therefore inescapable that in order for them to enjoy the fulfillment of that which was promised and which is awaiting them in that city made ready for them, there must of necessity be a resurrection of the dead.

20. Why should we not marvel at all concerning a resurrection of the dead?

²⁰ Do you marvel at this? Surely there is nothing unreasonable or farfetched about such a possibility. It is not an unusual experience for someone getting on in years to hear mentioned a name that he has not heard since perhaps he was at school. Immediately he can recall that person and, so to speak, re-create him in his mind’s eye, how he used to dress, the look on his face, and a multitude of characteristics and incidents. Again, think of that musician who can remember and accurately reproduce, not just one piece of music with all its notes, but many and varied such pieces. So we readily admit that mere man, with his many limitations and imperfections, has marvelous capabilities within the scope of his memory. Why, then, should we think that the almighty and infinite Creator, the One who made man’s mind and knows exactly how it works, has not the power to call back from the memorial tomb and re-create all those whom he has held in his memory, yes, including all their traits and mental impressions that go to make up each individual? As Paul once pertinently asked: “Why is it judged unbelievable among you men that God raises up the dead?” There is only the one answer. “Do not marvel at this.”—Acts 26:8; John 5:28, NW.

Jehovah’s “Book of Remembrance”

1. On what basis will individual judgment be finally determined, this leading to what questions?

JEHOVAH is the Perfect Pattern. Satan bears the stigma of being the originator of an evil and iniquitous pattern. During a judgment period that has already commenced, the life pattern of every individual will eventually be judged as either of one kind or of the other. He will either be found worthy of inheriting the everlasting blessings in store for all recognized by God as his sons or be placed among those whose “portion will be in the lake that burns with fire and sulphur. This means the second death.” (Rev. 21:7, 8, NW) Which kind of pattern are you forming? Is it possible to change one’s life pattern and, if so, how can you be helped in the building up of a life pattern that will ensure Jehovah’s approval? These are questions that call for serious consideration.

2. How does Malachi’s prophecy show this to be a judgment day?

² Malachi’s prophecy, in the third chapter, tells of the beginning of this judgment period when “the Lord, whom ye seek, will suddenly come to his temple” and will purify and restore to a perfect pattern all those who sincerely seek him and who desire to “offer unto Jehovah offerings in righteousness.” At the same time he “will be a swift witness against” those who, like the majority of the priestly class, the sons of Levi, in Malachi’s day, persist in following their own corrupt pattern. (Mal. 3:1, 3, 5, AS) In conjunction with other scriptures, it has often been shown in these columns that the spring of A.D. 1918