with the apostate or disfellowshiped and would not accompany that one to his (or her) place of religious association and participate in the meetings with that one. As Jesus said: “If he does not listen even to the congregation [which was obliged to disfellowship him], let him be to you just as a man of the nations and as a tax collector [to Jehovah’s sanctified nation].” (Matt. 18:17, NW) Hurt to such one would not be authorized, but there would be no spiritual or religious fellowshiping.

The same rule would apply to those who are in the relation of parent and child or of child and parent. What natural obligation falls upon them according to man’s law and God’s law the faithful parent or the faithful child will comply with. But as for rendering more than that and having religious fellowship with such one in violation of the congregation’s disfellowship order—no, none of that for the faithful one! If the faithful suffers in some material or other way for the faithful adherence to theocratic law, then he must accept this as suffering for righteousness’ sake.

The purpose of observing the disfellowship order is to make the disfellowshiped one realize the error of his way and to shame him, if possible, so that he may be recovered, and also to safeguard your own salvation to life in the new world in vindication of God. (2 Thess. 3:14, 15; Titus 2:8) Because of being in close, indissoluble natural family ties and being of the same household under the one roof you may have to eat material food and live physically with that one at home, in which case 1 Corinthians 5:9-11 and; 2 John 10 could not apply; but do not defeat the purpose of the congregation’s disfellowship order by eating spiritual or religious food with such one or receiving such one favorably in a religious way and bidding him farewell with a wish for his prosperity in his apostate course.

Announcements

“TRIUMPHANT CLEAN WORSHIP” WITNESSING PERIOD—Jas. 1:27, NW.

“Clean worship” must be directed toward the one true God. Any other worship is idolatrous and unclean, Scripturally condemned. It is vile unfaithfulness on the part of the creature to ignore the Creator and render worship to idols, demons or men. “Clean worship” triumphs over false worship because it is strong, enduring and unshakable. “The fear of Jehovah is clean, enduring for ever.” (Ps. 19:9, AS) That right attitude of deep respect toward God will produce fruit in right works. It will seek to serve others, bringing them the knowledge that has so abundantly blessed the receiver. So, “clean worship” means to care for bereaved and desolate ones, giving them the comfort the truth contains. During December the following offer will continue to be presented to the people: three bound books, What Has Religion Done for Mankind? “Let God Be True” and “This Mean Everlasting Life”, all on a contribution of $1.50. Demonstrate clean worship by presenting this offer to others, and report your activity to the Society at the month’s end. (Address under front cover)

DO YOU HAVE A COPY?

The New World Translation of the Christian Greek Scriptures is widely acknowledged as a splendid translation of the Greek Scriptures in modern English. It is accurate in expressing forcefully and clearly the thought of the original language. Delightfully refreshing to read, this translation helps one to appreciate the wise counsel and instruction of the Lord Jesus Christ and of the apostles. The New World Translation also contains a valuable appendix, providing much additional information on texts often the subject of dispute. A good chain reference enables the student to follow through from book to book on a given subject, word or name. Several maps and diagrams, plus marginal cross-reference notes, further enhance the translation. Measuring approximately 5ʺ x 7 ⁵/₁₆ʺ x 1ʺ, the volume is bound in green leatherette. The cost is $1.50, sent postpaid.

“WATCHTOWER” STUDIES

Week of December 28: In Union with Light.

Week of January 4: In Union with Love.