TIMES OF FIERY TESTING

The brothers had gone through a number of tests over the years, but the early 1960’s was a time when each one was finding it necessary to give evidence of the quality of his faith. There was considerable political tension in the country, and patriotic activities were frequent. Some did not clearly understand Christian neutrality and what was involved in shunning idolatry. (Matt. 22:21; 1 John 5:21; Dan. 3:16-18) Starting with The Watchtower of November 1, 1962, the brothers were fortified with a thorough discussion of what the Bible says about the Christian’s attitude toward “the superior authorities” and the matter of relative subjection. (Rom. 13:1-7) It was truly spiritual “food at the proper time.” (Matt. 24:45) Nevertheless some shrank back, fearing that they might lose their job or that their children might be expelled from school. But the majority, though suffering some abuse, have given evidence that their faith is strong and they have conducted themselves so as to have a clean conscience before God.

The year ended with a visit by Brother Henschel. Shortly before this, when in Liberia, West Africa, he had personally undergone a severe test of his Christian neutrality. The Bolivian Witnesses were deeply moved as he fortified them with an account of that experience, emphasizing the importance of courageous steadfastness.