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Well, thank you, Reo. That was a wonderful start to the program and no doubt expressed the thoughts that we had. We thank you very much for it. It's interesting he mentioned in his prayer the festive occasion. And isn't it true?
The 2026 Annual Meeting of Jehovah’s Witnesses features spiritual instruction, new Bible publications, and global unity in worship.
Key Takeaways
- Spiritual events foster joy, unity, and deepened faith among Jehovah’s Witnesses worldwide.
- The Bible is central as a guide for moral living and spiritual comfort.
- New educational materials enhance understanding and application of Bible teachings.
- Confidence in the Bible’s divine origin is essential for spiritual growth.
- Global participation reflects the unity and diversity of the Jehovah’s Witnesses community.
What the video covers
- The program opens with a festive prayer highlighting the joy and noise of spiritual gatherings.
- Emphasis on the Bible as a moral compass and source of comfort in challenging times.
- Introduction of a new publication, 'God's Word is Truth, a Handbook to the Bible,' to deepen understanding.
- The publication includes charts, timelines, and lessons to help readers see Bible books in context.
- Speakers stress the importance of confidence in the Bible as the inspired word of Jehovah.
- The meeting celebrates unity among diverse attendees from different lands and languages.
- Discussions include practical applications of Bible teachings and maintaining trust in God and fellow believers.
- The program features multiple segments covering scriptural insights, historical context, and spiritual encouragement.
- Global attendance and participation are highlighted, showing worldwide connection among Jehovah’s Witnesses.
- The event concludes with reflections on faith, hope, and the ongoing work of the organization.
Chapters
- 00:00Opening and Festive Prayer
- 07:32God’s Word is a Happy Noise
- 16:11Introduction to New Bible Publication
- 24:15Presentation of Bible Handbook Features
- 31:06Trust in God and Spiritual Encouragement
- 38:30Biblical Examples and Scriptural Insights
- 45:43Maintaining Unity and Conscience Decisions
- 49:43Closing Reflections and Global Participation
Full Transcript — Download SRT & Markdown
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I noticed when I came out how impressive the noise was. We were joking in the back, just so you know, that we didn't know if we could turn the mic volume up loud enough.
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I noticed when I came out how impressive the noise was. We were joking in the back, just so you know, that we didn't know if we could turn the mic volume up loud enough.
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as mine did. You're so loud I can't hear myself think. And there is a time to keep quiet.
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But it was a happy noise. It was a good noise. Sometimes perhaps in the past when you hear the term noisy, we might think of when a teacher was telling their classroom to please quiet down. Or maybe your parents said the same
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children have a good time. They love it when they're busy and enjoying life. So, noise is a good thing. In fact, even in the Bible, when Solomon, for example, was anointed as king, the Bible says in first kings that the people played
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as mine did. "You're so loud I can't hear myself think." And there is a time to keep quiet.
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the Bible says they offered sacrifices rejoiced for the true God made them rejoice with great joy the women and the children also rejoiced so that the rejoicing of Jerusalem could be heard far away and there's other examples in
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Obviously, it seems like here it takes between 5 and 15 minutes. A countdown clock plus a musical prelude with a few announcements in between. But, you know, if you ask most parents, they'll tell you that they love hearing their
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We remember important events. We celebrate accomplishments. We receive spiritual instruction. We make sacrifices. And yes, we enjoy the music as well. We've already enjoyed music this morning. So, today we have our spiritual event. What's going to be included in it? Well, everyone we know
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children have a good time. They love it when they're busy and enjoying life. So, noise is a good thing. In fact, even in the Bible, when Solomon, for example, was anointed as king, the Bible says in First Kings that the people played
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to tie in to be a part of it. Others we know have traveled from great distances.
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flutes, rejoiced greatly, and notice this, and the earth split open. And the reason? Because of their noise. Now, that was noisy. Or later in Nehemiah when the Israelites inaugurated the wall around Jerusalem they had completed in 52 days,
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of us to enjoy. We also know some of you were making lists about what would be shared today.
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the Bible says they offered sacrifices, rejoiced for the true God made them rejoice with great joy. The women and the children also rejoiced so that the rejoicing of Jerusalem could be heard far away. And there are other examples in
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But just like parents love seeing their children enjoy doing things together, we know Jehovah also enjoys listening to the noise of his servants that enjoy serving him. So, let's get started with our first part. It is entitled God's
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the Bible. It's a happy noise both in biblical times as well as today. Spiritual occasions are a time of joy.
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It's the reason that we're here today. We are from all different lands. We are from different races. We speak different languages.
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We remember important events. We celebrate accomplishments. We receive spiritual instruction. We make sacrifices. And yes, we enjoy the music as well. We've already enjoyed music this morning. So, today we have our spiritual event. What's going to be included in it? Well, everyone we know
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But it just keeps going because the Bible is also our moral compass. It teaches us what is good and what is bad in the midst of a world that has completely and totally lost its way.
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has made sacrifices. Those that live locally maybe had to get up early to help do things. We've learned some are tied in perhaps at very different time zones, staying up late or they've gotten up in the wee hours of the morning just
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But for us to receive these benefits from the Bible, we must have complete confidence that this book is something more than just the ideas of some wise men. We must be convinced that we are reading the thoughts of our wonderful,
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to tie in to be a part of it. Others we know have traveled from great distances.
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When I was a boy, we had a book that helped us to develop that confidence.
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We've enjoyed the music and we will have the spiritual instruction because we're all committed to learning and the presentations have been prepared both as Reo said in his prayer to bring glory and honor to Jehovah as well as for all
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What was that book? Well, please enjoy the following video. Could we ever have another publication like that?
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of us to enjoy. We also know some of you were making lists about what would be shared today.
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So, it gives me great pleasure today to announce the release of a new publication, God's Word is Truth, a Handbook to the Bible.
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You don't even deny it, do you? So, you'll find out how close you might have gotten or how far off you may have been.
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the Bible handbook. Already approval has been given to translate the publication into more than 350 languages. How wonderful.
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But just like parents love seeing their children enjoy doing things together, we know Jehovah also enjoys listening to the noise of his servants that enjoy serving him. So, let's get started with our first part. It is entitled God's
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This new book, God's Word is Truth, a handbook to the Bible, is being released incrementally as a series of brochures, each covering several Bible books.
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Word is Truth. And we'll give our attention to Brother Mark Sanderson. How precious the Bible is to all of us.
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It contains key details about each Bible book, its focus, connection to the Bible's overall theme, writer, and historical context.
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It's the reason that we're here today. We are from all different lands. We are from different races. We speak different languages.
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They include a variety of charts, timelines, and maps that will help you deepen your understanding of each book. The book will include lessons showing how the context of a Bible account can enhance our Bible reading. An appendix will
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And yet through applying the teachings of God's word, the Bible, we are united here in love as one family. We feel that in the room right now. Isn't it wonderful? Brothers, how do you, how do you feel about it?
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Well, I'm sure that already you're thinking of many, many ways that you would like to use this publication.
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But it just keeps going because the Bible is also our moral compass. It teaches us what is good and what is bad in the midst of a world that has completely and totally lost its way.
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designed to help us see each Bible book in context. Now, what does that mean?
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And when we face the darkest moments, the most challenging times, God's word is right there to soothe us, to comfort us, and to give us the hope we need to keep going.
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And most importantly, what does it reveal about our wonderful God Jehovah? You see, rather than looking at the Bible only verse by verse, this publication will help us to step back and see the shape and purpose of each
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But for us to receive these benefits from the Bible, we must have complete confidence that this book is something more than just the ideas of some wise men. We must be convinced that we are reading the thoughts of our wonderful,
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more facts. It's to help us to understand the Bible more deeply and through that to come to know Jehovah better. Well, now how will the publication help us and our children and our Bible students to be convinced that
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amazing God, Jehovah. And we must help our children and our Bible students to have that same confidence.
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of that material which sounds so heavy and so academic is going to be presented in a simple practical way that we can understand and that we can benefit from. But now what's the other way that we'll be able to see
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When I was a boy, we had a book that helped us to develop that confidence.
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message from our God Jehovah. Well, what opportunities are we going to have to closely consider this material? Well, you noted that this book is being released incrementally and the first installment of the book that's being released today will begin with the Bible
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And we used that book in our meetings and our personal study for decades. And no, it was not The Divine Plan of the Ages.
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handbook in our hand as we're doing our personal study. But it gets even better because at the same time in January 2027, we're going to consider the material about the book of Ezekiel in our congregation Bible study. Isn't that
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What was that book? Well, please enjoy the following video. Could we ever have another publication like that?
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a copy of the first installment today at John 17:17 Jesus prayed, "Sanctify them by means of the truth. Your word is truth." Jesus knew that God's word would do more than just teach his followers. It would set them apart. We see that. We feel that in
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Well, I seriously doubt it. But then again, I am here giving a talk and this is the annual meeting.
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challenging, we must cling. We must cling to God's word and help our children and our Bible students to do so as well. May this new publication help us reach that goal. Because more than anything, we want it to help us to love
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So, it gives me great pleasure today to announce the release of a new publication, God's Word is Truth, a Handbook to the Bible.
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Thank you very much, Mark. We loved the introduction to the book and we look forward to finding out more details in the program when we can get our copies.
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Well, it's of note that the complete All Scripture book was eventually made available in 50 languages and a partial book was made available in an additional 62 languages. But what about this new Bible handbook? That's what we call it,
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Now, we'd like to give our attention to brother Cook. He's going to give us an update on the sustainable personnel arrangement notice. Bethl trained servants of Jehovah.
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the Bible handbook. Already approval has been given to translate the publication into more than 350 languages. How wonderful.
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witnesses. Yes, my servant whom I have chosen. Well, because of this, we feel a great responsibility to ensure that the brothers and sisters who receive training at Bethl that they can serve where they may bring the greatest benefit to Jehovah's organization. And
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Well, I'm sure that you'd like to know much more about this publication. So, instead of me trying to explain it, please enjoy the following video.
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Instead, Bethl has become a place where people work hard for Jehovah. They receive valuable training and then they use that training wherever it can bring the greatest benefit in support of kingdom interests.
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This new book, God's Word is Truth, a handbook to the Bible, is being released incrementally as a series of brochures, each covering several Bible books.
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Adding about 850 young Bethalites during the past year. Isn't that encouraging? We have also received many reports about experienced Bethalites who have returned to the field and who are using their training to support and strengthen their congregations.
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This publication is designed to help readers grow in their love for Jehovah and his word, the Bible. As a handbook to the Bible, it refers to material in the New World Translation.
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comments afterward. So, was that the AI me or the real me? And that I'm sorry that was the real me.
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It contains key details about each Bible book, its focus, connection to the Bible's overall theme, writer, and historical context.
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to emphasize an important point. When Bethl trains servants of Jehovah transferred to the field, it's not because they have done anything wrong.
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The chapters each highlight why the Bible book is valuable, what to know before reading it, a summary of its contents, and how it will benefit you.
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They have received valuable training and experience, and we are confident that they will continue to be a blessing wherever they are asked to serve. We view them as carrying the benefits of their training with them, strengthening congregations and supporting the pre
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They include a variety of charts, timelines, and maps that will help you deepen your understanding of each book. The book will include lessons showing how the context of a Bible account can enhance our Bible reading. An appendix will
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encourage you to consider Bethl service as a spiritual goal in your life. Whether you serve for a short time or for years, you will receive valuable training that will benefit you throughout your life.
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include information about chronology, archaeology, geography, and Bible manuscripts. Make full use of this new study tool to help you grow in love one book at a time. For God's word is truth.
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Now, of course, Jehovah's organization will continue to assist brothers and sisters at Bethl when they return to the field. So, we'll do everything we can.
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Well, I'm sure that already you're thinking of many, many ways that you would like to use this publication.
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There it says, "Share with the holy ones according to their needs. Follow the course of hospitality." As Bethl trained servants of God join our congregations, we have a wonderful opportunity to put those words into practice. Many of these dear brothers
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Rather than spending time talking about the charts and maps and timelines that you saw in the video, it's important for us to just take a moment and consider the thinking behind the design of this new publication. The handbook has been
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hospitality and help them in a practical way to adjust to their new home. Doing so will reassure them of our love and appreciation.
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designed to help us see each Bible book in context. Now, what does that mean?
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Thank you for that wonderful update, Ken. We appreciate how you highlighted that the Bethl training doesn't just support Bethl, but it supports the Worldwide Brotherhood and the preaching work. And we love the real you.
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Well, in other words, what is the purpose of each Bible book? How does it contribute to the Bible's overall theme?
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cherish their relationship with Jehovah and cherish his word. We think about that. What maintains our faith in Jehovah is the Bible and studying it.
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And most importantly, what does it reveal about our wonderful God Jehovah? You see, rather than looking at the Bible only verse by verse, this publication will help us to step back and see the shape and purpose of each
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might mean? Helps us dig into the depth and context and of course draw closer to Jehovah. So, at this time, it is a real privilege to announce the release of a new research guide. Now, this new research guide is not an update of the
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book of the Bible. And then as we move from one Bible book to another Bible book, we can see more clearly how they all fit together as one united message from the author of the Bible, Jehovah God. So the aim is not simply to give us
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had 20 broad main headings. The new one, 168 headings, each one focused on a specific subject so you can find what you need faster. Additionally, each heading is organized to help you explore different aspects of a particular subject. For example, general
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more facts. It's to help us to understand the Bible more deeply and through that to come to know Jehovah better. Well, now how will the publication help us and our children and our Bible students to be convinced that
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example, you will find loyal love, coping with the change of circumstances. Under Peter, the headings of fear of man, being forgiven, or under Jonah, headings such as mercy and impartiality.
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the Bible is truly inspired? Well, as you saw in the video, the Bible Handbook will consider things like Bible chronology, ancient manuscripts, archaeology, Bible translation, and even how the Bible canon was established. But what's the wonderful thing about this book? All
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book introductions, videos for children, original songs, and Bible dramas, all arranged by subject alongside the printed material, as well as articles that are posted on jw.org.
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of that material which sounds so heavy and so academic is going to be presented in a simple, practical way that we can understand and that we can benefit from. But now what's the other way that we'll be able to see
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of the New World Translation. So to help you get the most of this new tool, please watch the following tutorial for successfully using the research guide.
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the inspiration of God's word? Well, it's in...
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Tap the search icon. Use the search feature to look up the subject. Type David in the search box.
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Look for results from the research guide that match your search. Tap the research guides result for David.
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Another way to access the research guide is to go to the library tab and select the index category.
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Select the research guide. Subjects are organized alphabetically. To find your subject, select the first letter.
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If you don't find the word you're looking for, try another term with a similar meaning.
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Tap the term David under the subject heading. References are organized under subheadings, such as general information or lessons. Tap the lessons subheading.
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Select a subheading to display references to articles and videos. Select a link to open the article or play the video.
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Tap the study pane button again to close the study pane. Tap family members. In some cases, instead of references, you'll see links to other subjects.
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Select one of these subject links to see additional references. When you download the research guide, the references from the scriptures section are added to the study pane of the Bible.
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Select a verse. Tap the gem button to see research guide references in the study pane.
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These are just some of the features you can use. Continue to make good use of the research guide to deepen your study and uncover many spiritual treasures.
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It is a wonderful tool and I'll tell you that the project is ongoing. The research guide will be updated about every two months and in due time you'll see about 250 more headings as well as more video references and improvements
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to the scripture section. And due to simplifying the process to make this new research guide, more of our brothers and sisters around the world will be able to use it. 312 languages have been approved.
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And it's actually kind of cool how it works. When a reference is added, if the reference is available in one of those 312 languages, it is automatically updated to the next update of the research guide and will be available to
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the friends with that language. It has been beautiful to watch how brothers and sisters from various departments work together to prepare this study tool.
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You'll want to keep it updated. Jehovah continues to provide us with spiritual food and the tools to study his word.
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and we can be confident that he will always do that. For our next talk, with that in mind, let's listen to brother Garrett Luch as he considers the theme with us. Keep trusting in Jehovah.
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In God we trust is written on dollar bills in the United States. It is a nice statement. But do most people really trust in God?
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Most trust money or other material things? Others trust only in themselves. Again, others trust nobody.
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We usually trust a friend. But does the Bible not warn us to trust a friend?
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Because of the moral corruption in his day, the prophet Micah was obliged to warn according to Micah 7 verse 5. Do not put your trust in a confidential friend.
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Jesus also indicated that even one-time friends of his followers would turn against them and have them delivered up to be put to death.
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The Bible encourages us to trust a loyal friend. We are inclined to trust someone whom we know well. For example, when we face difficult challenges, we may readily turn to a trusted friend for advice and support.
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But such a friend is uh you could say like a safety net u ready to catch us if we fall.
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In Ecclesiastes 4 9 and 10, it says, "Two are better than one because they have a good reward for their hard work.
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For if one of them falls, the other one can help his partner up. Yes, we trust in a friend. But first of all, we need to trust in Jehovah, isn't it?" So as we near the great tribulation, we need to increase our
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trust in Jehovah. Psalm 56:1 says, "In God, I put my trust. I am not afraid.
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What can a mere human do to me?" We also need to increase and maintain our trust in Jesus as well as uh in the Bible and also in our brothers.
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The title of this talk as announced is keep trusting in Jehovah. This means uh of course uh to trust him uh once or twice in challenges of everyday life is not enough. We need to persevere in trusting him. We need to
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maintain our trust. Jehovah is trustworthy. It's easy to say we trust him if we are not exposed to challenges. But if we face challenges, we still need to trust him. Psalm 62 verse verse 8 says, "Trust in him at all
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times." Jehovah is our closest and most trusted friend. No matter what challenges we face, we can turn to him for help, trusting his guidance and his support.
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The Bible counsels us to trust in Jehovah. Why? Well, read Psalm 115:9 and 10 where it says, "Trust in Jehovah. He is their help and their shield.
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You who fear Jehovah, trust in Jehovah." Of course, we have to be willing to accept the help.
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That help may come to us by means of spiritual food or uh publications, other publications or through the counsel from a friend.
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When do we need especially to trust in Jehovah? We especially need to rely on Jehovah when we face serious challenges.
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As we sense his help and support sometimes in ways that we did not ex expect, our trust in him deepens.
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Ephesians 3:20 says, "Now to the one who can according to his power that is operating in us do more than super abundantly beyond all the things we ask or do or or conceive.
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Let's consider an example. In Jesus' day, Jerus, a presiding officer of the Jewish synagogue, went through a sad experience.
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His 12-year-old daughter was gravely ill and was expected to die. He likely heard that Jesus was empowered by God to perform miracles. So Jarus went looking for Jesus, trusting that he could heal his daughter.
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Jesus agreed to come to the home of Jerus. But before he arrived there, the little girl had died.
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His friends told him not to bother the teacher any longer. Jerus may have felt helpless, but Jesus said, "Have no fear.
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Just keep exercising faith." According to Mark 5:21- 36 where the story is written after all of us have lost loved ones in deaths due to sickness or old age and about 50 to 60,000 brothers die every year worldwide. Worldwide
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about 2,000 were killed brothers. Yeah. in the concentration camps during the Nazi rule because of maintaining their trust in Jehovah.
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Whether we will individually be persecuted before Armageddon or not, we also shall keep trusting Jehovah.
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How does Jehovah support those who trust in him? Jehovah cares for his servants both as a group and as individuals. He promises to help us to remain spiritually strong even when we are facing the heat of oppos opposition.
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Jeremiah 17 verse 7 and verse 8 said blessed is the man who puts his trust in Jehovah.
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Jehovah can provide the help we need in any situation and at any time as ancient and modern examples bear out.
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How can we show that we trust in Jehovah's support? We can show our trust when we are planning for the future. Jehovah expects parents to care for their children. For instance, part of their responsibility is to help the children to make wise
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decisions. In view of the worsening economic conditions, parents may wonder whether they should encourage their children to pursue a career of full-time service or to focus on getting a well-paying job.
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In some cultures, children are viewed like a means to provide financial support um if for parents when they're getting old.
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The parents concerns for their children's welfare and possibly for their own are in a sense understandable.
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But is it appropriate to for that parents first of all demonstrate a complete trust in Jehovah's support?
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Certainly. Note the example set by Isaac and Rebecca. They proved that they trusted in Jehovah when they urged their son Jacob to travel far away to find a wife among Jehovah's worshippers. They showed their faith and trust putting Jehovah's
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kingdom first in their lives. Today we show our trust when we are willing to wait for Jehovah to act.
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We may at times wonder why Jehovah has not intervened in a situation that's troubling us. Perhaps we have been the victim of an injustice.
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We know that Jehovah will rectify matters in time. But it is not always easy for us to wait for him.
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Psalm 33:20 says, "We are in expectation of Jehovah. He is our helper and our shield." And Micah 7:7 says, "But as for me, I will keep on the lookout for Jehovah.
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I will show a waiting attitude for the God of my salvation. My God will hear me.
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We can also show our trust in Jehovah when we face seemingly unsurmountable obstacles. At such times we may feel powerless or may be overcome by fear.
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Perhaps we are dealing with a chronic illness or our abilities and privileges are limited by advancing age.
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If that is your situation, how can you show your complete trust in Jehovah? Psalm 37 gives the answer. Commit your way to Jehovah. Rely on him and he will act in your behalf.
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After all, who is more qualified uh to help than the maker of heaven and earth?
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Consider also the example of Paula, a sister in Canada who served with her husband in the traveling work for over 25 years.
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She was born with a serious spinal condition that greatly limits her ability or mobility.
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Her share in the ministry, however, is anything but limited. She says,"I take advantage of different forms of service such as telephone and informal witnessing. I try to make realistic plans and then leave the rest in Jehovah's hands trusting that he will
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support me." That uh text was quoted from 100 Psalm 143:E8. We can also show our trust when our expectations have not been fulfilled.
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Trusting in Jehovah can help us to stay balanced and realistic. For instance, we eagerly look forward to the day when Jehovah will end all suffering. Yes, as we grow older, we may find ourselves wondering, will I live to
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see that day? If we feel that way, note what we can learn from Simeon's example.
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He was a a faithful aged man in Jerusalem. Uh likely he had great hopes when God's spirit revealed that before he died, he would see the Messiah.
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when he finally did see the Messiah. Uh but at at that time Jesus as an infant though he must have realized that he would not live to see Jesus grow up and fulfill his role. But Simeon did not
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focus on what he would not see. He focused uh on what he could see and he found peace and contentment in in what he saw. Yeah. Some of God's promises coming true. Similarly, if we thus uh focus on the prophetic uh words that are
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being fulfilled in our day and we do our best to serve Jehovah, we too can feel peace and contentment. Now, keep strengthening your trust in Jehovah's support. Being aware that Jehovah created the fantastic universe, the earth and man
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does not this does not help us uh or does this not help us to become more confident in our trust in Jehovah to be able and willing to help us when we face problems and challenges.
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He shows us trust. Although we are dust. Therefore, to show him trust is a must.
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The Almighty is on our side, on your side. Should we be persecuted in the future, we will not run and hide.
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As it said in one of our songs, Jehovah is on my side. I will not run and hide.
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My God is with me. This I know. Well, you know the song also. Should you face persecution at home or a ban on the work, trust in Jehovah.
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Jehovah is very interested in each and one of you. He uh is interested. He wants to help us. He's not only powerful, all powerful, but he's also allloving.
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He loves us. He loves you. He gave his beloved son Jesus Christ as a sacrifice for our sins for the purpose of helping us to become perfect and to enjoy everlasting friendship with him. Jehovah had full trust and confidence in his son's
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faithfulness. His love moves us to love. Colossians 3:14. Love is a perfect bond of yunion. It is the most powerful bond in the universe.
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Perfect love bonding the son and the father together unbreakably. For like reasons, God trusts his people, knowing that love would hold us immovably to him under test. As God's God trusts us, we need to trust him. Of course, Psalm 3:5 encourages us, trust
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in Jehovah with all your heart. Jesus was our best example. When he was nailed to the torches steak, his enemies mockingly said, "He has put his trust in God. Let him now rescue him if he wants him. For he said, I am God's son."
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Jehovah trusted Abraham. He trusted the patriarchs and the prophets. He trusts anointed ones and did so throughout the centuries. And today, he trusts the members of the great crowd as well.
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Jehovah has always been a helper and a shield to those who trust in him. But how can we sense that is is he actively helping us? One way is by thinking about how Bible accounts relate to our personal experiences.
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When we do this, we can see how Jehovah has supported us even in subtle ways in our everyday life just as he supported his worshippers in ancient times. Such meditation reminds us that we can overcome any trial as long as we remain
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in God's love. Any trial, any trial, we shall overcome. You know this expression, don't we? We shall overcome with Jehovah's help. When the prophet Jeremiah was thrown into assistant by hostile princes, the king permitted the Ethiopian Melik to pull
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him back out. Jehovah then promised him according to Jeremiah 39:17 and 18, "But I will rescue you in that day, declares Jehovah, and you will not be handed over to the men you fear.
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For I will surely provide you with escape, and you will not fall by the sword.
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You will have your life as a spoil because you trusted in me declares Jehovah.
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And King David once wrote according to Psalm 26 verse1 in Jehovah I have trusted without wavering.
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Are you sometimes afraid of something? That's natural. But Psalm 56:3 says, "When I am afraid, I put my trust in you." But Jehovah also trusts you.
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It is much. You trust him, he trusts you. What a tremendous trust. He promised to rescue his loyal servants in Armageddon.
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He trusts you that you want to serve him now and want to serve him forever and ever and ever.
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Would you like to know what is our year text for 2027? Probably you guessed rightly.
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Well, it's a pleasure to announce that our year text is taken from Psalm 115:1 and says, "Trust in Jehovah.
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Will you It's also my privilege now to announce the title of our new song that we will sing later, namely I trust in you.
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what timely encouragement. We thank you, Garrett, very much for that talk. And as we contemplate the year text, we will remember that Jehovah is on our side.
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You know, it's interesting. We often talk about training younger ones and we need to we need to continue training younger ones, but that doesn't mean that our experienced brothers and sisters aren't still needed. In fact, they're needed even more so as we train the
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younger ones. Garrett now is 85 years old. He continues to thrive and to be an example of the members of the governing body. We appreciate and treasure our experienced brothers. And talking about noise, we spoke earlier about noise.
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We're a noisy group. I'd like you to take notice of the next talk that will be given by one of our experienced brothers. His entitle his title is the noisiest people on earth. Let's give our attention to brother Sam Herd.
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There is good noise and there is bad noise. Noise is everywhere, all over. It covers the earth like a blanket that is miles thick.
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There's the sound of a newborn baby's cry in the ears of its mother is good noise. Now wait a minute. Let's stop.
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Let's think about it. Baby cries. Doctor lifts the baby out of the mother's womb. Everyone standing nearby hears the cry.
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And so they may be thinking, well, why is that doctor hurting that baby like that, making it cry? But not the mother.
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The mother hears something altogether different from what others hear standing around. What does mama hear? This is what she hears. Mama, I made it. All with your help, mama.
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Thank you, mama. I love you very much. Now, mama was the only one that could interpret what the baby was thinking.
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That's just one example. Here's another. You're in bed 2:00 in the morning. Your phone rings and wakes you up from sleep.
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You were thinking, "Who would call at this hour? It must be bad noise." Well, well, wait a minute. Is that bad noise or is that good noise? Who's on the other end of the line? Sam, this is your neighbor
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across the street. Mark, just wanted you to know that your house is burning. It's flaming. You must get out of the house real quick. Get your kids and your your wife. Get out of that house.
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Well now was the ring of the phone bad noise according to how you look at it?
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Was it good noise according to how you look at it? That determines whether it may be bad or it may be good.
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As imperfect sinful humans, we have the ability to make good noise or bad noise. It depends on those hearing it.
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Some people like to hear the click of the hills of a tap dancer and the beat of the drum, the loud sounds from other musical instruments, and high notes that only an opera singer can reach and hold.
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Others view it as unwanted noise and just turn it off. They choose to sit in a quiet place and listen to the sounds from their own heart. Tick tick tick tock. Well, to each his own. Now, let's go back in time
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to the days of Moses and Aaron. When Moses was on Mount Si receiving the two tablets of the testimony from Jehovah, the people got tired of waiting for him to come down and had Aaron make the golden calf for them to worship as
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their god. The next morning, the people sat down to eat and drink, and then they got up to have a good time, I add, and made a lot of noise.
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Bear in mind that what in your ears is sweet music in other ears may be just noise, unwanted sound.
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Let us go back to the days of Moses. Now, please uh look at Exodus 32 17 and 18. You'll notice it says, "When Joshua began to hear the noise of the people because of their shouting, he said to
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Moses, there is the sound of battle in the camp." But Moses said, "It is not the sound of singing over a victory, and it is not the sound of wailing over a defeat. I hear the sound of another kind of
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singing." Now note, please, noise is called shouting. Now we will look at another scripture reference. Joshua chapter 6.
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The fighting men are marching around the city of Jericho. once each day for six days. On the seventh day, they marched around it seven times, and seven priests blew horns, and the people shout a great war cry, and the wall of the city will
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fall down flat. The inhabitants inside could be thinking, "What in the world are those crazy Israelites doing? growing horns and shouting at the top of their voices.
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They must think our wall is going to fall down flat or something. Ha ha ha.
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Uhoh. Oh, what's that noise? The wall fell. We know what kind of noise they were making. Righteous noise.
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Noise defined. It says, "A sound, especially one that is loud or unpleasant or that causes disturbance, making a noise like a pig in a trough." Remember, we're surrounded by noise. We can open the door to some and to others.
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We can close the door and shut it out. Nevertheless, some noise we just have no control over.
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Jesus at times departed from the crowds for an isolated place to be alone. Matthew 14:13.
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And hearing this, Jesus departed from there by boat into an isolated place to be alone.
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But the crowds getting to hear of it followed him on foot from the cities.
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Crowds of people are often noisy. You people are noisy. Oh yes, you are. Along with roughly 9 million of your brothers and sisters, you are the noisiest people on earth.
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However, by you're preaching the kingdom good news, you are making righteous noise. Jehovah's promise has come true in a sense today. Now, here's the promise.
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Micah 2:12, I will certainly gather all of you, oh Jacob. I will surely collect the remaining ones of Israel together. In unity I will place them like sheep in the pin, like a flock in its pasture. It will be noisy with people.
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We are the noisiest people on earth. That's all over the earth. Open your mouths wide open. Shout it out. preach the kingdom message. Until when?
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Until Jehovah says, "Stop. Close your mouths. That's enough." We will continue to be the noisiest people on earth. The only ones making righteous noise.
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It is wonderful to see the progress of that project and we pray Jehovah's continued support with it and all who are involved on it in it. Earlier, brother Lush talked about how we need to continue trusting in Jehovah have
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confidence in him. Please take note of the next title. Jehovah has confidence in you. Let's give our attention to brother Winder.
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Have you come to appreciate in recent years how much confidence Jehovah puts in his servants?
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Well, in what way? By placing greater emphasis on being guided by Bible principles. Jehovah's confidence in us is reflected in the responsibility he entrusts to us.
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You could illustrate Jehovah's trust this way. A manager hires a new employee. But because he doesn't know the employee well, he gives him detailed instructions. Here's what's time to arrive. Here's how you handle the files.
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Here's how you answer the phone. Written procedures for every task. But after a few years, the employee proves reliable. The manager has trust in him. So pages of instructions are no longer necessary. The manager may simply just say, "Please make sure that this
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project is taken care of." Well, Jehovah has done a similar thing with his people. He has confidence in each one of us. And this is reflected in recent adjustments that have been made.
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Uh for example, in the field ministry, publishers are no longer reporting their activity anymore. Uh how we deal with ones who have been removed from the congregation. Uh might we call one and invite them to the meeting? If they
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come, will we say a greeting? Well, each Christian must decide. Similarly, each Christian decides whether they will pursue additional education, whether they will toast or clink the glasses in these and other areas.
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Jehovah gives us principles to guide us. And we had a talk along these lines in the last annual meeting uh last year, didn't we? But even in the years since, additional adjustments have been made that demonstrate Jehovah's confidence in
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us. So in March, governing body update number two, the use of one's own blood in medical procedures and treatments is something that must be decided by each Christian.
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And then just two weeks ago, governing body update number six, Christians must decide whether they would accept or donate any of the four main components of blood in medical and surgical care.
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Jehovah wouldn't give us such latitude if he didn't have the confidence that we have the spiritual discernment to make good decisions in these areas.
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But it raises some questions. How important are these decisions that are left to each Christian to decide? Uh how does a Christian approach making a conscience matter decision and how can we protect our precious unity when adjustments like these are made? Well,
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let's answer those three questions in this talk. The first one is why are conscience matter decisions still important to us?
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The answer is because we want all of our decisions to please Jehovah, don't we?
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And we appreciate that Jehovah has given us good guidance in his word that helps us to approach such decisions in the right way. For example, please turn to the book of Romans and we're going to look at Romans
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chapter 14 because in this chapter, the Apostle Paul under inspiration discusses several issues in his day that were a matter of conscience.
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So, we won't read these verses, but we'll scan through. If you notice, Romans 14:es 2 and 3 talks about eating certain foods. So we know under the Mosaic law there were specific dietary restrictions such as not eating pork.
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But by this time the Christians were no longer under the Mosaic law. So perhaps some didn't have a problem eating foods that were previously prohibited by the Mosaic law. Others didn't feel comfortable doing so. Each Christian had to decide.
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Verses five and six talks about regarding one day as more sacred than another. This is also a carryover from the Mosaic law uh specifically the Sabbath day law. Should that day still be set aside exclusively for matters related to rest and worship or could
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other things be done? Now the brothers taking the lead didn't make a rule. Verse 21 talks about the drinking of wine also a matter of conscience. Were these inconsequential issues? Did they matter?
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Well, regarding whether one day should be treated as more sacred than another, notice what verse five says.
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One man judges one day as above another. Another judges one day the same as all others. But notice this. Let each one be fully convinced in his own mind.
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Now look at verse 23. A similar point is made on the matter of eating certain foods. Verse 23 says, "But if he has doubts, he is already condemned if he eats because he does not eat based on faith. Indeed, everything that is not
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based on faith is sin." What does this verse mean? Well, here is a man who was not fully convinced in his own mind that it's okay to eat foods previously prohibited by the law.
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if he were to eat them anyways, it would be a sin for him because he would be going against his conscience. He would be wounding it.
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And so, what does Jehovah teach us in Romans 14? That matters like this are important because they affect our conscience and our relationship with Jehovah. And so, each Christian takes them very seriously.
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Well, that leads to our second question. How then do we go about making decisions that are a matter of conscience?
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Well, perhaps we could take as an example the most recent governing body update regarding the four main components of blood. Uh because we're all considering the role of our conscience in this new direction, aren't we? And it is an important decision.
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Each of us wants more than anything else to make a decision that will leave us feeling good before Jehovah.
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How do we do it? Well, likely we would use the same process that we use for any decision affecting our worship of Jehovah. And where would we start? No doubt with prayer.
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This is a matter that affects our relationship with Jehovah. So, we want we need his guidance and Jehovah will give us that guidance. Turn over, please, to the book of Psalms and notice these reassuring words in Psalm 25.
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And we'll read 9 and 12. Psalm 25:9, it says, "He will guide the meek in what is right, and he will teach the meek ones his way." In verse 12, who is the man fearing Jehovah? He will instruct him about the way he should
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choose. So even in matters of conscience, Jehovah will guide you to make a decision for you that leaves you feeling good before him with a clean conscience before him.
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Once we've prayed about it, what do we do next? Well, likely we are going to consider the information at hand. So regarding blood components, we might rewatch the governing body update or we might look at the questions for readers
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that was published because that is essentially the update in written form. But now we can read the scriptures. We can meditate on the reasoning. Um likely we would download the new chart products derived from whole blood. Maybe some
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will even print it out so they can look closely and make sure they understand everything. And if there's an aspect that you don't understand, well perhaps your elders can help you. And of course, they're not going to tell you what you
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should do. They're not going to steer you toward the decision that they might make. But they will help you to understand the factors that you can decide or use use to make your decision.
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And then you make a decision based on that careful prayerful review. A process like that would certainly please Jehovah because you're taking it seriously and you're doing what you can to make a good decision before him.
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And that also applies to decisions that we've made in the past. Jehovah remembers and loves those decisions that were made to please him.
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Well, this brings us to our last question on this topic. How can we protect our Christian unity when it comes to matters of conscience?
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I invite you to turn back to Romans 14 because here Jehovah highlights a danger that is inherent to conscience matter decisions.
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Romans 14. So when speaking about this matter of eating different types of foods, what warning is included in verse four?
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It says, "Who are you to judge the servant of another?" Again, when speaking about whether one day is more sacred than another, we find the same council in verse 10. But why do you judge your brother? Or why do you also
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look down on your brother? For we will all stand before the judgment seat of God. So what's the danger? It could disrupt our Christian unity if we begin to judge our brother's decisions in these matters.
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Well, how might that happen? Well, take for an example this matter of the Sabbath day in the first century. So perhaps there's one brother who feels that it's okay to travel a little further or do some necessary work on the
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day that used to be the Sabbath. But he still puts spiritual things first. He still sets aside time for study and worship and time with his family. But his brother, a Jewish Christian, feels that it's still the best thing to
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reserve that day for matters pertaining to Jehovah's worship. But what if one brother speaks to the other brother to try to convince him that his thinking and his actions are wrong? What if one of the brothers starts speaking to ones in the
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congregation to try to gain support for his view of the matter? Well, we can see how that would disrupt the unity.
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And the same is true today. In matters of conscience, one Christian may decide differently than another. And each one prays about the matter, studies the scriptures, and looks at what the uh publications of the slave have to say on
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it, and then makes a decision that leaves him feeling good before Jehovah. But he may not make the same decision as his brother.
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But what if one tries to convince the other that his thinking on the matter is incorrect?
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What if one speaks to ones in the congregation to try to prove that his thinking on the matter is the correct one for all Christians?
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Well, this could disrupt the unity and that is the danger. And this is true regarding the use of our own blood in medical situations, the use of blood components, education, toasting or any other of these areas where each Christian must decide what he
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or she will do. So, how do we preserve our unity in these matters? Romans says, "Don't judge your brother." Respecting others decisions, both past and present, in conscience matters promotes peace and unity. And we love our Christian unity, don't we? Clearly,
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Jehovah is blessing your s your whole sold efforts to promote and protect the unity of the congregation.
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So what have we considered in this talk? That recent adjustments have encouraged Christians to use Bible principles and their Christian conscience to make good decisions. And these adjustments reflect Jehovah's confidence in each one of us.
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But are these just individual unrelated adjustments being made? Or is Jehovah accomplishing something more?
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Read with me please. Jeremiah chapter 31 and verse 33. Jeremiah 31:33 says this. For this is the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel after those days, declares Jehovah. I will put my law within them and in their heart I
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will write it. and I will become their God and they will become my people. Here Jehovah indicated that the new covenant wouldn't be a comprehensive code of laws like the Mosaic law was. Rather it would be centered on the law of Christ, the
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law of love and it would be written on the hearts of those in the new covenant.
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And certainly the other sheep would be motivated to serve Jehovah in the same way. But the point that we want to extract is this is how Jehovah is leading his people today. His law would be written on their hearts and they
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would have such deep love for Jehovah and for their neighbor that this is what would guide their actions and the decisions that they would make. And isn't that remarkable? This is what we are seeing taking place.
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And isn't it heartwarming to see the trust and confidence that Jehovah has in each one of us? And that confidence is not misplaced because we are determined to continue to win his confidence by making decisions that reflect our love
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for him. May you take delight in the confidence that Jehovah has in you. Thank you very much, Jeff. And we do appreciate the confidence Jehovah has placed in us and we want to assume the responsibility to make decisions based
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on our love for him. Our next theme is Jehovah is close to the brokenhearted.
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We'll give our attention to brother Jacob Rump. We all experience anxiety. It's a normal part of life.
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Sometimes it can feel manageable, even helpful. But other at other times it may seem overwhelming, like there's no way out.
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For example, think about the faithful man Job. In Job 7 and verse 16, he said, "I loathe my life. I do not want to go on living." Have you ever felt like Job?
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Or has someone expressed to you that they have similar feelings as Job had? Because of our imperfections and life in this system of things, many faithful servants of Jehovah struggle with negative emotions, feelings of of worthlessness.
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And those feelings can leave them feeling completely drained. But we know something that Job didn't know when he said those words in Job 7:16.
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We know the rest of Job's story. We know what it says in Job 42 and:12 when his trial was through.
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Jehovah blessed the last part of Job's life more than the beginning. Jehovah was there. Jehovah was interested in what Job was going through.
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And Jehovah is just as interested in us today. Now open your Bibles please to Psalm 34 which is really the theme of uh this discussion. Psalm 34 and verse 18 just to show how Jehovah feels about us when we're going through these internal
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struggles. He reassures us Jehovah is close to the brokenhearted. He saves those who are crushed in spirit.
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So Jehovah sees what others do not see. When he sees that our heart is crushed, our heart is broken. We're going through internal struggles.
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Jehovah is there. He's interested. And he wants to give us the strength and the comfort so that we can move forward in peace and in joy.
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So in this discussion we're going to talk about three questions. Three questions. First of all uh what did Job do to be able to cope with anxiety with these negative emotions?
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What did Jehovah do and what can we learn from Jehovah in helping others to cope with these kinds of feelings?
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and what unknowns can we safely leave in Jehovah's hands? So, let's start with that first question. How did Job deal with the anxiety that he had and what can we learn from him? Well, please uh open your Bibles to that account in Job
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chapter 10. Job chapter 10. and we'll read verse one. Right away, we can see the pressure that Job is still under.
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Verse one, he repeats what we just read in Job 7:16. He says, "I loathe my life." So, what will he do to overcome that?
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Notice the first thing we can learn. He says, "I will give vent to my complaints.
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I will speak out in my bitter distress. What did Job do? Job talked to others.
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Even though the things that he said were not always well thought out, as he brings out here, it was during his bitter distress that he would vent his feelings. And because he did that, some did misunderstand Job. But he kept
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talking. He kept reaching out looking for mature ones that would give him support until Jehovah gave him who he needed in Elihu.
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So what's the first lesson we can learn from Job? Well, if we're struggling with negative thoughts, negative emotions, try imitating what Job did. Talk to someone.
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Talk to them. Don't be afraid of how it it might sound. Don't be afraid of what they might think. Talk to them. Feelings are usually easier to cope with when we express them openly.
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But when we express them openly in bitter distress, some might misunderstand us as was the case with Job. What do we do? Do what Job did.
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Keep talking until you find your elu. Jehovah will provide him. Now, if after doing this, we've talked to someone and we continue to have these kind of thoughts that are persistent and overwhelming, that someone that we may need to reach out to might be a medical
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professional, someone that can recommend therapy or medication to uh calm down those symptoms. And if that's needed, that's okay.
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There's nothing wrong with that. Jesus, the wisest man who has ever lived, once said, "Healthy people do not need a physician, but those who are ill do." So don't be afraid to reach out for the help you need.
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That's the first thing that Job did. What else did he do? Well, notice verse two.
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Verse two says, "I will say to God, do not pronounce me guilty. Tell me why you're contending with me." What does Job do? Job prays to Jehovah.
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Now when you first read these verses and if you continue reading these verses after this this prayer to Jehovah might seem a bit extreme a bit accusatory but Job was not afraid of telling Jehovah how he really felt
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and neither should we tell Jehovah how you really feel. He's always there. He's always listening.
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and he understands better than anyone else the help that you need. Now, that leads us directly into our second question. What can we learn from Jehovah about helping those who are struggling with these kinds of emotions?
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Well, the first thing we see that Jehovah did is what we saw in Psalm 34:18.
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When Job was broken on the inside, Jehovah didn't run away. Jehovah drew closer to Job. First of all, he did that by listening to Job. Do you remember how Job described some of the words that he said? He described his
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own words as wild talk. But how did Jehovah view that wild talk of Job?
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Well, notice at the end of his trial in in Job 42. Job 42 and verse 7.
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Job 42 and verse 7. Now, this is Jehovah speaking to Elephaz, one of the false comforters. And we'll pick up there at the at the halfway mark of this verse.
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Jehovah tells Elephaz, "My anger burns against you and and your two companions, for you have not spoken the truth about me as my servant Job has." Now, do you remember the things that Job said about Jehovah during his trial? Did
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he always speak the truth about the way Jehovah had managed that situation? No, he didn't.
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But what do you see in this verse? See, Jehovah saw beneath the surface of those words, that wild talk, and he saw the man on the inside. He saw his spirituality. He knew that those feelings that were motivating th that
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wild talk were real and Jehovah had compassion for Job. Throughout the the entire thing, Jehovah knew Job's heart, but he just patiently continued to listen to Job without offering uh any counsel right away.
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So, do you see the first lesson that we can learn from Jehovah when we're helping someone, a friend to overcome negative emotions?
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First of all, think about it. Have you ever said something when you're stressed out that you regret?
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Of course, I know I have. So, when someone in that state of mind says something that shocks you, remember Jehovah's example.
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Don't overreact. Listen. Listen. And that can be exactly what your friend needs. Now, the second thing that Jehovah did to support his friend Job was giving him comfort. He consoled Job. And he really did that well through Eliu. Look at some
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of the comforting words that Eliu shared with Job in Job 33. Job 33. And of course, we know that Job at some points through his trial felt that Jehovah had abandoned him.
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But how these words must have been encouraging to Job. In verse 26, Eliu tells Job, he, this is the righteous man. He's speaking in the third person to Job. To Job, you Job will entreat God. You will pray to God who will
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accept you and he will see his Jehovah's face with shouts of joy. And he Jehovah will restore his righteousness to mortal man, to you, Job. Jehovah is interested in you. He wants to restore you. He loves you. How much? Look at verse 29.
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Indeed, God does all these things twice, three times for a man like you, Job.
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Can you imagine how those words must have touched Job's heart? that reassurance that Jehovah and Eliu loved Job and would support Job.
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Now, although obviously Eliu said many things that would have reassured Job of Jehovah's love for him, some of the things that Job said or Eliu said to Job may not have exactly been what Job wanted to hear. We read the entire
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chapter of 33 and subsequent chapters we can see that uh Eliu lovingly and clearly explained exactly what Job needed to do to get the help he needed.
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And now here's the lesson for us those who are supporting those who are struggling with negative emotions, feelings of worthlessness.
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If you're consoling someone, first do what Eliu did. Assure him of Jehovah's love. Assure him of your love. That's the truth.
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But at the same time, don't hide truth from your friend, your loved one. Loving someone means also helping them to get the help that they need.
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So if after trying to help your friend, you're noticing that those thoughts are becoming persistent and overwhelming, we go back to the thought that we mentioned already.
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You might kindly encourage him to get professional help. Help him to understand that there is nothing wrong with that.
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And if it's appropriate, you might even accompany him if he feels like he can't do it alone. That's a friend that's born in times of distress.
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Now, the third thing that Jehovah did to come to Job's aid was acting in Job's behalf. uh and we see that throughout his entire uh situation. He provided practical help through Elihu through Holy Spirit. He directly helped Job uh
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for example uh he helped Job to adjust his focus by a series of questions helping him to see the bigger picture, zoom out and focus on Jehovah. At the end of his trial, he made Job uh offer a
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sacrifice for those three false comforters that have been causing him problems. zoom out, focus on others. And that's what happened once Job shifted his focus away from what he was going through to Jehovah and to others. Well, then he was able to balance his feelings
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uh cope with those feelings in a balanced way. Of course, we would never encourage someone to just not think about or to ignore the source of negative thinking, but constantly thinking about it can drain us emotionally.
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So whether we're the one who's giving assistance or we're the one who's receiving assistance, try to allow Jehovah to convert that inward energy outward by focusing on Jehovah and by doing what we can to help others.
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What have we learned about Jehovah and how Jehovah supported Job? Well, imitate Jehovah by listening to, consoling, and acting in behalf of your loved one who is struggling with negative thoughts.
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Doing so might get him through one more day, and one more day might be all that he needs for a fresh start.
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Now, Jehovah was patient with Job and he helped him. He calmed his heart and we can see that from chapter 10 all the way to the end.
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Finally, Job was able to find peace. But what if despite every effort to help, someone gives into those thoughts and takes his own life?
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Those left behind might have feelings or questions that are painful. Could I have done something different?
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Why didn't I see it? Will my loved one be resurrected? See, it's impossible for us to completely understand why someone would take his own life.
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First or 2 Chronicles chapter 6 verse 29 says each one knows his own plague and his own pain.
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Even though we can't understand someone else's heart, there is something that we do know.
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We know Jehovah. And we know that Jehovah alone knows the human heart. We know that Jehovah is who he is described to be at Genesis 18 and verse 24, the judge of all the earth who will always do what is right.
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So if your loved one took his own life, you can be sure of this.
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His future life prospects are safely in the hands of Jehovah, the merciful, just, and loving God.
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So, what have we learned? Well, if negative thoughts seem to be controlling you, talk to someone.
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Talk to Jehovah. You do not have to go through this alone. We love you.
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Jehovah loves you. And your life is so precious to him. He will listen to you. He will console you and he will act in your behalf.
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Just as Jehovah did for Job, giving him peace even before his trial was over.
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Jehovah will help you to endure with joy. Like Job, he will bless the last part of your life more than the beginning.
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Because that's what Jehovah does and that's who Jehovah is. He is close to the brokenhearted and he saves those who are crushed in spirit.
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Thank you, Jake. Beautiful reminders and advice. It's obvious that Joe is compassionate and he cares not just for our physical needs, but the whole purpose. He understands us. Comforting and practical. Notice our next theme be given by brother Gage Flegal. Not one of
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them is missing. In Chinese, there's an expression. It literally means a white-haired person sending off a blackhaired person. It refers to the tragic situation when a parent outlives, buries their child.
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Sadly, many of our brothers and sisters have experienced this and other tragedies. Not just this past year, but over the past decades, over the past centuries, over the past millenniums, enemy death claims victims with no regard for the feelings of survivors. We
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think of the earthquakes in Colombia and Venezuela earlier this year. Some of you may be grieving the death of a loved one even right now.
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But why can we trust that Jehovah is able to bring back to life our dead loved ones? But not just bring them back to life, but with all of their identifying characteristics, all of their traits, their laugh, their
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precious smile. Well, I invite you to turn to Isaiah 40 26. Isaiah 40 26.
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This is the theme text for this talk. And here we can find comfort when grieving the loss of a loved one.
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How so? Isaiah 40:26, notice what it says. Lift up your eyes to heaven and see who has created these things.
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It is the one who brings out their army by number. He calls them all by name because of his vast dynamic energy and his awe inspiring power. Not one of them is missing.
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Lift up your eyes to heaven and see. In other words, look up at the majestic nighttime sky and think about it. What was the point of Jehovah's words through Isaiah? Well, Jehovah was reminding his people in advance of his awe inspiring
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power and his ability to free them from their future captivity in Babylon. Well, don't our dear loved ones who have died need rescue from their captor, the grave, enemy death.
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Isaiah's words can strengthen our faith that Jehovah will soon make the resurrection a reality. Of course, astronomers, astrophysicists have learned a lot about the universe since Isaiah penned those words. For instance, the universe continues to expand and expand and expand.
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It's made up of far, far more than the thousands of stars that people could see in Isaiah's day. New stars continue to form.
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This is a photo of the Hart Nebula. Maybe you can see the resemblance of a heart there in the constellation Cassiopia in our Milky Way galaxy. It's about 7,500 lighty years away from the Earth. The light in that image took 7,500 years to
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get here. But if you look closely in the heart of the heart, it's a cluster of stars called Malot 15. These stars are young.
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Astronomers estimate they've existed for only about 1.5 million years. Now, don't worry. Someday when you're a 100 million years old, you'll view those stars as young as well.
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Yes, there are young stars in the sky. Does Jehovah have a name for them.
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Does he know when they are born? That is when they initiate nuclear fusion and begin to shine.
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Absolutely. Other stars in the universe are reaching their end of light. Some of them end in dramatic supernova explosions.
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Now, although Isaiah didn't have detailed knowledge of the universe, Jehovah revealed something extraordinary to his prophet that even astrophysicists don't know.
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What did he say? Jehovah calls the stars all by name. Old ones, young ones. He is the one who brings out their army by number. Picture that just for a moment. A celestial roll call of all of the stars in the
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universe. Imagine a teacher who knows every student's name in every classroom on Earth. and then multiply that beyond comprehension.
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Jehovah knows each star. More than that, he created the celestial forces that bind stars together in clusters that we call galaxies.
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On screen is the Andromeda galaxy. It's about 2.5 million light years away from our Milky Way galaxy. Yet it's moving toward us at about 250,000 miles per hour.
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We we can't even comprehend the masses involved in such gravitational attraction. Andromeda contains an estimated 1 trillion stars.
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Mind-boggling numbers, but not for Jehovah. He calls them all by name and not one of them is missing.
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Are you still with me? I'm just checking because we're moving fast here. Actually, in the past 5 minutes, the Earth has traveled about 5,500 miles in its orbit around the Sun.
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But, okay, let's uh refocus. Now just for the sake of comparison let's go from something astronomical celestial galaxies to something much smaller the the human brain.
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Each brain contains billions of neurons or nerve cells. But it's interesting that's far fewer than the number of stars in Andromeda the galaxy that we just saw.
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What's the point? If Jehovah calls each of the stars by name, surely he can map the neurons in the galaxy of your your brain, of my brain, of the brain of our dead loved ones. When Jehovah resurrects, when he
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reconstructs our dear loved ones who've fallen asleep in death, all of their neurons, all of their memories, all of their unique characteristics will be restored.
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Not one of them will be missing. Why can we have that confidence? It's because Jehovah is awe inspiring.
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His awesome creative power, his limitless memory. How many galaxies are there in the observable universe?
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Astronomers estimate that there are about two trillion galaxies, each with hundreds of billions of stars. This is a photograph taken by the James Webb telescope of just a tiny sliver of deep space. The image was named a cosmic
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construction project. It's just a little bigger than Ramapo. But each of those tiny little blobs of light is not a star, but a galaxy. A galaxy similar to the mass of Andromeda or our own Milky Way.
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Yet Jehovah keeps track not just of the galaxies but all of the hundreds of billions of stars within them and not one of them is missing.
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Now dear brothers and sisters if Jehovah can keep track if he can remember if he knows the names of 200 sexillion stars some estimates say there are one septillion stars in the universe. If Jehovah can keep track of all of that,
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would he ever forget the name of your loved one? Would he forget a dear, faithful sister who served him for decades and who's now resting in the grave?
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Would Jehovah forget a loving father, a devoted elder, a faithful pioneer, or even an adorable little child who died in infancy? The answer is obvious. It's unthinkable for Jehovah to forget any such ones. But that's not all.
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Jesus said there will be a resurrection of the righteous and the unrighteous. Jehovah will empty the common grave of mankind. He'll re resurrect all those in the memorial tombs. That includes millions who died in genocides.
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Billions in Jehovah's memory. Sadly, in history books, they're just a mass of statistics. But to Jehovah, they are individuals, each with a personality. He remembers their life pattern. It doesn't matter where they died, how they died, when they died.
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Not one of them is missing. But maybe the stars seem a bit cold and impersonal to you. Uh if you struggle with extraterrestrial examples, maybe let's consider a terrestrial example.
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How about that? Turn please to Luke 12. Jesus words. Luke 12. And notice with me, please verses 6 and 7.
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Luke 12:6 reads, "Five sparrows sell for two coins of small value, do they not?
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Yet not one of them is forgotten by God. But even the hairs of your head are all numbered. Have no fear. You are worth more than many sparrows.
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What was Jesus talking about here? Actually, if you notice verses four and five, it reveals that Jesus was emphasizing the importance of not fearing persecutors. Not fearing persecutors. Even those who might kill us. Have no fear. Jesus says, "Why?"
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Because for faithful ones who die, the the the grave can't hold them. It's only a temporary resting place. This life is not all there is. Well, how did Jesus illustrate his point? He mentioned little sparrows.
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Maybe some were chirping in the trees as he gave this illustration. Although sparrows were the least expensive bird sold in markets, not one of them, Jesus said, is forgotten by God. Or we could say, not one of them is
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missing. Jehovah is fully aware of all the little sparrows. When temperatures drop, he gives them a winter coat, a thick, fluffy set of feathers.
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He doesn't give them winter boots. That would make it difficult to land on the the branches, but Jehovah created them with something found in seagulls and other birds. It's a remarkable countercurren heat exchange system in their legs that enables them
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to conserve heat. Yes, Jehovah cares for the sparrows. What about you? Jesus said, "Even the hairs of your head are all numbered." How many hairs are on your head? For some of us, it's much easier to count than it used to be. We won't say not one
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of them is missing in this application. But what was Jesus' point? It wasn't the number of hairs on the head, but that Jehovah knows how many hairs are on your head. The point wasn't mathematics, but Jehovah's affection and
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care. He knows our voice. He knows our personality. He knows our laugh. He knows our history. He knows our joys. He knows our fears. He knows our tears. He knows our faithfulness. In fact, David wrote that Jehovah discerns even our thoughts.
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We might say they're instantly synced with Jehovah's perfect limitless memory. Even if we have poor internet service, it doesn't matter. Jehovah's got us covered. Best Starlink ever.
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But how will he use this knowledge in the resurrection of our dead loved ones? Let's illustrate it.
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Two beloved members of the US Bethl family for many decades were brothers Max Larson and George Couch and they were as you know instrumental in acquiring many properties for the organization even at Walill and Patterson. Brother Larson died in 2011
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at 96 years of age and brother Couch in 2007 at 90 years of age. They're sleeping in Jehovah's memory awaiting resurrection in his due time.
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But imagine for a moment those two dear men in the resurrection sitting at a table discussing plans for a new Bible education center. Death may have interrupted their work, but Jehovah will restore it.
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We know. We know they'll get right back to work, vibrant and full of youthful energy supporting kingdom interests.
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But now imagine your loved one in that setting for just a moment, perhaps pausing for a moment to play with the lions in the background.
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That's parts of the wonderful future that Jehovah has promised. That's the future in store for you and your dear loved ones. In June 1992, a faithful little boy named Jared lost his fight with cancer.
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And like all loving parents, his parents were crushed by his death. Well, that reflects the feelings of our heavenly father Jehovah when any of his children pass away.
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Jared's last words to his parents were, "Work hard so we can all be together again." And that's the goal for all of us, any of us who have lost dear loved ones to the enemy death. Jared's faith in Jehovah's promises inspires each of
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us. We remember our loved ones, but we can't bring them back. Jehovah can do both. He remembers them, and he will restore their life. His memory is connected to his limitless power. For Jehovah, the resurrection isn't just wishful thinking. It's a
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certainty. Isaiah 40:26 reminds us that Jehovah has vast dynamic energy. It reminds us of his awe inspiring power.
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The one who created stars and galaxies. The one who shows tender care for sparrows. The one who numbers the hairs of your head. The one who remembers every detail about our dear loved ones deceased in death. He has the power to
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restore them to life. Stars are not promised everlasting life. But you are. Your dead loved ones are promised everlasting life. Their unique personalities, their memories, their identities are locked safe in Jehovah's perfect memory until the day he says,
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"Awaken. Arise. So when thoughts of a deceased loved one bring tears to your eyes, remember the starry heavens. Look up and see. Though we might temporarily temporarily lose sight of those we love, Jehovah does not. In his perfect memory, they are
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safe. In his purpose, they have a future. And in the coming resurrection, Jehovah will make sure that not one of them is missing.
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We mentioned in the beginning of the program that people tie in from around the world. Well, we have greetings from around the world. And I apologize in advance to the branches that I can't read, but there's just too many. But
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notice just a few of the comments they shared. from Angola. Our hearts are filled with gratitude as we see this promise fulfilled through his loving guidance. Through the loving guidance Jehovah continues to provide for his people. With each passing year, Jehovah
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continues to provide timely direction, clearer understanding on important spiritual matters and allowing the light to shine even brighter. We'll see if there may be more of that in this program.
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They fell for it. Czech Slovak branch just one comment that I think we all agree with them. All year long we look forward to this wonderful spiritual occasion. I think that's true of all of us. I was looking
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at some of these. Are there any needgraders or soon to be needgraders in the audience? If you are, there's a lot of work out there. East Africa commented that as an example of their activity during a recent Swahili preaching
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campaign in Nairobi, Kenya and Dar Salam, Tanzania, cities with over 12 million people, 2,000 brothers and sisters participated. The campaign resulted in over 11,000 requests for Bible studies. They're probably looking for some help, but not to be left behind Mosamb beek.
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They send their warmest love and greetings and they happen to include that they have an increase of 8.3% nearly 10,000 baptized. The harvest is great. Beg the master of the harvest to send out more.
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Nigeria 750,000 Bible studies each month. Are you getting the theme here? We could go on. Many, many other countries. They share their loving greetings. We're glad to have them.
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Thank you for them. And we spoke about the worldwide uh aspect of this to give you the attendance. We have it now. Canada 9999, US Bethl 12,890, Jersey City 3,177, Newberg 2,598, JW Stream, hang on, 201,80.
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Total from 178 countries, 221,344 here today with us. What a number. Let's move on now to our next part. It's going to be a two-part talk. The theme is happy. Is anyone having part in the first resurrection? And for part one, we
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have brother David Splain. The first resurrection, a resurrection to heavenly life. Now, why would anyone who cherishes the earthly hope be interested in the first resurrection?
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Well, we all should be interested because the resurrection of your dead loved ones can't begin until the last of the anointed has received his heavenly reward. So really the subject of the first resurrection should be of interest to all of us.
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Now in this twopart symposium we are going to present two different possibilities on the timing of the first resurrection.
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Now, in this talk, we're going to review our current understanding and then in the next talk that brother Jackson is going to deliver, we're going to have an alternate explanation.
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Now, let's be clear. I did not say that brother Jackson is going to present a clarification in our beliefs.
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It's not as if what comes after this talk is going to replace what we now believe, but it's simply a matter of presenting two very possible different explanations as to the timing of the first resurrection. We have to admit
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that we cannot be dogmatic as to when the first resurrection occurs. And so we're presenting two different options. Now, this isn't new.
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We've done this on other subjects as well. For example, will people get to marry uh in the resurrection?
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Resurrection, resurrected loved ones, can they get married? We don't know. So, we've presented two different options and we've left it open. What about stillborn children? Will they be resurrected? We don't know. We've presented two options and we've left it
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open. And so, here we're presenting two very valid options as to the timing of the first resurrection.
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And one day, we're going to know the truth. If not now, we'll find out later on.
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So, let us get down to work. What we want to do here is discuss our current understanding of the first resurrection.
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And it may be the correct one. It may be the correct one. For decades, our publications have held that the first resurrection began more than a hundred years ago.
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Now how did we come to that conclusion? It was basically through a process of elimination.
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Now we know or it seems clear that the first resurrection hadn't occurred in 1914 when the war in heaven was fought. Let's turn to Revelation 12. We're going to read three times in Revelation. So keep your Bibles open there
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and I'll give you a moment to find it. Revelation 12 and we're going to read verse 7.
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And war broke out in heaven. Michael and his angels battled with the dragon. And the dragon and its angels battled, but they did not prevail. There's no mention at this point of the 144,000.
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But that's not the case at Armageddon. For that, we turn to uh Revelation 17 and verse 14.
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Revelation 17 and verse 14. Now, speaking of the nations, it says, "These will battle with the Lamb, but because he is Lord of Lords and King of Kings, the Lamb will conquer them." Now, here's the point. and those
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with him who are called and chosen and faithful will do so. So when Jesus goes to war with the nations, the 144,000 are with him. Now I don't have any pictures with this talk, but I have a special chart. It's a hand chart.
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This this is going to put the art department out of business. So now this hand is 1914 and this one is Armageddon.
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And somewhere in that expanse the great the first resurrection takes place. But now that's quite an expanse, isn't it? Can we narrow it down further?
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Perhaps. Perhaps. We've long believed that the 24 elders mentioned in the book of Revelation are anointed ones who have received their heavenly reward.
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Now, in Revelation chapter 7, the Apostle John saw a great crowd which no man could number. And he wanted to know who they were.
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one of the 24 elders answered his question. Now, if those 24 elders are resurrected anointed ones, that would indicate that when the issue of the great crowd was raised and the question was raised, who are these people on earth
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in 1935? One or more of the resurrected anointed would have been used to answer the question.
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So let's go back to our special chart here. Here's Armageddon and now we have 1935 because the understanding about the great crowd came in 1935.
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But that's still quite a little bit of a a space. Can we narrow it down further?
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Well, for that we turn to Revelation chapter 6. I'll give you a moment if you closed your Bible like I did.
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Revelation chapter 6. And to establish the timeline, we look at verse two. It says in verse two, "And I saw and look a white horse, and the one seated on it had a bow." And here's the point.
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And a crown was given him and he went out conquering and to complete his conquest.
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Well, that clearly refers to 1914, doesn't it? It clearly refers to the time when Jesus was uh uh installed as the king of the kingdom. And that seems to be confirmed by other verses in chapter 6. For example, verse four. At
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the end of verse four, do you see a great sword? That sounds like the great war, doesn't it? World War I. Verse six, there's famine. Well, famine usually follows a protracted war. And verse eight, you have plague. What happened in
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the spring of 1918, the Spanish flu? So this seems to be talking about events around surrounding uh the World War I.
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Now let's read verses 9 to 11. When I opened the fifth seal, I saw underneath the altar the souls of those slaughtered because of the word of God and because of the witness they had given.
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They shouted with a loud voice, saying, "Until when, sovereign Lord, holy and true, are you refraining from judging and avenging our blood on those who dwell on the earth?" And notice this.
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And a white robe was given to each of them. and they were told to rest a little while longer until the number was filled of their fellow slaves and their brothers who were about to be killed as they had been.
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So if, and this is an if, if verses 9 to 11 are connected to the first eight verses of chapter 6, then these are anointed ones who are in their graves receiving a white robe and being told to
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rest a little a while longer. Now, could that be the time of their resurrection? Could it be that these anointed ones were raised to heavenly life just around the time of the First World War?
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Now, they're told to rest a little while longer. What would that indicate? Well, if they're raised to heavenly life early in the last century, they'd have to wait a while before Armageddon came, wouldn't they? They'd have to wait a while before
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their blood was avenged. So, this is our current understanding. And as I as I say, it may be the correct one.
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When one of the anointed finishes his earthly course, his friends are comforted by the thought that he's been changed in the twinkling of an eye and he's now enjoying heavenly life.
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And that may be true, but have we considered everything that the Bible has to say about the first resurrection?
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Is there a different way of looking at some of the scriptures that we've just read?
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And are there other scriptures that we haven't considered that would cast a different light on the subject?
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Well, this is part one of that symposium. There's a part two and so we're going to allow brother Jackson to answer that question. In part two, happy is anyone having part in the first resurrection?
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Well, thank you very much, brother Splain, for that clear explanation. And I love the handy illustration.
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Oh, sorry, just a minute. I have to take this. It's from the art department.
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They're worried about their work and they're saying, "Remember, brother Splain is left-handed. So, was the chart left to right or right to left?" So, it appears that they have a chart prepared. So, let's look at this chart to summarize what brother Splain was so
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nicely explaining. So, as you notice, we have the timeline and 1914 on one side and Armageddon on the other. Now, there's something we need to mention about the timeline because we know you're very very carefully looking at this. The great
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tribulation looks like it goes on for decades. This is not part of some new understanding. Uh just the art department had to have enough space to put a few images in there. So that's not trying to make that point. But looking
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at this, what do we see? Well, according to our current understanding, right from sometime after 1914, uh first of all, those sleeping in death were raised to heaven. And then gradually as anointed ones died, they were resurrected to heaven. And this
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continues on to now and into the future. And then finally there is the final gathering just before Armageddon.
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Well, there are a number of scriptures as brother Splain highlighted that support that uh explanation.
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So just to review some of the key points that brother mentioned that are the same no matter what explanation we may be considering. The first one is the scriptures say that the first resurrection takes place during Christ's presence.
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The second point, it appears that the anointed were not resurrected or started to be resurrected uh in the year 1914 when the kingdom was established, but it would have to be sometime after that in Christ's presence.
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And then finally, seeing all of the anointed will be in heaven when the war of Armageddon starts, it must be concluded prior to the outbreak of Armageddon.
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But then notice, Brother Spain said, "Have we considered all of the scriptures? Can you think of a scripture that you've read that you've found it a little hard to reconcile with this present understanding?" Well, maybe you're going to say, "What about 1
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Thessalonians chapter 4?" Please turn there with me. First Thessalonians chapter 4 and verses 15-1 17.
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And there it says, "For this is what we tell you by Jehovah's W, the living who survive to the presence," so that's the anointed ones during the present who are alive. Yes. will in no way precede those who have fallen asleep
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in death. Because the Lord himself will descend from heaven with a commanding call, with an archangel's voice, and with God's trumpet, and those who are dead in union with Christ will rise first.
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Afterward, we the living who are surviving will together with them be caught away in clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And thus we will always be with the Lord.
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Now when we read that perhaps you like many brothers and sisters have asked many questions. This appears particularly verse uh 16 appears to be talking about events that occur during the great tribulation.
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Now could it be that this is in some way indicating to us the first resurrection doesn't start until a future time during the great tribulation.
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Uh notice it it mentions in verse 16 with God's trumpet. Now you might think of another scripture. Let's look at this in Matthew chap 24.
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Matthew chap 24 and verses 30 and 31. It says, "Then the sign of the Son of Man will appear in heaven, and all the tribes of the earth will beat themselves in grief, and they will see the Son of
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Man coming on the clouds of heaven with power and great glory." When is that?
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19:14 or toward the end of the great tribulation? Toward the end of the great tribulation. That's we hope that's not a new understanding to you. If it is, you need to go back a few years in the watchdown.
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But then notice in verse 31 connecting that it says, "And he will send out his angels with a great trumpet sound, and they will gather his chosen ones together from the four winds from one extremity of the heavens to their other
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extremity." Now, this of course is highlighting the fact that there will be a final gathering of the anointed. But could it be that this trumpet blast is some way connected with the trumpet that's referred to in First Thessalonians?
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Well, if that is the case, let's see if the art department has something to help us to see the other possibility.
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Remember, your jobs are on the line. Ah, yes, we're good. So, if this were the case, we have the same timeline, 1914 through to Armageddon. It would be that during the great tribulation at some point the actual first resurrection starts
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and those of the anointed during the great tribulation would die would then just go straight to join others in in heaven and then would come the final gathering.
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Now it's interesting to note that both of these possibilities still occur during Christ's presence. It's just that different times.
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So when we're thinking about this, maybe at this point you think, well, okay, yeah, that makes sense. 1 Thessalonians 4. Mhm.
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Why aren't they changing the understanding? Well, just hold on. I know we've gone a long time already today, but let's consider what brother Splain mentioned. Uh let's go back to Revelation chapter 6. Remember that was one of the key points that uh brother
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Splain referred to. Uh Revelation 6 and verses 9- 11. And just looking at that, we won't read it again, but remember there's the fifth seal that's opened.
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And then it mentions those slaughtered. And then it says in verse 10, they shouted with a loud voice saying, "Until when, sovereign Lord." And then it mentions about the white robes in verse 11. And they're told to rest a little
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longer. Well, as brother Splain kindly mentioned to us, if we look at this image, we see that if this part of revelation, the fifth seal is connected connected to seals number 1 2 3 and four, then it's logical that this fifth seal
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would be open around 1914 or shortly thereafter. Well, which way are you voting now?
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But could there be another explanation that we need to take in consideration? Yes, there is. You see, if we look at Revelation 6 and 12-1 17, this describes the sixth seal. Now you'll see this image and there it's talking about
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events that occur during the great tribulation. So have we got this in mind? If we connect the fifth seal with seals 1 through 4, then it's logical it would be just after 1914.
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But if in fact the focus changes now and the sixth seal is talking about the great tribulation and we connect the the fifth seal with the sixth seal. Is it possible that maybe this would allow for the fact that the anointed start to be
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resurrected during the great tribulation. But let let's go back to Revelation chapter 6. Uh and as you look at verses 9- 11, is it also possible that there are some questions that could come up about our present understanding?
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You see, it mentions that these anointed ones cry out loudly asking for vengeance. Uh but it's their blood that represents their life. So, could it be that these ones uh their blood is calling out just like Abel's blood called out from the ground?
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Now, Abel wasn't resurrected for that to happen. It was just symbolically indicating there was a request to Jehovah. And then notice it go does go on to say once they have received the white robes. It doesn't say that they
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put them on but they received them. It says rest a little while longer. Could that rest be longer like they were already resting from the first century onwards?
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Well, now if that explanation were correct, perhaps then we could give a little bit more credibility to the second possibility that maybe the uh start of the first resurrection is in the future sometime during the great tribulation.
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But now you might be also thinking about something else in first Thessalonians. Th this sounds very much like a rapture, you know.
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I mean this is how Christristenum uh describes it and you remember in first Thessalonians it it mentions uh about together with. So does that mean exactly the same moment in time?
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No, not necessarily. Uh remember in 1 Corinthians 15:23 it mentions an order of the first resurrection and then 1 Thessalonians 4:15 mentions those sleeping in death would rise first and then later there would be others.
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So, could this be indicating a shared event, a shared experience, something that happens in close succession?
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Well, that's a possibility. Now, brothers and sisters, what are you thinking at this point?
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I know you many of you are very close friends. you're going to come up and say, "I used to like your talks, but this talk, man, I was just totally confused." I mean, you had us one minute thinking,
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"Yes, 1914, the next minute during the great tribulation, then back 1914." I really haven't got a clue what the answer is.
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And that's the purpose of this talk. You see, it's not clarifying it or giving new understanding. It's broadening our understanding. And when we see this, obviously Jehovah hasn't given us the information that we need to be specific with with regard to the
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start of the first resurrection. Now, I know there's a little voice inside you saying, "Oh, come on. Two whole talks on the annual meeting about something we don't know.
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Why are you wasting our time with this? The answer is because we used to say we did know. Absolutely. You see, so we we need to back off and not be so so dogmatic about it. But now, let's be
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honest. You see, when the anointed, if they remain faithful, go to heaven, I'm sure some of them are going to be looking for the Apostle Paul. And I know what I'd be asking. What What's the Paul? Uh, excuse me. Uh, did you just
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come or have you been here for over 100 years now? I know some of us when Paul gives us the answer, some of us are going to say, "Yes, I knew." And others are going to say, "Really?" And what's the point? You see, what we
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need to know is the first resurrection will take place during Christ's presence. Whether it's all the way through the presence or toward the end with the great tribulation, Jehovah hasn't specified that. We don't need to know. But later, we will know as brother
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Splain mentioned. So really, the anointed living on earth today are not so concerned about the timing of the start of the first resurrection. We're worried about bigger concerns.
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Will I really make it? Will I be faithful to the end, even if there's serious trials?
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Will I receive the final ceiling? Those are the big questions. And you're going to love brother's explanation when he answers the question, when do the an the anointed receive their final ceiling.
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I think he built me up too much for this talk. But I would like to thank David and Jeff for taking the difficult talks about what we don't know and giving me a talk about what we do know
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and even the privilege to share some clarified Bible understanding. So that was really kind of these two brothers.
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May their reward be great in the heavens whenever that is. But now to begin this discussion, I would like for you to imagine two situations.
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Now, in the first one, a brother with the earthly hope runs 26 miles in a marathon, but then he quits.
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Would he receive the prize? No. Because a marathon is 26.2 miles. Even though he would have run over 99% of that race, he would forfeit the prize because of not running the last 1%. Now, you can see in this
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picture we have this brother in red is stopping. He's discontinuing the running shortly before the finish line. That is really sad, isn't it? But now imagine our second situation. A brother with a heavenly hope escapes from a sinking
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ship. He's swimming through thick fog. He He can only see a few feet in front of him, but he's swimming vigorously uh hoping to make sure. Well, he swims and swims for hours, but finally he loses his hope. He gives up. He drowns. When
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the fog clears, like you can see in this picture, his body is found just a few yards from the shore. He almost made it.
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How tragic indeed. Well, what is the lesson of these two illustrations? Those who quit early will not receive the reward. And that doesn't matter whether their hope is heavenly or earthly. At Matthew 24:13, Jesus said, "The one who has endured to
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the end will be saved." The implication, the one who does not endure to the end will not be saved, no matter what his hope, heavenly or earthly.
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But now that raises a question, what is the end that anointed Christians must endure too? Well, the answer which is not changed. He must endure until he receives the final ceiling at which time his heavenly reward is guaranteed. That
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hasn't changed. But now in this vein, three questions we will discuss. What has been our understanding regarding this final ceiling? Two, what is our adjusted understanding? Now, here's where we get the clarification.
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And three, what is the scriptural basis for this adjustment? And then toward the end of our talk, we'll discuss an interesting question. Were the majority of the 144,000 selected in the first century? So, uh, interesting question.
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But now that first one we raised, what has been our understanding regarding the final sealing?
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Well, to answer that, we need to first consider what it means for one of the anointed to be initially sealed. Let's talk about that first. Well, in Bible times, a seal was a mark of ownership or authenticity.
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And uh similarly when Jehovah anoints one of the 144,000 he figuratively seals that person identifying him as his special possession and inviting him to share with the Christ in heaven and rulership.
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Those who receive this um calling are not left in a quandry. They're not left thinking, "Well, maybe I've been invited, but I'm not sure." No.
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Jehovah's powerful Holy Spirit assure such one without the slightest doubt they have definitely received this unique heavenly calling. But now, does this initial ceiling guarantee a brother or sister? Does it guarantee that individual a place in the kingdom? Well,
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the answer, no. The only guarantee at this point is they've definitely received that invitation. If the individual does not remain faithful, his invitation is revoked and it's given to someone else. But if he does endure faithfully and then he receives that
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final ceiling then that reward is guaranteed. But now that brings us to the question uh important question when does one receive this final ceiling?
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Well, until now, our understanding has been that one of the anointed receives his final sealing either number one at the end of his earthly life, shortly before his death uh after being faithful either then or number two, if he's still
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alive, shortly before the great tribulation begins. Well, that's our understanding as you can see in this picture here. You'll notice it shows our current understanding with all the anointed ones being finally sealed before the four winds of the great
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tribulation. Now the first part of that explanation remains unchanged. That is namely that one of the anointed receives the final sealing near the end of his life when he's faithfully run his earthly course. Shortly before his death, he receives that final ceiling.
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So that remains unchanged. The Apostle Paul is an example of that. You probably remember what he said at 2 Timothy 4:8 shortly before his death. He said, "From this time on there is reserved for me the crown of righteousness." So uh he
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had run his course faithfully to the end. He had received the final sealing. And so that uh is our understanding and it remains unchanged. Those that die before the great tribulation, they receive their final sealing shortly before death after their fateful earthly
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course. Questions however arise regarding the second part of our explanation, namely that remaining anointed ones receive their final sealing before the great tribulation begins.
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Please think about this if you will. If their reward is permanently guaranteed at this point, even before the great tribulation begins, what further purpose would be served by their remaining on the earth throughout the great tribulation? Would their faithfulness be
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further tested? See, yet the scriptures show the great tribulation will be an intense time of testing. A very intense.
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And uh yet would it make sense that those with the earthly hope are intensely tested their faithfulness but in effect the anointed receive a free pass.
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Uh no further testing their their hope is guaranteed. Would that seem reasonable? Well, after prayerful examination of the scriptures, the governing body has concluded that there is a more satisfactory explanation. So, that brings us to the question, what is
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our adjusted understanding? Well, a study, a prayerful study of the scriptures reveals that all remaining anointed ones will have received their final sealing shortly before being gathered to heaven to join Christ and his heavenly armies. Or put another way,
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shortly before Armageddon. See, uh not shortly before the great tribulation, but shortly before Armageddon. See, the final sealing concludes after the destruction of Babin the Great, other events of the great tribulation, but shortly before Armageddon for those that
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are still alive at that point. So this understanding allows the remaining anointed to experience the events of the great tribulation alongside Jehovah's other servants with the earthly hope and prove their integrity. See, right down until the final approval and receiving Jehovah's
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irrevocable approval. And if you think about this, this adjusted understanding would be comforting, I'm sure, to you dear ones with the earthly hope. Why do we say that? Well, you will not have to endure these intense times of the great
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tribulation alone. You will do so shouldertosh shoulder with Christ brothers. you'll still be able to to show Christ's brothers good things, do good to them. And during the great tribulation, as will be the case with those who take a stand with
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Jehovah's people after the great tribulation begins, they'll still be able to do good to Christ brothers, too.
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So, it is a comforting thought to to think about it. But now, what is the scriptural basis for this adjustment?
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Well, please go to Revelation chapter 7. We read this scripture quite often, but we're going to really focus and think about what it's saying. Revelation 7 verse one.
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After this, I saw four angels standing on the four corners of the earth, holding tight the four winds of the earth, so that no wind could blow on the earth or on the sea or on any tree. And
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then look at verse three, what the four angels are told. They're told, "Do not harm the earth or the sea or the trees until after we have sealed the slaves of our God in their foreheads." So notice the final sealing of the anointed takes
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place before these four winds are released. But that brings us to the very important key question. When are the four winds released? Well, you notice the scope of the destruction when these four winds are released. Now, you you
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you'll notice for many years, we thought they began blowing at the great tribulation. But the scripture we just read shows the scope when they are released is all encompassing, isn't it? It mentions in the scripture we just read that the
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earth would be harmed or destroyed. Put another way, well, our Revelation climax book says the earth represents organized human society in Satan's world. The sea, the restless masses of wicked humans.
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The trees, prominent rulers and leaders who derive support from human society. Clearly, when these four winds are released, no part of Satan's system survives. See uh none of it escapes this destruction. So obviously this is not talking about the beginning of the great
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tribulation when only false religion is destroyed. When these winds are released, Satan's entire system is destroyed. This must be talking about Armageddon. So the four winds now we understand and this is a new understanding is the winds of
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Armageddon, not the great tribulation. And the final sealing takes place not before the great tribulation but before Armageddon after the anointed that are still alive go through that period of testing right along with those that have the earthly hope. Now this fits in
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harmony with also Revelation 2:10 where anointed ones are told, "Prove yourself faithful even to death and I will give you the crown of life." Now when does the death and resurrection of the remaining anointed ones take place? Not before the great tribulation,
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not even the beginning of the great tribulation, but at the end of the great great tribulation and shortly before Armageddon. That's when they are gathered and that death takes place of these ones. Likewise, this fits in with Matthew 24:13
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we talked about earlier. The one who has endured to the end will be saved. the end being Armageddon. So in summary, so we've got this clearly in our mind, we can conclude two things. The four winds are released at Armageddon.
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A new understanding. Number two, the final sealing of the remaining anointed concludes shortly before Armageddon. Also a new understanding. And you can see in our picture here that this adjusted understanding is shown. And we're going to keep the artwork working hard, the
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art department working hard here. Got another picture from them. It shows with the anointed all finally sealed before the four winds of Armageddon are released. But now let's just briefly discuss that intriguing question. Were the majority of the 144,000
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chosen in the first century? I don't know if you've ever pondered that question, but let's think about this now. We we can't answer that question dogmatically, but we can discuss seven facts that we do know that we know. And
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here they are. Number one, on Pentecost 33 CE, there were about 120 who were the first ones to receive the heavenly calling. And then later that day about 3,000 others were added.
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Second fact, we know thereafter it seems that the growth was steady but modest. Why do we say that? because most of the congregations were small enough that they could meet in private homes.
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Here's a third point. Some wicked men and a impostor slipped into the congregations. The Bible says such ones undoubtedly never received the heavenly calling. Uh here here's a fourth point. Some first century Christians proved unfaithful.
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Five. During the many centuries following the death of the apostles, the number chosen must have been very limited.
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Uh here's the sixth point. Now this talks about modern times. Some who received the heavenly calling in modern times did not remain faithful. And one more point, in modern times, many who served alongside the anointed were never called
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to heavenly life. My grandfather is an interesting example of this. He was baptized 1933 assuming he was one of the anointed. But then he attended the convention in Washington DC. 1935 and after hearing brother Rutherford's talk, he stood up indicating that his
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hope was not heavenly but earthly. How many stood up with my grandfather? Well, according to an eyewitness, over half of the some 20,000 people in the audience stood up. So, those are seven facts we know. Now, putting it all together, and
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here's the bottom line, really, it's very possible that the vast majority of the 144,000 have been selected during the last days since 1914. Very possible. Of course, we can't be dogmatic. The scriptures don't give exact numbers but it's very very
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plausible we can draw that conclusion. Well, in conclusion of our talk, what does this adjusted understanding mean for the anointed who are still on earth when the great tribulation begins?
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Well, it means they too must remain faithful, spiritually alert throughout the great tribulation. this climactic time of testing. Yes, all of us, whether our hope is heavenly or earthly, we must endure faithfully to the end. The end being Armageddon. May
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none of us be like the runner we talked about in the beginning and we saw the illustration quit uh just short of the finish line or like the swimmer who gave up quit swimming only a few yards from
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the shore. To the contrary, come what may, let's all encourage and help each other to endure right to the end, right to Armageddon, so that we all may be saved. Uh, please pray for me and I'll pray for you.
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Fascinating, brothers. Thank you, David, Jeff, and Steve for those talks. Isn't it faith strengthening to see how we all continue to study God's word and look for what's going to happen in the future? trying to summarize everything for the first resurrection. Stay tuned.
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And regarding the final sealing that it will happen at the end, that being Armageddon, and isn't it encouraging to think that all of us together, both those of the anointed as well as of the other sheep, together will endure all to
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the praise and glory of Jehovah, our father. There was one uh detail that got left out of last year's annual meeting.
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You remember the chairman last year did trivia for every member of the governing body. But there's one that didn't get any trivia. That might help you if you're still trying to pass last year's test. But who is the only Pacific
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Islander on the governing body? We'll leave that to you to determine, but it would be Jeff.
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We have one more treat before we conclude our program together. We'd like to bring up a video regarding Jehovah is going to keep the work moving forward.
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Truly exciting times. And for those in the Philippines, get ready. You're going to have guests.
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I don't know about all of you. It's been a long program, but I wouldn't have missed it for the world. And I actually knew what the brothers were going to say.
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It is wonderful to be together and to be fed by Jehovah. We love being here.
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We're glad all of us be a part of this program today. We think oftent times though of the brothers with the parts, those who supported it. I tried to sit down and write down all of the different departments that supported this program.
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And it's impossible just to list the departments and think of all of the brothers and sisters who have helped make this day possible. Some of the things that we receive today have been in the works for a number of years. And
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then always around the event, so many people supporting the activities to make it a success. We have all the hospitality arrangements. I was thinking about the remote volunteers, the commuters, the local event volunteers.
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So many people working behind the scenes to make this possible. Would we like to thank everybody who had a part in this program?
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We have been built up spiritually. We've had a spiritual celebration. It's a show that Jehovah will continue to feed his people until the end of this system of things. As our ear text talks about, we continue to trust in him to guide us
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through what's whatever happens in the future. I wanted to also summarize all of the points today, but there's just too many gems. You'll have to look at your notes and watch the broadcast.
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But we did talk a lot about noise and the scripture we read in the beginning, Nehemiah 12:43.
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On that day they offered great sacrifices and rejoiced for the true God made them rejoice with great joy. The women and the children also rejoiced so that the rejoicing of Jerusalem, we're going to deviate slightly. Newberg Assembly Hall
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or wherever you are tied in from could be heard far away. Brother Sam talked about us being the noisiest people on earth. We love serving Jehovah. We love praising Jehovah. And we want all of the noise that we make to be something that
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he enjoys knowing that we love him. So, we've had a great program. We want you all to leave and take all of the highlights with you. There's also two things that you can also take with you.
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One electronically and one paper regarding for God's word is truth a handbook to the Bible. We're pleased to announce that each person attending at a Bethl auditorium in the United States and Canada may pick up a personal copy
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of God's Word is truth near the main lobby. After the program, the Bethl office will send an email with more details for those viewing from their Bethl rooms. And here in Newberg Assembly Hall, copies will be available in the lobby. Additionally, a breaking
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news item on JW Library and JW.org will be released today to announce this item.
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You'll also be able to see the tutorial for searching in jw.org. We're also happy to let you know that the tutorial for searching in jw.org will appear as a breaking news item today on the JW library and jw.org
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uh to announce the feature. One other aspect, the new research guide will be available today following the annual meeting in 52 languages. Now, if you're doing numbers, that's 80% of the publishers and many more to come in the
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very near future. It is being released in digital format only at this time on all digital platforms. JW.org, JW Library, Watchtower online library, and the Watchtower library.
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Well, with that in mind, we're going to invite you to listen to the uh your text song. We'll listen to some noise and then after that we'll stand and sing the song together. Let's listen to our year text song. I trust in you.
Topics:Jehovah’s Witnesses2026 Annual MeetingBible studyGod’s Word is Truthspiritual instructionglobal unityfaithBible handbookreligious educationworship
