The Herald of Christ’s Kingdom – History Issue

This special edition of The Herald of Christ’s Kingdom offers a historical reflection on the magazine’s founding, purpose, and spiritual heritage. It traces the publication’s roots to the early Bible Student movement, its ongoing mission to proclaim God's plan of salvation, and its commitment to preparing believers for Christ’s Kingdom on Earth.

Historical Foundations

• The magazine emerged from the early 20th-century Bible Student movement, which followed the teachings of Charles Taze Russell, a pastor deeply devoted to Bible study and the return of Christ.

• After Russell’s death in 1916, the Bible Student movement experienced a split, with various groups continuing to emphasize his foundational teachings.

• In 1918, a group of Bible Students who wished to continue publishing his teachings formed the Pastoral Bible Institute (PBI).

• Their first magazine issue, The Herald of Christ’s Kingdom, was published in October 1918.

Purpose and Mission

• The central goal of The Herald is to proclaim the soon-coming Kingdom of Christ, a government of peace and righteousness that will bless all the families of the Earth.

• It serves as a tool for spiritual encouragement, biblical study, and doctrinal clarity, especially among Bible Students who value deep scriptural understanding.

• The magazine has always emphasized non-sectarian, independent Bible study, encouraging readers to study the Scriptures without creedal or institutional bias.

Doctrinal Emphases

• The publication teaches that:

  • Jesus Christ returned invisibly in 1874, initiating a harvest period before the establishment of His Kingdom.

  • The high calling of the Church is a heavenly reward, distinct from the earthly blessings that will be offered to the rest of mankind in God’s plan.

  • God’s plan includes a resurrection for all, including those who never knew Christ during their lifetime.

Global Reach and Adaptation

• Over the years, The Herald expanded its outreach through:

  • Translations into multiple languages.

  • International partnerships with Bible Student groups around the world.

  • Digital platforms in modern times, while continuing to publish in print.

• It has adapted its format, style, and mediums to remain accessible and relevant across generations and cultures.

Editorial Philosophy and Independence

• The Herald is not aligned with any denomination or sect. It is guided by a board of editors who prioritize fidelity to Scripture and Christ-centered teaching.

• Articles are contributed by various Bible Students, reflecting a diversity of thought within a shared doctrinal framework.

• The magazine aims to edify the Body of Christ and uphold the original values of the Bible Student movement: humility, independence, scriptural integrity, and love.

Legacy and Continuing Vision

• As of its publication date, The Herald has been in continuous circulation for over a century.

• It remains a beacon of spiritual hope, pointing toward God’s plan to bless all mankind through Christ and His Church.

• Its legacy is one of faithful witness, encouraging believers to prepare their hearts and minds for active participation in God's future Kingdom.

Conclusion:

This historical issue of The Herald of Christ’s Kingdom celebrates the magazine’s enduring mission: to uplift Christ, reveal God’s plan of salvation, and prepare the Church for service in the coming Kingdom. Rooted in early 20th-century Bible study movements, it continues to serve as a spiritual resource for those who long for truth, righteousness, and God’s promised restoration of humanity.