These men were used to utter new prophecies. (Eph. 4:11, 12; Acts 11:27, 28; 21:10, 11) However, in fulfillment of the words of Joel 2:28, 29, even today dedicated servants of Jehovah, though not inspired, are aided by God’s spirit or active force to explain Scriptural prophecies to those receiving them in a favorable and appreciative way. Such persons are thus rewarded spiritually.—1 Cor. 2:10.

Jesus Christ also mentioned receiving a righteous man and getting “a righteous man’s reward.” For hospitably receiving a righteous man one could expect to be treated kindly in return, not in an unrighteous way, but in harmony with God’s righteousness. The kind of righteous man to whom Jesus referred was not a person who simply set up his own standards and led what might merely be viewed as a “good life.” He was speaking of a man who adhered to Jehovah’s righteous expressions and commandments. (Matt. 4:4; Eccl. 12:13, 14) Those who truly met God’s requirements in Jesus’ day became his followers. If some individual was privileged to entertain such a believer in his home, he was in position to receive spiritual benefits, “a righteous man’s reward.” The visitor would no doubt share faith-building truths from God’s Word with his host, even as Jesus did. (Luke 10:5-7; 19:1-10) The same thing is true in our day.

There are persons who kindly receive and do good to the righteous “little ones,” those who are anointed disciples or spiritual brothers of Jesus Christ. (Rev. 14:1-4; Luke 12:32) By showing this kindness, they give Jesus’ anointed followers “a cup of cold water to drink,” as it were. They do good things for Christ’s spiritual brothers, not simply because they show humanitarian kindness to all men, but because such ones are Christ’s disciples. Therefore, these doers of good are rewarded; they ‘by no means lose their reward.’ Though they do not immediately receive some miraculous benefit, they have the privilege of hearing the anointed disciples of Jesus Christ explain the Scriptures. Consequently, such hearers stand to benefit measurably in a spiritual way. Those among them who manifest a love for righteousness and who do good things for Christ’s brothers out of respect for the fact that they are his spiritual brothers or anointed disciples, are really showing a favorable disposition toward and support of the King Jesus Christ himself. (Matt. 25:34-40) If these persons continue to pursue such a course of action, they will receive lasting benefits, for theirs is the prospect of life everlasting in Jehovah’s promised new order of things.—2 Pet. 3:13; Zeph. 2:2, 3.

Announcements

FIELD MINISTRY

As willing and devoted slaves of Christ who appreciate that they were “bought with a price,” Jehovah’s witnesses will hold fast to the service of their heavenly Master during March by sharing in the ministry. (1 Cor. 7:23) As they do so they will offer to all persons a year’s subscription for The Watchtower, along with three booklets, for $1.

BE SURE WITH “MAKE SURE”

In a world of uncertainty and confusion it is faith strengthening to be sure. You can be with the truly rewarding Bible handbook “Make Sure of All Things; Hold Fast to What Is Fine.” It is a compilation of scriptures from the Holy Bible under one hundred and twenty-three main headings to enable you to ascertain quickly what the Bible has to say on these important subjects. Be sure. Build faith in God and his purposes, both in yourself and in others. Send only 75c.

“WATCHTOWER” STUDIES FOR THE WEEKS

April 17: Appreciating the Book of Life-giving Wisdom. Page 169.

April 24: “Increasing in the Accurate Knowledge of God.” Page 175.