Our Christian Life and Ministry. May 26 through June 1 [Press play below to hear the Meeting Workbook]
[Press play below to hear Proverbs 15]
[Click to read Bible chapter]|[Proverbs 15] A mild answer turns away rage, But a harsh word stirs up anger. 2 The tongue of the wise makes good use of knowledge, But the mouth of the stupid blurts out foolishness. 3 The eyes of Jehovah are everywhere, Watching both the bad and the good. 4 A calm tongue is a tree of life, But twisted speech causes despair. 5 A fool disrespects his father’s discipline, But a shrewd person accepts correction. 6 In the house of the righteous one there is abundant treasure, But the produce of the wicked one brings him trouble. 7 The lips of the wise spread knowledge, But not so the heart of the stupid one. 8 The sacrifice of the wicked is detestable to Jehovah, But the prayer of the upright is a pleasure to Him. 9 Jehovah detests the way of the wicked one, But he loves the one who pursues righteousness. 10 Discipline seems bad to one forsaking the way, But whoever hates reproof will die. 11 The Grave and the place of destruction are in full view of Jehovah. How much more so the hearts of men! 12 The scoffer does not love the one correcting him. He will not consult the wise. 13 A joyful heart makes for a cheerful countenance, But heartache crushes the spirit. 14 The understanding heart seeks knowledge, But the mouth of the stupid feeds on foolishness. 15 All the days of the afflicted one are bad, But the one with a cheerful heart has a continual feast. 16 Better is a little in the fear of Jehovah Than great wealth along with anxiety. 17 Better is a dish of vegetables where there is love Than a fattened bull where there is hatred. 18 A hot-tempered man stirs up strife, But one who is slow to anger calms a quarrel. 19 The way of the lazy one is like a hedge of thorns, But the path of the upright is like a level highway. 20 A wise son makes his father rejoice, But a stupid man despises his mother. 21 Foolishness is a joy to one lacking good sense, But the man of discernment walks straight ahead. 22 Plans fail when there is no consultation, But there is accomplishment through many advisers. 23 A man rejoices in giving the right answer, And a word spoken at the right time, how good it is! 24 The path of life leads upward to one with insight, To turn him away from the Grave below. 25 Jehovah will tear down the house of the haughty, But he will preserve the boundary of the widow. 26 Jehovah detests the schemes of the wicked one, But pleasant sayings are pure to Him. 27 The one making dishonest profit brings trouble on his own household, But the one hating bribes will keep living. 28 The heart of the righteous one meditates before answering, But the mouth of the wicked blurts out bad things. 29 Jehovah is far away from the wicked, But he hears the prayer of the righteous. 30 Bright eyes make the heart rejoice; A good report invigorates the bones. 31 The one who listens to life-giving reproof Is at home among the wise. 32 Anyone refusing discipline despises his life, But whoever listens to reproof acquires understanding. 33 The fear of Jehovah is a training in wisdom, And before glory there is humility. [End of Bible chapter] [Click to close]
Song 102 “Assist Those Who Are Weak” Based on Acts 20.35
1. Many are the weaknesses
That we all possess.
Still Jehovah cares for us,
Loves us nonetheless.
He is so merciful;
His love, so powerful.
May we show this kind of love,
Help those in distress.
2. Some at times are weak in faith,
Strong though they appear.
By our reassuring words,
We can calm their fears.
Weak ones to God belong;
His spirit makes them strong.
May we feel their pain and cares,
Help them dry their tears.
3. Rather than condemn the weak,
We should bear in mind
How much we can strengthen them
By our being kind.
May we be diligent,
Give them encouragement.
As we lend our kind support,
Comfort they will find.
[End of Song. Press Play below to play this song with Audio Description]
Treasures From God’s Word 1. Help Others to Have a Cheerful Heart (10 minutes)
When our brothers experience severe trials, they may feel as though all of their days were bad
[Inserted scripture] Proverbs 15.15: All the days of the afflicted one are bad, But the one with a cheerful heart has a continual feast. [End of inserted scripture]
Show hospitality to those experiencing difficulties
[Inserted scripture] Proverbs 15.17: Better is a dish of vegetables where there is love Than a fattened bull where there is hatred. [End of inserted scripture]
[Reference material Watchtower 2010 November 15th page 31 paragraph 16] Job was hospitable.
[Quotation] Job 31.31 and 32: Have the men of my tent not said, ‘Who can find anyone who has not been satisfied with his food?’ 32 No stranger had to spend the night outside; I opened my doors to the traveler. [End Quotation]
Although we may not be rich, we can “follow the course of hospitality.”
[Quotation] Romans 12.13: Share with the holy ones according to their needs. Follow the course of hospitality. [End Quotation]
We can share something simple with others, remembering that “better is a dish of vegetables where there is love than a manger-fed bull and hatred along with it.” (Proverbs 15.17) Eating with a fellow integrity keeper in a loving atmosphere will make even a simple meal enjoyable and will surely benefit us spiritually. [End of reference material]
“A cheerful glance” and a few encouraging words can make a big difference
[Inserted scripture] Proverbs 15.23: A man rejoices in giving the right answer, And a word spoken at the right time, how good it is! [End of inserted scripture]
[Inserted scripture] Proverbs 15.30: Bright eyes make* the heart rejoice; A good report invigorates the bones. [Footnote] Or “A cheerful glance makes.” [End of footnote] [End of inserted scripture]
[Reference material Watchtower 2018.04 pages 23 and 24 paragraphs 16 through 18] It would be an error on our part if we believed that we cannot be encouraging because we are not particularly communicative. It does not take much to be a source of encouragement, perhaps no more than a warm smile when greeting someone. If there is no smile in return, it could mean that there is a problem, and just listening to the other person may bring comfort.
[Quotation] James 1.19: Know this, my beloved brothers: Everyone must be quick to listen, slow to speak, slow to anger, [End Quotation]
17. Henri, a young brother, was greatly distressed when his close relatives, including his father, who had been a respected elder, left the truth. Henri was encouraged by a circuit overseer who took him to a café for a cup of coffee and allowed him to open his heart. Henri realized that the only way to help his family come back to the truth was for him to persevere faithfully. He found great comfort in reading Psalm 46; Zephaniah 3.17; and Mark 10.29 and 30.
[Quotation] Psalm 46.1 through 11: God is our refuge and strength, A help that is readily found in times of distress. 2 That is why we will not fear, though the earth undergoes change, Though the mountains topple into the depths of the sea, 3 Though its waters roar and foam over, Though the mountains rock on account of its turbulence. 4 There is a river the streams of which make the city of God rejoice, The holy grand tabernacle of the Most High. 5 God is in the city; it cannot be overthrown. God will come to its aid at the break of dawn. 6 The nations were in an uproar, the kingdoms were overthrown; He raised his voice, and the earth melted. 7 Jehovah of armies is with us; The God of Jacob is our secure refuge. 8 Come and witness the activities of Jehovah, How he has done astonishing things on the earth. 9 He is bringing an end to wars throughout the earth. He breaks the bow and shatters the spear; He burns the military wagons with fire. 10 “Give in and know that I am God. I will be exalted among the nations; I will be exalted in the earth.” 11 Jehovah of armies is with us; The God of Jacob is a secure refuge for us. [End Quotation]
[Quotation] Zephaniah 3.17: Jehovah your God is in your midst. As a mighty One, he will save. He will exult over you with great joy. He will become silent in his love. He will rejoice over you with shouts of joy. [End Quotation]
[Quotation] Mark 10.29 and 30: Jesus said: “Truly I say to you, no one has left house or brothers or sisters or mother or father or children or fields for my sake and for the sake of the good news 30 who will not get 100 times more now in this period of time, houses, brothers, sisters, mothers, children, and fields, with persecutions, and in the coming system of things, everlasting life. [End Quotation]
18. The examples of Marthe and Henri show that we can be encouraging to a brother or a sister who is in need of comfort. King Solomon wrote: “A word spoken at the right time, how good it is! A cheerful glance makes the heart rejoice; a good report invigorates the bones.” (Proverbs 15.23 and 30) Additionally, reading from The Watchtower or our website can invigorate someone who is downcast. Paul shows that singing a Kingdom song together can be a source of encouragement. He wrote: “Keep on teaching and encouraging one another with psalms, praises to God, spiritual songs sung with gratitude, singing in your hearts to Jehovah.”
[Quotation] Colossians 3.16: Let the word of the Christ reside in you richly in all wisdom. Keep on teaching and encouraging one another with psalms, praises to God, spiritual songs sung with gratitude, singing in your hearts to Jehovah. [End Quotation]
[Quotation] Acts 16.25: But about the middle of the night, Paul and Silas were praying and praising God with song, and the prisoners were listening to them. [End Quotation] [End of reference material]
Ask Yourself: ‘Who in our congregation could use some encouragement? How can I help?’
[Image:] A young couple enjoying refreshments with an older sister at her home.
2. Spiritual Gems (10 minutes)
Proverbs 15.22 How can this Bible principle help us to make good decisions about medical treatment? (Bible Questions Answered article 39 paragraph 3)
[Inserted scripture] Proverbs 15.22: Plans fail when there is no consultation, But there is accomplishment through many advisers. [End of inserted scripture]
[Reference material Bible Questions Answered article Can a Christian Accept Medical Treatment? paragraph 3] Should I get a second or a third medical opinion? A “multitude of counselors” can be valuable, especially if your condition is serious. (Proverbs 15.22) [End of reference material]
What spiritual gems from this week’s Bible reading would you like to share?
3. Bible Reading (4 minutes) Proverbs 15.1 through 21 (Apply yourself to reading and teaching study 2) [Press play below to hear the Bible reading]
Proverbs 15.1 through 21 A mild answer turns away rage, But a harsh word stirs up anger. The tongue of the wise makes good use of knowledge, But the mouth of the stupid blurts out foolishness. The eyes of Jehovah are everywhere, Watching both the bad and the good. A calm tongue is a tree of life, But twisted speech causes despair. A fool disrespects his father’s discipline, But a shrewd person accepts correction. In the house of the righteous one there is abundant treasure, But the produce of the wicked one brings him trouble. The lips of the wise spread knowledge, But not so the heart of the stupid one. The sacrifice of the wicked is detestable to Jehovah, But the prayer of the upright is a pleasure to Him. Jehovah detests the way of the wicked one, But he loves the one who pursues righteousness. Discipline seems bad to one forsaking the way, But whoever hates reproof will die. The Grave and the place of destruction are in full view of Jehovah. How much more so the hearts of men! The scoffer does not love the one correcting him. He will not consult the wise. A joyful heart makes for a cheerful countenance, But heartache crushes the spirit. The understanding heart seeks knowledge, But the mouth of the stupid feeds on foolishness. All the days of the afflicted one are bad, But the one with a cheerful heart has a continual feast. Better is a little in the fear of Jehovah Than great wealth along with anxiety. Better is a dish of vegetables where there is love Than a fattened bull where there is hatred. A hot-tempered man stirs up strife, But one who is slow to anger calms a quarrel. The way of the lazy one is like a hedge of thorns, But the path of the upright is like a level highway. A wise son makes his father rejoice, But a stupid man despises his mother. Foolishness is a joy to one lacking good sense, But the man of discernment walks straight ahead. [End of scripture]
[Reference Material] Apply yourself to reading and teaching. Study 2. Conversational Manner.
[Quotation] 2 Corinthians 2.17: We are, for we are not peddlers of the word of God as many men are, but we speak in all sincerity as sent from God, yes, in the sight of God and in company with Christ. [End Quotation]
Summary: Speak in a natural, sincere way that conveys how you feel about the topic and your listeners.
[Press play below for Video: Study 2. Conversational Manner. (3:45)]
[Click for Transcript]|[Study 2. Conversational Manner]
(Text: Apply Yourself to Reading and Teaching 2. Conversation Manner. 2 Corinthians 2.17. Summary: Speak in a natural, sincere way that conveys how you feel about your topics and your listeners)
Presenter: Speaking in a conversational manner means talking in a natural, sincere way that conveys how you feel. While this might sound simple, it can be a challenge when you’re nervous. These four steps can help:
(Text: How to do it: Pray. Prepare carefully. Speak from the heart. Look at your listeners)
pray, prepare carefully, speak from the heart, and look at your listeners. This is important when we give talks and when we share in the ministry; let’s see why as we watch these examples of public witnessing.
(A couple stand next to a literature cart in the street. A woman approaches and reaches for a publication)
Brother: Take whatever you want. There’s no charge.
(The woman jumps)
Woman: Oh, that’s OK. Maybe another time.
(She shakes her head and walks away)
Presenter: Could the brother’s manner have been more conversational? Well, he could have tried to make eye contact.
(Text: Review: Eye contact. Posture. Gestures. Facial expressions)
What about his posture, gestures, and facial expressions? Let’s watch a better example.
(The couple stand next to a literature cart in the street. The woman approaches)
Sister: Good morning.
Woman: Good morning.
Brother: You’re welcome to take whatever you like.
Woman: Thank you.
(The woman selects a tract about suffering)
Brother: Do you think we’ll ever see an end to suffering?
Woman: I’m not really sure.
Brother: If you have just a moment, I’d like to show you what the Bible has to say.
(He shows the woman his phone)
Woman: OK.
Presenter: A friendly manner opened the way to a conversation.
(Text: Review: Friendly manner)
It can also help when we’re giving a talk.
(Text: How to do it: Speak using your own words)
We should try to speak in our own words. Let’s observe these examples.
(A Brother presents a talk. Silhouette of audience)
Brother: When Jesus was nailed to the stake in 33 C.E., it hardly looked possible that he could have a kingdom at all. But in his preaching of the Kingdom of God, he had not been a proclaimer of erroneous news. On the third day after his death, the Founder of the Kingdom made sure that the disciples of Jesus would not be offering up prayer for a government that was not possible. Jehovah resurrected the One who was to represent Him in the prayed-for Kingdom and clothed him with immortality.
Presenter: Did you understand the words of the speaker? Most likely. Was it spiritual food? Yes. Was he using conversational manner? Not really.
(Text: Review: Use your own words. make eye contact)
Could he have had more eye contact with his audience? Yes. Let’s watch the speaker present the information in his own words.
(The Brother presents a talk. Silhouette of audience)
Brother: Jesus preached about God’s Kingdom and taught his followers to pray for it. But when he died in 33 C.E., they may have wondered if the Kingdom really would come. Any doubts they had were erased three days later when Jehovah resurrected his Son, the future King of his Kingdom.
Presenter: A natural, sincere delivery is more appealing. It holds people’s attention, puts them at ease, and makes them more receptive to what you have to say.
(Text: Review: Holds attention. Puts audience at ease. Makes audience more receptive. Apply Yourself to Reading and Teaching 2. Conversation Manner. 2 Corinthians 2.17)
(Logo: Black capital letters JW.ORG inside a white box. Copyright 2020 Watchtower Bible and Tract Society of Pennsylvania) [Click to close]
How to Do It: Prepare prayerfully and carefully. Pray for help to concentrate, not on yourself, but on your message. Fix in your mind the main points you need to convey. Express thoughts in your own words; do not simply recite expressions word for word as they appear in print.
Tip: If you plan to read from the Bible or another publication, get to know the passage well so that your reading will be fluent. If people are quoted, read their words with feeling, without being overly dramatic.
Speak from the heart. Think about why your listeners need to hear the message. Focus on them. Then your posture, gestures, and facial expressions will convey warm sincerity and friendliness.
Tip: Do not confuse naturalness with casualness. Maintain the dignity of your message by using clear speech and proper grammar.
Look at your listeners. Maintain eye contact where it is not offensive to do so. When you give a discourse, look at one individual in the audience at a time, rather than looking at or scanning over the entire group. [End of Reference Material]
Apply Yourself to the Field Ministry 4. Starting a Conversation (3 minutes)
House to House. (Love People Make Disciples lesson 1 point 5)
[Reference Material Love People Make Disciples lesson Interest in Others point 5] Imitate Jesus. Listen. a. Don’t talk too much. b. Encourage the other person to express himself. When appropriate, ask questions. [End of Reference material]
5. Starting a Conversation (4 minutes)
Informal Witnessing. Offer a Bible study. (Love People Make Disciples lesson 2 point 4)
[Reference Material Love People Make Disciples lesson Naturalness point 4] Imitate Philip. Be patient. Do not feel that you must introduce a Bible truth immediately. Wait for the right opportunity so that you can bring it up naturally. Sometimes, this may mean waiting until the next conversation you have with the person. [End of Reference material]
6. Making Disciples (5 minutes)
Encourage a Bible student who is facing family opposition. (Apply yourself to reading and teaching study 4)
[Reference Material] Apply yourself to reading and teaching. Study 4. Scriptures Properly Introduced.
[Quotation] Matthew 22.41 through 45: Now while the Pharisees were gathered together, Jesus asked them: 42 “What do you think about the Christ? Whose son is he?” They said to him: “David’s.” 43 He asked them: “How is it, then, that David under inspiration calls him Lord, saying, 44 ‘Jehovah said to my Lord: “Sit at my right hand until I put your enemies beneath your feet”’? 45 If, then, David calls him Lord, how is he his son?” [End Quotation]
Summary: Prepare the minds of your listeners before you read a scripture.
[Press play below for Video: Study 4. Scriptures Properly Introduced. (5:06)]
[Click for Transcript]|[Study 4. Scriptures Properly Introduced]
(Text: Apply Yourself to Reading and Teaching. 4 Scriptures Properly Introduced. Matthew 22.41 through 45. Summary: Prepare the minds of your listeners before you read a scripture)
Presenter: "Why give attention to the way you introduce a scripture? Because the promises of God, which we find in his written Word, have tremendous power. Hebrews 4.12 says: “The word of God is alive and exerts power and is sharper than any two-edged sword and pierces even to the dividing of soul and spirit, and of joints from the marrow, and is able to discern thoughts and intentions of the heart.” Yes, God’s Word has the power to reach a person’s heart, so we should always use it as the basis for our teaching. But first, we should ensure that our listeners are properly focused on those inspired words. How might you do that? Indicate what the text will reveal, cite the Bible as God’s Word, and say something that will make the listeners want to read the verse.
(Text: How to do it: determine why you are reading the scripture. Cite the Bible as an authority. Arouse interest in the scripture)
In the following demonstration, see if the speaker accomplishes any of those goals.
(A brother presents a talk. Silhouette of audience)
Brother: "Please turn to Psalm 55.22. Even though we have read this many times before, let’s read it again: “Throw your burden on Jehovah, and he will sustain you. Never will he allow the righteous one to fall.”"
Presenter: "Although a Kingdom Hall audience will likely turn to a scripture because you invite them to, this audience didn’t know why the scripture was being read, nor did the speaker give them any reason to be especially interested in what it says.
(Text: Review: Speaker did not establish why the scripture was being read. Speaker did not arouse interest)
How might the speaker properly introduce a Bible verse? There are a few ways to do this.
(Text: Ask a question that the scripture will answer)
First, he could ask a question that the scripture will answer. Let’s watch an example of that."
(The brother presents a talk. Silhouette of audience)
Brother: "When a problem is so severe that it seems you can think of nothing else, what can you do? The answer is found at Psalm 55.22."
Presenter: "Or the speaker could pose a problem that the scripture will help to solve."
(Text: Pose a problem that the scripture will solve)
(The brother presents a talk. Silhouette of audience)
Brother: "Imagine that your marriage mate or a fellow believer has said or done something hurtful to you. The Bible tells us how not to respond at Romans 12.17 and 18. Notice what it says."
Presenter: "Another good way to introduce Bible accounts is by stating a principle that the account will illustrate.
(Text: State a principle that the Scriptural account will illustrate)
(The brother presents a talk. Silhouette of audience)
Brother: "We can avoid many problems by following divine instructions. Please turn to 2 Samuel 6.2 through 7 and notice what happened when David didn’t follow the proper procedure for transporting the ark of the covenant."
Presenter: "What else must we do to introduce scriptures properly, especially when our audience includes unbelievers?
(Text: How to do it: Cite God’s Word as the authority)
Cite God’s Word as the authority. Watch the following demonstration and see if you can discern how the publisher might improve in drawing attention to the scripture."
(At a door, a sister speaks with a woman)
Sister: "Will crime and wickedness always exist? David gives us the answer here at Psalm 37.10 and 11."
Presenter: "The publisher aroused interest in what she was about to read by raising a question, and she correctly identified David as the writer. Although it’s not wrong to mention the name of the Bible writer, in this case the householder might have wondered, ‘Who is David?’ And even if she knew who David was, she might have viewed his words as an ancient human opinion. Let’s see how the sister could introduce this scripture in a way that inspires more confidence in its reliability."
(At a door, the sister speaks with a woman)
Sister: "Will crime and wickedness always exist? God’s Word gives us the answer here at Psalm 37.10 and 11."
Presenter: "So before reading a scripture, do more than simply tell your audience where it can be found and invite them to follow along.
(Text: Review: Determine why you are reading the scripture)
Indicate the key point it will make and say something to make your listeners want to read it.
(Text: Arouse interest in the scripture. Cite the Bible as an authority)
Especially when speaking to unbelievers, introduce the scripture in a way that indicates its authority. By doing these things, you can prepare the minds of your listeners for the important words that you’ll read."
(Text: Apply Yourself to Reading and Teaching. 4 Scriptures Properly Introduced. Matthew 22.41 through 45)
(Logo: Black capital letters JW.ORG inside a white box. Copyright 2019 Watchtower Bible and Tract Society of Pennsylvania) [Click to close]
How to Do It: Determine why you are reading the scripture. Introduce each scripture in a way that draws your listeners’ attention to the key point you are making with the verse.
Tip: Take the context into account. Attribute quotations to the correct speaker and Bible books to the correct writer.
Cite the Bible as an authority. When you are speaking to people who believe in God, draw attention to the Bible as God’s Word, thus crediting it as the highest source of wisdom.
Arouse interest in the scripture. Ask a question that the scripture will answer, pose a problem that the scripture will help solve, or state a principle that the Scriptural account will illustrate.
Tip: Take into account what your listeners already know about the subject and the scripture. Introduce even a familiar text in an appealing way, and help your listeners to take a fresh look at it. [End of Inserted Reference Material]
Living as Christians Song 155 Our Joy Eternally. Based on Psalm 16.11
1. The stars that fill the summer night
Look down from above.
The beauty of the day and night
You fashioned with love.
Your hands prepared the land and sea,
And ev’rything that came to be
Brought joy to your heart.
There is joy in your creation,
In the message of salvation,
And the Paradise to come.
But to have your love forever
Is a real and lasting treasure.
You alone will prove to be
Our joy eternally.
2. Jehovah, we have all we need
To bring us delight
The things we hear and touch and see
And feel deep inside.
You gave us such a perfect start,
Eternity in ev’ry heart,
And joy in our lives.
There is joy in your creation,
In the message of salvation,
And the Paradise to come.
But to have your love forever
Is a real and lasting treasure.
You alone will prove to be
Our joy eternally.
This joy could not be ours
Without the gift of your Son.
His sacrifice has paid the price
So joy could be ours for all time.
There is joy in your creation,
In the message of salvation,
And the Paradise to come.
But to have your love forever
Is a real and lasting treasure.
You alone will prove to be
Our joy eternally.
There is joy in your creation,
In the message of salvation,
And the Paradise to come.
But to have your love forever
Is a real and lasting treasure.
You alone will prove to be
Our joy eternally.
[End of Song. Press Play below to play this song with Audio Description]
7. We Can Have a Cheerful Heart Despite Our Trials (15 minutes) Discussion.
Play the video We Can Rejoice Despite Distress, Hunger, and Nakedness. Then ask the audience: What did you learn from these experiences?
[Press play below for Video: We Can Rejoice Despite Distress, Hunger, and Nakedness (9:01)]
[Click for transcript]|[Transcript: We Can Rejoice Despite Distress, Hunger, and Nakedness
Rebecca Vorster: We knew when we first got married that we would enjoy having a family.
So when we first found out that we were pregnant, we were overjoyed.
[Text: Chance and Rebecca Vorster. United States]
Chance Vorster: When Becky first told me she was pregnant, it’s like a light switch went off in my heart. Immediately, I felt like a dad.
AD: Chance and Rebecca Vorster
Rebecca: Instantly, you begin to make plans.
AD: United States.
It was like all this love just flooded in.
Chance: One day, Becky was feeling a little off, and a friend encouraged us, “Just go see the doctor.” So we did. And while we were there, they did an ultrasound. The doctor came back and they said there wasn’t a heartbeat anymore. That was a very difficult moment, something I can never forget. Because all of a sudden, all of those hopes, those dreams, those preparations you are making, they’re gone.
AD: She walks through a field alone
Rebecca: This place in your heart that opened up to make room for this child is now this huge, gaping, open hole and there’s nothing to fill it. It just is an incredible emptiness.
Chance: We didn’t know what to do. But it was a meeting night, so we wanted to go to the meeting. It felt like the place where Jehovah’s holy spirit is, and we wanted to be there because we knew we were not going to be able to survive this on our own strength. We needed Jehovah. Rebecca: After people learned that we had lost the baby, so many people shared a little bit of their experiences with me, which made us feel not alone, for sure.
Chance: But Jehovah has also given us some incredible friends, friends who have stuck closer to us than a brother, friends who always seem to know when we’re having a hard day, who have prayed with us, who have taken walks with us, listened. And I know those are expressions Jehovah has given us.
AD: In the ministry with friends.
Rebecca: Regaining joy is a work in progress. There was a particular scripture in my personal study that I found very helpful, Psalm 139, where it talks about how there’s nowhere that Jehovah can’t find us. There’s no darkness that is too dark for Jehovah. And it felt like such a dark place. Dwelling on that scripture was something that helped me a lot. And gradually, bit by bit, I felt like Jehovah did help me to see beautiful things again.
AD: On a walk they hold hands and laugh. Ariel view of a town in a lush green valley.
Gricilidys Navarro: Well, here in Venezuela, long before the crisis, there weren’t so many financial problems like we have today.
AD: Gricilidys Navarro. Venezuela
We could go to the stores, we could buy the amount of food we wanted, and life was peaceful.
AD: She uses a hand mill to grind corn then cooks arepas over an outdoor fire.
For us, the situation started to get really bad five years ago. It was hard to get any food at all, even basic items. When it came time to buy something, well, it was all gone. There were two elders that, I can say, were checking on me almost daily, always asking how much food I needed. When I prepared it and served it, my main concern was that my children would get enough.
AD: She watches her young son kick a soccer ball in front of the house
I always gave them more food. Even though my youngest boy would ask, “Mommy, is that what you’re going to eat?” I would tell him, “Yes, dear, I’m fine with this.” Then he would say, “I don’t think so.”
AD: She scrapes dry corn kernels into a plastic bag.
I would think, ‘I can handle this,’ but the amount that I was eating just wasn’t enough for my body.
AD: Outside she cooks at the fire her thin frame bent over a pot.
One Sunday morning, during the meeting, I wasn’t feeling very well but, thanks to Jehovah, my daughter was nearby. When I came to, she said, “Mom, you fainted three times!” I said, “That can’t be!” So the brothers immediately took me to the doctor. I was diagnosed as having severe malnutrition. The brothers began a plan of action: They brought food that was already prepared and, in fact, they would sit by me until I finished my food. I have not yet fully recovered my body weight, because I was a little heavier. But healthwise, I have felt very well.
AD: She removes clean laundry from a clothesline then folds it.
The elders were always looking after me, and that boosted my energy. And definitely, I never lost my joy.
AD: At a congregation meeting an elder encourages her.
And it’s all thanks to Jehovah! Thanks to him because he is the One who sustains me. He clothes me, he feeds me, and he gives me great friends. That is what Jehovah gives me.
AD: At the Kingdom Hall she smiles. Time lapse of the New York City skyline.
[Text: Brian and Jacqueline Alexander. United States]
Brian: Well, one thing you have to understand about living in New York City is that it’s a very fast-paced life.
AD: Brian and Jacqueline Alexander
So you’ve got to keep up with that lifestyle.
AD: United States
Jacqueline: We were doing pretty fine, and we were happy pioneering, working, just trying to survive in New York.
Brian: Some of the things that you usually have to worry about is your safety, being careful of your surroundings. But hurricanes are just something we never considered; it’s something we never had to worry about.
AD: While driving on the Brooklyn Bridge in heavy rain an emergency alert sounds.
The day when we first heard the warning, it was raining outside and kind of windy. We saw the water coming into the parking lot where our apartment was, and that’s when I realised something was about to happen.
AD: A massive pile of mangled cars and debris.
Jacqueline: We got out with the clothes on our back. It was just total devastation. You lose everything, one single night.
AD: Their wedding photo in flood water.
Brian: I never had any thought that water would come into our place and destroy everything from our material possessions to our clothes. And I truly felt what it was like to be destitute. It just broke my heart. And all I could do was wonder, ‘Where do my wife and I go from here?’ Our assembly was scheduled for that weekend. I didn’t even have a suit jacket or a tie. I think I probably took for granted something as simple as clothing. I always had it.
Jacqueline: But the brothers and sisters stepped in to assist in so many different ways. I heard a knock on the door that Friday, with three suits and shoes!
Brian: They purchased clothing for us. It was a most unbelievable experience. These friends gave us big hugs and gave us envelopes. We are fully convinced we were clothed by Jehovah’s love. We were able to go to our assembly and enjoy taking in spiritual food, even though we were in that situation. Even though we lost everything physically, we were still able to keep on pioneering, which we have been doing up to this day.
Jacqueline: Jehovah made a promise. If we keep seeking first his Kingdom, everything else he will take care of. And that’s where my joy comes from.
Brian: No matter what type of tribulation you go through in your life, and even if it’s to the point of nakedness, it will never ever be able to stop or cut off the relationship that we have with our God, Jehovah.
AD: Smiling they hold hands as they pull a witnessing cart.
[Logo: Black capital letters JW.ORG in a white box. Copyright 2020 Watchtower Bible and Tract Society of Pennsylvania] [Click to close]
8. Congregation Bible Study (30 minutes)
“Bearing Thorough Witness” About God’s Kingdom, chapter 27 paragraphs 1 through 9 [Press play below for the audio of the Congregation Bible Study]
Chapter 27. “Bearing Thorough Witness”
Imprisoned in Rome, Paul continues to preach
Based on Acts 28.11 through 31
Question 1. What confidence do Paul and his companions have, and why?
1. A vessel bearing the figurehead “Sons of Zeus,” likely a large grain carrier, is sailing from the Mediterranean island of Malta to Italy. The year is about 59 C.E. On board are the apostle Paul, a prisoner under escort, and fellow Christians Luke and Aristarchus.
[Quotation] Acts 27.2: Going aboard a ship from Adramyttium that was about to sail to ports along the coast of the province of Asia, we set sail; Aristarchus, a Macedonian from Thessalonica, was with us. [End Quotation]
Unlike the ship’s crew, these evangelizers seek no protection from the sons of the Greek god Zeus, the twin brothers Castor and Pollux. (See study note on Acts 28.11)
[Quotation] Acts 28.11: Three months later we set sail in a ship with the figurehead “Sons of Zeus.” The ship was from Alexandria and had wintered in the island.
[Study note: Sons of Zeus] According to Greek and Roman mythology, the “Sons of Zeus” (Greek, Dioskouroi) were Castor and Pollux, twin sons of the god Zeus (Jupiter) and the Spartan Queen Leda. Among other things, they were regarded as the protectors of mariners, able to save sailors imperiled at sea. This detail regarding the ship’s figurehead is another testimony that the account was written by an eyewitness. [End of note] [End Quotation]
Rather, Paul and his companions serve Jehovah, who made known that Paul would bear witness to the truth in Rome and stand before Caesar.
[Quotation] Acts 23.11: But the following night the Lord stood by him and said: “Take courage! For just as you have been giving a thorough witness about me in Jerusalem, so you must also bear witness in Rome.” [End Quotation]
[Quotation] Acts 27.24: and said: ‘Have no fear, Paul. You must stand before Caesar, and look! God has granted to you all those sailing with you.’ [End Quotation]
Question 2 and 3. What route does Paul’s ship take, and what support has Paul enjoyed from the start?
2. Three days after docking at Syracuse, a beautiful Sicilian city rivaling Athens and Rome, the ship sails to Rhegium on the toe of the Italian peninsula. Then, aided by a south wind, the vessel makes the 175-nautical-mile (200 miles; 320 kilometers) trip to the Italian port of Puteoli (near modern-day Naples) in optimum time, arriving on the second day.
[Quotation] Acts 28.12 and 13: Putting into port at Syracuse, we remained there for three days; 13 from there we went along and arrived at Rhegium. A day later a south wind sprang up and we made it into Puteoli on the second day. [End Quotation]
3. Paul is now on the final leg of his trip to Rome, where he will appear before Emperor Nero. From start to finish, “the God of all comfort” has been with Paul.
[Quotation] 2 Corinthians 1.3: Praised be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of tender mercies and the God of all comfort, [End Quotation]
As we shall see, that support does not diminish; nor does Paul lose his zeal as a missionary.
“Paul Thanked God and Took Courage” (Acts 28.14 and 15)
[Click to read scripture]|[Acts 28.14 and 15] Here we found brothers and were urged to remain with them for seven days, and so we went toward Rome. 15 From there the brothers, when they heard the news about us, came as far as the Marketplace of Appius and Three Taverns to meet us. On catching sight of them, Paul thanked God and took courage. [End of scripture] [Click to close]
Two parts: Question 4 and 5a. What hospitality did Paul and his companions receive at Puteoli, and why may he have been granted so much liberty?
Question 4 and 5b. Even when in prison, how may Christians benefit from their good conduct?
4. At Puteoli, Paul and his companions “found brothers and were urged to remain with them for seven days.”
[Quotation] Acts 28.14: Here we found brothers and were urged to remain with them for seven days, and so we went toward Rome. [End Quotation]
What a wonderful example of Christian hospitality! No doubt those hospitable brothers were repaid many times over by the spiritual encouragement they received from Paul and his companions. Why, though, would a prisoner under watch be granted so much liberty? Possibly because the apostle had won the full trust of his Roman guards.
5. Likewise today, Jehovah’s servants, while in prisons and concentration camps, have often been granted special freedoms and privileges because of their Christian conduct. In Romania, for example, a man serving 75 years for robbery began to study God’s Word and underwent a remarkable change in personality. In response, the prison authorities assigned him to go into town, unescorted, to purchase items for the prison! Above all, of course, our good conduct glorifies Jehovah.
[Quotation] 1 Peter 2.12: Maintain your conduct fine among the nations, so that when they accuse you of being wrongdoers, they may be eyewitnesses of your fine works and, as a result, glorify God in the day of his inspection. [End Quotation]
Question 6 and 7. How did the Roman brothers show extraordinary love?
6. From Puteoli, Paul and his companions likely walked some 30 miles (50 kilometers) to Capua on the Appian Way, which led to Rome. Paved with large, flat blocks of lava, this famous road offered splendid views of the Italian countryside and, at certain points along its course, of the Mediterranean Sea. The road also took travelers through the Pontine Marshes, a swampy area some 40 miles (60 kilometers) from Rome and the location of the Marketplace of Appius. When the brothers in Rome “heard the news about us,” wrote Luke, some came as far as the Marketplace, while others waited at Three Taverns, a rest stop about 30 miles (50 kilometers) from Rome. What extraordinary love!
[Quotation] Acts 28.15: From there the brothers, when they heard the news about us, came as far as the Marketplace of Appius and Three Taverns to meet us. On catching sight of them, Paul thanked God and took courage. [End Quotation]
7. The Marketplace of Appius provided little comfort for the traveler needing a respite from the rigors of his journey. Roman poet and satirist Horace describes the Marketplace as “crowded with sailors and surly inn-keepers.” He wrote that “the water was most execrable,” or foul. And he even refused to dine there! Despite all the discomforts, however, the delegation from Rome happily waited for Paul and his companions in order to escort them safely along the final leg of their journey.
Question 8. Why did Paul thank God “on catching sight of” his brothers?
8. “On catching sight of” his brothers, the account says, “Paul thanked God and took courage.”
[Quotation] Acts 28.15: From there the brothers, when they heard the news about us, came as far as the Marketplace of Appius and Three Taverns to meet us. On catching sight of them, Paul thanked God and took courage. [End Quotation]
Yes, at the mere sight of these dear ones, some of whom the apostle may have known personally, he felt strengthened and comforted. Why did Paul thank God? He knew that unselfish love is an aspect of the spirit’s fruitage.
[Quotation] Galatians 5.22: On the other hand, the fruitage of the spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faith, [End Quotation]
Today, too, holy spirit moves Christians to put themselves out for one another and to comfort those in need.
[Quotation] 1 Thessalonians 5.11: Therefore, keep encouraging one another and building one another up, just as you are in fact doing. [End Quotation]
[Quotation] 1 Thessalonians 5.14: On the other hand, we urge you, brothers, to warn the disorderly, speak consolingly to those who are depressed, support the weak, be patient toward all. [End Quotation]
Question 9. How can we reflect the spirit that was shown by the brothers who met Paul?
9. For example, holy spirit impels responsive ones to extend hospitality to circuit overseers, visiting missionaries, and other full-time servants, many of whom have made great sacrifices in order to serve Jehovah more fully. Ask yourself: ‘Can I do more to support the visit of the circuit overseer, perhaps showing hospitality to him and his wife if he is married? Can I arrange to work along with them in the ministry?’ In return, you may receive a rich blessing. For example, imagine the joy the Roman brothers felt as they listened to Paul and his companions relate some of their many upbuilding experiences.
[Quotation] Acts 15.3 and 4: So after being escorted partway by the congregation, these men continued on through both Phoenicia and Samaria, relating in detail the conversion of people of the nations and bringing great joy to all the brothers. 4 On arriving in Jerusalem, they were kindly received by the congregation and the apostles and the elders, and they related the many things God had done by means of them. [End Quotation]
Song 100 Receive Them With Hospitality. Based on Acts 17.7
1. Jehovah shows sincere hospitality.
He cares for all without partiality.
He gives both rain and sun,
withholding these from none;
He fills our hearts with food and good cheer.
Whenever we show favor to lowly ones,
We imitate our God as beloved sons.
Our Father will repay
the goodness we display,
Our kindness that is truly sincere.
2. We never know the good that may come about
When we see those in need and we help them out.
Though strangers they may be,
in hospitality,
We lend a hand to care for their needs.
Like Lydia of old, we say. ‘Be my guest.’
When they come to our home, they find peace and rest.
Our Father is aware
of all those ev’rywhere,
Who imitate his merciful deeds.
[End of Song. Press Play below to play this song with Audio Description]
