life. Fighters for true worship, however, recognize that this law from God, originally given to Noah, still applies down to this day. Neither are the religious leaders of Christendom today truly keeping the testimony about Christ. This is no longer simply the message of Jesus’ earthly ministry or of his resurrection, but this is the message that he himself commanded must be preached in this time of the end, the message of good news concerning the establishment of his kingdom in righteousness. (Matt. 24:14) This good news pertains to the enthronement of Christ and his taking power now while his enemies continue to rule. (Ps. 110:2) Jehovah’s witnesses have every reason to rejoice as they announce this peaceful message in all the world.

The Fight of Faith of the Peaceable

1. Why are Jehovah’s people happy under oppression?

SATAN knows he has but a short time, and he is determined to stop the preaching work. Just as Christ was reviled and persecuted and finally put to death, so men of faith today can expect persecution, knowing that they are no more favored in this regard than their Master. (John 15:20) But Jehovah’s witnesses are undaunted despite bans and imprisonment, confiscation of Bible literature and legal obstacles that have been raised against the preaching work in many countries, recognizing these to be tangible evidences of the war being fought against the remnant of the followers of Christ. In fact, they are happy despite all this, just as Jesus foresaw: “Happy are those who have been persecuted for righteousness’ sake, since the kingdom of the heavens belongs to them. Happy are you when people reproach you and persecute you and lyingly say every kind of wicked thing against you for my sake. Rejoice and leap for joy, since your reward is great in the heavens; for in that way they persecuted the prophets prior to you.” (Matt. 5:10-12, NW) So the preaching work continues with God’s blessing upon it despite all that opposers can do to bring it to a stop.

2. If the truth divides a family, what course should the Christian follow?

² For many persons the biggest fight to remain faithful in Jehovah’s service comes right at home. (Mic. 7:6) Jesus illustrated this, saying ‘two men would be working together in a field; one would be taken and the other abandoned. Two women would be working at the mill; one would be taken and the other abandoned.’ (Matt. 24:40, 41) Even those working closely together, those of the same family, may be divided because of the truth. One is taken along to life because