"Theocracy" need a quote.

by JeffT 6 Replies latest watchtower beliefs

• 

  JeffT

  On another (totally unrelated) forum I visit the subject of theocracies as come up in a discussion of Islamic influence on the modern world. It stroke me that JW's refer to their organization as a theocracy, meaning it is a very good thing. Yet they seem not to realize that the idea scares the daylights out of most people. I'm going to write an essay on the subject "Life in a theocracy" that might give a detailed look at JW life to a lot of people that have no clue what goes on with Witnesses.

  I looked on the quotes site but couldn't find one of the things I was looking for: a good quote where they refer to the "New World Society" as a "theocracy." I'm sure I've seen such language but I can't but my hand on it just now.

  Appreciate your help with this.
• 

  garybuss

  
  LET GOD BE TRUE, 1942
  
  "THE KINGDOM OF HEAVEN"

  119
  8 As time went on, God enlarged upon that
  original promise by making a kingdom covenant
  with his friends Abraham, Isaac and Jacob
  concerning the Seed for blessing all the
  families of the earth . (Genesis 17 : 7, 8 ; 22 : 16-
  18 ; 26 : 3-5 ; 28 :13-15) Later it was revealed
  through Jacob that the "seed" of promise would
  come through the tribe of his son Judah . (Genesis
  49 : 10) Still later God established a Theocracy
  (meaning a "God-rule") over Jacob's descendants,
  the nation of Israel . Such, however,
  was not the kingdom that was promised in
  Eden. It did not crush the Serpent's head, nor
  did it bless all the families of the earth . It was
  merely a picture or type of the greater kingdom
  that would come later.
  
  
  189
  -Isaiah 43 : 10.
  " From and after A.D. 1918 this "servant"
  class have delivered God's message to blinded
  "Christendom" still feeding on the religious traditions
  of men . The truth so proclaimed does
  a dividing work, as foretold, the ones accepting
  the truth being taken to the Lord's side, and
  the others left . Those who have been favored to
  comprehend what is taking place, and who have
  10 . What agency is used by the Lord to serve spiritual food?
  11. How extensive is the proclamation of the truth, and in what does it result?

  190
  "LET GOD BE TRUE"
  taken their stand for The Theocracy, now have
  unspeakable joy. The light of God's truth is not
  confined to a small place, or one corner of the
  globe. Its proclamation is world-wide . In the
  twenty-seven years from 1919 to 1945 inclusive
  Jehovah's witnesses have distributed more than
  470 million books and booklets, hundreds of
  millions of magazines and leaflets, and millions
  of oral testimonies, in 88 languages. Only by
  God's spirit and power could this witness have
  been given in the face of world-wide opposition
  and persecution ; and the witness still continues
  and increases .
• 

  Justin

  I don't believe the noun form - Theocracy - was ever applied to the organization itself, but to the kingdom of God. This was during the Rutherford era. I could be wrong. The expression which survived Rutherford for many years was the adjective - theocratic. They often referred to "Jehovah's theocratic organization." This is the expression you would need to find. I don't know if it has been used in recent years.
• 

  blondie

  *** w94 1/15 p. 15 Shepherds and Sheep in a Theocracy

  Shepherds and Sheep in a Theocracy

  "Jehovah is our Judge, Jehovah is our Statute-giver, Jehovah is our King; he himself will save us."?ISAIAH 33:22.

  THEOCRACY means a rule by God. It involves accepting Jehovah?s authority and following his guidelines and instructions in the large and small decisions we make in life. The first-century congregation was a genuine theocracy. Christians then could honestly say: "Jehovah is our Judge, Jehovah is our Statute-giver, Jehovah is our King." (Isaiah 33:22) With the anointed remnant as its nucleus, Jehovah God?s organization today is similarly a real theocracy.

  In What Ways Are We Theocratic Today?

  2

  How can we say that Jehovah?s earthly organization is a theocracy? Because those who belong to it do indeed submit to Jehovah?s rule. And they follow the lead of Jesus Christ, the one whom Jehovah has enthroned as King. For example, in the time of the end, this direct command from the Great Theocrat is conveyed to Jesus: "Put your sickle in and reap, because the hour has come to reap, for the harvest of the earth is thoroughly ripe." (Revelation 14:15) Jesus obeys and undertakes the harvesting of the earth. Christians support their King in this great work by zealously preaching the good news and making disciples. (Matthew 28:19; Mark 13:10; Acts 1:8) In doing so, they are also fellow workers with Jehovah, the Great Theocrat.?1 Corinthians 3:9.

  3

  In conduct, too, Christians submit to God?s rule. Jesus said: "He that does what is true comes to the light, in order that his works may be made manifest as having been worked in harmony with God." (John 3:21) Today, there are endless debates over moral standards, but these disputes have no place among Christians. They view as immoral what Jehovah says is immoral, and they avoid it like the plague! They also care for their families, obey their parents, and remain subject to the superior authorities. (Ephesians 5:3-5, 22-33; 6:1-4; 1 Timothy 5:8; Titus 3:1) Thus, they act theocratically, in harmony with God.

  4

  Adam and Eve lost Paradise because they wanted to make their own decisions as to what was right and what was wrong. Jesus wanted the exact opposite. He said: "I seek, not my own will, but the will of him that sent me." Christians seek the same thing. (John 5:30; Luke 22:42; Romans 12:2; Hebrews 10:7) Saul, the first king of Israel, did obey Jehovah?but only partially. For this he was rejected. Samuel told him: "To obey is better than a sacrifice, to pay attention than the fat of rams." (1 Samuel 15:22) Is it theocratic to follow Jehovah?s will to a certain extent, perhaps by being regular in the preaching work or in meeting attendance, and then to compromise in matters of morality or in some other way? Of course not! We strive to ?do the will of God whole-souled.? (Ephesians 6:6; 1 Peter 4:1, 2) Unlike Saul, we submit totally to God?s rule.

  A

  Modern Theocracy

  5

  In the past, Jehovah ruled and revealed truths through individuals, such as prophets, kings, and apostles. Today, that is no longer the case; there are no inspired prophets or apostles. Rather, Jesus said that during his royal presence, he would identify a faithful body of followers, a "faithful and discreet slave," and would appoint it over all his belongings. (Matthew 24:45-47; Isaiah 43:10) In 1919 that slave was identified as the remnant of anointed Christians. Since then, as represented by the Governing Body of Jehovah?s Witnesses, it has been the center of theocracy on earth. Around the world, the Governing Body is represented by Branch Committees, traveling overseers, and congregation elders.

  6

  Cooperation with theocratic organization is a vital part of submitting to theocracy. Such cooperation works for unity and order worldwide in "the whole association of brothers." (1 Peter 2:17) In turn, this pleases Jehovah, who is "a God, not of disorder, but of peace."?1 Corinthians 14:33.

  Elders

  in a Theocracy

  7

  All appointed older men, whatever their position of authority, fulfill the qualifications outlined in the Bible for the office of overseer, or older man. (1 Timothy 3:1-7; Titus 1:5-9) Further, Paul?s words to the Ephesian elders apply to all elders: "Pay attention to yourselves and to all the flock, among which the holy spirit has appointed you overseers, to shepherd the congregation of God." (Acts 20:28) Yes, the elders are appointed by holy spirit, which comes from Jehovah God. (John 14:26) Their appointment is theocratic. Moreover, they shepherd the flock of God. The flock belongs to Jehovah, not to the elders. It is a theocracy.

  8

  In his letter to the Ephesians, the apostle Paul outlined the general responsibilities of the elders, saying: "He gave some as apostles, some as prophets, some as evangelizers, some as shepherds and teachers, with a view to the readjustment of the holy ones, for ministerial work, for the building up of the body of the Christ." (Ephesians 4:11, 12) Apostles and prophets passed away with the infancy of "the body of the Christ." (Compare 1 Corinthians 13:8.) But elders are still very busy evangelizing, shepherding, and teaching.?2 Timothy 4:2; Titus 1:9.

  9

  Since theocracy is God rule, effective elders are thoroughly familiar with God?s will. Joshua was commanded to read the Law daily. Elders too need to study and consult the Scriptures regularly and to be thoroughly familiar with Bible literature published by the faithful and discreet slave. (2 Timothy 3:14, 15) This includes the Watchtower and Awake! magazines and other publications that show how Bible principles apply to specific situations. However, while it is important for an elder to know and to follow guidelines published in the Watch Tower Society?s literature, he should also be thoroughly familiar with the Scriptural principles that lie behind them. He will then be in a position to apply Scriptural guidelines with understanding and compassion.?Compare Micah 6:8.

  Serving

  With a Christian Spirit

  10

  About the year 55 C.E., the apostle Paul wrote his first letter to the congregation in Corinth. One of the problems he handled had to do with certain men wanting to be prominent in the congregation. Paul wrote: "You men already have your fill, do you? You are rich already, are you? You have begun ruling as kings without us, have you? And I wish indeed that you had begun ruling as kings, that we also might rule with you as kings." (1 Corinthians 4:8) In the first century C.E., all Christians had the hope of ruling as heavenly kings and priests with Jesus. (Revelation 20:4, 6) Evidently, though, some in Corinth forgot that on earth there are no kings in the Christian theocracy. Rather than act like kings of this world, Christian shepherds cultivate humility, a quality that pleases Jehovah.?Psalm 138:6; Luke 22:25-27.

  11

  Is humility a weakness? By no means! Jehovah himself is described as being humble. (Psalm 18:35) The kings of Israel led armies into battle and ruled the nation under Jehovah. Yet, each one had to be careful ?that his heart did not exalt itself above his brothers.? (Deuteronomy 17:20) The resurrected Jesus is a heavenly King. When on earth, however, he washed the feet of his disciples. What humility! And showing that he wanted his apostles to be similarly humble, he said: "If I, although Lord and Teacher, washed your feet, you also ought to wash the feet of one another." (John 13:14; Philippians 2:5-8) All glory and praise should go to Jehovah, not to any man. (Revelation 4:11) Whether they are elders or not, all Christians should think of themselves in the light of Jesus? words: "We are good-for-nothing slaves. What we have done is what we ought to have done." (Luke 17:10) Any other view is untheocratic.

  12

  Along with humility, Christian elders cultivate love. The apostle John showed the importance of love when he said: "He that does not love has not come to know God, because God is love." (1 John 4:8) Unloving individuals are not theocratic. They do not know Jehovah. Regarding the Son of God, the Bible says: "Jesus, having loved his own that were in the world, loved them to the end." (John 13:1) Speaking to 11 men who would be part of the governing body in the Christian congregation, Jesus said: "This is my commandment, that you love one another just as I have loved you." (John 15:12) Love is the identifying mark of true Christianity. It attracts the brokenhearted, the mourning ones, and the spiritual captives who long for freedom. (Isaiah 61:1, 2; John 13:35) Elders must be exemplary in showing it.

  13

  Today, elders are often asked to help handle complex problems. Marriage difficulties can be deep-rooted and persistent. Young people have problems that adults may find hard to grasp. Emotional sicknesses are often difficult to comprehend. An elder faced with such things may be unsure as to what to do. But he can be confident that if he prayerfully relies on Jehovah?s wisdom, if he does research in the Bible and in information published by the faithful and discreet slave, and if he deals humbly and lovingly with the sheep, he will be a force for good even in the most difficult situation.

  14

  Jehovah has richly blessed his organization with "gifts in men." (Ephesians 4:8) From time to time, the Watch Tower Society receives heartwarming letters testifying to the love shown by humble elders who compassionately shepherd God?s sheep. For example, a congregation elder writes: "I cannot remember a circuit overseer?s visit that affected me more or that is still being commented on in the congregation. The circuit overseer helped me see the importance of a positive attitude when dealing with the brothers, with an emphasis on commendation."

  15

  A sister who had to travel to a distant clinic to receive treatment writes: "How reassuring to be able to meet with an elder that first anxious night in a hospital so far from home! He and other brothers spent much time with me. Even people in the world who were familiar with what I was going through felt that I would never have survived without the comfort, care, and prayers of those loving and devoted brothers." Another sister writes: "I am alive today because the body of elders patiently guided me through my battle with major depression. . . . One brother and his wife did not know what to say to me. . . . But what touched me the most was that even though they did not completely understand what I was going through, they lovingly cared about me."

  16

  Yes, many elders are applying the exhortation of the apostle Peter: "Shepherd the flock of God in your care, not under compulsion, but willingly; neither for love of dishonest gain, but eagerly; neither as lording it over those who are God?s inheritance, but becoming examples to the flock." (1 Peter 5:1-3) What a blessing such theocratic elders are!

  Sheep

  in the Theocracy

  17

  However, a theocracy is not made up merely of elders. If the shepherds must be theocratic, so must the sheep. In what ways? Well, the same principles that guide the shepherds must guide the sheep. All Christians, not only elders, must be humble if they are to receive Jehovah?s blessing. (James 4:6) All must cultivate love because without it our sacrifices to Jehovah are not pleasing to him. (1 Corinthians 13:1-3) And all of us, not just the elders, should "be filled with the accurate knowledge of [Jehovah?s] will in all wisdom and spiritual comprehension."?Colossians 1:9.

  18

  Young and old alike are constantly faced with difficult decisions as they try to remain faithful despite living in Satan?s world. The world?s trends in clothing, music, movies, and literature challenge the spirituality of some. A surface knowledge of the truth is not enough to help us keep our balance. To be sure of staying faithful, we need to be filled with accurate knowledge. We need the discernment and wisdom that only God?s Word can give us. (Proverbs 2:1-5) This means cultivating good study habits, meditating on what we learn, and putting it into practice. (Psalm 1:1-3; Revelation 1:3) Paul was writing to all Christians, not just elders, when he said: "Solid food belongs to mature people, to those who through use have their perceptive powers trained to distinguish both right and wrong."?Hebrews 5:14.

  Shepherds

  and Sheep Work Together

  19

  Finally, it should be said that a truly theocratic spirit is shown by those who cooperate with the elders. Paul wrote to Timothy: "Let the older men who preside in a fine way be reckoned worthy of double honor, especially those who work hard in speaking and teaching." (1 Timothy 5:17; 1 Peter 5:5, 6) Eldership is a wonderful privilege, but most elders are family men who go to their secular work every day and who have wives and children to care for. While they are happy to serve, their service is easier and more rewarding when the congregation is supportive, not overly critical and demanding.?Hebrews 13:17.

  20

  The apostle Paul said: "Remember those who are taking the lead among you, who have spoken the word of God to you, and as you contemplate how their conduct turns out imitate their faith." (Hebrews 13:7) No, Paul did not encourage the brothers to follow the elders. (1 Corinthians 1:12) Following a man is not theocratic. But it is surely wise to imitate the proven faith of a theocratic elder who is active in the evangelizing work, who is regular at meetings, and who deals humbly and lovingly with the congregation.

  A

  Testament to Faith

  21

  Truly, the existence of a theocratic organization in this most degenerate time of human history is a testimony to the power of the Great Theocrat. (Isaiah 2:2-5) It is also a testimony to the faith of almost five million Christian men, women, and children, who struggle with the problems of daily life but never forget that Jehovah is their Ruler. Just as faithful Moses "continued steadfast as seeing the One who is invisible," so Christians today have similar strong faith. (Hebrews 11:27) They are privileged to live in a theocracy, and they daily thank Jehovah for it. (Psalm 100:4, 5) As they experience the saving power of Jehovah, they are happy to proclaim: "Jehovah is our Judge, Jehovah is our Statute-giver, Jehovah is our King; he himself will save us."?Isaiah 33:22.

  [Footnotes]

  Among such publications is the book "Pay Attention to Yourselves and to All the Flock," which contains Scriptural guidelines and is provided for appointed congregation overseers, or elders.
• 

  Satanus

  Here is a wt article where theocracy is used 34 times.

  *** w98 9/1 pp. 13-18 Stay Close to the Theocracy ***

  Stay Close to the Theocracy

  ?Jehovah is our Judge, Jehovah is our Statute-giver, Jehovah is our King.??ISAIAH 33:22.

  THE subject of government is of great concern to all. Good government brings peace and prosperity. The Bible says: ?By justice a king makes a land keep standing.? (Proverbs 29:4) On the other hand, bad government leads to injustice, corruption, and oppression. ?When anyone wicked bears rule, the people sigh.? (Proverbs 29:2) Throughout history, humans have tried many kinds of government, and sadly, they have often ?sighed? because of oppression by their rulers. (Ecclesiastes 8:9) Will any form of government succeed in bringing lasting contentment to its subjects?

  2 The historian Josephus mentioned a unique kind of government when he wrote: ?Some peoples have entrusted the supreme political power to monarchies, others to oligarchies, yet others to the masses. Our lawgiver [Moses], however, was attracted by none of these forms of polity, but gave to his constitution the form of what?if a forced expression be permitted?may be termed a ?theocracy,? placing all sovereignty and authority in the hands of God.? (Against Apion, II, 164-5) According to the Concise Oxford Dictionary, theocracy means ?a form of government by God.? The word does not appear in the Bible, but it well describes the government of ancient Israel. Although the Israelites came to have a visible king, their real ruler was Jehovah. The Israelite prophet Isaiah said: ?Jehovah is our Judge, Jehovah is our Statute-giver, Jehovah is our King.??Isaiah 33:22.

  What Is True Theocracy?

  3 Ever since Josephus coined the word, many societies have been described as theocracies. Some of them appeared intolerant, fanatic, and cruelly oppressive. Were they true theocracies? Not in the sense that Josephus used the word. The problem is that the meaning of ?theocracy? has been extended. The World Book Encyclopedia defines it as ?a form of government in which the state is ruled by a priest or priests, and in which members of the priesthood have authority in civil and religious matters.? True theocracy, however, is not government by priests. It really is God rule, government by the Creator of the universe, Jehovah God.

  4 One day soon, the whole earth will be under theocracy, and what a blessing that will be! ?God himself will be with [mankind]. And he will wipe out every tear from their eyes, and death will be no more, neither will mourning nor outcry nor pain be anymore. The former things have passed away.? (Revelation 21:3, 4) No priestly rule by imperfect humans could bring such happiness. Only God rule can. Hence, true Christians do not try to introduce theocracy by political action. They patiently wait for God to establish a worldwide theocracy in his own time and in his own way.?Daniel 2:44.

  5 In the meantime, however, a true theocracy does operate. Where? Among those who voluntarily submit to God?s rule and cooperate together to do his will. Such faithful ones have been gathered as a worldwide spiritual ?nation? on its spiritual ?land.? They are the remaining ones of ?the Israel of God? and their more than five and a half million Christian companions. (Isaiah 66:8; Galatians 6:16) These are subject to Jesus Christ, the heavenly King enthroned by Jehovah God, ?the King of eternity.? (1 Timothy 1:17; Revelation 11:15) In what way is this organization theocratic? How do its members view the authority of secular governments? And how is the principle of theocracy maintained by the humans who exercise authority within their spiritual community?

  A Theocratic Organization

  6 How can a human organization be ruled by Jehovah, who dwells in the invisible heavens? (Psalm 103:19) In that those associated with it follow the inspired counsel: ?Trust in Jehovah with all your heart and do not lean upon your own understanding.? (Proverbs 2:6; 3:5) They allow God to rule them as they observe ?the law of the Christ? and apply inspired Bible principles in their day-to-day lives. (Galatians 6:2; 1 Corinthians 9:21; 2 Timothy 3:16; see Matthew 5:22, 28, 39; 6:24, 33; 7:12, 21.) To do this, they have to be Bible students. (Psalm 1:1-3) Like the ?noble-minded? Beroeans of old, they do not follow humans but constantly verify in the Bible the things that they are learning. (Acts 17:10, 11; Psalm 119:33-36) They pray like the psalmist: ?Teach me goodness, sensibleness and knowledge themselves, for in your commandments I have exercised faith.??Psalm 119:66.

  7 In every organization, there must be some who exercise authority or provide direction. Jehovah?s Witnesses are no exception, and they observe the authority structure outlined by the apostle Paul: ?The head of every man is the Christ; in turn the head of a woman is the man; in turn the head of the Christ is God.? (1 Corinthians 11:3) In harmony with this, only qualified men serve as elders in the congregations. And although Jesus??the head of every man??is in heaven, there are still on earth ?the remaining ones? of his anointed brothers, who have the hope of ruling with him in the heavens. (Revelation 12:17; 20:6) These make up the composite ?faithful and discreet slave.? Christians show their submission to Jesus, and therefore to Jesus? head, Jehovah, by accepting the oversight of that ?slave.? (Matthew 24:45-47; 25:40) In this way, the theocracy is orderly. ?God is a God, not of disorder, but of peace.??1 Corinthians 14:33.

  8 Christian elders support the principle of theocracy because they recognize that they are responsible to Jehovah for how they exercise their limited degree of authority. (Hebrews 13:17) And in making decisions, they rely on God?s wisdom, not their own. In this, they follow the example of Jesus. He was the wisest man who ever lived. (Matthew 12:42) Nevertheless, he told the Jews: ?The Son cannot do a single thing of his own initiative, but only what he beholds the Father doing.? (John 5:19) Elders also have the same attitude as King David. He exercised weighty authority in a theocracy. Yet, he wanted to follow Jehovah?s way, not his own. He prayed: ?Instruct me, O Jehovah, in your way, and lead me in the path of uprightness.??Psalm 27:11.

  9 Some have questioned whether it is fair that authority in the congregation is exercised only by qualified men or that some have a heavenly hope while others have an earthly hope. (Psalm 37:29; Philippians 3:20) Dedicated Christians, however, appreciate that these arrangements are outlined in the Word of God. They are theocratic. If they are questioned, it is usually by those who do not recognize Bible principles. Besides, Christians know that men and women are equal in Jehovah?s eyes as far as salvation is concerned. (Galatians 3:28) For true Christians, to be worshipers of the Sovereign of the universe is the highest possible privilege, and they are happy to occupy whatever role Jehovah outlines for them. (Psalm 31:23; 84:10; 1 Corinthians 12:12, 13, 18) Moreover, everlasting life, whether it be in heaven or on a paradise earth, is a truly wonderful hope.

  10 Thus, Jehovah?s Witnesses resemble Jonathan, the God-fearing son of King Saul. Jonathan would likely have made an excellent king. However, because of Saul?s unfaithfulness, Jehovah chose David to be the second king of Israel. Was Jonathan embittered by this? No. He became a good friend of David and even protected him from Saul. (1 Samuel 18:1; 20:1-42) In a similar way, those with an earthly hope are not jealous of those with a heavenly hope. And true Christians are not jealous of those exercising theocratic authority in the congregation. Rather, they ?give them more than extraordinary consideration in love,? recognizing their hard work in behalf of their spiritual brothers and sisters.?1 Thessalonians 5:12, 13.

  The Theocratic View of Secular Rule

  11 If Jehovah?s Witnesses are under theocracy, God rule, how do they view national rulers? Jesus said that his followers would be ?no part of the world.? (John 17:16) However, Christians recognize their debt to ?Caesar,? secular governments. Jesus said that they should ?pay back . . . Caesar?s things to Caesar, but God?s things to God.? (Matthew 22:21) According to the Bible, human governments ?stand placed in their relative positions by God.? Jehovah, the Source of all authority, permits governments to exist, and he expects them to do good to those under their jurisdiction. When they do so, they are ?God?s minister.? Christians are subject to the government of the land in which they live ?on account of [their] conscience.? (Romans 13:1-7) Of course, if the state should demand something contrary to God?s law, the Christian would ?obey God as ruler rather than men.??Acts 5:29.

  12 What about when true Christians are persecuted by governmental authorities? Then they follow the example of the early Christians, who endured periods of great persecution. (Acts 8:1; 13:50) These tests of faith were not unexpected, since Jesus had warned that they would come. (Matthew 5:10-12; Mark 4:17) Yet, those early Christians did not retaliate against their persecutors; neither did their faith weaken under the pressure. Rather, they followed the example of Jesus: ?When he was being reviled, he did not go reviling in return. When he was suffering, he did not go threatening, but kept on committing himself to the one who judges righteously.? (1 Peter 2:21-23) Yes, Christian principles won out over the provocations of Satan.?Romans 12:21.

  13 The same is true today. During this century, Jehovah?s Witnesses have suffered greatly at the hands of despotic rulers?just as Jesus foretold. (Matthew 24:9, 13) In some lands, lies and misrepresentations are circulated by those trying to pressure the authorities to act against these sincere Christians. Still, despite such ?bad report,? the Witnesses by their fine conduct recommend themselves as God?s ministers. (2 Corinthians 6:4, 8) When possible, they present their case to officials and before the courts of the land so as to demonstrate their innocence of wrongdoing. They use whatever avenues are open to them to make a public defense of the good news. (Philippians 1:7) But after they have done all they can within the law, they leave matters in Jehovah?s hands. (Psalm 5:8-12; Proverbs 20:22) If need be, they, like the early Christians, are not afraid to suffer for the sake of righteousness.?1 Peter 3:14-17; 4:12-14, 16.

  Put God?s Glory First

  14 When Jesus taught his followers to pray, the first thing he mentioned was the sanctification of Jehovah?s name. (Matthew 6:9) In harmony with this, those living under theocracy seek God?s glory, not their own. (Psalm 29:1, 2) The Bible reports that in the first century, this was a stumbling block for some who refused to follow Jesus because ?they loved the glory of men,? they loved to be glorified by men. (John 12:42, 43) Indeed, it takes humility to put Jehovah ahead of one?s own self-importance.

  15 Solomon showed a fine spirit in this regard. Compare his words at the dedication of the glorious temple that he had built with those of Nebuchadnezzar concerning his building exploits. With overweening pride, Nebuchadnezzar boasted: ?Is not this Babylon the Great, that I myself have built for the royal house with the strength of my might and for the dignity of my majesty?? (Daniel 4:30) In contrast, Solomon modestly downplayed his accomplishment, saying: ?Will God truly dwell with mankind upon the earth? Look! Heaven, yes, the heaven of the heavens themselves, cannot contain you; how much less, then, this house that I have built?? (2 Chronicles 6:14, 15, 18; Psalm 127:1) Solomon did not exalt himself. He knew that he was merely a representative of Jehovah and wrote: ?Has presumptuousness come? Then dishonor will come; but wisdom is with the modest ones.??Proverbs 11:2.

  16 Christian elders similarly exalt Jehovah, not themselves. They follow Peter?s counsel: ?If anyone ministers, let him minister as dependent on the strength that God supplies; so that in all things God may be glorified through Jesus Christ.? (1 Peter 4:11) The apostle Paul described the ?office of overseer,? not as an important position of prominence, but as ?a fine work.? (1 Timothy 3:1) Elders are appointed to serve, not to rule. They are teachers and shepherds of God?s flock. (Acts 20:28; James 3:1) Humble, self-sacrificing elders are a true blessing to a congregation. (1 Peter 5:2, 3) ?Keep holding men of that sort dear,? and thank Jehovah that he has provided so many qualified elders to uphold theocracy in these ?last days.??Philippians 2:29; 2 Timothy 3:1.

  ?Become Imitators of God?

  17 The apostle Paul urged: ?Become imitators of God, as beloved children.? (Ephesians 5:1) Those subjecting themselves to theocracy try to be as much like God as is possible for imperfect humans. For example, the Bible says of Jehovah: ?The Rock, perfect is his activity, for all his ways are justice. A God of faithfulness, with whom there is no injustice; righteous and upright is he.? (Deuteronomy 32:3, 4) To imitate God in this regard, Christians seek faithfulness, righteousness, and a balanced sense of justice. (Micah 6:8; 1 Thessalonians 3:6; 1 John 3:7) They avoid many things that have become acceptable in the world, such as immorality, covetousness, and greed. (Ephesians 5:5) Because Jehovah?s servants follow divine, not human, standards, his organization is theocratic, clean, and wholesome.

  18 The preeminent quality of Jehovah God is love. ?God is love,? the apostle John says. (1 John 4:8) Since theocracy means rule by God, it amounts to rule by love. Jesus said: ?By this all will know that you are my disciples, if you have love among yourselves.? (John 13:35) The theocratic organization has shown outstanding love in these difficult last days. During the genocidal strife in Africa, Jehovah?s Witnesses displayed love toward all, no matter to which ethnic group they belonged. During the war in the former Yugoslavia, Jehovah?s Witnesses of all areas helped one another, while other religious groups shared in the so-called ethnic cleansing. On a personal level, Jehovah?s Witnesses strive to observe Paul?s counsel: ?Let all malicious bitterness and anger and wrath and screaming and abusive speech be taken away from you along with all badness. But become kind to one another, tenderly compassionate, freely forgiving one another just as God also by Christ freely forgave you.??Ephesians 4:31, 32.

  19 Those who submit to theocracy enjoy great blessings. They have peace with God and with fellow Christians. (Hebrews 12:14; James 3:17) They have a purpose in life. (Ecclesiastes 12:13) They have spiritual security and a sure hope for the future. (Psalm 59:9) Indeed, they enjoy a foretaste of what it will be like when all mankind is under theocratic rule. Then, the Bible says, ?they will not do any harm or cause any ruin in all my holy mountain; because the earth will certainly be filled with the knowledge of Jehovah as the waters are covering the very sea.? (Isaiah 11:9) What a glorious time that will be! May we all make our place in that future Paradise sure by staying close now to the theocracy.

  Can You Explain?

  · What is real theocracy and where is it found today?

  · How do humans submit to theocratic rule in their lives?

  · In what ways do all under theocracy seek God?s glory ahead of their own?

  · What are some godly qualities imitated by those who support theocracy?

  [Study Questions]

  1. Why is government a matter of concern to most people?

  2. Why is ?theocracy? a good description of the government of ancient Israel?

  3, 4. (a) What is a true theocracy? (b) One day soon, what blessings will theocracy bring to all mankind?

  5. Where does true theocracy operate today, and what questions are raised about it?

  6. How can a visible, human organization be ruled by God?

  7. What is the order of oversight in the theocracy?

  8. How do Christian elders support the principle of theocracy?

  9. Regarding the different hopes and different privileges of service in the theocracy, what balanced view do dedicated Christians have?

  10. (a) What fine attitude did Jonathan display? (b) How do Christians today show an attitude similar to that of Jonathan?

  11. How do Christians submitting to theocratic rule view secular authorities?

  12. When Christians are persecuted by the authorities, whose example do they follow?

  13. How have Jehovah?s Witnesses responded to persecution and slanderous campaigns against them?

  14, 15. (a) What is foremost for those supporting the principle of theocracy? (b) On what occasion did Solomon set a fine example of humility in his position of oversight?

  16. How have elders proved to be a real blessing by not glorifying themselves?

  17. In what ways do those under theocracy imitate God?

  18. What is God?s preeminent quality, and how do Christians reflect this quality?

  19. What blessings come both now and in the future to those submitting themselves to theocracy?

  [Picture on page 17]

  Solomon put God?s glory ahead of his own
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  JeffT

  Thank you, all. When I get the piece done I'll post it here too.
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  BluesBrother

  Well done to our members in providing those quotes.. It is interesting to see how the media is now using the word in negative light to describe rule by the Priesthood (or whatever) .

  I wonder it the "K Ministry" will be advising them to stop using the expression ?