Prepare Now for Tests of Your Neutrality

1-2. Why must we prepare for tests of our Christian neutrality?

YOU hear that a hurricane is headed straight for your area. What will you do? No doubt you will prepare for it! You will gather the supplies you need, secure your home the best you can, and seek refuge in a safe place.

² Likewise, the storm of nationalism is spreading throughout the world, and we need to prepare for it. Why? Because with this storm comes the pressure to take sides in political matters. And like Jesus, we take a neutral stand with regard to politics. As a result, our brothers and sisters in some lands have been severely persecuted​—even imprisoned. We expect such tests of our neutrality to increase everywhere as we advance toward and into the great tribulation.​—Matt. 24:9, 21; John 15:19.

3. What will we discuss in this article?

³ In this article, we will consider how we can prepare for tests of our Christian neutrality. Specifically, we will discuss two types of tests: military conscriptiona and imprisonment. First, though, let us consider why we can be sure that it is possible to remain faithful to Jehovah even when confronted with severe tests of our neutrality.

JEHOVAH WILL HELP YOU TO REMAIN NEUTRAL

4. How did the first-century Christians remain faithful under severe test?

⁴ We strongly promote God’s Kingdom, but we are neutral with regard to the politics of this world. We are confident that we can maintain this neutrality under test because Jehovah has promised to give us the strength we need. (Isa. 41:10; 2 Cor. 4:7) With Jehovah’s help, countless Christians have been able to remain “no part of the world.” (John 17:14) For example, the first-century Christians refused to get involved in the politics of their day. They obeyed Jesus’ command not to “take up the sword” and declined to fight in warfare. (Matt. 26:52) They also refused to engage in emperor worship. For this, they were severely mistreated. Some were executed. But Jehovah gave them the strength to remain loyal to him.

5. How does Jehovah feel about those who loyally support his Kingdom?

⁵ In modern times, God’s people have suffered similar mistreatment because of their neutral stand.b Jehovah is eager to reward his integrity-keepers in the new world. (Ps. 18:25) Even now, he treasures such loyal ones and blesses them with his approval.​—Ps. 5:12; Rom. 5:3-5.

6. What must we personally prepare for?

⁶ With Jehovah’s help, you can remain “steadfast, immovable” in your resolve to be politically neutral. (1 Cor. 15:58) If we want to benefit from all the help Jehovah gives, preparation is vital. Elders and others can assist you. But you made a personal decision to remain neutral when you dedicated yourself to Jehovah, so you must personally prepare to explain your beliefs and stand by them. How can you do that?

PREPARE NOW FOR THE TEST OF MILITARY CONSCRIPTION

7. Why do Christians not take sides in political affairs? (John 18:36)

⁷ We have the privilege of taking our own stand in support of God’s Kingdom. If you expect to face military conscription, keep in mind how Jehovah views human governments. Do research on the topic. (See the box “Helpful Resources.”) You could periodically review this article and the preceding one. The scriptures cited in these articles help us to see that as Christians we respect the governments under which we live and we endeavor to be obedient citizens. (Rom. 13:1, 7; Titus 3:1; 1 Pet. 2:13, 14, 17) Yet, as promoters of God’s Kingdom, we choose to remain neutral in political affairs. (Read John 18:36.) After prayerfully researching the topic of neutrality, you will be better equipped to make a personal decision regarding conscription that will honor the “King of eternity,” Jehovah, and his Son, Jesus, the “Lord of lords and King of kings.”​—Rev. 15:3; 17:14.

8. Explain why Christians do not engage in or support warfare. (John 17:16)

⁸ As Christians, we do not join organizations that support or promote violence and war. Our primary reason for this stand is that we promote God’s Kingdom as the rightful government to rule the earth. (Matt. 6:10) We are subjects and supporters of that Kingdom, so we take no part in the world’s political affairs. (Read John 17:16.) We understand that God’s Word condemns human warfare. (Isa. 2:4; Acts 5:29) Additionally, Jesus commands us to love people​—even our enemies! (Matt. 5:44) And we are commanded to love our fellow believers intensely. (John 13:34, 35; 1 Pet. 4:8) How could we obey these Bible commands if we engaged in or even supported warfare? (See the box “What About Compulsory Civilian Service?”) Doing so could actually make us responsible for killing members of our own spiritual family!

9. What are some additional ways you can prepare for the conscription process?

⁹ You are no doubt already aware of the basic Bible principles regarding neutrality. The question is, Are you able to explain them clearly? (1 Pet. 3:15) The authorities might give you only a few minutes to do so. Or they might ask you to provide a more thorough explanation. So it is wise to prepare for both possibilities. Make it clear that your beliefs are based on the Bible. Our refusal to fight reflects our firm support for God’s Kingdom, not fear or cowardice. Equip yourself to speak with respect, clarity, and conviction, as did the apostle Paul. (Acts 26:1, 28, 29) Prepare to defend your faith, but try not to be overly anxious about what you will say. Remember that Jehovah will give you his spirit and the wisdom to give a witness for his name. (Luke 21:12-15) He will also give you the strength to endure any mistreatment you might experience as a result of your neutral stand. (1 Cor. 10:13) If possible, talk to the brothers who have been through the conscription process in your area. Ask them what challenges they faced and how they prepared for them.​—Prov. 20:18.

10. What good can result when you prepare to explain your neutral position?

¹⁰ Remember, too, that a clear explanation may result in a good witness. During the conscription process, some of our brothers have had the joy of hearing one or more of their listeners express the desire to learn more about Jehovah’s Witnesses. However, what if, despite your best efforts, you still receive a prison sentence? Understandably, that could cause some anxiety. How can you prepare now for possible imprisonment?

PREPARE NOW FOR THE TEST OF IMPRISONMENT

11. What is the primary goal of a Christian who is imprisoned for his neutrality? (Revelation 2:10)

¹¹ In Bible times, many of Jehovah’s people were unjustly imprisoned, and that is still the case today. (Gen. 39:20; Acts 8:3; Phil. 1:7) To prepare for that possibility, keep building your relationship with Jehovah. Remember that our suffering for “righteousness’ sake” contributes to the vindication of Jehovah’s name and sovereignty. (Matt. 5:10, 11; Job 2:4, 5; 1 Pet. 3:17) Be assured that Jehovah wants you to succeed. So do not be afraid. Jehovah will help you to remain faithful.​—Read Revelation 2:10.

12. Why is it important that we cultivate good Bible study habits now?

¹² Cultivate now the good habits and qualities that will help you to remain loyal to Jehovah in prison. For example, maintain good Bible study habits. Takis, who spent a year and a half in prison for neutrality and who now serves as a circuit overseer, recalls, “Before entering prison, I devoted many hours to personal study​—a practice I continued in prison.” What if you are sent to a prison where Bible reading is not permitted? Jehovah’s spirit can help you remember Bible truths, promises, and principles that you have already learned and that will fortify your faith.c (John 14:26) So now is the time to develop and maintain good study habits.

13. How can you prepare now to be a peacemaker?

¹³ Regrettably, some of our brothers in prison with other Witnesses have found it challenging to get along with one another. How can you prepare for possible differences between fellow believers? Develop now the qualities that will help you to be a peacemaker. (Matt. 5:9; Rom. 12:18) Work at getting along with those whose personality or background is different from yours. Be willing to sacrifice personal preferences for the sake of peace​—without compromising Bible standards. By becoming a peacemaker now, you will be better able to promote peace and unity in the event that you go to prison.

14. What challenge do those who are in prison commonly face, and how have some dealt with it?

¹⁴ Those in prison inevitably feel discouraged at times. How can you prepare for that? Develop now an active interest in others, especially your fellow believers. When you focus on helping others, you will likely feel better. While imprisoned, the apostle Paul wrote: “Look out not only for your own interests, but also for the interests of others.” (Phil. 2:4) Ho-Seon, an elder and a pioneer, recalls when he was imprisoned for neutrality, “I would pray for my family, friends, and fellow believers who were facing various challenges outside of prison.” What if other brothers are imprisoned with you? Takis, mentioned earlier, shares what helped him. He says, “My deep desire to be useful to my brothers gave me strength and motivation to remain steadfast.” How can you help your brothers in prison? Look for ways to encourage them and to assist them in practical matters. Focusing on helping others can lift your spirits.

15. Why is it important that we establish now the habit of turning to Jehovah in prayer? (James 1:5) (See the box “When a Situation Is Not Clear-Cut.”)

¹⁵ How else can you prepare to endure faithfully in prison? If you know brothers who have been in prison for neutrality, ask them what challenges they faced and how they handled them. Of course, you cannot anticipate every possible scenario. An elder, recalling the time he spent in prison for neutrality, says, “A confusing situation can arise unexpectedly.” He learned to make prayer his first response to any question, decision, or challenge. (Rom. 12:12; Phil. 4:6) Of course, now is the best time for you to establish the habit of turning to Jehovah in prayer, asking for the wisdom to deal with any challenge you face, big or small.​—Read James 1:5.

16. What have many brothers in prison been able to do? (See also pictures.)

¹⁶ Remember that even in prison you are still a preacher of the good news, both in word and in deed. (Matt. 28:19, 20; Acts 10:42; 1 Pet. 2:12) Prepare to preach in prison by remaining as active as you can in the ministry now. Many brothers in prison have been able to organize meetings for service, witness to inmates, engage in letter writing, auxiliary pioneer, and conduct Bible studies.d In some cases, our incarcerated brothers have helped other prisoners and even guards to learn the truth. If you work to refine your witnessing skills now, you may have a productive ministry even if you are imprisoned. (Acts 17:1-4) Also, prepare to maintain fine conduct in prison by learning to conduct yourself properly in difficult circumstances now. By being kind, mild, hardworking, and respectful to all, including opposers, you might draw onlookers to Jehovah through your good conduct.​—Matt. 5:16; Titus 3:1, 2.

17. Why is it vital that you maintain a strong relationship with Jehovah throughout your imprisonment? (1 Peter 1:6, 7 and footnote)

¹⁷ Countless brothers and sisters have emerged from prison with a strong and refined faith. (Jas. 1:2-4; read 1 Peter 1:6, 7 and footnote.) They have since been useful in strengthening others. Sadly, however, some who failed to maintain a strong relationship with Jehovah while in prison later stopped serving him. By applying the counsel in the preceding paragraphs, you will be able to maintain a close relationship with Jehovah even if you are in prison.

SUPPORT THOSE UNDER TEST

18. What is one way to help a young Christian prepare for conscription?

¹⁸ Might someone in your family or congregation, who has made a personal decision to remain neutral, have to deal with conscription? If so, can you help him to prepare? A father devoted time during sessions of family worship to help his two sons defend their neutrality. He also held practice sessions with them. He played the role of a conscription officer, and his sons practiced what they would say. Can you do something similar for someone in your family or congregation who might have to face such a test of neutrality?

19. How can a family prepare if one member is likely to be sentenced to prison?

¹⁹ What if someone in your family is likely to be sentenced to prison? The very possibility can make the entire family anxious. Praying together and maintaining a strong routine of family worship can alleviate some of that anxiety. If your loved one is about to be sent to prison, he may be worried about how you will fare, especially if he is the family head. What can you do? Together with him, plan now how the family will carry on in his absence. For example, what will the family’s spiritual routine be? Might there be financial challenges at home, and if so, how can these be dealt with? What arrangements can be made for the family to receive regular support and encouragement from the elders? Can those left at home plan to visit the family member in prison as often as their circumstances allow? By making sensible plans now, you may help your loved one endure faithfully in prison.

20. How can elders and others in the congregation support those in prison and their families?

²⁰ How can elders and others in the congregation help? The apostle Paul wrote: “Keep in mind those in prison, as though you were imprisoned with them.” (Heb. 13:3) Those who are in prison are especially strengthened when they receive visits, phone calls, and letters. They may need nutritious food, basic items that make prison life more bearable, or money for expenses. (Jas. 2:16; 1 John 3:17) Keep in mind also the families of those who are in prison. They likely need shepherding visits and possibly some practical assistance. Remember, too, that on their release, some who were in prison need help getting back to a normal life and resuming a good spiritual routine.

21. As nationalism spreads, what are you determined to do?

²¹ As the storm of nationalism spreads, tests of our neutrality will increase. But these tests will not last forever. At Armageddon, Jehovah will bring human politics to their end. (Dan. 2:44) He will then deliver his people into a righteous new world. There, under the Kingdom that his people have long promoted, nobody will be subjected to unjust imprisonment or mistreatment. Until that time, let us remain determined to maintain our neutrality. And may we continue to promote and preach the good news of God’s heavenly Kingdom.