, making oneself think, and the schedule must be held to carefully.—Deut. 8:3.

19, 20. How is concentration related to successful study?

¹⁹ When we sit down to study let us have clear minds, putting aside other things for the moment. What are you thinking about now? Are you concentrating on what you are reading? Or are you preoccupied with things in your home or what you are going to do tomorrow? You are spending valuable time reading this article. Then is it not wise to be practical and absorb all the spiritual things presented here? Think about other things when you are not engaged in theocratic study.

²⁰ This is just an example. The same principle can be applied to any meetings we attend for Bible study. We can cultivate the quality of concentration. We shall achieve this only by being more interested in what we are studying than in anything else. When one is very much interested in a subject, concentration becomes almost automatic. One can cultivate the ability to concentrate by reminding oneself of this fact each time one starts to study.

21. How can one gain the most from time spent in study?

²¹ As we study let us reason on what we are studying. Let us prove for ourselves by the Scriptures that these things are so. Remember that we are trying to learn for future use and we are studying material that is the basis for what we do. In the Bible and in Bible study publications of the Society we can make notes. We should learn to pick out the key words that answer questions, and we may even underline them to help us remember. Our desire must be to make the truths our own, useful to us in the ministry.

22. How is use of accurate knowledge related to gaining spiritual discernment?

²² After this concentration and preparing of the mind to receive and retain the accurate knowledge, make practical use of what you have been given by Jehovah. Think about the things learned and, by association of ideas, get them firmly in mind. The apostle Paul said: “Give constant thought to what I am saying; the Lord will really give you discernment in all things.” (2 Tim. 2:7) Not only think about these things, but talk about them. Write about them. Repetition is needed by almost everyone to hold on to the accurate knowledge. A wonderful provision of Jehovah is the regular meetings where we can discuss spiritual things we have already studied and gain answers to questions or points that trouble us. For our own good we take an active part in giving comments. By thus keeping close to the organization and by helping others with their study of the Bible, we ourselves can be filled with accurate knowledge. And the more we use our knowledge of the truth the more we understand and have the spiritual discernment; as Paul showed at Hebrews 5:14: “Solid food belongs to mature people, to those who through use have their perceptive powers trained to distinguish both right and wrong.” This solid food is spiritual food. Does solid spiritual food belong to you? Have you made it your own?

PLEASING JEHOVAH

23, 24. (a) Why become filled with accurate knowledge? (b) What benefits result from the field ministry use of our knowledge?

²³ The spiritual food and knowledge have been provided for Jehovah’s servants in abundance to help us take a course that will be pleasing to Jehovah. If we have filled up our minds with accurate knowledge we know how to walk before Jehovah and please him. At Colossians 1:9-12 we read: “Be filled with the accurate knowledge of his will in all wisdom and spiritual discernment, in order to walk worthily of Jehovah to the end of fully pleasing him as you go on bearing fruit in every good work and increasing in the accurate knowledge of God, being made powerful with all power to the extent of his glorious might so as to endure fully and be long-suffering with joy, thanking the Father.” Think about those words. It is this accurate knowledge that brings wisdom and spiritual discernment. It is to be made use of in walking before Jehovah in his service. And as we go bearing fruit in Jehovah’s service, doing good work, we shall be increasing in the accurate knowledge of Jehovah. To be active in the ministry, preaching at the doors and in the homes, is a good friend and benefactor to us. By using the spiritual knowledge we enlarge our perceptive powers. We get the full benefit of the personal study we have done. Note how it comes about.

²⁴ One example is the use we make of the knowledge in field ministry. Before we can preach we must be prepared. In our service meetings and at home we outline Bible sermons to be given at the doors and on our back-call visits. Then we go to the homes of the people and deliver the sermons. People ask questions of us and we find the answers for them in the Bible, thus enlarging our knowledge. We repeat the principles of Jehovah and more firmly implant them in our minds. Our minds become more keen in perception as we study the Bible each day and conduct Bible studies in the homes of the people. So by bearing fruit in the ministry, by use of the knowledge we have gained, we are constantly increasing in accurate knowledge. We are alive spiritually.

25. What results to those who do not put knowledge to use in serving God?

²⁵ In contrast, those inactive in God’s service do not go on increasing in accurate knowledge. Even if one sits at home and reads for hours and hours, he is not gaining in perceptive powers through use of the knowledge. He does not produce fruit in God’s service. Jesus said those who do not produce fruit are put aside. (John 15:2) Individuals who do not put their knowledge to use demonstrate that they do not have discernment, nor its key, God’s spirit. As Jesus demonstrated at Luke 19:26, if one does not use what he has been given it will be taken away from him. The only way to go on increasing in accurate knowledge, to have spiritual discernment and wisdom, is to be bearing fruit consistently in the service of Jehovah.

Increased Knowledge Brings Lasting Benefits

1. Why is it so important to gather accurate knowledge now?

SINCE A.D. 1914 Jehovah has mercifully kept the way open for creatures on earth to come to a knowledge of him and be saved. He cut short the troubles against Satan and allowed a time when spiritual food could be distributed in abundance. But then will come the time of difficulty when the way will be closed. (Matt. 24:20-22) Knowing this, we see how important a time it is now for all to be taking in more accurate knowledge and fleeing from the superstitions of the dark world. It is a time to work at taking in knowledge, like the ants that gather food in the summertime of plenty. The fools who do not gather in accurate knowledge now are like the proverbial grasshopper who took the easy course in times of plenty and did not look to the future. Suddenly comes the winter and calamity for the unprepared. “Go to the ant, you lazy one; see its ways and become wise. . . . it prepares its food even in the summer; it has gathered its food supplies even in the harvest. How long, you lazy one, will you keep lying down?”—Prov. 6:6-9.

2. (a) Why does the wise person never come to the end of learning? (b) How does the true Christian use his increased learning to help others?

² Even though a person may have some knowledge of the Bible and may be serving in the ministry, he is wise only if he continues to give ear to the words of Jehovah and thus goes on increasing the knowledge he has. Scriptures have been written that a “wise person will listen and take in more instruction, and a man of understanding is the one who acquires skillful direction.” (Prov. 1:5) Christians never come to the end of their learning, but “the path of the righteous ones is like the bright light that is getting lighter and lighter until the day is firmly established.” (Prov. 4:18) There is need for each person who has begun to serve Jehovah to continue advancing to greater maturity for his own good and for the benefit of those he serves in the ministry. There are many theories and philosophies that have been advanced by men of the world against which the Christian must make combat. Millions of people have come into captivity to lies and falsehoods and are spiritually sick. Jehovah’s ministers have been sent forth to carry the healing spiritual light, and as they increase in accurate knowledge they become more skilled in their work. They become versatile, able to discuss many subjects and overcome many barriers. Like proficient doctors they are able to discern the spiritual ills afflicting the people and appropriately minister to them. Just as no one medicine can be prescribed for every type of physical illness, heart disease, cancer, etc., so the experienced minister must determine how he is to remove the stumbling blocks in the way of the peoples of many religions in the world today. One sermon on one subject may remedy the affliction for a certain group, but the advanced minister is prepared to deal with the varied types of superstitious thoughts that hold men in captivity. He has a ready answer for every man.—1 Pet. 3:15; Prov. 9:9.

3. How do we use knowledge in connection with our spiritual warfare?

³ Taking the wise course of becoming filled with accurate knowledge gives us spiritual protection in our spiritual warfare. Through this accurate knowledge and spiritual discernment we are made powerful, so as to endure with joy. Accurate knowledge means strength. “One wise in strength is an able-bodied man, and a man of knowledge is reinforcing power. For by skillful direction you will carry on your war, and in the multitude of counselors there is salvation.” (Prov. 24:5, 6) Wise guidance comes from God’s Word. Additionally, Jehovah has made provision in these days for wise guidance through the mature servants in the organization, counselors, who have a knowledge of God’s Word. For all your activities, gain knowledge by talking to your brothers. The right kind of ministers give good advice.

4, 5. What are some practical examples of how wise counsel is beneficial?

⁴ Do we not consider this the wise course when we consult learned men in other matters? In time of illness or pain, do we not consult a physician that we consider more familiar with the functions of the body than we are to gain knowledge? Knowledge satisfies; it puts the mind at rest. Some people injure themselves by worrying about such things instead of seeking accurate knowledge. Accurate knowledge of how the body functions helps overcome such personal fears. We may have disabilities physically, but we know that even with these afflictions we can still be useful to Jehovah somewhere in the ministry.

⁵ And in legal matters we would logically seek knowledge from lawyers. For example, if one should be falsely accused of a crime it might cause one untold worry and anxiety because he does not know what his rights are under the law. In this state of mind he might act hastily and place himself in great jeopardy. But accurate knowledge of the facts and of the law gives one power for his defense.

6, 7. Show how accurate knowledge in spiritual things is a defense.

⁶ So God’s Word is practical. In many things it is true that in the multitude of counselors there is safety and help. It is especially true, however, in spiritual things. Accurate knowledge in spiritual things is a defense. Knowing that Jehovah has almighty power and that he cares for his own gives us comfort and strength. It removes fears that would weaken and break down our defenses. For example, partial knowledge of the existence of demons might have one concerned over demonism, wondering whether demonism would have some power over one. But accurate knowledge puts the mind at ease. With faith added to the accurate knowledge that Jehovah gives, the defenses are built up.

⁷ Jehovah is a strong tower and rock of defense. As he put a hedge of protection from Satan around Job, so he does with his servants on earth today. In the days of ancient Israel the false prophet Balaam was called upon to use demonism against Israel. But Jehovah protected his chosen people from it. Even Balaam knew it, saying: “For there is no unlucky spell against Jacob, nor any divination against Israel.”—Num. 23:23.

8. How does knowledge play an important part in protection from demonism?

⁸ Jehovah still protects his own. Through accurate knowledge and faith, even those who were once afflicted by demons and superstitions before they knew the truth can be safe. It is necessary to clean the mind of demonistic practices and not leave the mind open for the return of demonism, but to be filled with accurate, protective knowledge from Jehovah. It will protect from these invisible enemies, for we know thereby that we can call on Jehovah and should call on Jehovah in every time of need, and we should not regard with fear or awe any manifestation of demonism that might occur in this world.—Luke 11:24-26.

9. How has the knowledge of the truth set Jehovah’s witnesses in Africa free?

⁹ There is a difference between the truth of God’s Word and the doctrines of the various sects of Christendom when it comes to defeating demonism. In Africa Christendom has made many converts, but they continue to hold their pagan superstitions and will attend church in the morning and then go to the forest and participate in fetish ceremonies in the evening. On the other hand, when the light of truth brought by Jehovah’s witnesses penetrates the African mind, superstition and demon worship are banished completely. To give an illustration: In one village a gale broke off some branches of a large tree that was believed to be inhabited by spirits and was regularly worshiped. Although the road was blocked, not one villager would dare touch a branch for fear of being struck dead by the juju. So what did they do? They sent for Jehovah’s witnesses to clear away the branches because they knew the juju had no power over them. Likewise, when juju processions pass through villages, terrorizing the population, Jehovah’s witnesses calmly walk by in the road, while others flee to their homes in terror. It has been recognized throughout the villages that the juju has no power over Jehovah’s witnesses. Truly Jesus said: “You will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.”—John 8:32.

10. What superstitious practices of Christendom prove they are under the darkness of the god of this world, Satan?

¹⁰ Superstitious Africans who fear the demons are commonly known to use amulets, fetishes or talismans to ward off evil spirits and bring good fortune. Millions in Christendom regard such things as signs of the primitive and barbaric; but at the same time so-called “miraculous medals,” crosses, images, and “holy pictures” are becoming more popular day by day among the superstitious multitudes of Christendom. None of these provide any protection or good fortune but are actually forbidden by God’s law. Here is evidence conclusive that God’s truth has not set them free. They are still in need of accurate knowledge from God’s Word.—Ps. 115:4-8; 1 Cor. 10:7, 14.

11. How did failure of the Israelites to use knowledge involve them with demonism?

¹¹ In Jehovah’s Word, the Bible, we find other knowledge that we must use for our protection too. Balaam could not use demonism directly against Jehovah’s people, so he used another form of attack. Jehovah had provided information to all Israel concerning punishment for immorality. The Israelites knew it was wrong. But those who failed to use knowledge succumbed before demonistic sex worship. They lacked understanding, as we read at Proverbs 6:32: “Anyone committing adultery with a woman is in want of heart; he that does it is bringing his own soul to ruin.” Thousands of Israelites died for not heeding accurate knowledge.—Num. 25:1-9.

12. How does use of accurate knowledge provide a defense?

¹² Use of accurate knowledge plus faith provides a defense. Noah and his family had knowledge, went into the ark and were defended against the flood. Lot had accurate knowledge of what would happen to Sodom. He believed what Jehovah said and fled from Sodom, thus defending himself and his daughters. Rahab was given accurate knowledge of what would happen and where the place of safety would be. She added faith to this, stayed in her house, and thus had a defense against the destruction that befell Jericho. Early Christians had accurate knowledge of what would happen to Jerusalem because they paid attention to true prophecy. They added faith to it, fled Jerusalem in the first century and thus defended themselves against destruction. And now we have knowledge of the battle of Armageddon just ahead, and if we are wise we are taking proper steps for our defense.

13, 14. What Bible illustrations show that resisting knowledge for personal reasons ends in disaster?

¹³ But knowledge plus selfishness ends in disaster. Balaam was told not to go up to Moab. He knew he could not curse Israel. Because of the lucrative offer from the king of Moab Balaam presented the matter before Jehovah a second time. The reward was always in his selfish mind. He went to Moab and on the way demonstrated that he did not even have as much sense as his ass. Finally he met with personal disaster, death.—Num. 22:12-35; 31:8.

¹⁴ Knowledge plus disobedience ends in disaster. First Kings, chapter 13, tells of a man of God from Judah who knew God did not want him to eat or drink in a place called Bethel. But then when a man came and told him something different from what God had said he foolishly accepted the false knowledge. He was disobedient, ate and drank where it was forbidden, and was executed by Jehovah under the paws of a lion. He paid for his sin.

15. What warning does Paul give concerning going against knowledge willfully?

¹⁵ Today sin against accurate knowledge results in disaster too. “For if we practice sin willfully after having received the accurate knowledge of the truth, there is no longer any sacrifice for sins left, but there is a certain fearful expectation of judgment.” (Heb. 10:26, 27) Jehovah expects us to use the accurate knowledge that is available to us, to make it a defense so we will not slip back into the ways of the old world.—2 Pet. 2:20.

16. When one makes a mistake, how can one gain Jehovah’s forgiveness?

¹⁶ This is not to say that mistakes cannot be made. But these mistakes are not willful mistakes made against accurate knowledge. These are sins due to our inherited imperfection and perhaps lack of knowledge. When anyone falls under this imperfection he should quickly put forth effort to make things right with the Father in heaven. Jehovah extends mercy to us. We should go to him and ask forgiveness, taking comfort from the words of 1 John 1:8, 9: “If we make the statement, ‘We have no sin,’ we are misleading ourselves and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, he is faithful and righteous so as to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” This accurate knowledge that Jehovah is merciful gives us a fortification against feeling depressed and helps us to keep a happy spirit as we continue to serve him.

17. (a) If one errs, what should one do to overcome spiritual sickness? (b) Why should we be glad for spiritual chastening when it is due us?

¹⁷ When we err self-examination is good, but not self-condemnation, for it may lead to spiritual sickness. Any who become spiritually sick can turn to James 5:13-20 for the remedy. Here is accurate knowledge of how to overcome it. Be willing to get counsel from brothers and follow the good advice they give from the Scriptures. Jehovah has made this provision for his servants so they can grow strong again, to be useful to him in his service. Sometimes one who is spiritually sick or has done wrong is afraid he may receive correction or chastening or embarrassment; but this correction is good for him and should be accepted in the knowledge that Jehovah chastens those he loves. It is not to break the spirit of the offender. Afterward he will be much stronger for it. Paul wrote about one so chastened, saying: “This rebuke . . . is sufficient for such a man, so that, on the contrary now, you should kindly forgive and comfort him, that somehow such a man may not be swallowed up by his being overly sad.” (2 Cor. 2:6, 7) It is by getting accurate knowledge of how to proceed and by following it that we can regain happiness and be protected from falling again in the same way.—Prov. 12:1; Heb. 12:6.

KNOWLEDGE IS BENEFICIAL

18. How does knowledge from Jehovah benefit us now?

¹⁸ The knowledge Jehovah has provided brings many benefits. It is a guide to the enlightened ones every day, making it possible for them to render acceptable service to Jehovah. Their steps are not uncertain or fearful as are those of one in the darkness, but with confidence and sureness they advance to greater maturity. True Christian freedom is theirs. What a contrast to those who live in the darkness of superstition and fear under Satan’s domination! Even though they may have been born among highly superstitious people, the truth has made them free. No longer do they fear the priests and witch doctors of false religion. Nor are they frightened over thoughts stemming from the teaching of the lie that the soul is immortal or that after death the souls of men suffer torment or transmigrate, living on in the bodies of animals or other creatures. Jehovah has exposed the demons to view so that the enlightened Christians have knowledge of how they operate and how Jehovah provides protection to his servants from the supernatural manifestations of demonism. While the unenlightened men of the world exist in fear and trembling as they view the worsening condition of the world, Christians are calm and confident in Jehovah because he has given them accurate knowledge of what he is doing, and he has lighted the pathway to the new world; and they can say along with the psalmist: “Your word is a lamp to my foot, and a light to my roadway.”—Ps. 119:105; Luke 21:26.

19, 20. (a) What effect does the accurate knowledge from Jehovah have upon us? (b) Why is accurate knowledge so much more valuable than material possessions?

¹⁹ Of all people who have ever lived, we are blessed to be living now when God’s light of truth is shining so brightly. Jehovah has given us accurate knowledge so we can be sure of what we are doing, what we are saying, and where we are going—so we can endure through being filled with it. He has poured out great love upon us and he has shown us how to abound in love. With love and accurate knowledge we may be made flawless in our devotion, not stumbling others in actions or words but, by using our tongues to utter knowledge aright, helping others to join with us in being filled with righteous fruit to God’s glory and praise.—Prov. 15:2; Phil. 1:9; 2 Pet. 1:8; 1 Cor. 2:12, 13.

²⁰ Accurate knowledge makes us firm. With the help of Jehovah, let us stand firm now, not quickly shaken from reason, not excited or worried. We add self-control to our knowledge. We have put on a new personality through accurate knowledge. Through accurate knowledge we have come to unity with our brothers throughout the whole world. We have all received the spiritual food through the organization of Jehovah and see in harmony. Satan would like to break up this unity, but with Jehovah’s help and by his servants’ being filled with accurate knowledge the enemy will not break our ranks. Let us stay in the light, never afraid of Satan’s darkness. The time has come really to make the accurate knowledge our own, to know our hope, to be ready always to tell others about it. Jehovah says we are his witnesses. We need accurate knowledge actually to be Jehovah’s witnesses. Jehovah has given us this great treasure. It is a treasure that cannot be taken away. Money may fail. At best it does lose its value. Our material possessions may be taken away from us; and they will be taken away from many. But the accurate knowledge of Jehovah and of the nearness of the new world cannot be taken away if we have made it sure. It keeps us filled with joy under all circumstances. With this accurate knowledge and our faith we face up to our enemies, especially the spiritual forces in our spiritual warfare. Calmly and with confidence in Jehovah we stand forth as his witnesses, bearing fruit even in adversity, and offering accurate knowledge to others. We can do this because we know we are never alone. Jehovah never sleeps, but he watches over his own. This knowledge makes us a strong defense.—Ps. 121:3-5; Eph. 6:12.

21. How have accurate knowledge and faith based upon it carried Jehovah’s servants through great trials in our generation?

²¹ Already in our century many brothers have gone through great trials, and their accurate knowledge from Jehovah and their faith based upon it have carried them through. They have not been afraid, because they learned to love Jehovah. (1 John 4:18) Men of the world, who do not love Jehovah and who do not possess his spirit, cannot fathom the joy and calmness and confidence of Jehovah’s servants in times of great trial. A Roman Catholic doctor who was in German concentration camps with Jehovah’s witnesses bears this out in his book, saying: “One cannot escape the impression that, psychologically speaking, the SS [troops persecutors] were never quite equal to the challenge offered them by Jehovah’s Witnesses.” (Eugen Kogon: The Theory and Practice of Hell) So history shows the Nazi persecutors were never able to comprehend the faith and the spirit of Jehovah’s people. Our brothers had taken in accurate knowledge from Jehovah’s Word of truth, and no amount of persecution was able to remove it. More recently the Communists have become publicized as using what has been called “brainwashing” to change the beliefs of prisoners; but the viewpoint of persons with previous strong convictions cannot be changed. To this day our persecuted brothers in communistic lands are confounding their tormentors because the accurate knowledge they have stored in their minds continues to guide them and Jehovah is with them.

22. What do we need to survive in our spiritual warfare?

²² But the battle is not yet over. Doubtless many more of Jehovah’s servants will suffer persecution in many lands while Satan makes his last stand against Jehovah. Revelation 12:17 shows that the Dragon is now making war with the servants of Jehovah on the earth. To survive in this warfare we must be strong of mind. Therefore, while we have the opportunity of taking in so much accurate knowledge of Jehovah from his Word, let us become filled with accurate knowledge as a defense in these evil days.

23. (a) How are people of good will now benefiting from accurate knowledge? (b) Why will the accurate knowledge taken in now be very valuable in the future?

²³ People of good will in this generation must also gain accurate knowledge of Jehovah to survive Armageddon into God’s new world. Now Jehovah uses his enlightened witnesses in carrying out his will that all kinds of men may come to an accurate knowledge of the truth and be saved. (1 Tim. 2:4) Many of them have already been taught this accurate knowledge and have became part of the New World society. While this knowledge and their faith will help them through the battle of Armageddon, that will not be the end of taking in knowledge. Thereafter accurate knowledge will increase more and more. In the new world all will be free forever of harmful superstitions and fears. The new world will fully absorb the interest of its every inhabitant. Because Jehovah’s knowledge is infinite, the taking in of knowledge by his subjects will never come to an end. There will be new things to learn for eternity, because Jehovah is the great Source of accurate knowledge. Seeing what is ahead of us, we ought to be taking in as much knowledge now as we possibly can. Become filled with accurate knowledge. Lay a good foundation of knowledge, something strong to build on in God’s new world when, as Isaiah foretold, “the earth shall be full of the knowledge of Jehovah, as the waters cover the sea.”—Isa. 11:9, AS.

Balfour’s Speech on Uniting Mankind

American religious leader Robert E. Speer tells the following about British statesman Arthur Balfour, one-time prime minister, foreign secretary attending the Paris Peace Conference, representative to the League of Nations and delegate to the Washington Disarmament Conference: “Professor Lang went to a lecture in McEwen Hall, Edinburgh University, given by the great statesman, Arthur Balfour, upon the topic, ‘The Moral Values Which Unite Mankind.’ He noted a Japanese student of the university in a seat opposite him assiduously taking notes. Mr. Balfour gave a masterly presentation of the different ties which bind together the peoples of the world: common knowledge, commerce, and the rest. He sat down amid a great outburst of applause. After a moment of silence the chairman, after the Scottish fashion, arose to make a little speech of appreciation of his own. But before he could say a word, the Japanese student rose, leaned over the balcony, and called out in a clear voice, ‘But, Mr. Balfour, what about Jesus Christ?’ You could have heard a pin drop. Everyone realized the justice of the rebuke. A leading statesman of the greatest Christian empire in the world had not said a word about the one fundamental and essential bond which must unite mankind. A Japanese student from a faraway non-Christian land had to remind them with the question, ‘But, Mr. Balfour, what about Jesus Christ?’”—Treasury of the Christian Faith.

Shipwreck Explained

“Most people are willing to take the Sermon on the Mount as a flag to sail under,” Oliver Wendell Holmes once said, “but few will use it as a rudder by which to steer.”