that what is clean and proper can give “way to popular worldly music which usually appeals to sex and creates a desire for sexy dancing. This would be detrimental to those present.”b

Realizing that this can occur, especially if a worldly band is hired, a minister in Nova Scotia made a tape recording of the music to be played at his reception. Thus the dancing was in harmony with Christian morality and moderation. Many at that reception enjoyed sharing in the group square dancing.

Another notable point about that reception was the fact that no alcoholic beverages were served. It was not that these are forbidden to Christians, for Jesus even provided wine at Cana. But in this case the groom felt that some in that area might be stumbled if alcoholic beverages were served. He thought of the words: “It is well not to eat flesh or to drink wine or do anything over which your brother stumbles.” (Rom. 14:21) If at a reception such beverages are served, there should be ample provisions for those who prefer “soft” drinks. Apparently it was not uncommon for Jews in Jesus’ day to get intoxicated at wedding feasts. (John 2:10) Great caution, then, should be exercised by Christians today that such happy occasions are not spoiled by overindulgence.—Prov. 23:20, 21.

Need the celebration go on until very late to be a success? No. An overseer in one Latin American country said that occasionally “receptions go into the early hours of the morning. A full-course meal is served about 11:30 p.m. It is well known that groups meeting to share in the field ministry the next morning are very poorly supported.” Even if it is common in one’s land to celebrate at such lengths, need Christians follow customs that would leave them so tired the next day that they could not properly serve their Creator? Would that be demonstrating moderation? To the contrary, the arrangements that spiritually mature Christians make harmonize with the counsel: “Whether you are eating or drinking or doing anything else, do all things for God’s glory.”—1 Cor. 10:31.

So if Christians choose to hold a social gathering such as a wedding feast, it should not be patterned after the boisterous, immoderate feasts of the world that are plagued with overindulgence. Rather, it should be a well-arranged, happy gathering that manifests Christian moderation. The Christian from Nova Scotia mentioned above said: “Three years later we visited the congregation, and they still remembered the reception as a good example.” How pleasant are the fruits of Christian moderation!

WEDDING “SHOWERS”

In some lands it is common for friends and relatives of the bride and groom to hold a gathering sometime before the wedding. It is often called a “shower,” for those in attendance may, in a manner of speaking, “shower” the couple with gifts.

Again, this is by no means a necessity, nor need persons in countries where this is not common think that it must be instituted. But if such a social event is planned, it should also reflect Christian principles, including moderation. What has been said above about food, drink and entertainmentc would apply.

Special comments, though, are in order regarding gifts. How sad it would be if any Christian invited to a “shower” felt he or she could not accept the invitation because of being unable to give an expensive gift, or any gift at all. Would true Christians want to put one in such a position? A gift is supposed to be a spontaneous expression of affection. Such an expression can take many forms, and a tangible gift at a specific event should not be an obligation.

In some places when such “showers” are held, the gifts are grouped together without the names of the givers being attached. Why? Those Christians are conscious of Jesus’ counsel that gifts should not be given to glorify the giver. (Matt. 6:1-4) They feel that if one did not bring a gift, another brought a small token of affection, and yet another an expensive gift, unloving comparisons of who gave what might be made.—Matt. 7:12.

Does this mean that it is wrong to identify oneself as the giver of a certain present? No, that is not the point. In other places Christians at weddings and “showers” deliver gifts personally or sign cards attached to the presents. But if the presents are opened or displayed, the givers are not publicly announced. Thus there is no embarrassment.

Today people who do not worship Jehovah often hold immoderate social events that identify them as “lovers of pleasures rather than lovers of God.” (2 Tim. 3:4) But servants of Jehovah, guided by his inspired Word, demonstrate their mature appreciation of the comment, which bears repetition: “Whether you are eating or drinking or doing anything else, do all things for God’s glory.” (1 Cor. 10:31) Thus they come away from social events, not with troubled consciences, but with the satisfaction of having had enjoyable relaxation and at the same time having been spiritually upbuilt.

Do You Remember?

Have you read the recent issues of The Watchtower carefully? If so, you should recognize these important points.

● What twofold fruitage should a baptized Christian seek to produce?

The fruitage of God’s spirit outlined in Galatians 5:22, 23, and the fruitage of Kingdom preaching, which results in new disciples.—P. 51.a

● How are we to understand the words at 1 Timothy 2:15, that women would “be kept safe through childbearing”?

Bearing children would be a safeguard in keeping women occupied with worthwhile activities about their homes. Coupled with their ministry, such would help them avoid the troubles that trap untheocratic women.—Pp. 63, 64.

● In the matter of dress, how can Christians avoid stumbling others?

By dressing in a way that is acceptable from the standpoint of one’s ministry rather than following the latest worldly fashion.—Pp. 115, 116.

● Since adults who are studying the Bible will often hold back from asking questions that are in their minds, what can be done to help them understand matters they are being taught?

It is important to get them to express themselves and to draw them out by asking additional questions besides those in the textbook being used.—Pp. 144, 145.

● Why should one follow the Christian standard set out in the Bible in making decisions?

Because otherwise one will be influenced by the fleshly tendencies of selfishness, fear, pride and jealousy.—P. 168.

● What today is the “word behind” us, as mentioned in Isaiah 30:21?

It is what Jehovah God speaks to us through his written Word and through his organization.—P. 202.

● How does Thucydides, the only “classical” historian who is noted for his accuracy of statement, stand in regard to Bible chronology?

He offers testimony that supports rather than challenges Bible chronology.—Pp. 221, 222.