Lasting Peace and Happiness How to Find them (1996)
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LASTING PEACE AND HAPPINESS How to find them
Peace and Happiness Everyone's Desire
WHO does not want to be happy? Who does not want to enjoy good health and long life? Who does not wish to see peace and security? These are the normal desires of everyone. Sadly, though, reality often goes contrary to our wishes. The world today is full of distress. Earth wide, disasters, calamities, wars, diseases, crime, and injustices are constantly on the increase. How can peace and happiness be found?
2 To those who claim to be practical and realistic, the way to happiness is through wealth and riches. They feel that money is a safeguard; with it one can lead a comfortable life, with no more worries about food and shelter. True, money can bring protection and benefit in some ways. But is wealth really the most important thing in life? Can money provide lasting protection? How reliable is material security? Business failures, economic depressions, crime, violence, wars, and disasters have ruined the fortunes of many in an instant. Devastating experiences of this sort are too numerous to recount.
3 Others hanker after fame and position. They feel that if they become prominent, they can tower over others and be admired by them. Yet, no matter how successful a person may be, he must admit that circumstances can change quickly and he can lose his position overnight. The satisfaction that fame brings is only short-lived. And once a person's life comes to its end, the glory and the fame he enjoyed pass away with him.
4 Many also feel that life is so short and human affairs are so changeable and unpredictable that they should just pursue life's pleasures and have a good time while they still can. Recreation and entertainment do have their place in life. But can they provide lasting happiness and satisfaction? When the excitement is over, how does a person feel? After all the feasting and the merrymaking, those who indulge in
To enjoy happy family life is a normal human desire
Can money bring lasting peace and happiness?
© 1996
Watch Tower
Bible and Tract Society
of Pennsylvania
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Public
Watcher
Bible and Tract Society
of New York, Inc.
International Bible Students Association
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Bracklyn, New York, 11201-2483 U.S.A.
Unless otherwise indicated, Scripture quotations are from the modern-language New World Translation of the Holy Scriptures —With References
Lasting Peace and Happiness
—How to Find Them
English (pc-E)
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them are often left feeling empty and exhausted, and it all adds up to a life devoid of meaning.
5 Wealth, fame, prominence, pleasures, revelry—none of these can bring lasting happiness and contentment. Why not? It is because those who seek happiness through these means have aimed in the wrong direction and followed the wrong path. They are concerned only with gratifying their physical or material desires. When all is said and done, they are left with the same spiritual void, longing, and frustration. They have found no real contentment.
6 Birds and beasts are satisfied when their physical needs—eating and sleeping—are met. Humans, however, have needs far beyond these basic necessities. That is because animals are not endowed with a conscience, as we are. Wild beasts do not have a capacity for spiritual things, whereas humans do. Animals are not concerned with the purpose of living, but humans yearn to know the meaning of life. To live in real happiness, we must fulfill the needs of the heart and the mind. The question we now face is: 'How can such needs be satisfied?'
7 For our life to be meaningful, we must first understand why we are here. Throughout history, thinking people have often wondered: Where did man come from? What is the purpose of life? Is there a Sovereign Lord of the universe? If so, does he care about mankind? What is his purpose for us? All of these are significant questions, but who can provide the satisfying and correct answers? Can religion do so? Let us see.
5-7. (a) Why do those who pursue fame, fortune, pleasure, and so on, ultimately feel disappointed? (b) What questions must we consider if we want a meaningful life?
Peace and Happiness—Everyone's Desire ... 3
Can Religion Satisfy Mankind's Needs? ... 5
Is There Really a Mast High Creator? ... 9
A Guidebook for the Blessing of All Mankind ... 13
Cultivating Faith in the Creator ... 18
The Organization That Promotes True Worship ... 24
Lasting Peace and Happiness Just Ahead! ... 29 Can Religion Satisfy Mankind's Needs?
THE major religions in the world have vast numbers of followers and many magnificent churches, cathedrals, synagogues, and temples. Despite all of this, have these religions taught the truth about God? Have they helped people to lead happier and more meaningful lives? Do they practice what they preach?
2 History clearly shows that the Western religions have proved disappointing in these areas. For example, some of
the most horrible conflicts and massacres in history took place in lands professing to be Christian. Among them were the Crusades, launched by the churches of Christendom from the 11th to the 13th century. The wars during this period took innocent lives by the thousands.
3 In the early 19th century, the churches openly supported many Western powers in the expansion of their spheres of influence in less-developed lands and the wanton exploitation of the resources of their colonial territories. Church and State acted in collusion. Hand in hand, they brought distress and misery to people in many lands.
4 In the two world wars of
Religious wars have taken innocent lives by the thousands
The clergy openly support the wars of the nations
the 20th century, most of the belligerent powers on the opposing sides were Catholic or Protestant nations. Thus, with the approval of their religious leaders, Catholics killed Catholics and Protestants killed Protestants. In more recent times, the conflict between Catholics and Protestants in Northern Ireland has resulted in heavy casualties. Leaders of these religions love to talk about peace and brotherhood, and all of them profess to serve the same God. But in view of the facts, we must ask: Do they really have a genuine love for peace? Do they truly love their neighbors as themselves?
5 Additionally, are the religious leaders and their flocks known for their adherence to high moral standards? Has not the media repeatedly exposed and reported on cases of child molestation and other corrupt practices among the clergy of Christendom? Some of the clergy openly support homosexuality and premarital and extramarital sex. Others with radical views advocate the violent overthrow of what they consider to be unjust systems, some clerics even taking part in guerrilla warfare and riots.
6 As regards helping people to gain an accurate knowledge of God, all major religions of the West have failed miserably. Their doctrines are mainly based on traditional beliefs rather than on the teachings of the Bible. For example, they believe that the soul is immortal and that those who do not serve God will be tormented in a fiery hell forever. Just think! If God were really so cruel and hardhearted, would you want to worship him?—See box on page 25.
7 Clearly, the religions of the West have not brought lasting peace and happiness for mankind, nor have they provided the right spiritual guidance. What, then, about the religions of the East? In China, for example, the three major religions are Confucianism, Buddhism, and Taoism. Have these religions brought lasting peace and happiness for the Chinese?
8 In its early stages, Taoism was more a philosophy than a religion. Its founder, Lao-tzu, was dissatisfied with the chaos and turmoil of the times and sought relief by shunning society and returning to nature. However, as time wore on, Taoism became a system of idolatry and superstition, venerating a pantheon of many gods and goddesses. Taoists are steeped in divination.
They attach great importance to omens and feng shui (the reading of the forces of wind and water) as well as to sundry other rituals. It is clear that Taoism, with its mythical and superstitious practices, falls
short in providing satisfactory answers regarding the meaning of life or in fulfilling the people's spiritual needs.
9 At the outset, Confucianism was a
school of ethics and morality based on the teachings of its founder, Confucius. Through the centuries Confucian concepts have wielded a strong hold on Chinese culture and way of thinking. Still, being a philosophy of life, Confucianism has neither helped the Chinese to learn about the Creator nor encouraged them to cultivate a close relationship with him. Although adopting its precepts as rules of conduct brings certain benefits, Confucianism fails to satisfy one's spiritual needs; nor has it brought lasting peace and happiness.
10 Buddhism first came into China from India. This religion advocates compassion and tolerance, and it has fascinated many by its complicated philosophy. But has Buddhism helped people to learn about the Sovereign of the universe? Have the teachings of Buddha satisfied the spiritual needs of mankind? The publication The Message of Buddhism states: "Buddhism teaches the way to perfect goodness and wisdom without a personal God;... a salvation in which everyone is his own saviour." Buddhism has inspired, not faith in God, but reliance on self.
If a person's faith is misplaced, how could he ever find the truth that brings real satisfaction? Down through the ages, the Chinese have followed the tradition of worshiping their ancestors, idols, and the spirits in nature, engrossed in the multitudes of rites and rituals connected with them. As
Religions based on myths and superstitions cannot satisfy our spiritual needs
a result, the concept of a personal God, or Creator, is something completely foreign to the Chinese. Yet, as
discussed earlier, to satisfy our spiritual needs, we must come to know not only who the Most High God is but also what his purpose for mankind is. By so doing, we will be able to act in harmony with that purpose and gain lasting happiness. We therefore invite you to investigate and find for yourself the reasonable, objective, and satisfying answers
to these questions: Is there a creator? Does he care about mankind? Can he really bring lasting peace and happiness for mankind, which is so beset with problems and difficulties?
Have Taoism, Confucianism, and Buddhism helped people come to know the Creator?
LASTING PEACE AND HAPPINESS—HOW TO FIND THEM Is There Really a Most High Creator?
STHERE a God who is the Creator of all things? About this question, there are many opinions. Some reason that since we cannot see God, how can we believe in him? Others, seeing that there is so much suffering on earth, wonder, 'How could there really be a God who genuinely cares about mankind? If he does exist, would he not have long ago brought an end to all the suffering? Is that how you feel?
2 The suffering and calamities besetting mankind are truly
disheartening. Yet the earth is filled with life in abundant variety, all intricately designed. How did all these things come about if there was no Creator? Those who believe in evolution assert that simple life-forms originated by chance; then they gradually evolved into more-complex living things. What, though, are the chances of life originating by accident?
Did Life Come by Accident?
The basic unit of living things is the cell, and the basic material that makes up a cell is protein. Evolutionists acknowledge that the probability of the right atoms and molecules falling into place to form just one simple protein molecule is about 1 in 1 01 1 3 , or
Does not the beautiful earth demonstrate that there is a caring creator?
The orderly universe requires a designer...
... much as a well-equipped house requires a builder
1 followed by 113 zeros. In other words, it takes 10113 chances for the event to occur once. But any event that has one chance in 1050 is dismissed by mathematicians as never happening.
4 However, far more than one simple protein molecule is needed for life to occur. For a cell to maintain its functions, some 2,000 different proteins are needed. What, then, is the probability of all of these happening at random? It is estimated that the chance is 1 in 1040,000 , or 1 followed by 40,000 zeros! Are you willing to rest your faith on such an outrageously remote probability?
5 If the chance is so remote for a cell to come into existence by accident, it would be even more so for the cell to evolve into the great variety of complicated living things. The fact is that between humans and beasts, there are differences far greater than the obvious physical ones. Man is endowed with a conscience; he has feelings, aesthetic values, moral concepts, thinking ability, and reasoning powers. Animals do not possess these capabilities. If man evolved from the animals, why is there such a huge gulf between them? This is another thorny problem for the evolutionists.
Our Awesome Universe
6 Our awesome universe provides overwhelming evidence for the existence of a grand creator. Some astronomers estimate that there are 100 billion galaxies in the universe and that each galaxy may contain as many as 100 billion stars! Some stars are many times the size of our sun. The galaxies are not just haphazardly thrown together but are set out in an organized and orderly manner.
7 The earth is a wonder among all the heavenly bodies
in the universe. It is, in fact, unique. The earth provides just the right environment to accommodate living things comfortably, like a magnificent and well-provisioned house. It is a vast storehouse that contains all of life's necessities—food, air, water, and light—and much more. Surely, no intelligent person would ever believe that a fully equipped and stocked house had no designer but just came about by chance.
Would it not be even more unreasonable to think that the earth, equipped with everything that is essential for life, just came about by chance?
The Marvelous Human Body
8 The marvelous structure of our human body also testifies to the existence of a creator. A close look at a tiny living cell will help us to understand why. Our body is made up of about 100 trillion (100,000,000,000,000) tiny cells. The complexity of each living cell can be likened to that of a city with its many operations, such as power generation, management, transportation, and defense. In addition, the cell's nucleus contains tens of thousands of genes in the intricately arranged DNA. It is said that our DNA contains enough information to fill an encyclopedia of 1,000 volumes. All this information constitutes a genetic blueprint and determines our skin color, hair type, stature, and countless other details of our body. If all construction blueprints require meticulous design, then who designed the complex genetic blueprint in our body?
9 The structure and the function of the various organs in our body are so intricate and ingenious that no man-made machine can even remotely compare with it. Of all the organs in our body, not one is more astounding than the human brain. The New Encyclopaedia Britannica notes: "Transmission of information within the nervous system is more complex than the largest telephone exchanges; problem solving by a human brain exceeds by far the capacity of the most powerful computers." To scientists the awesome function of our brain is cause for wonderment. Could this marvelous organ have been formed simply by having the correct atoms and molecules fall into place at random?
10 What conclusion can we draw from all of this? One thing we can agree on is that laws must have a law-giver and that design requires a designer. Since precise order, complex design, and immense wisdom are observed in everything, from the smallest cell to the boundless universe, is it not reasonable and logical to believe that there must be an all-intelligent and all-powerful designer behind them?
9. What does the intricate design of the human body reveal?
10-12. (a) Why is it not superstitious or unreasonable to believe in the existence of God? (b) What is your view on this matter now?
A single cell is as complex as a city
Wind-powered generators prove the existence of wind and electricity, though these are invisible
11 The Bible is right when it says about God: "His invisible qualities are clearly seen from the world's creation onward, because they are perceived by the things made, even his eternal power and Godship, so that they are inexcusable." (Romans 1:20) Even though we cannot see God, our belief in his existence is no mere superstition. Daily, we deal with many things we cannot see, such as wind, electricity, magnetism, and the force of gravity. We know that they exist because we can observe the effects they produce. Similarly, the intricate design and the superb order in the universe distinctly testify to the existence of a grand creator.
12 Since God is invisible, how can we come to know him as a person and establish a personal relationship with him? God has made it possible for us to know him, primarily by two means. Through his creation God gives a clear indication of his wisdom, power, and love. In addition, he has inspired men to write a book, providing further information about himself. That book is the Bible.
WHO IS GOD?
TO THE Chinese, the concept of God, or Shang-ti (literally "Emperor above"), is both foreign and abstract. Most people worship heaven and earth, spirits and demons, ancestors and human models. Interestingly, however, according to Chinese historical records, about three or four thousand years ago, during the Xia and Shang dynasties, the Chinese were already worshiping one supreme deity. The book The Religious History of China explains that they "reckoned that between heaven and earth there was a principal God who stood supreme and had absolute control over all things." This supreme deity came to be called Di, or Shang-di, during the Shang Dynasty, and was known as Tien [heaven], or Tien-di [Emperor in Heaven], during the Zhou Dynasty [11th century to 256 B.C.E.]." Thus, the ancient Chinese believed in the existence of a Supreme Sovereign of the universe.
During the Spring and Autumn period (c. 722-481 B.C.E.) and the Warring States period (c. 480-221 B.C.E.), Confucianism and Taoism gained ascendancy. Influenced by these two schools of thought, the worship of Shang-ti
was gradually replaced by the abstract idea of reverence for Tien. By the Han dynasty (202 B.C.E.-221 C.E.), under the dominance of Confucianism, the Chinese became engrossed in moral culture and social order, and the concept of Shang-ti suffered another setback. With the spread of Buddhism into China, the Chinese no longer held to the belief of a creator who is in control of the universe, but they accepted Heaven, or Providence, as the first cause of all things. Since then, the concept of God, or Shang-ti, has become something completely foreign to the Chinese.
Who, then, really is God? The Bible shows that God is not a force or law of nature that governs the operation of all things in the universe. Nor is he 'Tien', which is venerated by many Chinese. Rather, God is a living spirit who has feelings and personality traits. He is the almighty and omniscient Sovereign of the Universe, and his love is boundless. Not only has he created all things but he also has a definite purpose for mankind—that they worship him with love and live forever on this beautiful earth in lasting peace and happiness.
A Guidebook for the Blessing of All Mankind
NOTWITHSTANDING the opinion of many, the Bible is a most extraordinary book. The New Encyclopaedia Britannica calls it "probably the most influential collection of books in human history." This is certainly not an overstatement. Let us see why the Bible is so outstanding.
From Antiquity—Yet, Most Widely Distributed
2 The Bible is one of the oldest of the books that have survived till our time, especially among religious texts. Its earliest part was written in ancient Hebrew some 3,500 years ago (which corresponds to the Shang dynasty in China) by an Israelite named Moses. It began with the book of Genesis, an account of the stages of creation and the beginning of the human family. In the following 1,600 years, about 40 different people took part in completing this collection, or library, of 66 books containing laws, prophecies, history, poetry, letters, counsel, and much more.
3 Even though the Bible is old and has been the target of much vicious opposition and hatred, it has turned out to be the most widely distributed book in history. The Bible has now been translated into some two thousand languages, and about three billion copies, in its entirety or in part, have already been distributed! It is said that 98 percent of the people on earth have access to the Bi
ble in their own language. Just think: If God intends to communicate with mankind by means of a book, is it not reasonable that this book should be well-known and easily available so that people of all nationalities and races could read and benefit from it? (1 Timothy 2:4) The Bible is just such a book.
Reliable Contents
4 If the Bible is really from God, its contents must be
<tr><th>Religious Writings
Approximate Year of Completion
Pentateuch (Bible)
1473 B.C.E.
Veda (Hinduism)
900 B.C.E.
Tao Te Ching (Taoism)
510 B.C.E.
The Analects (Confucianism)
480 B.C.E.
Hebrew Scriptures completed (Bible)
443 B.C.E.
Three Baskets (Buddhism)
43 C.E.
Whole Bible completed
98 C.E.
Koran (Islam)
650 C.E.
Kojiki and Nihon shoki (Shinto)
720 C.E.
The Bible reaches further back into man's history than any other ancient religious writings
completely accurate and reliable. Can that be said of the Bible? Can it withstand scrutiny in the light of science and history?
5 Although the Bible is not a science textbook, whenever it touches on scientific matters, it is in harmony with proven science and is free from the mistaken views and absurd theories prevalent at the time of its writing. For instance, in ancient times some believed that the earth was supported by four elephants standing on a big sea turtle. Yet the Bible simply states: "[God] is stretching out the north over the empty place, hanging the earth upon nothing." (Job 26:7, written about 1473 B.C.E.) As early as 2,700 years ago, the Bible correctly noted the shape of the earth, saying: "There is One who is dwelling above the circle ("globe," Douay Version) of the earth." (Isaiah 40:22) Had the Bible not been by God's inspiration, how could its writers have known such facts?
Of the facts stated in the Bible, some have only come to be known and confirmed by science in recent times. For example, the Bible long ago revealed a beginning for the universe (Genesis 1:1), the correct order in which all living things were formed (Genesis, chapter 1), and the effects of the hereditary process (Psalm 139:16). Long before people had any concept of germs and hygiene, the Bible provided the Israelites with instructions that anyone touching a dead body (or excrement) became unclean and had to wash himself and his garments.—Numbers 19:11-22; Deuteronomy 23:12-14.
7 How did the Bible writers come to know these scientifically correct practices? They could not have written according to their own ideas because people in Bible times did not possess such knowledge. Only the Creator had the power and wisdom to provide that information. We, therefore, have sound reasons to believe that the Bible is truly from God.
8 What about history? Most ancient historical writings are riddled with legends and myths and tend to magnify successes and victories while glossing over failures and defeats. The Bible differs entirely in this respect; its records are completely accurate and honest, providing specific names, places, dates, and times that can be verified. For example, regarding the time when Jesus commenced his ministry, the Bible account provides the names of seven contemporaneous rulers and leaders, so that the reader can ascertain the exact time by comparing the Bible record with reliable history. (Luke 3:1, 2) If a book was written under the direction of God, it must be completely accurate and truthful, as is the case with the Bible.
Accurate Prophecies
9 Humans cannot foretell the future with any certainty. If a book consistently provides prophecies that are accurately fulfilled, it could not be produced by human ability and wisdom. The Bible contains hundreds of prophecies, many of which have already been fulfilled. For example, centuries in advance the Bible foretold the fall of Babylon, the order in which succeeding world empires would appear, the destruction of Jerusalem, and the exiling of the Jews to Babylon.
—Isaiah 13:17-19; 44:26; Jeremiah 25:8-12; Daniel 8:5-8, 20-22.
10 Bible prophecies concerning Jesus Christ are especially remarkable. Jesus lived in the first century. Hundreds of years before his birth, numerous prophecies concerning him had been given and were preserved in the Hebrew Scriptures (commonly called the Old Testament). All these prophecies were fulfilled in the one man Jesus, many in ways completely beyond his control. He could not, for instance, have arranged the time and place of his birth, the tribe into which he would be born, or the manner of his betrayal, humiliation, torture, execution, death, and burial. (Micah 5:2; Daniel 9:25; Genesis 49:10; Isaiah 9:6; Zechariah 11:12; Isaiah 50:6; Psalm 22:7, 8; 34:20) The fulfillment of these and other prophecies proves that Jesus was the Savior sent by God.
11 Bible prophecies do not deal only with the ancient past. They also accurately foretell events that are taking place in our 20th century. For example, just review Matthew chapter 24, Luke chapter 21, 2 Timothy 3:1-5, and Revelation 6:3-8, and you will see how precisely the Bible describes modern-day happenings. It is worth noting that after the first world
From birth to death, Jesus fulfilled numerous prophecies recorded in the Hebrew Scriptures
Some 2,000 years ago, the Bible foretold events of the 20th century
war, when the League of Nations was established, world leaders asserted that man had learned a bitter lesson and that there would never be another world war. The Bible, on the other hand, reveals that the untold suffering caused by the first world war was only the "beginning of pangs of distress." (Matthew 24:8) History proves that Bible prophecy is completely accurate and that man's thinking is erroneous.
12 Since prophecies in the Bible were fulfilled so accurately, is this not overwhelming evidence that the Bible is really God's Word? Only the almighty God can provide such accurate information about events long before they occur.—2 Peter 1:21.
Practical Wisdom
13 Life in today's selfish world is filled with problems. Many are plagued by money problems. Families are shattered by serious marriage problems. Young people are confronted with problems about friends, sex, drinking, drugs, and so on. If the Bible is really a guide from God for all mankind, it should help people to deal with these problems. But does it?
14 Bible counsel, though often different from popular opinion, is nonetheless effective and practical. For example, when marriage problems arise, marriage counselors often suggest separation or divorce as the solution. The Bible, however, points out that the marriage arrangement is a serious matter. It also advises both husbands and wives to show love and deep respect for each other and thus prevent serious problems from developing. (Ephesians 5:22-28) As for money matters, the Bible reminds us to avoid greed and cultivate contentment. It also encourages us to desist from money-wasting bad habits, such as overdrinking, smoking, drug abuse, and gambling. (1 Timothy 6:7-10) In human relations, the Bible's advice is: "All things, therefore, that you want men to do to you, you also must likewise do to them." (Matthew 7:12) If you show love in all you do, you will gain the friendship and respect of others, thus lessening the pressure and friction.
15 From these few examples, do you not agree that counsel from the Bible is practical and is also superior to human wisdom? Actually, there are millions of people around the world today who have overcome their problems by diligently following the Bible's advice. Yes, by applying the Bi-
13-15. How do the counsel and advice that the Bible offers on daily living reflect superior and practical wisdom?
ble's practical counsel, it is possible to find lasting peace and happiness.
A Guide for the Blessing of All Mankind
16 Many Orientals contend that the Bible is a product of the West, that its teachings and advice are not necessarily suitable for people living in the East. Is this true? Since the Creator understands human needs better than anyone else does, he has provided the Bible for mankind as a whole so that all people can benefit from its teachings. For instance, Chinese teachers and sages through the ages have provided many ethical aphorisms and sayings, some of which no doubt are of practical value. However, many of these sayings merely echo what the Bible teaches. Here are just a few examples:
Respect your seniors: Before gray hair you should rise up (Leviticus 19:32)
Honor your parents: Honor your father and your mother
(Exodus 20:12)
When you drink water, think of its source: Remember, now, your Grand Creator in the days of your young manhood (Ecclesiastes 12:1)
He who comes near vermilion is stained red, and he who comes near ink is stained black: He that is walking with wise persons will become wise, but he that is having dealings with the stupid ones will fare badly (Proverbs 13:20)
17 It should be noted that such Bible teachings were written long before the many schools of thought in China came into existence. Indeed, the Bible can be of immense benefit to all mankind. With the help of the Bible, we can find the true purpose and meaning of life. Just as our daily bread satisfies us physically, the Bible can satisfy us spiritually. (Matthew 5:3; John 4:34) The Bible can also help us draw close to God. The closer we come to our Creator, the happier and more satisfied we will be.
18 Benefits promised in the Bible, however, are not limited to life today. The Bible reveals that God will soon bring an end to all wickedness and injustice, by means of a righteous government of his making. The earth will then become a global paradise. What requirements, though, must you meet so that you can enjoy such marvelous blessings? Please read the next chapter.
16-18. (a) Are the Bible's instructions practical for the Chinese?
(b) Do you now believe that the Bible is a book beneficial for all mankind?
Cultivating Faith in the Creator
BY OBSERVING the marvels of creation and reasoning from experience, many people have concluded that there is a creator. But just believing that there is a creator would not necessarily do them much good. Many today will readily say that they believe in the existence of God. For example, generations of Chinese, influenced by Confucian, Taoist, and Buddhist thinking, more or less believe in Providence, or Heaven, and its retribution. But they feel that comprehending this is beyond human ability. In the West, there are the agnostics who, though not denying the possibility of God's existence, feel that no human can get to know him. Obviously, such ways of thinking would not help one to develop true faith in the Creator.
2 Thus, in addition to believing that there is a God, we must trust and have faith in him. The Bible points out: "Without faith it is impossible to please him well, for he that approaches God must believe that he is and that he becomes the rewarder of those earnestly seeking him." (Hebrews 11:6) Believing that God is "the rewarder of those earnestly seeking him" means that God is not aloof and uncaring. Rather, as a caring God, he helps those earnestly seeking him to come to know him, and he rewards them.
3 As an old Chinese saying puts it, "among a hundred virtues, filial piety is the foremost." Surely it is proper that children know their father and honor their parents. (Ephesians 6:1-3; Colossians 3:20) Do we not have all the more reason to know our Creator and his will? (Ecclesiastes 12:13) That being so, in order to know the true God and have faith in him, we need to find satisfactory answers to these vital questions: What is God's name? Why did he create us? What is the purpose of life? What is our ultimate destiny? Why is there so much suffering in the world? We cannot answer these questions simply by logic or by our own experience or reasoning. We need enlightenment and direction from the Creator himself, and he has provided these in his Word, the Bible. —2 Timothy 3:16, 17.
4 The Bible tells us that God's name is Jehovah. It also reveals his purposes, views, and feelings, as well as his dealings with humans so that we can come to know him accurately. Right from the start, the Bible shows clearly what God's purpose was in creating humans. In its first book, Genesis, the Bible relates: "God proceeded to create the man in his image, in God's image he created him; male and female he created them. Further, God blessed them and God said to them: 'Be fruitful and become many and fill the earth and subdue it.'" (Genesis 1:27, 28) God placed the first human pair he created, Adam and Eve, in a peaceful and happy garden, called the garden of Eden. They enjoyed ideal living conditions and meaningful work. As time passed they would bring forth perfect children. Not only would they not grow old and die but they would enjoy the company of their offspring, and together they would subdue the earth and turn it into a paradise in which a perfect human race could enjoy forever all the blessings that God provides. That, in brief, was God's original purpose regarding mankind and the earth. (Isaiah 45:18) Does not all of this show that Jehovah is a loving, merciful, kind, and generous God? Is it not most satisfying and happifying to worship and to have faith in such a God? —Psalm 36:9; 103:13; Revelation 4:11.
5 The Bible goes on to tell us, however, that for lack of
Lacking appreciation, Adam and Eve lost their right to everlasting life appreciation and obedience, Adam and Eve broke God's clearly stated command and thereby lost the right to live forever in that Paradise garden.
(Genesis 3:1-19) Not only that but their transgression also brought sad consequences for their yet unborn offspring. The Bible says: "That is
Study the Bible with an open mind
why, just as through one man sin entered into the world and death through sin, and thus death spread to all men because they had all sinned." (Romans 5:12) The hardships and difficulties that we see today are the results of sin and imperfection. Even so, the merciful God made provisions through the ransom sacrifice of his Son, Jesus Christ, to deliver mankind out of slavery to sin and death. (John 3:16; 1 John 4:9, 10) What provisions?
6 For the blessing of all mankind, God purposed to set up a Kingdom, or government, in heaven and appointed his Son, Jesus Christ, as the King of that Kingdom. (Matthew 6:10) By means of this Kingdom, God will eliminate all the problems on earth and carry out his original purpose, turning the earth into a paradise home for mankind. (Daniel 2:44; Revelation 21:3,4) It is not a fantasy to think of living in an earthly paradise under the rule of God's Kingdom, enjoying perfect health and happiness forever. Jehovah God has given this personal guarantee: "So my word that goes forth from my mouth will prove to be. It will not return to me without results, but it will certainly do that in which I have delighted, and it will have certain success in that for which I have sent it." (Isaiah 55:11) What love God has demonstrated in all of this! Should we not be grateful to him? Gratitude has impelled millions of people around the world, from different races and cultures, to take action to cultivate a relationship with God and to serve him.
7 How, then, can true faith be cultivated? To those who profess no religion, faith in God is just a psychological crutch that provides comfort for the mind and solace for the heart.
Do you agree with that view? What really is faith?
The Way to Cultivate Faith
8 "Faith is the assured expectation of things hoped for, the evident demonstration of realities though not beheld." (Hebrews 11:1) As can be seen from this definition given in the Bible, faith is based on accurate knowledge and facts; otherwise, there would be no difference between faith and blind superstition. Therefore, to cultivate faith in God, three steps are essential: (1) Study the Bible diligently, (2) ponder over its teachings and admonitions, and (3) apply in your daily life what you learn.
9 Since faith is based on accurate knowledge, it is logical that to have faith in God, one must study God's Word, the Bible. In this regard the Beroeans of the first century are good examples for us. Though steeped in both Jewish and Greek religious traditions, some of them were open-minded and readily gave ear to Paul's message. They "received the word with the greatest eagerness of mind, carefully examining the Scriptures daily," and many of them "became believers." (Acts 17:11, 12) To acquire an accurate knowledge of God and his Word, we too need to be open-minded and carefully examine the teachings of God's Word and take them to heart.—John 17:3; 2 Timothy 3:15-17.
10 It is true that we have to work for a living, but laboring only to satisfy our physical and material needs will not bring us real happiness. Jesus said: "Happy are those conscious of their spiritual need." (Matthew 5:3) If we allow our busy routine to stifle our spiritual needs, we are putting the cart before the horse and are shortsighted indeed. So we need to do our best to find time in our busy lives to study the Bible regularly. God's Word exhorts: "Keep strict watch that how you walk is not as unwise but as wise persons, buying out the opportune time for yourselves, because the days are wicked." (Ephesians 5:15, 16) Take this advice, and arrange a practical schedule so that you can keep your activities in proper balance. Jehovah God will sustain those who are earnestly seeking him.—Matthew 7:7.
11 To cultivate genuine faith in God, the next step is to meditate on what you have learned. Actually, to appreciate the
Carefully ponder over the things learned value of what you have read, meditation is indispensable, even more important than repeated reading.
For only by doing this can you grasp, digest, and assimilate the information, and then the seeds of truth will become deeply embedded and take root in your hearts. Therefore, compare the things you are learning from the Bible with your own views, think objectively and reasonably, and weigh them against one another. On the other hand, do not allow
We learn to drive by practicing what we have learned, under the guidance of an instructor; we cultivate faith in God in a similar manner
personal prejudices or certain deep-rooted opinions to deprive you of a fair opportunity to determine what is the truth and worthy of your belief. Proceeding this way, you will not only realize that God is a real individual but also be impelled to establish a personal relationship with him.
12 The third step in cultivating faith is to put into practice what God tells us to do. We must remember that a living faith is supported by actions. (James 2:17, 26) If a man wants to have enough faith or confidence in his ability to drive a car, he cannot just read an instruction manual or even go over the procedure in his mind and then drive off in a car, can he? No. He needs someone to help him to put into practice step by step the things he learned from the manual. In this way, after several driving lessons, he will develop enough confidence and can become a qualified driver. It is the same with cultivating faith in God. Besides studying and meditating, you must put into practice, as soon as possible, the things you learn from the Bible. For example, since you have learned that God is an invisible spirit, do you appreciate that you cannot worship him through any idols or images? You have also learned that Jehovah is a loving heavenly Father. Then, are you willing to express your feelings for him in prayer to him?
13 When you are willing to apply what you have learned from the Bible, you are demonstrating to God that you believe in him and his Word, the Bible. Your faith will accordingly grow stronger. However, only by practicing what you are learning will you be convinced that what the Bible says is not empty theory but is of great practical value. The Bible's advice is: "Taste and see that Jehovah is good, O you people; happy is the able-bodied man that takes refuge in him."
(Psalm 34:8) Yes, applying Bible principles in our lives is an indispensable ingredient in cultivating faith in God and finding lasting peace and happiness.
A Vital Factor
14 Although you have now seen enough evidence to show that there is a Creator, that the Bible is his Word, and that it is his desire for you to establish a personal relationship with him, there is yet another vital factor that will determine whether you will benefit from all of this. What is that factor? It is your own heart condition.
15 A good heart condition is essential for the truth of God's Word to strike a responsive chord. If a person is obstinately unwilling to believe, he will remain unconvinced no matter how overwhelming the evidence may be. Well has it been said that to cultivate genuine faith in God, we need to be honest, humble, and spiritually hungry. The hypocritical and selfish religious leaders in Jesus' day hardened their hearts so much that they were unable to exercise faith in Jesus. However, many among the lowly, common people readily gave ear to Jesus' teachings. The situation is no different today.—Luke 21:37, 38; John 8:43-47.
19 Why is an honest, humble, and teachable attitude so essential? It is because if a person is obsessed with his racial, cultural, or religious upbringing, it will greatly hinder him from taking in accurate knowledge of the Bible. In everyday life, if we are humble, open-minded, and willing to learn new things, we will certainly enhance the quality of our work and improve the condition of our life. So then, why not adopt the same open-minded attitude when it comes to religion and humbly study God's Word and apply its healthful teachings?
17 Today, there is a great crowd worldwide consisting of people from different races, language groups, and cultural backgrounds doing just that. They have to cope with the problems of life just as you do, but they deeply appreciate that the best way to find peace and happiness is to take in knowledge of the Creator and exercise faith in him. They make up God's organization on earth today. Who are these people?
14-17. (a) What are some things that may prevent people from accepting the truth about God? (b) What proper heart attitude should we therefore cultivate?
Expressing your feelings to God in prayer will draw you closer to him
The Organization That Promotes True Worship
The Israelites were once chosen by God to be his earthly representatives
THROUGHOUT history the Creator has provided the necessary means by which those earnestly seeking him can come and worship him. In other words, Jehovah has always had loyal worshipers on earth serving as his channel of communication as well as being his representatives.
2 Since the 16th century B.C.E., and for about 1,500 years, the Israelites were God's chosen people, his representatives on earth. (Exodus 19:5, 6) Jehovah organized them into a
nation, gave them his laws, and provided them with detailed information concerning pure worship. Later, God even appointed a king to rule over them. However, because of being rebellious and repeatedly unfaithful, the Israelites were cast off by God in the first century. (Matthew 23:37, 38) When Jesus came to earth, he clearly pointed out the way to God when he said: "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me." (John 14:6) From then on, followers of Jesus Christ were accepted by God to replace the nation of Israel as God's representatives on earth.—1 Peter 2:9, 10.
3 The Christian organization in the first century was a united brotherhood, fully devoted to the evangelizing work.
(Matthew 28:19, 20) They held fast to the teachings of the Bible. They were known for being law-abiding, respectful of government officials, and loving toward their fellowman. Despite all of this, they were viciously opposed and persecuted. Why? Because they
These publications help people to learn the truth about God
firmly believed that only God's Kingdom can bring lasting peace and happiness for mankind. In obedience to Jesus' command, they gave full support to God's Kingdom, remaining strictly neutral in worldly affairs, not taking part in or interfering with any political or military activities. (Matthew 6:33; John 18:36) Their position was often misunderstood, and
你能够永远生活在地上的家园裏
DOES MAN HAVE AN IMMORTAL SOUL?
MOST people believe that they have an immortal soul and that when they die, the immaterial soul will escape from their human body and continue to exist on its own in another world—as a ghost, or a spirit. Even though all major religions advocate this popular view, is it taught by the Bible?
The Bible never describes "soul" as something that can have a continued conscious existence after death. Rather, it is always used in connection with living creatures. For example, the Bible calls the first man, Adam, "a living soul." (Genesis 2:7; the Chinese Union Version renders this expression as "living person possessing soul," but most authoritative translations use expressions like "living soul," "living person," and "living creature." In the Bible the word "soul" is used to refer to man himself or to the animals. It can also refer to the life that they enjoy as such. (Genesis 1:20; 1 Corinthians 15:45) Therefore, when a person dies, the soul dies and becomes nonexistent.
In the Bible the word "spirit" has several
meanings. In addition to God's active force, it can also refer to the life-force that is in the body of living creatures. (Ecclesiastes 3: 19, 20) When a man (or soul) dies, the life-force that is inside his body vanishes. The dead do not have a continued conscious existence somewhere (whether in heaven or in hell). Rather, they return to dust God's Word describes the moment of death, when it says: "His spirit goes out; he goes back to his ground; in that day his thoughts do perish." (Psalm 146:4) Mankind's hope for the future rests entirely with God. Through his Son, Jesus Christ, God will resurrect them from the grave and grant them life again; thus they can look forward to living forever on earth.—John 11:25.
Although the Bible does mention wicked spirits and demons, neither of these terms refer to same shadowy thing that a person turns into at death. They are wicked spirit creatures, or angels who deliberately turned against God. They sank into deprivation and became demons. —2 Peter 2:4; Jude 6.
this brought upon them opposition and persecution. Still, they preached about the Kingdom with unwavering zeal. As Paul wrote in his letter to the Christians in Colossae, "[the good news] has presented itself to you, even as it is bearing fruit and increasing in all the world." The first-century Christians preached the good news throughout the realms of the Roman Empire.—Colossians 1:6.
Jehovah's Witnesses demonstrate genuine Christian love
Identify Jehovah's Organization
4 Likewise, in the 20th century, Jehovah is represented on earth by an organization, a people. Like the first-century Christians, their primary activity is to preach God's Kingdom. They also keep separate from the world, not meddling in politics, and they do all they can to live by the high standards of God's Word. Who are they?
5 There are many religious organizations that profess to believe in God and Christ. It is estimated that a quarter of the world's population have adopted the Christian faith. Some countries have even made Christianity their State religion. The various denominations of Christendom all claim to be God's representatives. How can we identify the organization that truly represents God today? At Matthew 7:18-20, Jesus declared: "A good tree cannot bear worthless fruit, neither can a rotten tree produce fine fruit. . . Really, then, by their fruits you will recognize those men." We can use this criterion to identify the organization that represents God today.
6 By their beliefs and conduct, have the churches of Christendom proved worthy to be God's representative? Regarding doctrines, the denominations of Christendom believe in the Trinity, immortality of the soul, and hellfire, which are all of pagan origin.
They have also adopted many pagan rituals into their religious services. They have even blotted out the name Jehovah from their Bible translations, thus showing that they do not want to be God's representatives. As regards conduct, Christendom supported both sides of the belligerent powers during the two world wars. Their clergy blessed the troops and the weapons, in effect offering millions of their fellow believers as sacrifices to the god of war. Instead of advocating the Bible's high moral standards as they should, the clergy have openly supported homosexuality and condoned other immoral practices, which are condemned by the Bible. Even the clergy are involved in corruption and shameful sex scandals. What we find in the realms of Christendom are, not the fruits of God's spirit, but the rotten works of the fallen flesh.
Jehovah's Witnesses-A Worldwide Brotherhood
7 Today, there is a worldwide brotherhood known as Jehovah's Witnesses. They are diligently spreading the truth of God's Word in over 230 lands. Bibles and Bible literature produced in their printeries around the world in over 300 languages are distributed by more than five million Kingdom publishers. The Bible says at Acts 10:34, 35: "God is not partial, but in every nation the man that fears him and works righteousness is acceptable to him." Jehovah's Witnesses are doing their utmost to preach the "good news of the kingdom" to the most distant part of the earth.—Matthew 24:14.
Their beliefs, rules of conduct, and organizational procedures are all based on the Bible. They firmly believe in God's Word, and as stated in their principal journal, The Watchtower, their publications 'adhere to the Bible as their authority.' They take to heart Jesus' words: "By this all will know that you are my disciples, if you have love among yourselves." (John 13:35) Out of love for their fellow believers and fellowmen, and to remain strictly in line with the Bible, they do not get involved in the factional disputes and bloody struggles of the world. During the two world wars, for example, they made great sacrifices in order to hold fast to Jesus' command. Regarding Jehovah's Witnesses in Nazi Germany, the book Mothers in the Fatherland says: "The most cohesive group of resisters were sustained by religion. From the first, Jehovah's
Witnesses did not cooperate with any facet of the Nazi state. Even after the Gestapo destroyed their national headquarters in 1933 and banned the sect in 1935, they refused to do so much as say 'Heil Hitler.' About half (mostly men) of all Jehovah's Witnesses were sent to concentration camps, a thousand of them were executed, and another thousand died between 1933 and 1945." They were willing to sacrifice their lives because of their love for God and for their fellowmen. This is clearly the mark of true Christians.
9 In line with Bible admonition, Jehovah's Witnesses diligently fulfill the obligations and responsibilities that are required of citizens, such as paying taxes and complying with census laws and marriage registrations. However, in this regard they also bear in mind what Jesus said: "Pay back, therefore, Caesar's things to Caesar, but God's things to God." (Matthew 22:21) If the demands by the authorities are in conflict with God's laws, they follow the apostles' example, that is, "obey God as ruler rather than men." (Acts 4:19, 20; 5:29) They make this choice, not to oppose the authorities, but to obey God.
10 The Bible educational work carried out by Jehovah's Witnesses has a positive effect on the community. The Bible instructs them to honor the marriage arrangement, to bring up their children with proper principles, and to do their best to maintain peace and unity in the family. Close-knit families are an asset to the community, even to the nation. Do you not like to have as neighbors people who are kind, helpful, law-abiding, and of high moral standards? No doubt you do! Jehovah's Witnesses are such people. They urge and welcome you to associate with them in their study of God's Word and in true worship.
11 Jehovah's Witnesses point out to all people that the time for God to take action and execute all false religion is at hand. They urge people everywhere to heed the command found at Revelation 18:4 and get out of all false religions and turn to the truth. People numbering into the millions around the world are doing just that. (Isaiah 2:4) They also desire to help you to learn about the hope of living forever in Paradise on earth under the rule of God's Kingdom. But how long will it be before this bright and wonderful hope will come true?
11. (a) How does the Bible educational work of Jehovah's Witnesses benefit the community? (b) Why is it urgent that you make an intelligent choice in this matter now?
Lasting Peace and Happiness Just Ahead!
JESUS taught his disciples to pray: "Our Father in the heavens, let your name be sanctified. Let your kingdom come. Let your will take place, as in heaven, also upon earth." (Matthew 6:9, 10) We are to pray for God's Kingdom to come. But what is God's Kingdom? It is a heavenly government. Jehovah has appointed his beloved Son, Jesus Christ, to be its King. What will this Kingdom do for us?
2 More than 2,500 years ago, God inspired his prophet Daniel to say: "In the days of those kings [the nations on earth] the God of heaven will set up a kingdom that will never be brought to ruin. And the kingdom itself will not be passed on to any other people. It will crush and put an end to all these kingdoms, and it itself will stand to times indefinite." (Daniel 2:44) This prophecy clearly points out that God's Kingdom must first remove human rulership, which is causing all the divisions and sufferings on earth today, and then it will bring in a lasting, peaceful rule over all mankind. When will all of this take place? Will we see it?
3 When Jesus was on earth, his disciples asked him: "Tell us, When will these things be, and what will be the sign of your presence and of the conclusion of the system of things?" Jesus' reply indicated that there would be global wars, food shortages, great earthquakes, and increasing lawlessness. Besides, false religious teachers would arise to mislead many, his true disciples would become objects of persecution and hatred, the love of the greater number would cool off, and the good news of God's Kingdom would be preached in all the earth. (Matthew 24:3-14) Have you seen such things occurring? Many world observers have admitted that since the first world war broke out in 1914, mankind has entered a time of unprecedented turmoil. Well-known philosopher Bertrand Russell wrote: "Ever since 1914, everybody conscious of trends in the world has been
deeply troubled by what has seemed like a fated and predetermined march toward ever greater disaster."
Danish historian Peter Munch is reported as writing: "The outbreak of the war in 1914 is the great turning point of the history of humanity. . . . We entered an age of disaster, horror, and hatred, with insecurity everywhere."
4 Besides wars, from 1914 onward, famine, pestilence, earthquakes, and violence have escalated to an unprecedented degree worldwide. Sadly, in spite of advanced science and technology, mankind is totally helpless when it comes to solving these difficult problems. All of this proves beyond any doubt that since 1914, the sign Jesus gave regarding the time of the end is right before our eyes. Jesus Christ has begun ruling in the invisible heavens. The world has entered its time of the end!
As all these events are taking place in our very time, all of us are faced with a life-and-death choice. What is that choice? In talking about the end of this system of things, Jesus indicated that he will divide the people of all the nations, as a shepherd divides the sheep from the goats. Only sheeplike ones—people who love righteousness and actively support God's Kingdom—will survive the end of this wicked system of things and enjoy God's blessings under his Kingdom forever.—Matthew 25:31, 33.
6 What blessings will God's Kingdom bring for mankind? The things that the Kingdom will soon accomplish include:
(1) Wars, crime, and violence will be eliminated forever. —Psalm 46:8, 9; Isaiah 2:4.
(2) Equality and impartiality for all; no more racial, social, or other forms of discrimination.—Acts 10:35; Revelation 7:9, 10.
(3) Abundant food, adequate housing, and enjoyable work for everyone.—Psalm 72:16; Isaiah 25:6; 65:21, 22.
(4) Sickness, disability, old age, and death will be no more.—Isaiah 25:8; 35:5, 6; Revelation 21:4.
(5) The dead will be raised.—John 5:28, 29; Revelation 20:12.
(6) The earth will become a global paradise.—Luke 23: 43; Psalm 98:7-9.
"This means everlasting life, their taking in knowledge
of you, the only true God, and of the one whom you sent forth, Jesus Christ," said Jesus. (John 17:3) We, therefore, sincerely invite you to make the time to study the Bible and find out what you need to do in order to qualify for the hope of enjoying life forever in Paradise on earth under God's Kingdom. We encourage you to associate regularly with Jehovah's Witnesses. Earth wide, there are millions with living faith who are worshiping the Eternal Sovereign, Jehovah, in one accord. Now is the time for you to join their ranks. Now is the time to take action without delay. Do not hesitate or vacillate. Join them in accepting the invitation: "Come! . . . Let anyone that wishes take life's water free." —Revelation 22:17.
Will you make the effort to find lasting peace and happiness?
Jehovah God is now opening to you the opportunity to live in a paradise! The time is coming when you will be able to enjoy life in lasting peace and happiness. Our loving and almighty heavenly Father, Jehovah, will make this come true without fail, for he promises: "So my word that goes forth from my mouth will prove to be. It will not return to me without results, but it will certainly do that in which I have delighted." Isaiah 55:10, 11.