Chapter 9

Men Who Can Aid You to Succeed

1, 2. (a) When faced with distress, what do we need from others? (b) In the Christian congregation, who especially can provide this?

AN ENCOURAGING word in time of distress, a helping hand when trouble threatens​—what a blessing these can be! Because obstacles do arise to block our path as we move forward toward our goal of everlasting life, such aid is truly vital. It certainly is a blessing that in the Christian congregation there are faithful older brothers who can provide much-needed upbuilding and comfort.

² The Bible speaks of these “shepherds” as “gifts in men” whom Jesus Christ has provided for the building up of the congregation in love. (Ephesians 4:7-16) Therefore, if you should feel at any time that you are weakening in faith, are puzzled, perplexed or even disheartened because of problems or trials, you should call on devoted elders to help you stick to your decision to remain an approved disciple of God’s Son.

3. What admonition is given to elders at 1 Peter 5:1-3

³ An examination of what the apostle Peter wrote to elders well illustrates how and why they can be a strengthening aid to you. We read:

“To the older men among you I give this exhortation, for I too am an older man with them and a witness of the sufferings of the Christ, a sharer even of the glory that is to be revealed: Shepherd the flock of God in your care, not under compulsion, but willingly; neither for love of dishonest gain, but eagerly; neither as lording it over those who are God’s inheritance, but becoming examples to the flock.”​—1 Peter 5:1-3.

4. How does Peter’s language show that he did not exalt himself above the elders to whom he was writing?

⁴ We can rejoice that there are Christian men who want to conform to the apostle Peter’s counsel. In providing spiritual help to members of the congregation, they render assistance in the same spirit as that shown by the apostle. Love for God and their brothers motivates them. Note that Peter did not exalt himself over the elders whom he was exhorting or encouraging. He spoke of himself as “an older man with them,” that is, as a ‘fellow elder.’ The apostle thus referred to himself as a brother who had a sympathetic understanding of their position as elders in the congregation. Such a sympathetic attitude in dealing with fellow believers makes an elder a real blessing to his brothers.

5. How was Peter a “witness of the sufferings of the Christ”?

⁵ The words of Peter also show that he recognized the weighty responsibility that had been entrusted to him. He identified himself as a “witness of the sufferings of the Christ, a sharer even of the glory that is to be revealed.” Peter knew firsthand about the way in which the Son of God was reviled, physically abused and finally nailed to a stake. He was a direct spectator and saw the resurrected Jesus Christ and his ascension to heaven. And in his second letter he says:

“It was not by following artfully contrived false stories that we acquainted you with the power and presence of our Lord Jesus Christ, but it was by having become eyewitnesses of his magnificence. For he received from God the Father honor and glory, when words such as these were borne to him by the magnificent glory: ‘This is my son, my beloved, whom I myself have approved.’ Yes, these words we heard borne from heaven while we were with him in the holy mountain.”​—2 Peter 1:16-18; compare Matthew 16:28–17:9.

6. Why did the elders whom Peter addressed have good reason to heed his words?

⁶ Surely, the elders to whom Peter was directing his encouragement had good reason to pay attention to the words of a fellow elder who could speak of himself as a ‘witness of Christ’s suffering and a sharer of the glory to be revealed.’ Not only did the apostle appeal to them in a humble manner but his own example was worthy of imitation, for, as the Bible record shows, actively and at times with considerable danger to himself, he made known to others the things of which he was an eyewitness.​—Acts 2:22-38; 4:8-12, 19, 20; 5:29-32.

7, 8. (a) What should an elder recognize about the ownership of the flock? (b) How should this affect his treatment of the congregation?

⁷ For an elder today to be like Peter, he needs to recognize that the members of the congregation belong, not to him, but, to Jehovah God. The apostle Paul also called attention to this important fact. To the elders of the Ephesus congregation, he said: “Pay attention to yourselves and to all the flock, among which the holy spirit has appointed you overseers, to shepherd the congregation of God, which he purchased with the blood of his own Son.”​—Acts 20:28.

⁸ At great cost to himself, Jehovah God acquired the members of the Christian congregation as his property. No greater price could have been paid than that of the blood of his sinless Son. When elders have Jehovah’s view of the value of the congregation in their care, it aids them to be diligent in helping each individual to remain the honorable property of the Most High. They would have to answer to God for any mistreatment of the flock. That is why elders should endeavor to have a proper appreciation of the worth of each person in the congregation. This can serve as a strong restraint against taking a superior position toward the flock and treating it in a harsh, domineering way. (Contrast Acts 20:29.) Individually, members of the congregation are greatly built up by brothers who accord them the dignity and respect that is their due. It gives all a sense of security when elders prove themselves to be real “shepherds,” looking out for the spiritual and physical well-being of the entire flock.

“NOT UNDER COMPULSION, BUT WILLINGLY”

9, 10. (a) How might an elder do his shepherding “under compulsion”? (b) What would show that he is shepherding the congregation “willingly”?

⁹ In any given situation where help is needed, a person finds it much easier to approach someone who has not only the ability to render aid but also the desire to do so. Fittingly, Peter urged that the elders do their shepherding, “not under compulsion, but willingly.” (1 Peter 5:2) To be a good “shepherd” in the congregation, a man needs to guard against performing his work merely out of a sense of duty. If caring for the congregation were to become joyless drudgery, an elder would simply be fulfilling an assignment “under compulsion.” The flock would notice this and withdraw, not wanting to add to the elder’s burdens with their problems. However, when an elder finds joy in handling his responsibilities because he really wants to do the work, the members of the congregation will be drawn to him. Such a willingness to serve stems from deep love for God and the congregation of his people. It is an evidence that the elder is accomplishing his ministry toward the flock with the right attitude.

¹⁰ Of course, good judgment is needed on the part of an elder so that he does not burden himself down with more tasks than he can reasonably handle. With advancing years and declining health, he may not be able to accomplish as much as in former years, requiring that he ask other capable men to help him. Nevertheless, he may still find real joy in being a willing “shepherd” within the framework of his limitations.

‘NOT FOR DISHONEST GAIN, BUT EAGERLY’

11. Why is there a danger of shepherding the congregation “for love of dishonest gain”?

¹¹ Besides showing a willing spirit, an elder needs to have a pure, unselfish motivation if he is to be of real help to his brothers. The apostle Peter cautions against serving as a shepherd “for love of dishonest gain.” To use one’s shepherding assignment to gain material possessions, praise or power would be a dishonest use of it. True, the Bible counsels giving “double honor” to men who work hard at teaching. (1 Timothy 5:17, 18) But such “double honor” should always come spontaneously from congregation members, never being sought by an elder or viewed as something he rightly expects or exacts from them. Prominence may come to an elder, perhaps because his circumstances leave him free to share more extensively in Kingdom activity than others, or because of certain outstanding abilities. There may easily arise a temptation to profit from his prominence, leading to his wanting, even hinting about, certain material things that others might be able to give him. This could perhaps lead to his associating mainly with more prosperous persons in the congregation, to the neglect of others. He may become desirous of praise but become cool, or even resentful, toward valid criticism or counsel.

12, 13. How did the apostle Paul show that he served his brothers “eagerly”?

¹² While this may happen to relatively few men in the Christian congregation today, elders should not minimize the danger. Even in very minor manifestations, the tendency to seek material benefits through spiritual relationships should be resisted. The Christian apostle Paul set an excellent example in this regard. To the elders of the Ephesus congregation, he could say:

“Bear in mind that for three years, night and day, I did not quit admonishing each one with tears. . . . I have coveted no man’s silver or gold or apparel. You yourselves know that these hands have attended to the needs of me and of those with me. I have exhibited to you in all things that by thus laboring you must assist those who are weak, and must bear in mind the words of the Lord Jesus, when he himself said, ‘There is more happiness in giving than there is in receiving.’”​—Acts 20:31-35.

¹³ A congregation benefits immeasurably from men who labor “eagerly” as did Paul. He was glad to serve his brothers, never looking desiringly at anything that they possessed and from which he might benefit. His joy came from giving freely of himself in building up his brothers.

14. What do we learn from 1 Thessalonians 2:5-8 about what is included in shepherding the congregation “eagerly”?

¹⁴ The unhypocritical way he and his companions served is made clear in his words to the Thessalonians:

“At no time have we turned up either with flattering speech, (just as you know) or with a false front for covetousness, God is witness! Neither have we been seeking glory from men, no, either from you or from others, though we could be an expensive burden as apostles of Christ. To the contrary, we became gentle in the midst of you, as when a nursing mother cherishes her own children. So, having a tender affection for you, we were well pleased to impart to you, not only the good news of God, but also our own souls, because you became beloved to us.” (1 Thessalonians 2:5-8)

Yes, instead of seeking personal gain from members of the congregation, Paul acted as does a nursing mother who deeply loves her children and puts their interests ahead of her own.​—Compare John 10:11-13.

15. In what manner should elders seek to shepherd the flock?

¹⁵ In addition to being rightly motivated by concern for the flock, an elder needs to remember the importance of caring for the congregation in the right manner. The apostle Peter counseled that elders not ‘lord it over those who are God’s inheritance but that they become examples to the flock.’ (1 Peter 5:3) In keeping with this admonition, elders would not lift themselves above their brothers. This would be contrary to the instructions that Jesus gave to his followers:

“Do not you be called Rabbi, for one is your teacher, whereas all you are brothers. Moreover, do not call anyone your father on earth, for one is your Father, the heavenly One. Neither be called ‘leaders,’ for your Leader is one, the Christ. But the greatest one among you must be your minister.” (Matthew 23:8-11)

So, rather than issuing commands like a master, or trying to manage the lives of congregation members, an elder is a man who humbly slaves for his brothers. By his example, he encourages the flock to be Christlike.​—Compare 1 Thessalonians 2:9-12.

16. Why can faithful elders be approached with confidence?

¹⁶ When elders set a fine example personally in Christian living and activity, they can do much to assist their fellow believers finally to be found approved by Jehovah God. Moreover, Jesus Christ, the “chief shepherd” under whom they serve, will reward all faithful undershepherds at the time of his glorious manifestation as “King of kings and Lord of lords.” (Revelation 19:16; 1 Timothy 6:15) As the apostle Peter wrote: “When the chief shepherd has been made manifest, you will receive the unfadable crown of glory.” (1 Peter 5:4) Truly, men who serve their brothers for the right reason, with the proper motive and in the correct manner, are of real help to the congregation, contributing to their finding great joy in their Christian way of life. (2 Corinthians 1:24) Do not hesitate to enlist the aid of faithful elders whenever necessary.

Chapter 10

Safeguard Your Christian Hope

1. What will make the ‘new heavens and the new earth’ so desirable?

HOW grand to contemplate the prospect of life without pain, sorrow or death! And yet, in reality, it is even grander that our freedom from these things will come through the removal of imperfection and sin. What a blessing no longer to have to struggle against wrong leanings and tendencies that we know result only in injury to ourselves and others! It will indeed be a joy when every word we speak, every thought we think, every one of our actions will be for the good of all, genuinely reflecting what our heavenly Father is like, never stemming from selfish motives. Yes, for a certainty, righteousness will abound in the ‘new heavens and the new earth’ of God’s making. Surely this is a hope worth safeguarding.​—2 Peter 3:13.

2. (a) To experience the fulfillment of our Christian hope, what must we do? (b) Why should we not be surprised that self-seeking men could be found among professing Christians?

² To see the fulfillment of our Christian hope, we need to keep it prominently before us and live in harmony with it. We can only do that if we resist all influences that could dim or destroy our hope. At times such damaging influence can come from unspiritual, self-seeking persons associated with the congregation of God’s people. This should not surprise us, for the apostle Peter wrote: “There also came to be false prophets among the people [Israel], as there will also be false teachers among you [Christians].” (2 Peter 2:1a) Just as with natural Israel, Christians are subject to corruption from within the congregation.

“QUIETLY BRING IN DESTRUCTIVE SECTS”

3, 4. How does the apostle Peter describe the way in which false teachers propagate error?

³ Commenting on how the proponents of error operate, the apostle Peter continues: “These very ones will quietly bring in destructive sects.” (2 Peter 2:1b) The apostle was not writing about persons who simply have difficulty in understanding certain matters, or persons whose views, honestly held, may not coincide in all respects with those of the majority. (Compare Romans 14:1-6.) He deals instead with those who deliberately work to divide and corrupt.

⁴ Such ones are seldom open, frank or straightforward. Generally they “bring in” their unscriptural views in a quiet, camouflaged way. In the original Greek used by the apostle Peter, the phrase “quietly bring in” is literally to “lead into by the side of, or along with.” This is their method. Along with some sound Scriptural doctrine, they gradually and subtly introduce their divisive or corrupting views. By first conditioning the minds of their listeners with some obvious truths, or even by a long, involved line of reasoning, they can often get them to accept some principle that can lead only to error. They may use the Bible, but they do not really teach it, employing whatever they find convenient and slanting its teachings to fit what they, for personal advantage, are trying to promote. Thus, what actually lacks any solid Scriptural foundation is made to appear to be true.

5. How does Satan’s manner in deceiving Eve illustrate the methods of a teacher of falsehood?

⁵ This process is well illustrated in the way Satan deceived Eve by means of the serpent. Initially, a seemingly innocent question was raised: “Is it really so that God said you must not eat from every tree of the garden?” (Genesis 3:1) That question perverted the truth. It intimated that the Most High was unduly restrictive, withholding from the first humans something to which they were entitled. The serpent’s words must have caused Eve to wonder just why she could not eat from the “tree of the knowledge of good and bad.” In this way Satan conditioned her mind to want an answer. Then came the serpent’s pointed reply: “You positively will not die. For God knows that in the very day of your eating from it your eyes are bound to be opened and you are bound to be like God, knowing good and bad.”​—Genesis 3:4, 5.

6. (a) What factors made Eve susceptible to accepting error? (b) How was a heretical body formed as a result of Satan’s lie?

⁶ Since Eve’s mind had been subtly prepared for it, the lying answer did not come as a shock. The fact that “the serpent proved to be the most cautious” of all the animals seemed to suggest that such a creature could hardly be the source of wrong information. (Genesis 3:1) Furthermore, the tree was attractive and its fruit gave indication of being good for food. Eve was totally deceived. After partaking of the forbidden fruit, she persuaded Adam to join her in rebellion against God. (Genesis 3:6) In this way the lying words of the serpent succeeded in alienating the first humans from their heavenly Father. In actuality, a heretical body consisting of two persons was formed.

7. (a) Why do those who cause divisions in the congregation disown Christ? (b) Why can it be said that they ‘bring speedy destruction upon themselves’?

⁷ By similar means, men may foment a divisive spirit in a congregation, a “party” spirit of rivalry. Since any such faction has its roots in error and deliberately seeks to create disunity, its stand and teachings misrepresent the Son of God, who bought the Christian congregation with his blood. Therefore, the apostle Peter speaks of such pseudo teachers as ‘disowning even the owner that bought them, bringing speedy destruction upon themselves.’ Yes, once people stop holding fast to Christ as head, they disown him and plunge into a course that is morally and spiritually disastrous. There can be only one outcome​—destruction. When the time for executing condemnatory judgment comes, there will be no delay. Justice will be executed swiftly. By willingly embracing error, the individuals involved ‘bring speedy destruction upon themselves.’​—2 Peter 2:1.

8. What effect can the “loose conduct” of professed Christians have on persons outside the congregation?

⁸ Sadly, these persons, because they claim to be Christians while conducting themselves in an unbridled way, put a blot on the fine record of God’s faithful servants. Many who observe the debased conduct of certain individuals professing to be Christians begin to speak blasphemously or abusively of all who identify themselves as being such. This is the point that Peter made when he wrote: “Furthermore, many will follow their acts of loose conduct, and on account of these the way of the truth will be spoken of abusively.”​—2 Peter 2:2.

BEWARE OF BEING ‘EXPLOITED WITH COUNTERFEIT WORDS’

9. (a) What motivates corrupt men to try to build up a following? (b) What will happen to such men and those who are deceived by them?

⁹ What motivates such corrupt men to build up a following for themselves? The apostle Peter answers: “With covetousness they will exploit you with counterfeit words.” (2 Peter 2:3a) These individuals seek to gain material advantages for themselves or want the power, authority and honor that come with being looked up to as teachers. By means of “counterfeit words,” that is, deceitful statements, including plausible arguments, they endeavor to take advantage of others, exploiting them. Since both the motivations and the teachings are wrong, the result to the individuals involved is ruin. The apostle Peter continues:

“As for them, the judgment from of old is not moving slowly, and the destruction of them is not slumbering. Certainly if God did not hold back from punishing the angels that sinned, but, by throwing them into Tartarus, delivered them to pits of dense darkness to be reserved for judgment; and he did not hold back from punishing an ancient world, but kept Noah, a preacher of righteousness, safe with seven others when he brought a deluge upon a world of ungodly people; and by reducing the cities Sodom and Gomorrah to ashes he condemned them, setting a pattern for ungodly persons of things to come; and he delivered righteous Lot, who was greatly distressed by the indulgence of the law-defying people in loose conduct​—for that righteous man by what he saw and heard while dwelling among them from day to day was tormenting his righteous soul by reason of their lawless deeds—​Jehovah knows how to deliver people of godly devotion out of trial, but to reserve unrighteous people for the day of judgment to be cut off, especially, however, those who go on after flesh with the desire to defile it and who look down on lordship.”​—2 Peter 2:3-10.

10. (a) When was the first expression of God’s judgment against the ‘serpent’s seed’ made? (b) Why is its execution “not moving slowly”?

¹⁰ The executional judgment that God has decreed “from of old” against all who come to belong to the ‘serpent’s seed’ will without fail be carried out. (Genesis 3:15; John 8:44; Jude 14, 15) Though originally stated about 6,000 years ago and repeated since then, this judgment is “not moving slowly” as if it will never arrive. The destruction is sure to come, for it is not dormant. It is still very much alive in God’s purpose.

11. (a) What happened to the disobedient angels, and what still awaits them? (b) What is proved by the punishment of the angels, the destruction of the ungodly in the Flood, and the annihilation of the inhabitants of Sodom and Gomorrah?

¹¹ As Peter noted, even angels who had enjoyed being in the very presence of God but who later became unfaithful were not spared being ‘thrown into Tartarus,’ that is, debased to the lowest degree. Cut off from all divine enlightenment, debarred from their original position in the heavens and limited in their activities, the disobedient angels find themselves in a condition comparable to “pits of dense darkness,” awaiting executional judgment at the hands of Jesus Christ. (Compare Revelation 20:1-3, 7-10.) Similarly, Jehovah God did not hold back from destroying an entire world of corrupt people in a global flood nor from acting against the sexually depraved inhabitants of Sodom and Gomorrah in the days of Lot. Only righteous persons like Noah and his family and like Lot can hope to escape divine judgment and be delivered from the trial resulting from living among lawless persons. However, claims of being Christian will not save anyone who seeks to defile the flesh of others by committing immorality.

BE ON GUARD AGAINST THOSE WHO DISRESPECT AUTHORITY

12, 13. As shown at 2 Peter 2:10b, 11, what is the attitude of corrupt persons toward authority?

¹² Often the bad motivations of corrupt persons can be discerned by their attitude toward authority. They “look down on lordship,” despising authority of any kind. The apostle Peter continues his description: “Daring, self-willed, they do not tremble at glorious ones but speak abusively, whereas angels, although they are greater in strength and power, do not bring against them an accusation in abusive terms, not doing so out of respect for Jehovah.”​—2 Peter 2:10b, 11.

¹³ Therefore, we would want to beware of bold, presumptuous men who have no regard for “glorious ones.” In the Christian congregation, faithful men entrusted with responsibility do not view themselves as being of superior rank or as being exalted above fellow believers but humbly regard themselves as servants. (Matthew 23:8; 1 Thessalonians 2:5-12) However, their assignment of service is a ‘glorious one,’ as they are appointed by holy spirit as overseers or “shepherds” of the flock. (Acts 20:28; compare Romans 11:13.) They also represent the glorious Lord Jesus Christ and the Great Shepherd Jehovah God. (1 Peter 2:25; 5:4) That is why the Scriptures encourage members of the congregation to be submissive to those who are taking the lead. (Hebrews 13:17) While such men, like Peter himself, may make mistakes, this would not excuse anyone who speaks in an abusive way against them. (Compare Galatians 2:11-14; 3 John 9, 10.) Hardworking “shepherds” deserve the respect of the congregation. But men who influence others for bad do not shrink back from reviling Christian elders. If a person uses abusive, reviling speech against his brother, Jehovah God and his Son count it as if done to themselves.

14. How do the faithful angels show an entirely different attitude from that of false teachers?

¹⁴ How different self-seeking teachers of falsehood are from the faithful angels! The angels have a zeal for righteousness. But they do not use harsh, abusive language even when dealing with opposers. For example, “when Michael the archangel had a difference with the Devil and was disputing about Moses’ body, he did not dare to bring a judgment against him in abusive terms, but said: ‘May Jehovah rebuke you.’” (Jude 9) From this we can conclude that the other faithful angels would never resort to heaping reproaches on anyone but would calmly, yet forcefully, set forth the facts. They have a proper regard for their Maker, realizing that abusive speech is never in harmony with his holiness or purity.

15. In harmony with Peter’s counsel, against what kind of persons must we be on guard?

¹⁵ We must be on guard against persons who viciously downgrade others and then proceed to advance themselves. The fact that such individuals will not escape adverse judgment for their actions should remain prominently before us. This can aid us to be cautious in lending an ear to those who seem to be interested in others but are, in reality, only seeking their personal advantage. The apostle Peter commented on the outcome for self-seeking men, saying:

“These men, like unreasoning animals born naturally to be caught and destroyed, will, in the things of which they are ignorant and speak abusively, even suffer destruction in their own course of destruction, wronging themselves as a reward for wrongdoing.”​—2 Peter 2:12, 13a.

16. How are corrupt men like “unreasoning animals”?

¹⁶ Men who are ruled by vicious passions act like “unreasoning animals.” Concerning animals Jehovah said: “Every moving animal that is alive may serve as food for you.” (Genesis 9:3) In being like such “unreasoning animals,” the abusively speaking men are not bridled by the dictates of a good conscience and so show no appreciation for God’s ways, dealings and activities. Unable to make a proper estimation of valuable spiritual things, they may speak of them as being worthless. Their wrong opinions will be their undoing. They hold to these false views to their own injury and are bound to experience the bad results of their unrighteous course. Surely, we want to hold fast to our hope and avoid sharing in their ruin.

BEWARE OF THOSE WHO SEEK SELFISH PLEASURE AND PERSONAL GAIN

17. According to 2 Peter 2:13b-15a, what are some other identifying traits of corrupt men?

¹⁷ Among other bad traits, unspiritual persons have a burning desire for ease and pleasure. The apostle Peter wrote:

“They consider luxurious living in the daytime a pleasure. They are spots and blemishes, indulging with unrestrained delight in their deceptive teachings while feasting together with you. They have eyes full of adultery and unable to desist from sin, and they entice unsteady souls. They have a heart trained in covetousness. They are accursed children. Abandoning the straight path, they have been misled.”​—2 Peter 2:13b-15a 2Pe 2:13-15.

18. How are unspiritual persons like the unfaithful Israelites described in Isaiah 5:11, 12?

¹⁸ During the daylight hours, when they could be accomplishing much for the upbuilding of others, unspiritual persons may instead engage in revelries, giving themselves over to excesses in food and drink. They are much like certain Israelites who lived solely for pleasure. Wine flowed with excessive freedom at their feasts. As the day progressed into the night, the revelers would become louder and more boisterous, accompanying their noisy feasting with passion-arousing music. The prophet Isaiah writes of such ones:

“Woe to those who are getting up early in the morning that they may seek just intoxicating liquor, who are lingering till late in the evening darkness so that wine itself inflames them! And there must prove to be harp and stringed instrument, tambourine and flute, and wine at their feasts; but the activity of Jehovah they do not look at, and the work of his hands they have not seen.” (Isaiah 5:11, 12)

The pleasure seekers thus acted as if no testimony existed as to the grand works of the Creator. They exercised no restraint, ignoring all accountability to Jehovah God, and, therefore, could not hope to escape his judgment.

19. What shows that some persons associated with the congregation are lovers of pleasures?

¹⁹ It should not surprise us if similar things should take place among some persons who claim to be God’s servants today. Wedding receptions and anniversaries may be converted into occasions for wild, sensuous dancing to the blare of passionarousing music. At such celebrations, alcoholic beverages may flow too freely. The loud, unruly partying may not end until the wee hours of the morning or until daybreak. In some lands, the naming of a newborn child, the inauguration of a new house, funerals and the dedication of buildings used for worship may be converted into occasions for holding gatherings that become very inconsiderate, disturbing even worldly neighbors and causing them to appeal for relief from the excessive noise. Even in lands where people are generally known for their reserve, heavy drinking may develop among close friends in a way that causes the truth of the “good news” to be spoken of with contempt. Surely, true Christians must guard against such excesses.​—1 Peter 4:3.

20. (a) What effect do those who are given to excesses have on the congregation? (b) How are even noble occasions turned into carouses?

²⁰ As the apostle Peter said, those acting in this way are like spots and blemishes on the Christian congregation. They mar the clean appearance of God’s true servants. They are like spots on a clean garment or like any unsightly blemish on an otherwise attractive face. Because the intent of certain persons is to ‘go all out’ to satisfy their desire for pleasure, they turn even normally fine occasions into rowdy ones. They try to influence or to teach others to join them in wild dancing and heavy drinking by claiming it is just ‘normal relaxation.’ The “eyes full of adultery” Peter refers to may be in evidence. At social affairs, male eyes may begin to look with immoral interest at attractive women present. The impure desires may become so powerful that the eyes even of married men simply cannot fail to be guilty of sinning. (Compare Matthew 5:28; Mark 9:47.) Women who are not firmly established in Christian principles, as “unsteady souls,” may easily become the victims of corrupt men.​—Compare 2 Timothy 3:6, 7.

21. Why are persons who would involve others in a life of excesses a real danger to the Christian congregation?

²¹ These men are a real danger, for they show skill in enticing the weak. The apostle Peter describes them as ‘having a heart trained in covetousness.’ Their whole objective or aim in life seems to be the satisfying of covetous desires, and they become experts in achieving their ends. The disciple Jude also spoke of such ones who ‘slip in’ and turn God’s undeserved kindness “into an excuse for loose conduct,” thereby proving false to our only Owner, Jesus Christ. He shows that they often ‘admire personalities for the sake of their own benefit,’ and that those causing divisions are “animalistic men, not having spirituality.” (Jude 4, 16, 19) If any succeed, whether by flattery or by some display of apparent zeal, in gaining influence or prominence within a congregation, they pose a grave danger. Rightly such ones come under God’s curse and merit destruction, even as the apostle Peter declares. What is true of men who follow this divisive, corrupting course would be equally true of women who do so.​—Compare Revelation 2:20-23.

22, 23. How are those who corrupt others like Balaam?

²² The apostle Peter also compared corrupt men to Balaam, saying:

“They have followed the path of Balaam, the son of Beor, who loved the reward of wrongdoing, but got a reproof for his own violation of what was right. A voiceless beast of burden, making utterance with the voice of a man, hindered the prophet’s mad course.” (2 Peter 2:15b, 16)

This diviner knew full well that it was contrary to the will of the Supreme Sovereign to curse the Israelites. While outwardly maintaining that he would not go beyond what Jehovah would impel him to speak, Balaam was inwardly nurturing the desire to curse Israel. He wanted the reward that Moabite King Balak offered. But the Almighty God reproved Balaam by means of Balaam’s own she-ass. By a miracle, the Most High caused an unreasoning beast of burden to utter intelligible speech. (Numbers 22:1-35) This was no difficult thing for the One who could make even the stones cry out. (Luke 19:40) In view of Balaam’s extreme greed for gain, Jehovah God rightly employed this most unusual means of reproof. In trying to resist God’s will respecting Israel, Balaam acted like a man lacking his senses. For a time, the reproof of his domestic animal hindered him from pursuing his course, as it showed that he simply could not succeed in cursing Israel.​—Numbers 23:1–24:9.

²³ Nevertheless, Balaam was still bent on getting the reward. Finally, he came up with a plan whereby the Israelites would bring God’s curse upon themselves. He instructed Balak as to how he could use Moabite and Midianite women to get the men of Israel to engage in idolatry and fornication. (Numbers 31:16; Revelation 2:14) The scheme had a measure of success and was responsible for the death of 24,000 Israelites.​—Numbers 25:1-9.

24. What does the example of Balaam help us to see about persons who are self-seeking?

²⁴ How forcefully the case of Balaam illustrates the course of men who forsake what is right for personal gain! Not even a miracle would stop them from trying to satisfy their greediness. Therefore, we should avoid close association with anyone whose attitude, speech and conduct seriously disturb our conscience. Self-seeking men simply have no qualms about injuring others to attain their own goals.

25. What is emphasized by the words of 2 Peter 2:17?

²⁵ Continuing his description of such wicked men, Peter states: “These are fountains without water, and mists driven by a violent storm, and for them the blackness of darkness has been reserved.” (2 Peter 2:17) Nothing beneficial can be gained through close fellowship with defiled persons. They are like wells or fountains that a weary traveler might approach in the hope of getting refreshing water, only to be disappointed to find that the source of water is dried up. They are also like wispy, mistlike clouds that one might look to in hope of needed rain for growing crops but which are quickly blown away by strong winds. Teachers of falsehood are not the source of any light or enlightenment. They themselves are headed for the “blackness of darkness,” a total darkness representative of the condemnatory judgment that awaits them.

BE CAREFUL OF “SWELLING EXPRESSIONS”

26. How does the apostle Peter describe the way in which corrupt men attain their ends?

²⁶ It is because of their deceptive outward appearance that we must be on guard against dangerous elements inside the congregation. Especially those who are not well established in Christian truth and living must be careful. The methods employed by self-seeking men may be very impressive. But woe to those who are deceived by their grandiose persuasions! The apostle Peter says:

“They utter swelling expressions of no profit, and by the desires of the flesh and by loose habits they entice those who are just escaping from people who conduct themselves in error. While they are promising them freedom, they themselves are existing as slaves of corruption. For whoever is overcome by another is enslaved by this one.”​—2 Peter 2:18, 19.

27. What is characteristic of the speech and attitude of persons who exert a corrupting influence?

²⁷ Those who persuade others to adopt error or to follow a course contrary to the dictates of a clean conscience often speak with great conviction. They think very highly of themselves and their words, attaching great weight to their utterances. (Compare 2 Corinthians 10:10, 12; 11:3-6, 12, 13.) Instead of presenting sound Scriptural reasons in a spirit of humility, they may ridicule and speak out in a forceful, pompous manner, concealing the weakness of their argument with bluster. (Contrast 2 Corinthians 4:2.) When examined in the light of the Holy Scriptures, their impressive words are shown to be empty or of no benefit to anyone.

28. Who are most likely to be influenced by corrupt elements inside the congregation?

²⁸ Sadly, those who are not firmly grounded in the Word of God may not recognize the danger. Their ‘perceptive powers are not trained to distinguish right from wrong.’ (Hebrews 5:14) Since it may have been quite recently that these unsteady ones separated themselves from God-dishonoring practices carried on in the world, such practices may still have some appeal to them.

29. What is the Scriptural view of entertainment or recreation, and just when do we need to be on guard?

²⁹ Clearly, there is need for balance in our approach to matters of entertainment and recreation. The Scriptures do not call upon God’s servants to live a life of asceticism, nor do they represent self-denial as having virtue in itself but only when it is engaged in with some good objective in view. (Compare Ecclesiastes 2:24; 3:1, 4, 13; 8:15; 1 Corinthians 13:3; Colossians 2:20-23.) But this does not give any excuse for going to extremes, letting the fallen flesh take control and using Christian freedom as a cloak for badness. (Galatians 5:13, 14; 1 Peter 2:16) Such a course can never be harmonized with the love of God and the love of one’s neighbor as oneself, the “kingly law” that we are under. (James 2:8, 12) Those who argue otherwise, and who ridicule those who do not agree with them in their excesses, show they are still slaves to their own selfish leanings.

30. What can eventually happen because of corrupt influence inside the congregation?

³⁰ So there is need to keep our senses and avoid both extremes. There is an undeniable danger of being led into a course of heedless pursuit of pleasure. One can gradually be pulled into a whirlpool of parties that, over a period of time, deteriorate in quality, slipping more and more into extremes in dancing or drinking, or of viewing entertainment that glorifies sexual immorality and sadism. It is unreasoning to claim that these unwholesome influences pose no danger. They can hardly help but have a weakening effect on the Christian conscience, breaking down one’s moral fiber. Persons pretending otherwise often wind up as victims to drunkenness and sexual misconduct.​—Proverbs 13:20.

31, 32. What will some members of the congregation continue to do until “the day of judgment” and with what consequences?

³¹ Truly, the apostle Peter accurately depicted what will continue to happen among God’s servants until “the day of judgment [for unrighteous people] to be cut off.” (2 Peter 2:9) There will always be persons who try to extend the limits of Christian freedom far beyond what is reasonable so that they can satisfy their desires for sensual pleasure. They do not want to follow the Biblical injunction: “Deaden, therefore, your body members that are upon the earth as respects fornication, uncleanness, sexual appetite, hurtful desire, and covetousness.” (Colossians 3:5) Instead, they choose the very entertainment that incites these wrong desires. When involving others, they may argue: ‘If our conscience allows it, there is nothing wrong with it.’ But they fail to recognize that a defiled conscience is not a safe guide. These persons are yielding to their wrong desires and are, therefore, in slavery to these. Their promises of “freedom” to others are misleading.

³² The result to those who are again plunged into a life of wrongdoing is indeed calamitous. The apostle Peter wrote:

“Certainly if, after having escaped from the defilements of the world by an accurate knowledge of the Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, they get involved again with these very things and are overcome, the final conditions have become worse for them than the first. For it would have been better for them not to have accurately known the path of righteousness than after knowing it accurately to turn away from the holy commandment delivered to them. The saying of the true proverb has happened to them: ‘The dog has returned to its own vomit, and the sow that was bathed to rolling in the mire.’”​—2 Peter 2:20-22.

33. (a) What changes may a person make upon coming to a knowledge of the truth? (b) Why is a return to the ways of the world a very serious matter?

³³ Why could the apostle Peter say this? Once a person gains accurate knowledge of the Lord Jesus Christ, he begins to see the need for making changes. He may give up heavy drinking, a life of immorality, gambling and other vices. By cleaning himself up to conform to what is expected of a disciple of Jesus Christ, the individual flees or escapes from the “defilements of the world,” from practices that he has come to know as being divinely disapproved. However, on again becoming entangled in God-dishonoring practices, he deliberately throws aside what he knows to be right. His knowledge of Jesus Christ and his Bible-trained conscience initially served as a restraint against wrong conduct. When breaking free from that wholesome restraint, he may well become even worse than before he took up the way of Christian discipleship. He may go beyond what men do who have no knowledge of the path of righteousness. This is because his conscience has become contaminated, or even seared​—like dead tissue. (Compare 1 Timothy 4:2.) If he had never known the right path, his bad conduct would not have disgraced so terribly the name of Christ, his sin would not have had the same gravity, and the divine judgment against him would not have needed to be as severe.​—Compare Luke 12:45-48; 1 Timothy 1:13, 15, 16.

34, 35. (a) What can we draw from the proverb about the unclean dog and the pig? (b) What should this proverb impress on us?

³⁴ In view of the proverb that Peter quotes, those who take up a life of sin evidently fail to use their opportunities to advance in Christian living. (2 Peter 1:2-11) Some may outwardly abandon bad practices but never come to hate these. They may not really leave behind the “vomit,” the filth, of this world. To them, there still is something attractive about it, and so they can be induced to turn back to it. They may have an inward desire to roll around in the world’s mire of moral degradation. In the case of others, they may fail to increase in appreciation for the value of Christian discipleship, and eventually what the world has to offer takes on greater appeal. How tragic is the fall of those who are thus lured back into the state that had at one time been sickening to them!

³⁵ The inspired proverb stands as a warning lesson to all who claim to be Christian. If we are not cultivating moral and spiritual cleanness in our hearts and lack a real loathing for the filth of this world, we are in grave danger of spiritual ruin. Christians simply cannot afford to let down their guard in resisting the enticements of a corrupt world. We must deaden our wrong desires, not allowing them to gain the mastery over us, nor should we stimulate them by looking with longing to what the world has to offer.​—1 Corinthians 10:12; Colossians 3:5.

REMAIN AWAKE!

36. Besides remaining morally and spiritually clean, what do we need to do to please our Master?

³⁶ Besides remaining morally and spiritually clean, we also need to be active in the service of our Master, helping others spiritually as well as materially. Our whole course of life should reflect spiritual wakefulness and activity. Emphasizing the importance of this, the apostle Peter stated:

“Beloved ones, this is now the second letter I am writing you, in which, as in my first one, I am arousing your clear thinking faculties by way of a reminder, that you should remember the sayings previously spoken by the holy prophets and the commandment of the Lord and Savior through your apostles. For you know this first, that in the last days there will come ridiculers with their ridicule, proceeding according to their own desires and saying: ‘Where is this promised presence of his? Why, from the day our forefathers fell asleep in death, all things are continuing exactly as from creation’s beginning.’”​—2 Peter 3:1-4.

37. (a) Why should we have our ‘clear thinking faculties aroused’? (b) To what momentous event did the prophets point?

³⁷ Certainly we today benefit from having our ‘clear thinking faculties aroused’ so that we can make a proper evaluation of what is essential for gaining divine approval. (Compare 2 Peter 1:12-15.) The “holy prophets” as far back as Enoch warned of a day of reckoning. At Jude 14, 15, we read: “Yes, the seventh one in line from Adam, Enoch, prophesied also regarding them, when he said: ‘Look! Jehovah came with his holy myriads, to execute judgment against all, and to convict all the ungodly concerning all their ungodly deeds that they did in an ungodly way, and concerning all the shocking things that ungodly sinners spoke against him.’” Centuries later, Hebrew prophets such as Isaiah, Daniel, Joel, Habakkuk, Zephaniah, Haggai, Zechariah and Malachi were moved to utter similar prophecies.​—Isaiah 66:15, 16; Daniel 7:9-22; Joel 3:9-17; Habakkuk 3:16-18; Zephaniah 1:14-18; Haggai 2:21, 22; Zechariah 14:6-9; Malachi 4:1-6.

38. Why should we strive to be in a state of preparedness?

³⁸ The divine judgment foretold by all these prophets and others is bound to be fulfilled. This requires that we at all times strive to be in a state of preparedness and not jeopardize our clean standing before the Most High.

39. What is the message conveyed by the commandment of Jesus Christ?

³⁹ The message of the prophets to us is the same as that conveyed by the commandment of our Lord Jesus Christ, as repeated by the apostles, including Paul. We disciples of the Son of God should be active in his service, remain morally and spiritually clean, and be always ready to receive our Master when he comes to execute judgment against the ungodly. The Son of God stated:

“Pay attention to yourselves that your hearts never become weighed down with overeating and heavy drinking and anxieties of life, and suddenly that day be instantly upon you as a snare. For it will come in upon all those dwelling upon the face of all the earth. Keep awake, then, all the time making supplication that you may succeed in escaping all these things that are destined to occur, and in standing before the Son of man.”​—Luke 21:34-36.

40. To avoid being plunged into spiritual sleep. what must we do?

⁴⁰ Yes, we must guard against being plunged into spiritual sleep. This calls for avoiding unrestrained indulgence in food, drink and pleasures. Such excesses dull mental and spiritual perception and overload the heart with feelings of guilt. They crowd out good heart motivations. Similarly, undue concern about making a living can rob the heart of the calming assurance that Jehovah God will provide everything that we truly need. (Matthew 6:25-34) Whenever the main motivation of the heart ceases to be the desire to be found approved by the Lord Jesus Christ at his time for judgment, a person comes into a condition of grave spiritual danger. He may be caught in a disapproved state by the Master, Jesus Christ.

41. Why has faith in the certainty of Christ’s coming in glory always been an aid in a person’s remaining loyal to him?

⁴¹ Like Peter, the other faithful apostles taught their fellow believers to keep ever before them the certainty of Christ’s coming to execute judgment and to reward his loyal disciples. A prime objective of such teaching was to aid Christians to be found approved on the Son’s arrival “with power and great glory.” (Matthew 24:30) As Jesus had done, the apostles continued to emphasize the importance of proving faithful to the end. That end could come either at their death or at “the presence of the day of Jehovah.” (2 Peter 3:12) Since even the resurrection of Christ’s joint heirs is linked in the Scriptures with his return, the hopes of all true disciples are bound up with the arrival of the Son of God in the capacity of a glorious heavenly King. (Matthew 10:28; 24:13, 36-44; 1 Thessalonians 1:9, 10; 4:14-17) Thus, during the entire history of the Christian congregation, unshakable faith in the Master’s coming “with power and great glory” has been an aid in a person’s proving loyal to him.

DO NOT BE DECEIVED BY RIDICULERS

42. (a) Why do we hear the voice of ridiculers today? (b) What is their argument?

⁴² Partly because of eagerness to be alive when Jesus Christ reveals himself in glory, there have been believers throughout the centuries who began looking to a particular period or a year for the windup of the ungodly system of things. This has happened right down to these “last days.” Since certain expectations were not realized, many stumbled and returned to the ways of the world. In fulfillment of Peter’s words, even today we hear the voice of ridiculers. (2 Peter 3:3, 4) In effect, they say: ‘What reason is there to believe that the Son of God is going to execute the ungodly and to reward his disciples? Why, nothing has changed since the time of creation. The original processes of life are continuing and give no indication of coming to a disastrous end in the near future. Men are marrying, and women are being given in marriage, babies are being born, and men continue to grow old and die.’ Thus they imply that the Lord Jesus Christ never will come to execute judgment or that this event is so far off in the future that it is of no immediate concern.

43. What shows that there has always been a need for Christ’s disciples to be diligent in discharging their responsibilities?

⁴³ Such ridiculers have totally lost sight of the fact that either death or “the day of Jehovah” will inescapably overtake them. In either event, they will have no further opportunity to lay up treasure in heaven in the form of fine works. (Luke 12:15-21, 31, 33-40) Hence, for disciples of Jesus Christ there has never been a period of history when they could afford to be neglectful of their responsibilities. Certainly, the risk in doing so is even greater in our time.

44. What basic responsibilities should we be discharging?

⁴⁴ Today, then, just what responsibilities should we be discharging? For one thing, we are under command to “make disciples of people of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the holy spirit, teaching them to observe all the things I have commanded.” (Matthew 28:19, 20) Yes, at the conclusion of the system of things, we are privileged to share in the worldwide preaching of the “good news of the kingdom.” (Matthew 24:14) Of particularly vital importance at this time is our obligation to show love to all our brothers, responding to their needs for assistance, sympathy and encouragement. (Compare Matthew 25:35-40; Hebrews 13:1-3; 1 John 3:16-18.) Moreover, we need to exert ourselves constantly to remain clean from the degrading works of the flesh.​—Matthew 7:21-23; Galatians 5:19-21.

JEHOVAH HAS PROVED THE RIDICULERS TO BE WRONG

45, 46. What evidence has Jehovah provided to show that the ridiculers are wrong?

⁴⁵ As we continue leading a life that harmonizes with our being disciples of Jesus Christ, we will want to keep ever before us that Jehovah God long ago provided the evidence that undeniably proves the ridiculers to be wrong. Calling attention to this fact, the apostle Peter wrote:

“According to their wish, this fact escapes their notice, that there were heavens from of old and an earth standing compactly out of water and in the midst of water by the word of God; and by those means the world of that time suffered destruction when it was deluged with water.”​—2 Peter 3:5, 6.

⁴⁶ The fact that Jehovah God once before destroyed a world of ungodly people shows that the ridiculers are wrong in concluding that there will be no drastic change in human affairs but that all things will continue “exactly as from creation’s beginning.” We have God’s own word of promise that, by means of his Son, he will take action against the ungodly. That word is so powerful that there is no possibility of its failing to be fulfilled.

47. How does the creation account reveal the power of God’s “word”?

⁴⁷ The manner in which the Bible speaks of Jehovah’s creative works reveals the power of his “word.” From Genesis chapter 1, we learn that, when the Most High says the word or gives the command, his purpose is as good as accomplished. (Compare Psalm 148:1-6.) With reference to the second day, we are told: “God went on to say: ‘Let an expanse come to be in between the waters and let a dividing occur between the waters and the waters.’ Then God proceeded to make the expanse and to make a division between the waters that should be beneath the expanse and the waters that should be above the expanse. And it came to be so.” (Genesis 1:6, 7) Then, on the third day, “God went on to say: ‘Let the waters under the heavens be brought together into one place and let the dry land appear.’ And it came to be so.”​—Genesis 1:9.

48. How did the earth come to ‘stand compactly out of water’ and “in the midst of water”?

⁴⁸ What the Genesis account says is in full harmony with the description given by the apostle Peter. Because the dry land rose above the surface of the terrestrial water, the ‘earth stood compactly out of water.’ Yet, by reason of the water surrounding the earth above the expanse (which contained the gases needed for supporting life), the earth also stood “in the midst of water.” (Compare Proverbs 8:24-29.) This arrangement came into being by the “word of God.”

49. (a) How was it that “by those means the world of that time suffered destruction”? (b) What future event does the powerful “word of God” make certain?

⁴⁹ The waters suspended far above earth’s surface and the terrestrial waters created the possibility for a global deluge and did prove to be the means by which the Most High destroyed an ungodly world. Hence, the Flood stands as a warning example to all who ridicule the certainty of divine intervention in human affairs during the time of Christ’s presence. The powerful word that brought into being the possibilities for a global deluge is the same word that points to the destruction of the present wicked system of things. The apostle Peter continues: “But by the same word the heavens and the earth that are now are stored up for fire and are being reserved to the day of judgment and of destruction of the ungodly men.”​—2 Peter 3:7.

50. (a) With reference to the destruction of the present old system of things, what viewpoint have some persons who are associated with the Christian congregation adopted? (b) How is this attitude being manifested?

⁵⁰ Especially because many centuries have passed since the apostle Peter wrote these words and because certain expectations have been unfulfilled, some persons associated with the Christian congregation have questioned whether such a destruction will ever come. While perhaps not openly joining the ridiculers, they no longer view “the day of judgment” as an event with which they must reckon. They become negligent in living up to their Christian responsibilities, and succumb to a state of spiritual drowsiness. They strive to get as much as possible from the present system of things in the way of pleasures and possessions.

APPRECIATE JEHOVAH’S PATIENCE

51. Why should we not think that Christ’s coming in the capacity of an executioner has been a long time in arriving?

⁵¹ From a human standpoint, it may seem that Christ’s coming in the capacity of the executioner of divine vengeance has been a long time in arriving. But this has not been true in the eyes of Jehovah God. Consequently, for us to avoid going to sleep spiritually, we need to view matters from the standpoint of the Most High. The apostle Peter’s words can help us to do just that. We read:

“However, let this one fact not be escaping your notice, beloved ones, that one day is with Jehovah as a thousand years and a thousand years as one day. Jehovah is not slow respecting his promise, as some people consider slowness, but he is patient with you because he does not desire any to be destroyed but desires all to attain to repentance. Yet Jehovah’s day will come as a thief.”​—2 Peter 3:8-10.

52, 53. How is a thousand years as one day to Jehovah, and one day as a thousand years?

⁵² Jehovah is not indifferent to time as it applies to man. (Genesis 1:14, 15) He made man to be a timekeeper. In the Bible, God has marked out specific time periods, these being measured in years according to man’s count of time. (Genesis 15:13-16; Exodus 12:40, 41; Galatians 3:17; Numbers 14:33, 34; 32:13; Deuteronomy 2:7; Joshua 5:6; Acts 13:20) Since he is a God without beginning and end, from eternity to eternity, his own life cannot be measured in time. (Psalm 90:2, 4) So what is to man a thousand years or a period of more than 365,000 days is, comparatively speaking, like just one 24-hour day to the eternal God.

⁵³ When the inspired Peter says, also, that “one day is with Jehovah as a thousand years,” he does not mean that time drags on tiresomely for Jehovah with regard to earthly or human affairs. Rather, in one 24-hour day God could accomplish what it would take man, say, a thousand years to get done. But the Most High is never crowded for time, although he can speed things up. Yet, if he wants to wait a thousand years before taking a certain action, he is waiting only a “day,” relatively speaking.

54. (a) Why should we not think of Jehovah God as being slow? (b) How have we benefited from God’s patience?

⁵⁴ So, instead of looking at the centuries that have passed since the apostle Peter wrote his second letter as an evidence of slowness on God’s part, we should regard this period as a marvelous demonstration of divine patience. It proves undeniably that our heavenly Father wants people everywhere to come to repentance and live. As Peter pointed out, God’s patience has benefited Christians. At one time they, too, were unbelievers and needed to repent in order to gain an approved standing with the Most High. However, if divine judgment had been executed against the ungodly world, those who had not yet come to repentance would have perished. Thus Jehovah’s patience has allowed for the salvation of Christians, even as it is now continuing to open up opportunities for still others to come to repentance and live. Nevertheless, divine patience will not be shown indefinitely. Unexpectedly, as when a thief comes, the Lord Jesus Christ will be revealed “in a flaming fire” as he begins his work of executing the ungodly.​—2 Thessalonians 1:7-9.

55. What should we be doing in view of the certainty of Christ’s coming to execute judgment, and what can this mean for us?

⁵⁵ Because such revelation of the Lord Jesus Christ can come at any time, we need to think seriously about our standing before God and Christ. We do not have endless time to build up a record of fine works that will result in our being viewed as approved by them. The Bible clearly shows that our Master’s day for judging will overtake those not watchful. If we are negligent about our Christian responsibilities, then, as a thief, such an event could catch us in an unprepared state. Therefore, we should strive to live each day as if it were our last, not allowing personal desires or pleasures to interfere with our faithfully serving Jehovah God and our Lord Jesus Christ. In that case, we will never regret the way in which we have used our time, our energies and our material assets. The revelation of the Lord Jesus Christ will then not be a time that will expose us as disloyal slaves deserving of punishment. But it will start a period of unparalleled blessings for us as part of the “new heavens” or the “new earth” of God’s making. Surely, this is a grand hope that deserves to be safeguarded.​—2 Peter 3:13.

Chapter 11

Live in Expectation of the Fulfillment of the Promise

1, 2. (a) What will yet happen according to the changeless “word of God,” giving rise to what questions? (b) How does the apostle Peter describe what will happen to the present order?

A WHOLE world order is due to change. Every facet of human living is bound to be affected. This change is inevitable since the unfailing “word of God” has decreed the end of the present heavens and earth and their replacement by glorious new heavens and a new earth. What will these developments mean for us? How can we show that we are living in expectation of the fulfillment of what Jehovah God has promised?

² After referring to the global flood in Noah’s days, the apostle Peter writes: “The heavens and the earth that are now are stored up for fire and are being reserved to the day of judgment and of destruction of the ungodly men.” (2 Peter 3:7) The apostle goes on to say that “the heavens will pass away with a hissing noise, but the elements being intensely hot will be dissolved, and earth and the works in it will be discovered.”​—2 Peter 3:10.

3. In view of the Genesis account, what must we logically conclude about the material universe, including our earth?

³ Based on these inspired words, are we to conclude that our literal earth as well as the sun, moon and stars will be destroyed? To answer this question, we must consider God’s view of his own works. With reference to the end of the creative period, the Genesis account tells us: “God saw everything he had made and, look! it was very good.” (Genesis 1:31) The prospect before the first humans was an eternity of happy living on earth, provided that they remained obedient. (Genesis 2:16, 17; 3:3) Nothing in the Genesis account implies that the earth would be but a temporary home for man, finally to be destroyed at some future judgment day. It logically follows that God’s purpose is for the material universe, including our earth, to continue in unending existence.

4. (a) What distinction did Peter make in connection with the situation before and after the Flood? (b) What did the Flood not do?

⁴ Moreover, the apostle Peter made a distinction between (1) the “heavens from of old and an earth standing compactly out of water and in the midst of water” and (2) “the heavens and the earth that are now.” (2 Peter 3:5, 7) Yet, the earth that existed before the Flood is the same planet that still exists. True, the deluge did bring about changes in the physical features of the earth. Since water was no longer suspended high above earth’s surface, this affected the appearance of the visible universe from the standpoint of the human observer. However, these changes were merely side effects of the Flood. Its purpose was not to destroy the literal planet but to destroy the ungodly human society outside the ark. By means of the deluge, all the works and arrangements that the godless human society had built up perished.

5. For there to be a correspondency with the global flood, what must happen at the day of reckoning?

⁵ Hence, for there to be a correspondency with the global flood, everything associated with the present wicked human society must perish, as if consumed by fire. Yes, the entire framework of human affairs that came into existence after the Flood has been reserved for destruction and a day of judgment or reckoning.

6. Is the “fire,” by means of which the old order ends, literal?

⁶ That the “fire” is here used representatively of the thoroughness of the destruction is confirmed in the Bible book of Revelation, where the Lord Jesus Christ is depicted as a warring king. His battle action is said to leave many corpses strewn on earth’s surface, to be consumed by scavenger birds. (Revelation 19:15-18) Such a picture could not be fulfilled to any degree if this planet were to be reduced literally to a lifeless cinder.

7. What do the words of 2 Peter 3:10 indicate about the destruction to come?

⁷ So, then, Peter’s portrayal of the destruction of the present earth and heavens relates to the annihilation of ungodly human society. Man-made governments that have dominated over human society like “heavens” will pass out of existence. (Compare Isaiah 34:2-5; Micah 1:3, 4.) The sound of their dissolving into ruins, described as a “hissing noise” like that of steam escaping under pressure, will build up in intensity. The “elements,” that is, the spirit that motivates ungodly mankind to think, plan, speak and act in their God-dishonoring way will be dissolved or reduced to nothingness. (Compare Acts 9:1; Ephesians 2:1-3.) This will spell the end for all the philosophies, theories, arrangements and schemes that reflect the spirit of mankind alienated from the Most High. “Earth and the works in it will be discovered” or exposed as deserving destruction. There will be no escape for any member of the wicked human society, the “earth.” (Compare Genesis 11:1; Isaiah 66:15, 16; Amos 9:1-3; Zephaniah 1:12-18.) All the works of lawless men​—the institutions and organizations as well as what has been built up in connection with these—​will be revealed as divinely disapproved, to be disposed of as worthless refuse.

8. Since every part of the present system will be destroyed, what counsel of Peter should we take to heart?

⁸ We servants of God, therefore, want to live in a manner showing that we really believe that every part of this present ungodly system will perish everlastingly. This is what the apostle Peter urges us to do, saying:

“Since all these things are thus to be dissolved, what sort of persons ought you to be in holy acts of conduct and deeds of godly devotion, awaiting and keeping close in mind the presence of the day of Jehovah, through which the heavens being on fire will be dissolved and the elements being intensely hot will melt!”​—2 Peter 3:11, 12.

9. Who only will survive the coming destruction, with everlasting blessings in view?

⁹ When every part of this system is dissolved by the “fire” of God’s anger expressed through the Lord Jesus Christ, only persons with a record of upright conduct and godly devotion will escape. True worship is not passive, reflecting itself solely in a person’s abstaining from certain wrongs. While maintaining moral and spiritual purity is essential, we are also under obligation to demonstrate our love for our fellow humans by being willing and eager to respond to their physical and spiritual needs. And this contributes to great joy, for “there is more happiness in giving than there is in receiving.”​—Acts 20:35.

ACTIONS INDICATING THAT WE RECOGNIZE THE APPROACHING END

10. On account of the approaching “end of all things,” what admonition did Peter give?

¹⁰ The following words of the apostle Peter amplify what we need to be doing in view of the approaching “end of all things”: “Be sound in mind, therefore, and be vigilant with a view to prayers. Above all things, have intense love for one another, because love covers a multitude of sins. Be hospitable to one another without grumbling.”​—1 Peter 4:7-9.

11. What is needed for us to remain “sound in mind”?

¹¹ In harmony with this admonition, to remain morally clean or upright in conduct and to be active in promoting the spiritual welfare of others, we need to be “sound in mind.” This requires that we guard against letting emotions rule and allowing them to unbalance us mentally. It is vital that we recognize the truly important things in life, that we have a balanced sense of what deserves priority.​—Philippians 1:9, 10.

12. (a) Why is it important to be “vigilant with a view to prayers”? (b) How did Peter come to appreciate the importance of this from his own experience?

¹² If we want to remain God’s faithful servants, we cannot hope to succeed in our own strength. We need to look to Jehovah God for aid, being “vigilant with a view to prayers.” From personal experience, the apostle Peter learned the importance of being “vigilant,” watchful or alert with reference to prayers. Just prior to Jesus Christ’s being arrested by an armed mob in the garden of Gethsemane, the Son of God had encouraged Peter, James and John to pray so that they might not fall victim to temptation. However, all three apostles fell asleep at this critical time. (Matthew 26:36-46; Mark 14:32-42; Luke 22:39-46) Weakened by his failure to remain “vigilant” as regards prayer, Peter later denied Jesus Christ three times. (John 18:17, 18, 25-27) Yet, earlier, Peter had confidently declared: “Lord, I am ready to go with you both into prison and into death.” (Luke 22:33) “Although all the others are stumbled in connection with you, never will I be stumbled!”​—Matthew 26:33.

13. What can we learn from Peter’s experience when he failed to be “vigilant with a view to prayers”?

¹³ There is a vital lesson for us in what happened to Peter. It can impress on us the danger of overconfidence. Because of our limitations and weaknesses, it is only with divine help that we can succeed in resisting temptation. May we, therefore, keep on praying with an alert mind and a heart that is unwavering in its affections for Jehovah God and Jesus Christ.

14. What should be our motive in fulfilling our Christian responsibility, and how is this manifest in our dealings with our fellow believers?

¹⁴ Besides remaining alert and balanced with reference to Christian discipleship, we do well to consider whether love is motivating us to fulfill our responsibilities. (1 Corinthians 13:1-3) The apostle Peter urged that we have “intense love” for fellow believers. Such intense love is demonstrated by our having a forgiving spirit. When that is the case, we do not exaggerate the faults of our brothers nor do we call undue attention to their failings. We do not look for mistakes, putting the transgressions of others in the worst light possible. In our thus being forgiving, our love will cover a multitude of sins instead of exposing them to full view for others to see.

15. Why may it be necessary to show hospitality, and with what attitude should it be extended?

¹⁵ The showing of hospitality is also an expression of love. How fine it is when we share our food and necessities with others, especially those in need! (Luke 14:12-14) When fellow believers lose everything through natural disasters or persecution, this may mean opening our homes to them for extended periods. This may be very inconvenient for us, and we might tend to complain about the extra demands being put on our assets and energies. At such times we do well to guard against grumbling about having to show hospitality time and again, recognizing that this is a fine way in which we can display our love for those whom God loves.

16, 17. (a) How should we view the gifts that we have? (b) What fine attitude did Paul recommend and manifest himself?

¹⁶ All of us do have gifts or endowments that we can use for the benefit of others. Our remaining God’s approved servants depends on our using these gifts eagerly and cheerfully. Wisely, we would avoid comparing ourselves with others. This can prevent our being discouraged when seeing that others can do much more than we can. On the other hand, we would not give in to any feelings of superiority when we can accomplish more in some field of activity than others can. (Galatians 6:3, 4) Note what the apostle Peter said: “In proportion as each one has received a gift, use it in ministering to one another as fine stewards of God’s undeserved kindness expressed in various ways.” (1 Peter 4:10) Accordingly, we are responsible to use to the full whatever gifts we may have. By God’s undeserved kindness we are what we are and have what we have. Hence, all our energies, abilities and talents may be viewed as gifts that have been granted us by Jehovah’s undeserved kindness, to be used to bring praise and honor to the Most High.

¹⁷ The apostle Paul highlighted the right attitude by means of the following questions: “Who makes you to differ from another? Indeed, what do you have that you did not receive? If, now, you did indeed receive it, why do you boast as though you did not receive it?” (1 Corinthians 4:7) Though Paul himself could say that he “labored in excess” of all the other apostles, he did not take the credit to himself but added, “yet not I but the undeserved kindness of God that is with me.”​—1 Corinthians 15:10.

18. In what manner should we be using our gifts?

¹⁸ As faithful stewards, we will want to be concerned about making full use of whatever gifts we may have in helping others spiritually and materially. The manner in which we do so is also very important. In this regard, Peter wrote:

“If anyone speaks, let him speak as it were the sacred pronouncements of God; if anyone ministers, let him minister as dependent on the strength that God supplies; so that in all things God may be glorified through Jesus Christ. The glory and the might are his forever and ever. Amen.”​—1 Peter 4:11.

19. How can we glorify God when helping others spiritually and materially?

¹⁹ Hence, if we are helping others spiritually, we will want to speak in such a way as to show that the source of our comforting, loving words is Jehovah God. When that is the case, our preaching and teaching will be upbuilding and will not engender feelings of inferiority and shame in those whom we are striving to aid. Similarly, if we give of our time and energies in rendering physical aid, we will want to rely on God for strength. This would de-emphasize our own abilities and highlight God’s use of our capacities for doing good. In this way, our heavenly Father will be glorified. (1 Corinthians 3:5-7) Since such glory or honor is given to the Father because of our being disciples of his Son, Jehovah God is “glorified through Jesus Christ.” Yes, the Most High is responsible for giving us the ability and the strength to accomplish good.

20. Why should we look forward to the coming of Jehovah’s great day, and so what should we be doing?

²⁰ By using our time, assets and energies to aid others, we show that we are in a state of spiritual preparedness, ready to face the great day of Jehovah. In fact, our recognizing that the Lord Jesus Christ could come at any time as the executioner of divine vengeance can incite us to remain spiritually awake. That is why we want to keep ever before us the certainty of the coming of Jehovah’s great day. Because it will open up grand opportunities for all loyal disciples of Jesus Christ, we can rightly look forward to it with eager anticipation. The day of Jehovah will mean being freed forever from the unrighteousness and pressures of the present system of things, to enjoy the blessings of “new heavens and a new earth.” How vital it is that we keep this day “close in mind,” ardently desiring it! (2 Peter 3:12, 13) Our zealous participation in making known God’s purpose to others gives evidence of the proper attitude. It shows that we are convinced that Jehovah’s day will come and that others need to know about it and act in harmony with this vital knowledge.

21. (a) Of what can we be sure in connection with God’s promise of “new heavens and a new earth”? (b) How should this affect us?

²¹ God’s promise of “new heavens and a new earth,” first stated through the prophet Isaiah, will be fulfilled to its fullest significance. (Isaiah 65:17; 66:22) A righteous rule in the hands of Jesus Christ and his associate king-priests over an earthly society conforming to divine law must become a reality. (Revelation 5:9, 10; 20:6) The certainty of this can stir us to action, moving us to do our utmost to be among those who share in the blessings that will result. The apostle Peter admonished: “Beloved ones, since you are awaiting these things, do your utmost to be found finally by him spotless and unblemished and in peace.” (2 Peter 3:14) As God’s servants, our concern is to be approved by the Lord Jesus Christ, not being spotted or blemished by worldly attitudes, ways and actions. We want to be free from the stain of sin. Since sin disrupts our peace with God, only by remaining in a state where our sins can be atoned for can we be found “in peace” at the coming of his great day.

APPRECIATE DIVINE PATIENCE

22. Why should we not become impatient about the fulfillment of God’s promise?

²² While we rightly look forward to “new heavens and a new earth,” we do not want to become impatient about the fulfillment of the promise. The fact that Jehovah’s great day did not come long ago has allowed for our own salvation. The apostle Peter stated:

“Consider the patience of our Lord as salvation, just as our beloved brother Paul according to the wisdom given him also wrote you, speaking about these things as he does also in all his letters. In them, however, are some things hard to understand, which the untaught and unsteady are twisting, as they do also the rest of the Scriptures, to their own destruction.”​—2 Peter 3:15, 16.

23. (a) Why should we not presume on God’s patience? (b) How did some in the first century fail to recognize the reason for God’s patience?

²³ As persons who appreciate Jehovah’s patience, we will want to be careful not to presume on it, justifying a particular course of selfishness on the basis that God’s great day may yet be far away. In the first century C.E., there were believers who apparently did this. The apostle Peter describes them as “untaught and unsteady,” lacking a clear understanding of God’s Word and being unstable with reference to Christian doctrine and practice. These persons even tried to use statements from the letters of the inspired apostle Paul and other parts of the Scriptures to excuse their wrong conduct. It may be that they pointed to what Paul had written about the exercise of conscience and about being declared righteous by faith and not by works of the Mosaic law as providing latitude for all kinds of actions that were contrary to God’s will. (Compare Romans 3:5-8; 6:1; 7:4; 8:1, 2; Galatians 3:10.) They may have misused such points as the following:

“Christ set us free. Therefore stand fast, and do not let yourselves be confined again in a yoke of slavery.” (Galatians 5:1) “All things are lawful for me.” (1 Corinthians 6:12) “All things are clean to clean persons.” (Titus 1:15)

However, they ignored that Paul also said:

“Do not use this freedom as an inducement for the flesh, but through love slave for one another. For the entire Law stands fulfilled in one saying, namely: ‘You must love your neighbor as yourself.’” (Galatians 5:13, 14) “Let each one keep seeking, not his own advantage, but that of the other person.”​—1 Corinthians 10:24.

24. Why must we guard our associations even inside the congregation?

²⁴ As in the first-century congregation, so today there are those who would extend the limits of Christian freedom to the point of becoming enslaved to sin. Therefore, we do well to guard our associations, lest we come under unwholesome influence and be led astray. Calling attention to this fact, the apostle Peter wrote: “You, therefore, beloved ones, having this advance knowledge, be on your guard that you may not be led away with them by the error of the law-defying people and fall from your own steadfastness.”​—2 Peter 3:17.

MAKE ADVANCEMENT AS A CHRISTIAN

25, 26. After obtaining faith, what should we be doing in harmony with 2 Peter 1:5-7?

²⁵ To avoid losing out on the blessings that Jehovah God has in store for us, we should want to make progress in Christian living and activity. (2 Peter 3:18) Our doing so harmonizes with the apostle Peter’s encouragement:

“Yes, for this very reason, by your contributing in response all earnest effort, supply to your faith virtue, to your virtue knowledge, to your knowledge self-control, to your self-control endurance, to your endurance godly devotion, to your godly devotion brotherly affection, to your brotherly affection love.”​—2 Peter 1:5-7.

²⁶ Through his Son, Jehovah God has given us the capacity for faith. Hence, in response to, or as a consequence of, what has been done in our behalf, we should want to develop other fine qualities that give evidence of our having genuine faith. This we do by letting God’s Word and his spirit exert their full force in our lives. (2 Peter 1:1-4) The apostle Peter admonished that we ‘contribute all earnest effort,’ exerting ourselves diligently with all the strength that we have, in cooperating with the work our heavenly Father is doing in making us complete Christians.​—Compare 1 Corinthians 3:6, 7; James 1:2-4.

27. What is meant by adding virtue to our faith?

²⁷ Our adding virtue to faith means striving to be persons of moral excellence in imitation of our Exemplar, Christ. Such virtue or moral excellence is a positive quality. Its possessor not only refrains from doing bad or causing injury to his fellowmen but also seeks to do good, responding positively to the spiritual, physical and emotional needs of others.

28. Why is it important to grow in knowledge?

²⁸ Moral excellence cannot exist apart from knowledge. We need knowledge to distinguish right from wrong. (Hebrews 5:14) It is also essential for evaluating just how positive good is to be expressed in a given situation. (Philippians 1:9, 10) Unlike credulity, which makes light of or even resists knowledge, solidly based faith rests on and always benefits from knowledge. Hence, our being diligent in applying the Holy Scriptures will strengthen our faith as we continue to grow in knowledge of Jehovah God and his Son.

29. (a) Why is knowledge essential in cultivating self-control? (b) What is the relationship between self-control and endurance?

²⁹ This knowledge serves to restrain us from giving in to sinful passions, becoming immoderate and unbridled in conduct, or in other ways becoming guilty of a serious failure to reflect the divine image in attitude, word and action. Knowledge contributes to our having self-control, the ability to bridle one’s person, actions and speech. By continuing to exercise self-control, we will have the essential quality of endurance. The inner strength that endurance produces can also help us to resist giving in to sinful passions, compromising when suffering persecution or becoming preoccupied with daily cares, pleasures or material possessions. This endurance stems from relying on the Most High for strength and guidance.​—Compare Philippians 4:12, 13; James 1:5.

30. (a) What is godly devotion, and how does it manifest itself? (b) What shows that godliness cannot exist apart from brotherly affection?

³⁰ Godly devotion or reverentialness should be added to endurance. Such an attitude distinguishes the entire life course of a genuine Christian. It manifests itself in a wholesome regard and honor for the Creator and a deep respect and concern for parents or others to whom devotion is due. (1 Timothy 5:4) Without brotherly affection, however, godliness cannot exist. The apostle John stated:

“If anyone makes the statement: ‘I love God,’ and yet is hating his brother, he is a liar. For he who does not love his brother, whom he has seen, cannot be loving God, whom he has not seen.” (1 John 4:20)

Anyone priding himself on his reverence and devotion would still be woefully lacking if he failed to show affection, kindness and friendliness to his brothers. We cannot be warm toward God and cool toward our brothers.

31. To whom should love be shown, and why?

³¹ Love is the outstanding quality that should be especially evident in our lives. This kind of love is not to be limited to our Christian brothers. While we are to have affection for our spiritual brothers, love is to be shown to all mankind. This love is not dependent on the moral standing of the individual. It is to be shown even toward enemies, particularly expressing itself in a desire to help them spiritually.​—Matthew 5:43-48.

32. What results when we apply the counsel of 2 Peter 1:5-7?

³² What results when virtue, knowledge, self-control, endurance, godly devotion, brotherly affection and love are added to faith? The apostle Peter answers: “If these things exist in you and overflow, they will prevent you from being either inactive or unfruitful regarding the accurate knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.” (2 Peter 1:8) We will then not be standing still, inactive, dead spiritually. With godly qualities lodging in our hearts, being truly a part of us, we will be motivated to think, speak and act in a divinely approved way. (Compare Luke 6:43-45.) When this is true in our case, the coming of the Lord Jesus Christ to take full control of earth’s affairs will be the start of blessings far grander than we can now imagine.

33-35. How do we benefit from living as disciples of Jesus Christ?

³³ May we, therefore, never become careless in our conduct or in the discharge of our Christian responsibilities, including the vital work of making known God’s message to others. If we have chosen a life as disciples of Jesus Christ we can enjoy a clean conscience and wholesome companionship with fellow believers. We can experience God’s strengthening aid in times of trial, and our relationship with others will improve as we conscientiously apply Bible principles.

³⁴ There is not an area of life​—at home, on the job, in our dealings with governmental authorities on all levels—​that will not be affected for good if we strive to follow God’s Word. It will also make us more aware of the importance of being wholehearted in reaching as many people as possible with the Bible’s comforting message. We will find great happiness and a true sense of accomplishment in responding to the needs of our fellow humans, especially to their spiritual needs.

³⁵ Most important of all, living as genuine disciples of Jesus Christ is the only course that holds promise of an eternal future of happy living. Surely we would not want to lose what we have gained. May the passing of each day find us in a state of readiness for the coming of our Master in the capacity of a completely victorious king. Only then can we share in the boundless joy resulting from our having chosen to stick to our commitment to serve Jehovah God faithfully.