go. We are told: “The normal expression of loyalty, alike to the emperor and to the imperial City, was to burn incense to his genius and to the genius of Rome. The Christian held that such action was to offer worship to gods or divinities that he did not recognize.”a What would the Christians do when called upon to sacrifice to the emperor, crossing the line, so to speak, from respect to religious worship? History answers: “Christians refused to . . . sacrifice to the emperor’s genius. . . . It was also carefully explained to [the Christian] that he was not worshiping the emperor; merely acknowledging the divine character of the emperor as head of the Roman state. Still, almost no Christians availed themselves of the chance to escape.”b

So the early Christians refused to ascribe to a human ruler the powers of a god or to perform religious acts of worship toward a civil authority, but they were willing to show proper honor. Yet, in some aspects of this matter conscience comes into play. Even when it is recognized that bowing to a ruler is just a common local form of respect for his position and not an act of worship, some Christians might decline participation. Or some might feel compelled to avoid using certain customary expressions of honor in regard to a specific ruler because of his actions, yet still striving to be peaceful, law-abiding citizens. The respect that others have for their fine conduct, and their own tact, might enable the Christians to follow the dictates of their conscience without interference. (Acts 24:16) But if not, then they would have to be willing to accept the consequences of their decision.—1 Pet. 2:19.

One final point that deserves brief comment in this context is the importance of the Scriptural position of neutrality. Sometimes individuals who could conscientiously make an oral expression of respect for a civil authority are urged to join in shouting political slogans or in singing patriotic songs. To do so would amount to taking sides in the political affairs of the nations. Could a Christian do that, since Jesus said that true worshipers “are no part of the world, just as I am no part of the world”? (John 17:16) If one refused to share in such activities he might receive opposition temporarily, but the apostle Peter counseled: “It is better to suffer because you are doing good, if the will of God wishes it, than because you are doing evil.”—1 Pet. 3:17.

In all these matters Christians want to think first about maintaining acceptable worship and God’s approval. Guiding their lives so as to do this will work to their everlasting good, as it did for Jesus, who said: “In the world you will have tribulation, but take courage! I have conquered the world.”—John 16:33.

Announcements

IS THE BIBLE AN OPEN BOOK TO YOU?

Although the Bible is universally recognized as the best seller of all times, still it is a closed book to many. Language that is outdated and stiff, along with obscure translation, has discouraged most persons from Bible reading. That is all changed now with the New World Translation of the Holy Scriptures. Send for your copy today and receive free the timely booklet When All Nations Unite Under God’s Kingdom. Send only $1.

FIELD MINISTRY

Happiness! Perfect health! Justice! Peace! To those who understand Bible prophecy these words have real meaning. They describe the millennial reign of Jesus Christ. (Rev. 20:6) Jehovah’s Witnesses have made this hope their own and thus may be said to be on a joyful march to mankind’s millennium. They want to help others to join in this joyful march to mankind’s millennium. To that end, they urge everyone to read the Bible. During the month of June they will be calling at the homes of as many persons as possible to offer them a fine, modern-English Bible, the New World Translation of the Holy Scriptures, along with a Bible-study aid booklet, for just $1.

“WATCHTOWER” STUDIES FOR THE WEEKS

June 23: Seeking the Way of Approach to the Source of Life. Page 332. Songs to Be Used: 69, 92.

June 30: A Typical Priesthood Points the Way. Page 339. Songs to Be Used: 93, 112.