● In view of what Deuteronomy 4:15-23 has to say about the making of any graven image, would it be considered Scripturally correct to make photographs of individuals for display purposes of any sort, or for other uses?—P. S., Indiana.

The prohibitions as to the making of images had to do specifically with the making of images for the purposes of worship. The Israelites were not prevented from making images for other purposes, but since image-making in those times was almost invariably of an idolatrous nature, there was little image-making among the Israelites. However, there were images or likenesses of cherubim in the tabernacle, both on the hangings and on the cover of the ark. Solomon made images of oxen to support the laver for the temple, and images of lions for his throne. It would be far-fetched to connect the taking of photographs for any purpose, other than worship, of course, with the making of idols. Photography, painting and sculpturing can serve useful or artistic purposes in accurately depicting persons or things. Pictures are often educational, and it is said that a picture tells more than a thousand words.

Announcements

SHARING IN THE FINAL WITNESS

Shortly before he was impaled Jesus counseled his apostles, “This good news of the kingdom will be preached in all the inhabited earth for the purpose of a witness to all the nations, and then the accomplished end will come.” The time for the accomplished end of this wicked system of things is very near, and the servants of God are giving the final witness in every corner of the earth. What a privilege it is to have a share in this momentous work! Since you have now learned something of God’s gracious provisions for those who act in harmony with his will, wouldn’t you like to share in spreading this good news? For January Jehovah’s witnesses have as their service theme, Sharing in the Final Witness (Matt. 24:14, NW). During this month they will offer a year’s subscription for this Christian journal, The Watchtower, on a contribution of $1.00. Why not share in the final witness by calling the attention of your neighbors to the significance of the times in which we live and offer them a subscription for The Watchtower to aid them further to learn of God’s requirements? The local company of Jehovah’s witnesses will be glad to assist you; or write to us and we will furnish you with additional instructions and forms for reporting your activity.

1951 YEARBOOK OF JEHOVAH’S WITNESSES

Of the increase of God’s government and peace there will be no end. This Scriptural truth is convincingly proved by the report of the 1950 service year as presented by the president of the Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society in the 1951 Yearbook of Jehovah’s Witnesses. In addition to this annual report covering more than 100 regions, the Yearbook contains the president’s comment on the yeartext for 1951 and a daily text and comment for each day of the coming year. Those associated with a group should send in combined orders, as through the servant of a company, to save time and expense. A remittance of 50c per copy should accompany each order. Your 1951 Calendar may be ordered at the same time; price: 25 cents each or five to one address for $1.00.

1951 ASSEMBLIES

The big convention of the year 1951 is planned for London, England, August 1 to 5 inclusive. Brethren in America and other countries can now make plans for vacation periods and traveling to England to attend this gathering of Jehovah’s witnesses.

If possible, other assemblies will be held in France from August 9 to 12 inclusive and in The Netherlands from August 17 to 19 inclusive. Other European assemblies will be announced later.

The principal convention will be at London. Details and travel announcements for American brethren will be published soon. Please do not write the Society until you read these.

“WATCHTOWER” STUDIES

Week of January 7: Parable of the Sower, ¶1-19.

Week of January 14: Parable of the Sower, ¶20-39.