Our Christian Life and Ministry. June 16 through June 22 [Press play below to hear the Meeting Workbook]
[Press play below to hear Proverbs 18]
[Click to read Bible chapter]|[Proverbs 18] Whoever isolates himself pursues his own selfish desires; He rejects all practical wisdom. 2 A stupid person takes no pleasure in understanding; He would rather disclose what is in his heart. 3 When a wicked person comes, contempt also comes, And along with dishonor there is disgrace. 4 The words of a man’s mouth are deep waters. The fountain of wisdom is a bubbling brook. 5 It is not good to show partiality to the wicked one Or to deprive the righteous one of justice. 6 The speech of the stupid one leads to quarrels, And his mouth invites a beating. 7 The mouth of the stupid is his ruin, And his lips are a snare for his life. 8 The words of a slanderer are like tasty morsels; They are gulped right down into the stomach. 9 Whoever is lazy in his work Is a brother to the one who causes ruin. 10 The name of Jehovah is a strong tower. Into it the righteous one runs and receives protection. 11 The wealth of the rich is his fortified city; It is like a protective wall in his imagination. 12 Before a crash a man’s heart is lofty, And before glory there is humility. 13 When anyone replies to a matter before he hears the facts, It is foolish and humiliating. 14 A person’s spirit can sustain him through illness, But who can bear a crushed spirit? 15 The heart of the understanding one acquires knowledge, And the ear of the wise seeks to find knowledge. 16 A man’s gift opens the way for him; It gives him access to great people. 17 The first to state his case seems right, Until the other party comes and cross-examines him. 18 Casting lots puts an end to disputes And decides between strong opponents. 19 A brother offended is more unyielding than a fortified city, And there are disputes like the bars of a fortress. 20 From the fruitage of a man’s speech his stomach will be filled; He will be satisfied with what his lips produce. 21 Death and life are in the power of the tongue; Those who love to use it will eat its fruitage. 22 The one who finds a good wife has found something good, And he receives Jehovah’s favor. 23 The poor man implores when speaking, But the rich man answers harshly. 24 There are companions ready to crush one another, But there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother. [End of Bible chapter] [Click to close]
Song 90 Encourage One Another. Based on Hebrews 10.24 and 25
1. As we encourage one another
To serve Jehovah faithfully,
We find the bonds of love are strengthened;
Fine works bring peace and unity.
The love we find among God’s people
Gives each the courage to endure.
Our congregation is a refuge,
A place where we can feel secure.
2. A word when spoken at the right time
Is, oh, how comforting to hear!
We hear these words of consolation
From friends so faithful and so dear.
How good it is to work together
With those whose hopes and goals we share!
We seek to strengthen one another
And help each one his burden bear.
3. As we with eyes of faith are seeing
The nearness of Jehovah’s day,
We need our gathering together
To keep us walking in the way.
United with Jehovah’s people,
We hope to serve eternally.
So we encourage one another
To hold to our integrity.
[End of Song. Press Play below to play this song with Audio Description]
Treasures From God’s Word, 1. Speak Refreshingly to Those Coping With Health Challenges (10 minutes)
Speak with godly wisdom
[Inserted scripture] Proverbs 18.4: The words of a man’s mouth are deep waters. The fountain of wisdom is a bubbling brook. [End of inserted scripture]
[Reference material Watchtower 2022.10 22 paragraph 17] Think before you speak. If not careful, we can cause great harm with our words. The Bible states: “Thoughtless speech is like the stabs of a sword, but the tongue of the wise is a healing.” (Proverbs 12.18) We preserve good relationships when we avoid gossiping about the faults of others.
[Quotation] Proverbs 20.19: A slanderer goes about revealing confidential talk; Do not associate with one who loves to gossip. [End Quotation]
For our speech to heal rather than to hurt, we must fill our heart with knowledge from God’s Word.
[Quotation] Luke 6.45: A good man brings good out of the good treasure of his heart, but a wicked man brings what is wicked out of his wicked treasure; for out of the heart’s abundance his mouth speaks. [End Quotation]
When we meditate on what the Bible says, our words can become like a “fountain of wisdom” that refreshes others. (Proverbs 18.4). [End of reference material]
Try to understand what the person is going through
[Inserted scripture] Proverbs 18.13: When anyone replies to a matter before he hears the facts, It is foolish and humiliating. [End of inserted scripture]
[Reference material More Topics article How to Deal With a Sudden Health Problem Box] Be a good listener. One of the best ways to help your friend is to listen when he wants to talk. Do not feel that you have to respond to everything he says. Often it is enough just to listen. Try to keep an open mind and avoid judging. Do not assume you know how your friend feels, especially if his illness is not outwardly noticeable.
[Quotation] Proverbs 11.2: When presumptuousness comes, dishonor will follow, But wisdom is with the modest ones. [End Quotation]
Speak positively. You may not know what to say, but saying even a few words to acknowledge your friend’s situation will likely be more comforting than saying nothing at all. If you are at a loss for words, try saying something simple yet heartfelt, such as “I’m not sure what to say, but I want you to know I care.” Avoid using expressions like “It could always be worse” or “At least you don’t have ....”
You can show your personal interest by learning about the illness your friend has. He will likely appreciate your effort to understand what he is going through, and your comments will be more meaningful. (Proverbs 18.13) However, be careful not to offer unsolicited advice.
Offer practical help. Instead of assuming that you know how to help, ask what you can do. Remember, though, that your friend may not admit that he needs help, because he does not want to be a burden. If that happens, try suggesting something practical you could do, such as shopping, cleaning, or some other task.
[Quotation] Galatians 6.2: Go on carrying the burdens of one another, and in this way you will fulfill the law of the Christ. [End Quotation]
Do not give up. As your friend copes with his illness, he may at times cancel plans with you or not feel like talking with you. Be patient and understanding. Continue to offer the support he needs.
[Quotation] Proverbs 18.24: There are companions ready to crush one another, But there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother. [End of Quotation] [End of reference material]
Be a supportive and patient friend
[Inserted scripture] Proverbs 18.24: There are companions ready to crush one another, But there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother. [End of inserted scripture]
[Reference material Public Watchtower 2023.1 page 14 paragraph 3 through page 15 paragraph 1] “Speak consolingly.” 1 Thessalonians 5.14.
[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]
Your friend may be anxious, or he may struggle with feelings of worthlessness. By reassuring him that you care, you can be comforting and encouraging, even if you do not know exactly what to say.
“A true friend shows love at all times.” Proverbs 17.17.
[Quotation] Proverbs 17.17: A true friend shows love at all times And is a brother who is born for times of distress. [End Quotation]
Offer practical help. Instead of assuming that you know how to help, ask what you can do. If your friend has a hard time expressing what he needs, try suggesting something practical you could do together, such as going for a walk. Or you could offer to help with shopping, cleaning, or some other task.—Galatians 6:2.
“Be patient.” 1 Thessalonians 5.14.
[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]
Your friend may not always be ready to talk. Reassure your friend that you will gladly listen when he does feel like talking. Because of his illness, your friend may say or do things that hurt you. He may cancel plans with you or become irritable. Be patient and understanding as you offer the support he needs. (Proverbs 18.24) [End of reference material]
Ask yourself, ‘What can I do to support my marriage mate if he or she is coping with a physical or mental health problem?’
[Image:] A husband listening empathetically as his wife shares her feelings with him.
2. Spiritual Gems (10 minutes)
Proverbs 18.18. Why were lots used in Bible times?
[Inserted scripture] Proverbs 18.18: Casting lots puts an end to disputes And decides between strong opponents. [End of inserted scripture]
[Reference material Insight volume 2 pages 271 and 272] The casting of lots is an ancient custom for deciding a question at issue. The method used was to cast pebbles or small bits or tablets of wood or of stone into the gathered folds of a garment, “the lap,” or into a vase, and then to shake them. The one whose lot fell out or was drawn out was the one chosen. The lot, like the oath, implied a prayer with it. Prayer was either expressed or implied, and Jehovah’s intervention was sought and anticipated. Lot (Hebrew, gohral) is used literally and figuratively with the thought of “share” or “portion.”
[Quotation] Joshua 15:1: The land allotted to the tribe of Judah for their families extended to the boundary of Edom, the wilderness of Zin, to the Negeb at its southern end. [End Quotation]
[Quotation] Psalm 16.5: Jehovah is my portion, my allotted share, and my cup. You safeguard my inheritance. [End Quotation]
[Quotation] Psalm 125.3: The scepter of wickedness will not remain upon the land allotted to the righteous, So that the righteous do not turn to doing what is wrong. [End Quotation]
[Quotation] Isaiah 57.6: With the smooth stones of the valley is your portion. Yes, these are your lot. Even to them you pour out drink offerings and offer gifts. Should I be satisfied with these things? [End Quotation]
[Quotation] Jeremiah 13.25: This is your lot, the portion that I have measured out to you,” declares Jehovah, “Because you have forgotten me and you trust in lies. [End Quotation]
Uses. Proverbs 16.33 says: “Into the lap the lot is cast down, but every decision by it is from Jehovah.” In Israel the proper use of a lot was to end a controversy: “The lot puts even contentions to rest, and it separates even the mighty from one another.” (Proverbs 18.18) It was not used for sport, play, or gambling. There were no bets, wagers, or stakes, no losses or winnings. It was not done to enrich the temple or the priests, nor was it done for charity. Contrariwise, the Roman soldiers did have selfish gain in mind when, as foretold at Psalm 22.18,
[Quotation] Psalm 22.18: They divide my garments among themselves, And they cast lots for my clothing. [End Quotation]
they cast lots for Jesus’ garments.
[Quotation] Matthew 27:35: When they had nailed him to the stake, they distributed his outer garments by casting lots, [End Quotation] [End of reference material]
What spiritual gems from this week’s Bible reading would you like to share?
3. Bible Reading (4 minutes)
Proverbs 18.1 through 17 Whoever isolates himself pursues his own selfish desires; He rejects all practical wisdom. A stupid person takes no pleasure in understanding; He would rather disclose what is in his heart. When a wicked person comes, contempt also comes, And along with dishonor there is disgrace. The words of a man’s mouth are deep waters. The fountain of wisdom is a bubbling brook. It is not good to show partiality to the wicked one Or to deprive the righteous one of justice. The speech of the stupid one leads to quarrels, And his mouth invites a beating. The mouth of the stupid is his ruin, And his lips are a snare for his life. The words of a slanderer are like tasty morsels; They are gulped right down into the stomach. Whoever is lazy in his work Is a brother to the one who causes ruin. The name of Jehovah is a strong tower. Into it the righteous one runs and receives protection. The wealth of the rich is his fortified city; It is like a protective wall in his imagination. Before a crash a man’s heart is lofty, And before glory there is humility. When anyone replies to a matter before he hears the facts, It is foolish and humiliating. A person’s spirit can sustain him through illness, But who can bear a crushed spirit? The heart of the understanding one acquires knowledge, And the ear of the wise seeks to find knowledge. A man’s gift opens the way for him; It gives him access to great people. The first to state his case seems right, Until the other party comes and cross-examines him. [End of scripture]
[Reference Material] Apply yourself to reading and teaching. Study 11. Enthusiasm.
[Quotation] Romans 12.11: Be industrious, not lazy. Be aglow with the spirit. Slave for Jehovah. [End Quotation]
Summary: Stimulate and motivate your listeners by speaking with zeal.
[Press play below for Video: Study 11. Enthusiasm. (5:04)]
[Click for Transcript]|[Study 11 Enthusiasm]
(Text: Apply Yourself to Reading and Teaching: 11 Enthusiasm. Romans 12.11. Summary: Stimulate and motivate your listeners by speaking with zeal.)
Presenter: What fills you with enthusiasm? Do you enjoy talking about tasty food? Or do you speak with enthusiasm about the playful antics of your little niece or nephew? Reasons for enthusiasm vary from person to person. But why might a speaker who loves Jehovah and who believes what he’s saying lack enthusiasm when speaking? It’s not enough just to prepare what to say.
(Text: How to do it: Get your heart involved. Think about your listeners. Breathe life into your delivery)
We must get our heart involved, think about our listeners, and breathe life into our delivery. This is important both in the congregation and in the ministry. As you watch the following example, consider the question, ‘Does this sister need more enthusiasm for her subject or less?’
(At a door a sister speaks with a woman)
Sister: The coming Paradise will be wonderful. Notice just one of the prophecies in the Bible regarding the abundant blessings God has promised. It’s here at Isaiah 65.21 and 22: They will build houses and live in them, and they will plant vineyards and eat their fruitage. They will not build for someone else to inhabit, nor will they plant for others to eat.
Presenter: So how did she do? When we speak about the blessings of the new earth under God’s Kingdom, we should brim with enthusiasm. Enthusiasm is contagious. Let’s watch another example.
(At a door the sister speaks with a woman)
Sister: The coming Paradise will be wonderful! Notice just one of the prophecies in the Bible regarding the abundant blessings God has promised. It’s here at Isaiah 65.21 and 22: They will build houses and live in them, and they will plant vineyards and eat their fruitage. They will not build for someone else to inhabit, nor will they plant for others to eat. For the days of my people will be like the days of a tree, and the work of their hands my chosen ones will enjoy to the full.
Presenter: Well done! Our sister spoke from the heart and breathed life into her material. It was evident in her tone of voice and facial expression. Of course, we need to be balanced. We could tire our listeners if we project a high level of enthusiasm throughout our presentation. To illustrate this, watch this brother giving a talk at the Kingdom Hall.
(A brother presents a talk. Silhouette of audience)
Brother: What prophetic events can we expect in the near future? First, there will be a pronouncement of “peace and security.” Then, the great tribulation will begin when the nations turn on Babylon the Great, the world empire of false religion. However, in harmony with the words of Matthew 24.22, the attack will be cut short “on account of the chosen ones.” What will happen next? Gog of Magog, a coalition of nations, will attack God’s people.
Presenter: What do you think? The speaker was clearly enthusiastic, a bit too enthusiastic about the devastating events to come. Also, our listeners will be distracted if we use the same gesture repeatedly.
(Text: Make gestures meaningful. Express enthusiasm when: teaching main points; Motivating your listeners to take action.)
So, we should try to make our gestures meaningful and show enthusiasm primarily when teaching main points and when motivating our listeners to action. Let’s give our brother another chance.
(The brother presents a talk. Silhouette of audience)
Brother: What prophetic events can we expect in the near future? First, there will be a pronouncement of “peace and security.” Then, the great tribulation will begin when the nations turn on Babylon the Great, the world empire of false religion. However, in harmony with the words of Matthew 24.22, the attack will be cut short “on account of the chosen ones.” What will happen next? Gog of Magog, a coalition of nations, will attack God’s people. But Jehovah will rescue his servants during Armageddon, “the war of the great day of God the Almighty.” So, what must we do now?
Presenter: Romans 12.11 commands us to “be aglow with the spirit.” By putting enthusiasm into our delivery, we’ll stimulate and motivate our listeners to action.
(Text: Apply Yourself to Reading and Teaching: 11 Enthusiasm. Romans 12.11)
(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: Get your heart involved. As you prepare to deliver your presentation, think deeply about the importance of your message. Get to know your material so well that you can express yourself from the heart.
Think about your listeners. Meditate on how the information you will read or teach will benefit others. Consider ways to present that information in a way that will deepen your listeners’ appreciation for it.
Breathe life into your delivery. Speak with zeal. Use natural gestures and sincere facial expressions to reflect your feelings.
Tip: Take care not to distract your listeners by using the same gesture repeatedly as a mannerism. Make your gestures meaningful. Express enthusiasm primarily when teaching main points and motivating your listeners to take action. Do not tire your listeners by projecting a high level of enthusiasm throughout your presentation. [End of Reference Material]
Apply Yourself to the Field Ministry
4. Starting a Conversation (1 minute)
House to House. The person speaks another language. (Love People Make Disciples lesson 2 point 5)
[Reference Material Love People Make Disciples lesson Naturalness point 5] Imitate Philip Be adaptable. A conversation may go in an unexpected direction. So be willing to share something that is relevant to the person, even if that means discussing a different Bible truth than the one you had in mind. [End of Reference material]
5. Following Up (3 minutes)
Public Witnessing. The person asks you to be brief. (Love People Make Disciples lesson 7 point 4)
[Reference Material Love People Make Disciples lesson Perseverance point 4] Imitate Paul. Make an appointment. At the end of each conversation, try to confirm a specific time when you can speak with the person again. Be sure to keep the appointment. [End of Reference material]
6. Following Up (3 minutes)
Informal Witnessing. Teach the person an important truth about God’s Kingdom. (Love People Make Disciples lesson 9 point 5)
[Reference Material Love People Make Disciples lesson Empathy point 5] Imitate Jesus. Share information that addresses his needs. As soon as possible, demonstrate how a Bible study can answer his questions and can help him in practical ways. [End of Reference material]
7. Explaining Your Beliefs (4 minutes)
Demonstration. Frequently Asked Questions About Jehovah’s Witnesses article 29. Theme: Do You Believe in Creationism? (Love People Make Disciples lesson 5 point 5)
[Reference material Frequently Asked Questions About Jehovah’s Witnesses, Do Jehovah’s Witnesses Believe in Creationism?] No. Jehovah’s Witnesses do believe that God created everything. But we do not agree with creationism. Why not? Because a number of creationist ideas actually conflict with the Bible. Consider the following two examples: 1. Length of the six days of creation. Some creationists assert that the six days of creation were literal 24-hour days. But the word “day” in the Bible can refer to a considerable length of time.
[Quotation] Genesis 2.4: This is a history of the heavens and the earth in the time they were created, in the day that Jehovah God made earth and heaven. [End Quotation]
[Quotation] Psalm 90.4: For a thousand years are in your eyes just as yesterday when it is past, Just as a watch during the night. [End Quotation]
2. Age of the earth. Some creationists teach that the earth is just a few thousand years old. However, according to the Bible, the earth and the universe existed before the six days of creation.
[Quotation] Genesis 1.1: In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth. [End Quotation]
For that reason, Jehovah’s Witnesses have no objection to credible scientific research that indicates the earth may be billions of years old. Although Jehovah’s Witnesses believe in creation, we are not antiscience. We believe that true science and the Bible are compatible. [End of reference material]
[Reference Material Love People Make Disciples lesson Tact point 5] Imitate Paul. Agree with and commend the person where possible. He may sincerely believe that his religious beliefs are correct. Build common ground first, and then progressively help him understand what the Bible teaches. [End of Reference material]
Living as Christians. Song 144 Keep Your Eyes on the Prize! Based on 2 Corinthians 4.18
1. When the eyes of blind ones see again
And the ears of deaf ones hear again,
When the songs of children fill the air
And joy and peace are ev’rywhere,
When our loved ones will return to life,
To an earth that’s free from sin and strife,
You will see how God these things supplies,
If you keep your eyes on the prize.
2. When the wolves and lambs will feed as one,
When the bears and calves bask in the sun,
Then a mere young boy will lead them all,
And they will heed his childish call.
When our tears belong to yesterday,
When our fears and pain have passed away,
You will see how God these things supplies,
If you keep your eyes on the prize.
[End of Song. Press Play below to play this song with Audio Description]
8. Helping Loved Ones Draw Close to Jehovah “Without a Word” (15 minutes) Discussion.
Many of us know someone who is not presently serving Jehovah, perhaps our marriage mate, our child, or a dear friend who has strayed from the congregation. Have you ever caught yourself being overly forceful or even blunt in an attempt to persuade him to serve Jehovah? Though our motives are good, our words could actually make things worse.
[Quotation] Proverbs 12.18: Thoughtless speech is like the stabs of a sword, But the tongue of the wise is a healing. [End Quotation]
What would be a better approach?
First Peter 3.1 explains that an unbelieving husband “may be won without a word.”
[Quotation] 1 Peter 3.1: In the same way, you wives, be in subjection to your husbands, so that if any are not obedient to the word, they may be won without a word through the conduct of their wives, [End Quotation]
Even if a Christian sister’s husband refuses to discuss Bible truths with her, she may still be able to help him come to know Jehovah. Her conduct, which has been molded by such godly qualities as love, kindness, and wisdom, may soften his heart.
[Quotation] Proverbs 16.23: The heart of the wise one gives his mouth insight And adds persuasiveness to his speech. [End Quotation]
Our conduct and graciousness can have a good effect on loved ones who do not currently serve Jehovah.
[Quotation] Colossians 4.6: Let your words always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you will know how you should answer each person. [End Quotation]
[Study note, Gracious] The Greek word khaʹris, generally used in the Scriptures to describe God’s undeserved kindness, has a broad range of meanings. Here Paul uses it to convey the idea of speech that is beneficial, kind, appealing, even charming. (Compare Ephesians 4.29, where khaʹris is rendered “beneficial.”)
[Quotation] Ephesians 4.29: Let a rotten word not come out of your mouth, but only what is good for building up as the need may be, to impart what is beneficial to the hearers. [End Quotation]
The same word is rendered “gracious” at Luke 4.22 regarding Jesus’ speech in his hometown of Nazareth.
[Quotation] Luke 4.22: And they all began to give favorable witness about him and to be amazed at the gracious words coming out of his mouth, and they were saying: “This is a son of Joseph, is it not?” [End Quotation]
(Compare Psalm 45.2 where the Septuagint uses khaʹris to describe the gracious speech of the Messianic King.)
[Quotation] Psalm 45.2: You are the most handsome of the sons of men. Gracious speech flows from your lips. That is why God has blessed you forever. [End Quotation]
A Christian’s words should always be beneficial, kind, appealing, even charming. Paul thus suggests that gracious speech is not to be reserved for selected individuals or special occasions; rather, it is to be a Christian’s habit. [End of study note]
Play the video Successful Fighters for the Faith. Those With Unbelieving Mates. Then ask the audience: What do you learn from Sister Sasaki’s experience? What do you learn from Sister Ito’s experience? What do you learn from Sister Okada’s experience?
[Press play below for Video: Successful Fighters for the Faith. Those With Unbelieving Mates (3:26)]
[Click for Transcript]|[ Successful Fighters for the Faith. Those With Unbelieving Mates]
AD: Sisters from Japan
Hideko Sasaki: It was when my husband was really opposed.
AD: Hideko Sasaki
One night, he put a knife to his stomach and said, “Will you choose me or the truth?”
AD: Noriko Ito
Noriko Ito: My husband was cooperative. He would wave goodbye as we went to the meetings, but he wasn’t interested at all. I felt really jealous when I saw families sitting together at assemblies.
AD: Tomoe Okada
Tomoe Okada: Because of work and taking care of his mother, my husband gradually started missing meetings. Some in our congregation, with good intentions, pointed it out to him. But the way they did this made him feel misunderstood and discouraged, and he put the Bible and the publications away. I also had times when I wanted to drift away with him.
AD: Hideko
Hideko: I was really happy when I learned the truth. In my zeal, I bombarded my husband with information, and that made him worry that I had turned into a fanatic. I think he was genuinely concerned for his family and thought that I had joined a weird religion. One family in the congregation often invited us to meals and outdoor activities. I think my husband appreciated those small acts of kindness. I also tried to show that I appreciated him through my speech and conduct. When my children and I applied what we learned in our lives, I think he gradually became interested in the truth.
AD: Noriko
Noriko: The words “safeguard your heart” caught my eye. I decided to try and keep my heart and my children’s hearts toward Jehovah. When I went out in the ministry with my children, I would point out various aspects of God’s creation around us. And before my husband would come home from work, I made it a habit to teach them God’s Word.
AD: Tomoe
Tomoe: I made a conscious effort to see myself in Paradise with my husband. This strengthened my resolve to never leave the truth. I wrote caring notes to my husband when I went to the meetings. I was convinced that he would come back one day, and he did come back. I did not leave Jehovah, and so Jehovah never abandoned me.
AD: Noriko
Noriko: My husband never embraced the truth. However, right now all five of my children are in the truth, and I feel really blessed.
AD: Hideko
Hideko: Being able to serve Jehovah as a family along with my husband, the joy and appreciation just keep welling up.
[Logo: Black capital letters JW.ORG inside a white box. Copyright 2021 Watchtower Bible and Tract Society of Pennsylvania.] [Click to close]
[Image Alt:] Sister Sasaki
[Image Alt:] Sister Ito
[Image Alt:] Sister Okada
9. Congregation Bible Study (30 minutes)
“Bearing Thorough Witness” About God’s Kingdom, chapter 27 paragraphs 23 through 26, boxes “Paul’s Life After 61 C.E.” and “The Good News ‘Preached in All Creation’”
Question 23 and 24. Like Paul, how have many modern-day Christians demonstrated a positive attitude despite being unjustly confined?
23. By the time of his release, which is not mentioned in Acts, Paul had been in custody for some four years, two in Caesarea and two in Rome.* [Footnote] See the box “Paul’s Life After 61 C.E.” (In Braille, after paragraph 24) [End of footnote]
[Quotation] Acts 23.35: “I will give you a thorough hearing,” he said, “when your accusers arrive.” And he commanded that he be kept under guard in Herod’s palace. [End Quotation]
[Quotation] Acts 24.27: But when two years had elapsed, Felix was succeeded by Porcius Festus; and because Felix desired to gain favor with the Jews, he left Paul in custody. [End Quotation]
But he maintained a positive outlook, doing all that he could in God’s service. Likewise, many of Jehovah’s servants today, though unjustly imprisoned because of their faith, have retained their joy and kept preaching. Consider the example of Adolfo, who was imprisoned in Spain because of his Christian neutrality. “We are amazed at you,” said one officer. “We have been making life impossible for you, and the worse we made it, the more you smiled and had a kind word.”
24. In time, Adolfo was trusted to the point that his cell door was left open. Soldiers would visit to ask about the Bible. One of the guards would even go into Adolfo’s cell to read the Bible, while Adolfo would keep a lookout. So the prisoner “guarded” the sentry! May the fine example of such faithful Witnesses move us to show “all the more courage to speak the word of God fearlessly,” even under difficult circumstances.
[Box]
Paul’s Life After 61 C.E. Likely in about 61 C.E., Paul appeared before Emperor Nero, who apparently pronounced him innocent. We do not know much about the apostle’s activities thereafter. If he made his planned trip to Spain, it would have been during this time.
[Quotation] Romans 15.28: So after I have finished with this and have delivered this contribution securely to them, I will depart by way of you for Spain. [End Quotation]
Paul traveled “to the extreme limit of the W[est],” wrote Clement of Rome in about 95 C.E.
From Paul’s three letters dated to the period after his release, first and second Timothy and Titus, we learn that Paul visited Crete, Macedonia, Nicopolis, and Troas.
[Quotation] 1 Timothy 1.3: Just as I encouraged you to stay in Ephesus when I was about to go to Macedonia, so I do now, in order for you to command certain ones not to teach different doctrine, [End Quotation]
[Quotation] 2 Timothy 4.13: When you come, bring the cloak I left at Troas with Carpus, and the scrolls, especially the parchments. [End Quotation]
[Quotation] Titus 1.5: I left you in Crete so that you would correct the things that were defective and make appointments of elders in city after city, as I instructed you: [End Quotation]
[Quotation] Titus 3.12: When I send Artemas or Tychicus to you, do your utmost to come to me at Nicopolis, for that is where I have decided to spend the winter. [End Quotation]
Perhaps it was in Nicopolis, Greece, that he was again arrested. Whatever the case, in approximately 65 C.E., he was back in prison in Rome. This time, however, Nero would show no mercy. Indeed, when a fire devastated the city in 64 C.E., Nero, according to Roman historian Tacitus, had falsely blamed the Christians and initiated a brutal campaign of persecution.
In his second letter to Timothy, Paul, expecting imminent death, asked him and Mark to come quickly. Noteworthy is the courage of Luke and Onesiphorus, who risked their lives to comfort Paul.
[Quotation] 2 Timothy 1.16 and 17: May the Lord grant mercy to the household of Onesiphorus, for he often refreshed me, and he did not become ashamed of my prison chains. 17 On the contrary, when he was in Rome, he diligently looked for me and found me. [End Quotation]
[Quotation] 2 Timothy 4.6 through 9: For I am already being poured out like a drink offering, and the time for my releasing is imminent. 7 I have fought the fine fight, I have run the race to the finish, I have observed the faith. 8 From this time on, there is reserved for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, will give me as a reward in that day, yet not to me only, but also to all those who have loved his manifestation. 9 Do your utmost to come to me shortly. [End Quotation]
[Quotation] 2 Timothy 4.11: Only Luke is with me. Bring Mark along with you, for he is helpful to me in the ministry. [End Quotation]
Indeed, to profess Christianity publicly was to risk arrest and death by torture. Paul likely suffered martyrdom soon after writing his final letter to Timothy in about 65 C.E. Nero himself reportedly came to a violent end about three years after Paul’s martyrdom. [End of box]
Question 25 and 26. In a little less than 30 years, what amazing prophecy had Paul seen fulfilled, and how does this compare with our time?
25. An apostle of Christ under house arrest “preaching the Kingdom of God” to all who visited him, what a heartwarming conclusion to the dynamic book of Acts! In the first chapter, we read the commission that Jesus gave his followers when he said: “You will receive power when the holy spirit comes upon you, and you will be witnesses of me in Jerusalem, in all Judea and Samaria, and to the most distant part of the earth.” (Acts 1.8) Now, less than 30 years later, the Kingdom message had been “preached in all creation under heaven.”* [Footnote] See the box “The Good News ‘Preached in All Creation.’” (In Braille, after paragraph 26) [End of footnote]
[Quotation] Colossians 1.23: provided, of course, that you continue in the faith, established on the foundation and steadfast, not being shifted away from the hope of that good news that you heard and that was preached in all creation under heaven. Of this good news I, Paul, became a minister. [End Quotation]
What a testimony to the power of God’s spirit!
[Quotation] Zechariah 4.6: He then said to me: “This is the word of Jehovah to Zerubbabel: ‘“Not by a military force, nor by power, but by my spirit,” says Jehovah of armies. [End Quotation]
26. Today, that same spirit has empowered the remaining ones of Christ’s brothers, along with their companions of the “other sheep,” to continue “bearing thorough witness concerning the Kingdom of God” in 240 lands!
[Quotation] John 10.16: “And I have other sheep, which are not of this fold; those too I must bring in, and they will listen to my voice, and they will become one flock, one shepherd. [End Quotation]
[Quotation] Acts 28.23: They now arranged for a day to meet with him, and they came in even greater numbers to him in his lodging place. And from morning to evening, he explained the matter to them by bearing thorough witness concerning the Kingdom of God, to persuade them about Jesus from both the Law of Moses and the Prophets. [End Quotation]
Are you having a full share in that work?
[Box] The Good News “Preached in All Creation”. In about 61 C.E., while the apostle Paul was a prisoner in Rome, he wrote that the “good news” had been “preached in all creation under heaven.”
[Quotation] Colossians 1.23: provided, of course, that you continue in the faith, established on the foundation and steadfast, not being shifted away from the hope of that good news that you heard and that was preached in all creation under heaven. Of this good news I, Paul, became a minister. [End Quotation]
How should we understand that statement?
It appears that Paul was describing in broad terms how far the “good news” had reached. For example, Alexander the Great had penetrated Asia to the borders of India in the fourth century B.C.E. Julius Caesar had invaded Britain in 55 B.C.E., and Claudius had subjugated the southern part of that island, making it part of the Roman Empire in 43 C.E. The Far East was also known, for it was a source of fine silk.
Had the good news been preached in Britain, China, and the Far East? That seems unlikely. Indeed, when Paul wrote to the Colossians, he still had not realized his own goal, stated in about 56 C.E., of preaching in the then “untouched territory” of Spain.
[Quotation] Romans 15.20: In this way, indeed, I made it my aim not to declare the good news where the name of Christ had already been made known, so as not to build on another man’s foundation; [End Quotation]
[Quotation] Romans 15.23 and 24: But now I no longer have untouched territory in these regions, and for many years I have longed to come to you. 24 Therefore, when I journey to Spain, I hope that I will see you and be accompanied partway there by you after I have first enjoyed your company for a time. [End Quotation]
Still, by about 61 C.E., the Kingdom message was widely known. At the very least, it had spread as far as to the homelands of the Jews and proselytes who were baptized at Pentecost 33 C.E. as well as to the lands visited by Jesus’ apostles.
[Quotation] Acts 2.1: Now while the day of the Festival of Pentecost was in progress, they were all together at the same place. [End Quotation]
[Quotation] Acts 2.8 through 11: How is it, then, that each one of us is hearing his own native language? 9 Parthians, Medes, and Elamites, the inhabitants of Mesopotamia, Judea and Cappadocia, Pontus and the province of Asia, 10 Phrygia and Pamphylia, Egypt and the regions of Libya near Cyrene, sojourners from Rome, both Jews and proselytes, 11 Cretans, and Arabians, we hear them speaking in our languages about the magnificent things of God.” [End Quotation]
[Quotation] Acts 2.41 and 42: So those who gladly accepted his word were baptized, and on that day about 3,000 people were added. 42 And they continued devoting themselves to the teaching of the apostles, to associating together, to the taking of meals, and to prayers. [End Quotation] [End of box]
The maps on the inside covers of the print edition titled: “Modern Lands, Ancient Cities” and “Ancient Lands and Cities” (showing Paul’s missionary trips), have not been reproduced in Braille. However, the map legend has been retained and appears as a list in the following box.
[Image:] Maps: 1. A map of modern lands and ancient cities. 2. A map of ancient lands and cities, along with the different routes Paul took for his three missionary trips and his trip to Rome.
[Box] Starting Point of Paul’s Missionary Trips: Antioch (of Syria).
about 47 to 48 C.E. First Missionary Trip (Acts 13.1 through 14.28)
about 49 to 52 C.E. Second Missionary Trip (Acts 15.36 through 18.22)
about 52 to 56 C.E. Third Missionary Trip (Acts 18.22 through 21.19)
about 58 to 59 C.E. Trip to Rome (Acts 23.11 through 28.31) [End of box]
Song 60 It Means Their Life. Based on Ezekiel 3.17 through 19
1. In this year of goodwill
by our God, all need to hear
That the day of his anger
will come, and it is near.
It means their life, but not just theirs;
It means our own life as well.
It means their life if they obey,
So all the nations we must tell;
We must tell.
2. There’s a message to preach,
so we spread it all abroad.
We invite all to come and
be reconciled to God.
It means their life, but not just theirs;
It means our own life as well.
It means their life if they obey,
So all the nations we must tell;
We must tell.
It’s urgent, it’s important,
That people listen, learn, and live.
We tell them, and we teach them;
Life-giving truth we freely give.
It means their life, but not just theirs;
It means our own life as well.
It means their life if they obey,
So all the nations we must tell;
We must tell.
[End of Song. Press Play below to play this song with Audio Description]
