Youth in the New World Society

“I give you good counsel, turn not from my teaching. . . . attend to what I say, bend your ear to my words; never lose sight of them, but fix them in your mind; to those who find them, they are life.”—Prov. 4:2, 20-22, Mo.

1. What determines the good qualities of youth in the New World society?

TODAY’S youth is tomorrow’s manhood. Therefore the quality and maturity of the manhood of tomorrow are dependent upon education and training that are given youth today. One of youth’s training centers should be the home, with Christian parents as the teachers. Mature teachers in the Christian home will use as the leading textbook God’s Word the Bible, and such background will furnish the proper background for youth today in preparation for a proper place in the New World society.

2. What factors are involved in teaching and rearing children?

² Teaching and training in the world generally are as varied as the teachers and their traditions and philosophies. As a result, what a variety of mental food is presented for consumption, particularly for the younger generation! “We are what we eat,” some authorities theorize. Our minds become what we feed them. Since the mind directs or influences the person, immediately we sense how important is a proper mental diet. The mind is fed by the educational systems, in the home and in the Christian congregation directly by hearing the spoken word. There is also the indirect way, vitally important, and that is by example, because even the ten-year-old patterns himself so much after parents, teachers and other influences to which he may be subjected or exposed. To follow the proper pattern is illustrated by the Master Teacher’s saying: “I set the pattern for you, that, just as I did to you, you should do also.” However, in contrast with this many pattern themselves according to events of the past or the conduct of more than just an individual, perhaps after a group; or possibly after an educational system with any of a variety of special philosophies, or after the national or local political pattern, or even the policies of commercial organizations their associates are affiliated with or are influenced by. So that improper patterns might be shunned, it is written: “Now these things went on befalling them as examples and they were written for a warning to us upon whom the accomplished ends of the systems of things have arrived.”—John 13:15; 1 Cor. 10:11; 1 Tim. 6:20, 21, NW.

3. What governs physical growth? Why is spiritual food more important?

³ Man was endowed with the ability to procreate his own kind. It was purposed that in the process of development within a certain number of years the offspring would develop physically, this requiring about twenty years. This majority is reached if normal good food is supplied. Of course, a stronger body is developed if exercised or trained by hard work. But such success in itself develops only up to a certain point and is spoken of only in an incidental way by the apostle Paul when he stated: “Bodily training is beneficial for a little.” Since such has little bearing, the more important sustenance, mental food, and its value and effect should be considered for youth in the New World society. This is especially so in view of Paul’s stronger words to young Timothy: “Godly devotion is beneficial for all things, as it holds promise of the life now and that which is to come.”—1 Tim. 4:8, NW.

EARLY TRAINING

4. Why is it important to start training children at a very tender age? And why can they not be permitted to make their own decisions?

⁴ The first training that a child receives during its first ten years, in most cases, is from its parents or its immediate guardians. The child is given a number of do’s and don’t’s at first, and is gradually made familiar with elementary terms that affect it. Often this training is treated lightly, parents sometimes thinking that a child is too young. Whether parents admit it or not, the very young mind can take in much information, and it is during this period that many lasting traits are established. Frequently the child is shrewd enough even to train parents to wait upon it and to have its own way. This is not the Christian way, however, as parents are told: “Train up a child in the way he should go.” The child is imperfect and sinful (not innocent and sinless as some of the clergy would lead many to believe) and needs its steps directed to a righteous course. The child’s own choice often would lead it in an erroneous and selfish way. Jeremiah of old aptly confessed: “I know, O [Jehovah], that the way of man is not in himself, that it is not in man who walks to direct his steps.” How true that is especially of man as a child!—Prov. 22:6; Jer. 10:23, RS.

5. (a) Why is real discipline so imperative? (b) By example show what happens when parents are lax in the enforcement of their commands.

⁵ As an illustration of child rule in the home, this occurred in a Christian home. The child pleaded and raised a fuss about a certain type of food it wanted and did this in a demanding way. The mother yielded and prepared the food. When the food was set before the child he decided he did not want it after all. The mother coaxed, but when the child feigned illness the mother took the food away. Under his breath the child was heard to say: “Well, I really got out of that one!” In this instance there was no discipline and the child was developing the trait of selfishness and was becoming self-centered. Parents may not always realize it, but children test them too. An instance to show this occurred when a four-year-old boy, when his food was set before him, threw it on the floor when the mother stepped out of the room. A mild scolding resulted, whereupon the mother placed more food before him. This was treated similarly in the absence of the mother. It was explained to him that some day he would be grown and would have children of his own, and, when asked what he would do if his child threw his food on the floor, he unhesitatingly responded: “I would whip him.” He knew what was right and that proper corrective measures should have been administered. From an educational viewpoint he must have been somewhat disappointed in his parents. Children in similar circumstances could not look to their parents as a proper example of rearing children. Training is not just a matter of presenting information for the mind, but it is also a matter of living up to it. “Mere words will never train a slave; he understands, but he will not obey.” “He who pampers his servant from childhood will in the end gain nothing but ingratitude.” It is not that children do not know better; often they know what is right and proper, but they will not always perform this unless disciplined. To support further the thought that the obeying of a command is not left to a child’s discretion, it is of interest to notice what Jehovah stated concerning Abraham: “For I have become acquainted with him in order that he may command his sons and his household after him so that they shall keep Jehovah’s way to do righteousness.” There was never any thought that the child would decide the matter, but the parent made decisions for the child.—Prov. 29:18, 19, Mo; Pr 29:21, AT; Gen. 18:19, NW.

6. Why is much time required on the part of parents to train children properly?

⁶ Noting that it was so vitally important 3800 years ago that the parents instruct children, we can see how much more so it is true in the twentieth century when parental oversight is lax and delinquency rampant. Truly, then, Christian parents should spend time teaching and molding the young minds with proper knowledge and then administering proper discipline, if necessary, that will help them to carry out what they have learned. Learning to do what they have been told, and properly doing it and continuing to do it—this will be easier as the building, so to speak, takes shape. Not only that, it will strengthen the mind of the child to discern between right and wrong and so fortify the mind against false doctrine and contamination of erroneous secular training in the schools and other contacts. It is also well to have ingrained in the child’s mind the counsel given by Paul when he stated: “Do not be misled. Bad associations spoil useful habits.”—1 Cor. 15:33, NW.

7. How may parents be helpful to the children when they go to school?

⁷ Some parents feel that with all the delinquency and corruption in the public school system, it might be better not to send their children to the public schools. However, when a child continually receives right parental and theocratic training during the formative years by regular meeting attendance and sharing in the ministry school and door-to-door witnessing, he will be able to ‘withstand the fiery missiles of the Devil’ in school or anywhere else. While in school he can shun the extracurricular activities that are so detrimental to him. This is particularly true when we observe that contemporaries in school often resort to unfair tactics in games and use foul and scurrilous language in their associations with others. Close contact with such ones would be a temptation to follow a like course and adopt similar practices. We are admonished by Paul: “Let a rotten saying not proceed out of your mouth, but whatever saying is good for building up as the need may be, that it may impart what is favorable to the hearers. Let all malicious bitterness and anger and wrath and screaming and abusive speech be taken away from you along with all injuriousness.”—Eph. 4:29, 31, NW.

8, 9. Why is strong faith essential to the young minister while in school? What will enhance it?

⁸ The youthful mind can be strong and can demonstrate this by resisting the false attractions of the world whether in school or out of school. We have observed how many youthful ministers have undergone persecution without ever a thought of wavering. Many are of the same mental attitude as was Timothy, of whom Paul wrote: “I recollect the faith which is in you without any hypocrisy, and which dwelt first in your grandmother Lois and your mother Eunice, but which I am confident is also in you.” Timothy’s later course of preaching and steadfastness in the ministry certainly confirms Paul’s opinion in this regard. We can also notice that the genuine strength of faith was conditioned by the good foundation of Timothy’s early instruction. Similar Christian education now is the responsibility of the parents and then the same strong manifestation of faith may be expected from the children. When the foundation therefor is well laid, the mental attitude of the child will, of his own choice, be aimed at and directed on what has been foremost in the mind of the parents. If this has been the full-time ministry, he will likewise direct and select his educational courses while in school so that the quality of his ministry will be enhanced.—2 Tim. 1:5, NW.

⁹ Selection of trades that lend themselves to part-time work in order to maintain oneself as Paul did in the full-time ministry will be kept in mind. With such a well-planned beginning a child need not be like the unstable and skeptical youth of the world with his unhappy and unsteady future, wondering where he can put his trust. He will be of the same frame of mind as was the psalmist: “Happy are they who live uprightly, living by the Eternal’s law!” For those who live by Jehovah’s law, showing respect for it, there will be no fear and uncertainty. The youthful minister can have joy and peace, as shown in the sixth verse of the same psalm: “No shame befalls me when I heed thy commands.” And, “I will obey thee: never do thou forsake me.” Herein lies a petition on the part of the one that receives instruction that he may obey even more. In further admonition the psalmist continues: “How can a young man keep life clean?” Truly such a question is in the mind of those upright ones who desire to keep themselves separate from the corruption and delinquency of this world. The answer is given: “By keeping to thy word. I store thy word within my heart, to keep myself from sinning against thee.” If the teaching principles outlined in schools were in conformity and harmony with this, children would be of the same frame of mind toward what is right and toward school rules. Today, however, many children, and youths generally, have little respect for school authorities because there is no enforcement of rules and there is lack of high principles.—Acts 18:3, 4, NW; Ps. 119:1, 6, 8, 9, 11, Mo.

PRESENT-DAY DELINQUENCY

10. What happens in schools when there is no discipline? Why?

¹⁰ But what happens to a teen-age boy or girl when adherence to God’s laws is not stressed as a part of early training? Look about and see! There are saddened parents, perplexed educators and civil authorities whose rod of discipline is held back by false ideas, allowing for increasing delinquency and juvenile crime of every sort. Because God’s Word is not the sole authority and guide for training, responsible authorities are divided on the manner of what discipline to use, with many psychologists going so far as to state that to discipline a child is to show hatred for it. The results of these divided opinions our newspaper headlines summarize every day, recording the deeds of modern undisciplined children. But God’s Word plainly says: “The rod of correction gives wisdom; but a child who is left to himself brings disgrace on his mother.” “Chastise your son, while there is still hope of him, and do not let him run to ruin.”—Prov. 29:15, AT; Pr 19:18, Mo.

11. What will result when idleness is permitted?

¹¹ A haphazard and slipshod manner of educating children results in their having an improperly trained mind, a mind that tends toward idleness. Parents are responsible for this when they fail to guide their children aright and keep them busy. Solomon wrote: “When hands are slack, the roof will leak,” showing that slothfulness in thinking and in action leads to a condition of ruin, contrary to God’s admonition that we consider the busy ant as a proper pattern. Busy children do not get into mischief. Every school child’s notebook may well have copied in full on its first page the Bible verses about the busy ant.—Eccl. 10:18; Prov. 6:6-8, Mo.

12, 13. (a) What has contributed to delinquency in the schools today? (b) How does folly manifest itself?

¹² Let us now look further at undisciplined youth. Often, today, fourteen-year-old boys are held in high esteem by other teen-age hoodlums when the roughest, toughest one of them all is able to reign over them in their gang, imitating grownup mobsters, as the boys (and sometimes girls among them) mimic the older hoodlums as they step out in the night to rob, rape, murder and terrorize. They resort to and become slaves of dope to the extent of being unable to see even a glimmer of hope for a better life. What a picture of gloom! Instead of being trained for righteousness, such youngsters become trained for sin. All this can be traced back to the comic-book fad in kindergarten days, to the radio, TV and movie crime-thrillers that consume nearly every school-free waking moment of such delinquents. After thus learning about the many kinds of crime they brazenly step out into a sin-laden world to practice what has been ‘preached’ to them.

¹³ Truly it can be seen that “foolishness is bound up in the heart of a child,” thus indicating to us that folly is a natural tendency of youth and, when not removed by the parents or responsible ones, such folly increases and the results are that “even a child is known by what he does.”—Prov. 22:15, AS; Pr 20:11, Mo.

PROPER CHRISTIAN TRAINING

14. (a) What will be the attitude and conduct of the Christian-trained youth? (b) Is Jehovah cognizant of young children? How does he use them?

¹⁴ Contrast this with a Christian-trained young man or woman who has a pure outlook and a solid hope instilled by the sure Word of God. The result of such is righteousness, peace, health and, above all, the sensible desire to serve the righteous God, Jehovah. It is pleasing to Jehovah that young men and women volunteer their lives in service to him, free from crime and sin and all the unrighteous deeds practiced by the youth of the world, having in mind living only clean and upright lives to his praise. In Jesus’ day when some foolishly tried to prevent such righteousness-loving children from coming to him he rebuked those who would prevent them, saying: “Let the young children come to me, do not try to stop them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such kind of persons. Truly I say to you, Whoever does not receive the kingdom of God like a young child will by no means enter into it.” He “took the children into his arms and began blessing them, laying his hands upon them.” This provided for them an opportunity for genuine happiness. They were free to come to Jesus and he unhesitatingly invited them to do so. He said concerning them: “Out of the mouth of babes and sucklings you have furnished praise.”—Mark 10:14-16; Matt. 21:16, NW.

15. Under what conditions and at what age are dedication and baptism proper for a child?

¹⁵ His invitation to them to sing Jehovah’s praises meant too that it was proper for them to make a dedication to do Jehovah’s will. Faithful children today want to serve Jehovah lovingly and loyally and to follow in the same way that their devoted parents are going. Some may ask, then, Would it be proper for me in my early teens to make such a dedication vow and symbolize this by water immersion? Since many children are baptized each year at circuit assemblies and other conventions of Jehovah’s people, can it be said that this is the proper course for these young ministers to take? Of course, if they do not know in their own mind what they are doing, then they are not ready to take this vital and important step. The definite age as to when baptism or dedication is appropriate cannot be designated. If a child has sufficient knowledge of Almighty God, Jehovah, and his righteous purposes and adheres faithfully to the upright principles set down in his Word, if the child has reached the age of accountability and desires to make a dedication to Jehovah, it is in order for him to do so and it is then proper to take the step of baptism by water. Taking this essential and direct step toward life, the young minister will not be found in the position of the unrighteous. Dedication is an essential step and necessary to gain the approval of Jehovah God. Take note of the wise counsel of Solomon in this respect: “Remember also thy Creator in the days of thy youth, before the evil days come. . . . Fear God, and keep his commandments; for this is the whole duty of man. For God will bring every work into judgment, with every hidden thing, whether it be good, or whether it be evil.”—Eccl. 12:1, 13, 14, AS.

16. What responsibility falls on the shoulders of youth?

¹⁶ So, then, as parents, let us take heed to God’s Word. As children, take heed willingly, gladly to obey! Even before you are twenty-one, try always to show good sense and strength and keep your guard up. You boys of seventeen and eighteen, remember that you are now entering manhood; you must make right decisions. You are becoming tomorrow’s men and each of you can be ready as a man today.

Careful Living Helps Avoid Life’s Pitfalls

“Banish wayward words; . . . keep a clear path before you, . . . spurn not the Eternal’s schooling, never be weary of his discipline.”—Prov. 4:24, 26; 3:11, Mo.

1. What questions arise relative to cultivating good habits for children?

MANY parents argue that they have tried everything to apply the admonition of Jehovah in training their children to understand their proper place in the New World society, but to no avail. Have you? Have you tried habit, for instance? How about the good habit of discussing the daily Bible text each morning? Can you picture what a firm groove that would imbed in the child’s mind and how it would help to keep before the child the purposes of God? Then, too, how about having a regular Bible study right in the home for the benefit of the entire family? Does your family study The Watchtower together some evening before the meeting? This also can become a good habit for children and parents alike, resulting in much joy to all. How about the regular habit of meeting attendance? Being present at every Watchtower study can become such a strong habit that it will not be jeopardized by light excuses for staying away from this important meeting. Other congregation meetings also are important and should be included in the weekly budget of time and become good habits. Humans are habit-forming; so why not cultivate good habits very early in life?

2. (a) What is required of children while attending meetings? (b) What example do we have illustrating proper discipline at meetings on the part of parents, and what is the reaction on the part of the child when given chastisement?

² Just having our children with us at the meetings, however, is not adequate. Here they will be expected to pay attention and not play, draw pictures or have side attractions. They should be taught that there is a time for things other than play. It may require the rod of correction to impress the necessity for being quiet and paying attention, but, when properly applied, such measures need not be repeated often. Sometimes a young boy of five or six will begin to get restless in the meeting and start fussing, disturbing many. His father, sitting beside him, will try to quiet him. He continues fussing and the father starts to get up to take the boy out. The boy does not want to go—he has been outside with his daddy before and has lost every round. So now junior becomes quiet for the rest of the meeting. Thus we see that when discipline is firmly and kindly applied so as to be remembered, it will be beneficial. Kind application may not always be soft application. Such discipline is not an indication of hatred on the part of parents, because an obedient child is generally very fond of a father and mother who mete out discipline in the proper way. Most of us have observed how children respect parents who enforce their words—with penalties, if necessary—and do not let their words die as mere idle threats. Most persons have respect for one who makes his word good, and that includes children. Children, be admonished therefore: “Be obedient to your parents in union with the Lord, for this is righteous: ‘Honor your father and mother’; which is the first command with a promise.” And, too, you parents who love your children, reprove the children for their good even as ‘those whom Jehovah loves he disciplines, as in fact he scourges everyone whom he receives as a son.’ Discipline is not pleasant at the time, but corrects for righteousness.—Eph. 6:1, 2; Heb. 12:6, 11, NW.

3. How may good manners be included in the cultivation of good habits?

³ Good habits include good manners. Christians should have the best of manners. Parents who display good manners in their daily contact with their children and fellow man will have children who display the same good manners. We are admonished: “Maintain your conduct right among the nations, that, in the thing in which they are speaking against you as evildoers, they may as a result of your right works of which they are eyewitnesses glorify God in the day for his inspection. For the Lord’s sake subject yourselves to every human creation.” This good conduct is, in essence, good manners. It is a politeness that stems from a love of God and neighbor.—1 Pet. 2:12, 13, NW.

4, 5. (a) How is Christ Jesus the proper example of good manners? (b) How should good manners be exercised?

⁴ Parents and children alike can benefit by following the perfect example set by the perfect gentleman, Christ Jesus. He practiced the rule of good manners: ‘Do to others as you would have them do to you.’ However, his good manners did not come from some rule book written by men, but sprang from a sincere heart and by his cultivating good habits and putting into practice from youth the righteous principles of Almighty God, especially His law of love.—Matt. 7:12; Luke 6:31, NW.

⁵ Well-mannered parents set the proper example by being courteous to all, under all conditions. They are respectful to their inferiors (children, the mentally ill, less fortunate ones, etc.), as well as to their equals (their brothers) and those regarded as superiors (servants in special capacity, rulers, kings and governors). Some think good manners are a coat that you put on when you go out to visit people. But a truly well-mannered person is one who behaves properly all the time. The place to teach and to learn the best of manners is in the Christian home.

6, 7. (a) What pitfalls confront youth that may be detrimental if youth is not curbed? (b) What Scriptural counsel is given as to right conduct?

⁶ Often young people are quick to belittle or mock parents or other grown-up men and women, shunning their sound counsel. This is true when they take as their standards the dealings of this world. In following such a course often gossip is resorted to, to undermine and belittle the older and more mature servants of Jehovah. Do you use the malicious instrument of gossip? If you refrain from this practice early in life, it is not likely that you will adopt it later in life. Failing to show proper respect, therefore, is nothing more than a brazen display of rebellion, and it must be avoided by every youthful minister as well as those older and mature in Jehovah’s service. The Scriptural admonition given by the apostle Paul is appropriate for youth and, of course, not to be overlooked by parents: “Only behave in a manner worthy of the good news about the Christ, . . . fighting side by side for the faith of the good news.” “In harmony with that you well know how, as a father does his children, we kept exhorting each one of you, and consoling and bearing witness to you, to the end that you should go on walking worthily of God who is calling you to his kingdom and glory.”—Phil. 1:27; 1 Thess. 2:11, 12, NW.

⁷ By following such a course Christian children will avoid the pitfalls common to undisciplined youth. One who fails to take sound counsel is likened to one who is void of understanding and easily overreached and enticed. The Preacher, Solomon, illustrated how succumbing to temptation leads to a disastrous end: “I looked . . . and I beheld among the simple ones, . . . a young man void of understanding.” He continues, “And he is enticed to follow her, like an ox moving to the slaughter, like a dog cajoled to the muzzle, like a bird fluttering straight into the net—never dreaming its life is in danger, till its heart is pierced by an arrow.” “Now, my son, listen to me, attend to what I say: never let yourself swerve to her ways, never wander on her paths; her house is the road to the grave, it leads down to the chambers of death.” Rather than this, allow your path to be lighted by God’s Word and thus avoid the snares of the Devil. In earnest prayer petition Jehovah: “Oh rescue me, save me, . . . for thou art my hope, O Lord, I have trusted thee from youth, . . . Thou hast been teaching it from my youth. . . . My lips shall ring with joy and praise, even the life which thou hast saved.”—Prov. 7:6, 7, AS; Prov. 7:21-25, 27, Mo; Ps. 71:2, 5, 17, 23, Mo.

WARNING OF IDOLATROUS PRACTICES

8. What happens when idolatrous schemes are not recognized and shunned?

⁸ All Jehovah’s servants today must be alert to the wiles of the Devil. All should be aware and have the ability to recognize the subtle schemes of idolatry and concealed snares that may deliver one into the clutches of the adversary. Lack of heed to God’s Word victimized the children of Israel. Bad associations corrupt good morals, of youth and adults alike. That is why the Israelites were exhorted by Jehovah, who said concerning violent reproachers: “They should not dwell in your land, that they may not cause you to sin against me. In case you should serve their gods, it would become a snare to you.”—Ex. 23:33; Deut. 7:16, NW.

9, 10. Why should children be alerted to snares of idolatry?

⁹ Christian children of the King would consider it unimaginable to follow the course of false religion. But what about the many other shrouded contrivances of false worship that call for us to be equally vigilant? Satan is the god of this system of things and is therefore the god of false worship of any kind, and there are many varieties. ‘You are servants of the one you obey.’—Matt. 6:24; Luke 16:13; Rom. 6:16, NW.

¹⁰ For instance, we often see grown-up men and women glorifying science and medicine. We observe them turning to every form of creature worship. Children too idolize, just as their parents do. Even eighteen-year-old boys and girls glory and revel in senseless entertainment many hours and when left to themselves become worshipers of self-satisfying pleasures, just as the pleasure-mad parents, whose example they witness. This is as the apostle Paul foretold: They will be “lovers of pleasures rather than lovers of God.” Some merely glorify movie stars and kings of jazz. Others, taught to revel in deeper sins, glorify crime and sex and become intoxicated with these idol practices of this corrupt world. Deadly bait are all such injurious practices when permitted to seep into the heart and mind of youth, weakening the strong and ensnaring the weak, breaking down the walls of protection provided by the sure Word of God. Death is the penalty for worshiping false gods of any kind. This would include the serving of creatures in a worshipful way; loving pleasure to the extreme and setting one’s affections on those things that would turn us from the true worship of Almighty God. So, then, can even those who are still under twenty-one ignore the sound advice, “Little children, guard yourselves from idols”?—2 Tim. 3:1-4; 1 John 5:21, NW.

LOVE AND DESIRE FOR WEALTH ENSNARE

11. What are some forms of idolatry that are extremely subtle in overreaching youth? What penalty would result?

¹¹ Money, too, has become an idol of this age. Those of this present system of things have become money-mad, and are at a point where they will stoop to any unscrupulous means to attain it. This insatiable desire has become responsible for much of the thievery and many of the other crimes of the twentieth century. Resorting to these crimes is in violation of Jehovah’s right principles as given in his Word, and is not compatible with Christian living. Any person guilty of such crimes would have no place in the New World society. In fact, if one persisted in continuing to share in these wrongdoings it could lead to disfellowshiping from the Christian congregation, regardless of age.

12. (a) How and why has the “love of money” become such a snare to people? (b) How should Christians evaluate the proper position of money and its use in their lives? In their children’s lives?

¹² Inasmuch as the gaining of wealth is the main objective of many grownups of this system of things, children undoubtedly will show the same passion for accumulating money or its equivalent. Hence, again, we see the importance of the proper molding of the minds of the youths in the New World society. While it is true that money is a defense and a convenient commodity to possess, yet the Christian parents should instill in the minds of children true values as emphasized in the Scriptures, namely: ‘Knowledge does more good than money, it safeguards a man’s life.’ Since children will be of the same understanding in this respect as the parents, theocratic parents will have the proper perspective in accumulating wealth, being sure that it is always in subjection to the important thing in one’s life, the ministry. Money should be a means to an end, rather than an objective in life. We can readily observe from this that parents can do severe injury to children if they are too liberal with allowances, giving them too much to spend. Children need to be restrained in this regard for their own good. It may be advantageous for the schoolboy to have a part-time job, earning his own money and thereby learning its actual evaluation and how to handle it judiciously.

13. How valuable are true riches? What sober thought should all have of monetary wealth?

¹³ How much more important are the riches that one lays up for himself in heaven! The Scriptures emphasize in Proverbs: “She is a tree of life to them that lay hold upon her: and happy is every one that retaineth her.” In contrast, Paul wrote to Timothy: “The love of money is a root of all sorts of injurious things, and by reaching out for this love some have been led astray from the faith and have stabbed themselves all over with many pains.” It is not the possession of money that is necessarily evil, but the relative concern and esteem one places upon its possession as an achievement.—Prov. 3:18, AS; 1 Tim. 6:10, NW.

ADVANCED EDUCATION

14. Why should extreme care and thoughtfulness be exercised relative to an individual’s deciding whether to seek education beyond high school or not?

¹⁴ Since the love of money and the advent of materialism have a strong influence on young and old alike, they play an influential part in the decisions made by youth as to their future course of life. Many Christian children see their contemporary graduating classmates planning to enter college, usually with the intent of becoming successful by obtaining either a good position in life or some degree of prominence, which are both measures of success today. But can this be viewed as a course of wisdom directed from a theocratic viewpoint? Frequently the question arises in the mind of youth: “Would it be proper for me to enter college? Will the broadening of my education enhance my capabilities later as a theocratic minister?” Whether a person should or should not seek such higher education is dependent on the individual and what he desires to gain from life, present and future. Up to this point he has been successfully guided by theocratic parents in harmony with godly principles—he is a successful young minister. Now, again, as many times before, he comes to a point in life where he must make a decision, and here too the parents can come to the fore as counselors. Being a sincere young Christian minister, he wants to make a right decision. He must decide whether his ambitions are toward the popular trend of materialism or not—whether he desires to get ahead in the world, to attain a high position and honor and esteem of men which a college education subsequently leads to. In making his decision he must bear in mind the question: How will this affect my position in the New World society and my relationship toward Jehovah God? College is too often a tool of the old world and is shaped so as to be used later in accomplishing its ideologies and to enhance success according to old-world standards. It follows, too, then, that such a course could turn one’s mind away from theocratic education and principles. It would therefore be necessary for one to consider whether he is strong enough to practically divorce himself from theocratic association for at least four years while filling the mind with old-world thoughts and principles.

15. Is the acquiring of scientific knowledge or other courses detrimental? What is liable to bend thinking in the wrong direction?

¹⁵ It is not the acquiring of true scientific knowledge or that on many other subjects, which is in full accord with the Word of God, that is detrimental, but rather the vehicle in which it is conveyed is often saturated with the ideas of men conflicting with God’s thoughts, such as the evolution theory as to the origin of man and other theories and hypotheses that are not compatible with the Bible. Taking in knowledge of pure mathematical science, physics, chemistry, engineering, history, etc., is very commendable and necessary for advancing and improving standards for people to enjoy in this the twentieth century, and this may well continue into the new world when done in harmony with God’s right standards. However, as transmitted to the students through modern unprincipled political ideologies, and therefore questionable, through the unscrupulous commercial methods, and through the allied doctrines of modern Christendom, it may have an adverse effect on the student’s mind.

16. What should students particularly avoid?

¹⁶ One of the greatest risks would be the temptation to share in the many and varied campus activities, including wild parties and the like that could easily lead to weakening the moral standards required of Christians. The same would also be true of so many other extracurricular attractions that would jeopardize the integrity of God-fearing youth. No one is to submit himself to unnecessary circumstances that would lead one into the snares of the ever wily foe, Satan.

17. (a) Why is the contamination of school courses with philosophies of men dangerous? (b) What further questions confront the person contemplating the pursuit of higher education?

¹⁷ When one realizes that the doctrine of evolution and other philosophies of men contrary to the Word of God are a part of higher education, he must consider whether he possesses adequate resistance to withstand the influence of erroneous teachings. Would it not be true that such information would be replacing the good and healthful information of God’s Word that one had gained earlier in life under the direction of theocratic parents? It is highly improbable that one would be strong enough to separate himself from theocratic association and service to Almighty God for such a period of time and still expect to remain in the truth. Finally, and extremely important, what would one select for a profession that would tend to enhance one’s ministry?

18. What type of wisdom is likely to be gained, and what may be its effect?

¹⁸ In pursuing a course of higher education, one would acquire wisdom. But after what fashion? Bear in mind that the institutions of this system of things promulgate their ideas and may easily lead one into submission and cause one to measure success according to their standards, since “the sons of this system of things are wiser in a practical way . . . than the sons of the light are.” Today they pride themselves on being very ‘practical-minded.’ And the lesson for us? “Also I say to you, Make friends for yourselves by means of the unrighteous riches, so that, when such fail, they may receive you into the everlasting dwelling-places.”—Luke 16:8, 9, NW.

19, 20. (a) For the young Christian minister who seeks higher education, what risks are involved? (b) Why would we not expect it to have God’s approval?

¹⁹ We are admonished to ‘remain separate from the world,’ and yet we would be filling our minds with the principles of this world. We are counseled not to miss meetings, yet this would unquestionably result. We are strongly urged to ‘study to show ourselves approved unto God’; in the old world we would be studying to gain ‘wisdom’ and approval of men. ‘Be doers of the Word and not hearers only,’ we are taught; but by following the course of higher education we would have little time to be hearers or doers of the Word of God.

²⁰ God’s approval is upon no part of the old world, and that includes its institutions of learning that promulgate its philosophies. Such ‘wisdom’ adds nothing to the stature of an individual as a minister of Jehovah, because that is not its intended purpose, nor is it designed with this objective.

21. What constitutes constructive Christian education, and of what value is it?

²¹ Constructive education and training are spoken of by Paul in his words addressed to the Ephesians, including assignments for this purpose: “And he gave some as apostles, some as prophets, some as missionaries, some as shepherds and teachers, with a view to the training of the holy ones for ministerial work, for the building up of the body of the Christ, until we all attain to the oneness in the faith and in the accurate knowledge of the Son of God, to a full-grown man, to the measure of growth that belongs to the fullness of the Christ.” Why this? “In order that we should no longer be babes, tossed about as by waves and carried hither and thither by every wind of teaching by means of the trickery of men, by means of craftiness in contriving error. But speaking the truth, let us by love grow up in all things . . . that you no longer go on walking just as the nations also walk in the unprofitableness of their minds.” “Go on walking as children of light, . . . and quit sharing with them in the unfruitful works which belong to the darkness.” Is present higher education under old-world standards compatible with these words of the apostle? The two are no more miscible than oil and water.—Eph. 4:11-17; 5:8, 11, NW.

22. (a) What is the vocation of a dedicated young man or woman? (b) What must be the relative position of other interests in life? What may be his most cherished goal?

²² When a person dedicates his life to Jehovah, his lifetime vocation is that of being a minister and everything else not only gives way to it but is molded to accomplish the requirements laid upon a minister by Jehovah. He will not permit his attentions to be divided by any other pursuits or desires. This being the case, how much more profitably could the young man or woman spend the corresponding or equivalent four years or more in the full-time preaching; perhaps even going to Gilead and then participating in the missionary service or other special assignments, or even sharing in Bethel service. Then full heed would be given to the expert advice: “Pay constant attention to yourself and to your teaching. Stay by these things, for by doing this you will save both yourself and those who listen to you.”—1 Tim. 4:16, NW.

23. What common error of judgment is frequently made by youth today?

²³ Today many young people are of the frame of mind that they are to judge as to what is right and what is wrong. Often we hear the expression, “I am doing what is right”; “I am doing good, I am not hurting anyone.” Appropriately, then, the question might be proposed, According to what standards? Seemingly it is a course that is right in their own eyes, just as it was in the days of Israel when there was no king. This accounts for much of the confusion of today, and here again we find youth has adopted the same pattern. Even in the immature state of youth, they are making up their minds as to what is right or not, and the results are obvious.

MORAL STANDARDS AND CONTEMPLATION OF MARRIAGE

24. (a) What other subjects of instruction come within the scope of parental duty? Why? (b) What is so important regarding eligibility for a marriage partner?

²⁴ When it comes to making decisions perhaps the most trying years of youth are the teens, when girls enter womanhood and boys begin taking on the characteristics of manhood. This opens up an entirely new view of life to them. So far the parents should have had the complete confidence of the children, and this should continue. Young men and women should be able to continue to bring to father and mother their questions about life and the meaning of the changes they are experiencing. They expect correct answers. Youth is entitled to learn more than just the casual explanations of life by listening to stories about the birds and bees and flowers! Now they are entitled to continue receiving instructions in the fundamentals of life too. Parents are the God-appointed ones to give this vital information. Youth expects it and is entitled to it from you, fathers and mothers. This includes proper conduct toward the opposite sex. Likewise, it includes respect for the moral code established, not by man, but by Jehovah God. When children reach these years of life and subsequently think of marriage, the parents should again properly fill the role of instructor so the son or the daughter will understand what is required in the proper selection of a mate. Jehovah’s rules on this matter are clear, beginning with what constitutes eligibility for marriage. Parents should be just as concerned as was Abraham when he selected a marriage partner for his son Isaac. On this matter Isaac had respect for his God-fearing father. Although he lived among Canaanites and their young women, none of these could be considered for Isaac, because they were not in covenant relationship with Jehovah. Paul passes the same wholesome information on to Christians, saying: ‘Marry only in the Lord.’ How can separation from the world be maintained when one selects a mate from the world and then lives so intimately as husband and wife?—Gen. 24:3, 4, 37; 1 Cor. 7:39, NW.

25. (a) Why is singleness so highly regarded in the Scriptures? Under what conditions? (b) What practices must be avoided?

²⁵ Since the Bible stresses the importance of singleness, that is even a better course. Paul explains: “The single man is anxious for the things of the Lord, how he may gain the Lord’s approval. But the married man is anxious for the things of the world, how he may gain the approval of his wife, and he is divided.” One who chooses this better course of singleness must bear in mind that along with it chastity is required. If it is impossible for a young man or a woman to live a continent life, Paul advises: “But if they do not have self-control [gift of singleness], let them marry, for it is better to marry than to be inflamed with passion.” (1 Cor. 7:32-34, 9, NW) Such young people in their teens or older are prospective Christian children of the King, Christ Jesus, and their behavior toward the opposite sex must be clean and above reproach. Just because those in the world revel in drinking sprees, heavy necking and petting, this is no reason for any of Jehovah’s servants, young or old, to let their guard down and fall into a similar course of degradation. The end of such conduct should be kept in mind. Excessive drinking and overeating leads to dulled senses and a lack of resistance to temptation. Petting arouses the sex impulses. Such desires improperly carried too far lead to gross immorality. God-fearing persons cannot carry on as the godless world does. Certainly parents have a solemn obligation to bring up their children with a clear understanding of these fundamentals of life as well as to warn them of the pitfalls.

26. How should a young Christian view marriage?

²⁶ By the time of majority youth should have a clear understanding of marriage and what it means. The fact that one third of the marriages today end up in divorce on every kind of grounds should not mean that marriage should be taken lightly, as observed in this modern age. Divorcing mates on grounds other than adultery and marrying another still constitutes a violation of God’s covenant on marriage and could not have God’s approval. “No fornicator or unclean person . . . has any inheritance in the kingdom of the Christ and of God.” It is important that young men and women be acquainted with these facts of life in order to share in marriage in conformity with God’s will. They will realize that married Christians stay married and have proper respect for the Scriptural arrangement: “Let marriage be honorable among all, and the marriage bed be without defilement, for God will judge fornicators and adulterers.”—Eph. 5:5; 1 Cor. 6:9, 13; Heb. 13:4, NW.

CONCLUSION

27. What opportunities are set before parents that bring joy to their hearts?

²⁷ Parents have wonderful opportunities today to rear children that meet God’s standards and have his approval. No heritage can be greater than this. Nothing could possibly bring greater happiness to a successful parent than to witness children growing to manhood and womanhood sharing in the service of Almighty God.

28. What will be the cherished ambition or goal of the young minister, and what may be his position in the New World society?

²⁸ Youths properly instructed, trained and disciplined truly have a place in the New World society at this time. They are indeed a glory to parents, to the congregation and, above all, to Jehovah and His obedient and faithful King-Son, Christ Jesus. Young ministers will shun all practices and instructions tending to attract their attention to old-world materialism, earthly successes and desires, which are nothing more than ensnaring pitfalls of the adversary. Instead, the most cherished ambition of young people either single or married could be that of Bethel service in Brooklyn or at one of the Watch Tower branches, the full-time service as a Gilead graduate in missionary or other assignments or in the full-time pioneer ministry ranks. Being a Christian minister of Jehovah is the grandest position that today’s youth can occupy or be trained for. It is the course that leads to endless life, can be a channel through which others will receive such life and, best of all, wins the blessings of the living God, Jehovah. You young ministers of today, then, do become tomorrow’s mature, loyal, faithful servants and representatives of Jehovah’s New World society, to his praise!

Strip off the old personality with its practices.—Col. 3:9, NW.