Study of the Congregation Book, Week 8 to April 14, 2024, Chapter 8, paragraphs 5-12, Responses.

Congregation Book Study, April 8-14, 2024, Chapter 8, paragraphs 5-12, Responses.

Congregation Bible study (30 mins.) bt chap. 8 paras. 5-12.

“Why are you chasing me?” (Acts 9:1-5)

5, 6. What does the question Jesus asked Saul teach us?

Jesus' question to Saul also teaches us that although suffering may persist and is not immediately resolved, both Jesus and Jehovah are aware of the situation and provide strength and support. This teaching urges us to trust in Jehovah even in the midst of trials, knowing that he is present and sustains us. Through it we can see that if a servant of Jehovah is suffering opposition for his faith, he can be assured that both Jesus and Jehovah are fully aware of the situation. This is reflected in the word of Jesus in Matthew 10:22 and 28 to 31, where it is assured that those who are faithful face difficulties but are also promised divine care and protection.

ADDITIONAL COMMENTS

Jesus did not ask Saul "Why are you persecuting my disciples?" but rather "Why are you persecuting me?" This shows us that Jesus identifies intimately with his followers, to the point of considering their suffering as his own suffering. This highlights the union and deep love that Jesus has for his followers, showing that they are not alone in his trials and tribulations.

This question also teaches us that if we are experiencing opposition for our faith, both Jesus and Jehovah are aware of our situation. Although the trial may not go away immediately, we must trust that God is with us and will give us the strength necessary to persevere and remain faithful in the midst of difficulties.

The example of how Jesus did not intervene when Saul was persecuting the disciples shows that suffering may persist, but God will always provide the support and strength necessary to face it with courage and faithfulness. And he will intervene at the moment when he considers it best.

7. What must be done to faithfully endure persecution?

To faithfully endure persecution, it is crucial to maintain an unwavering determination to remain loyal to Jehovah under all circumstances. In addition, it is essential to resort to prayer requesting divine help and strength as mentioned in Philippians 4, 6 and 7. Likewise, it is essential to renounce the desire for revenge and leave that in the hands of Jehovah, and trust that Jehovah will provide the necessary strength to overcome tests. 

ADDITIONAL COMMENTS

Be determined to be loyal to Jehovah, regardless of the circumstances. This involves remaining firm in faith and committed to God's principles and teachings.

Ask for help in prayer. Constant communication with God through prayer can provide comfort, strength, and direction in times of persecution and difficulty.

Leave revenge in the hands of Jehovah. Instead of seeking revenge for injustices suffered, trust that God is just and will know how to deliver justice in his own time.

Trust that God will give you the strength to endure the test until it is overcome. This involves believing in the power of God to strengthen and sustain his followers in times of persecution.

8, 9. How must Ananias feel when he learned of his mission?

Ananias must have been surprised and honored to learn of his mission, to be approached by the resurrected Jesus Christ in person to carry out a special task. Furthermore he probably experienced concern about the responsibility and risk involved considering Saul's reputation and his authority to persecute Jesus' followers. 

ADDITIONAL COMMENTS

Ananias, upon learning of his mission to go talk to Saul, no doubt experienced a range of emotions. On the one hand, being chosen by the resurrected Jesus Christ himself to carry out a special and crucial task must have filled him with a deep sense of honor and privilege. However, at the same time, the prospect of facing someone like Saul, known for his persecution of Jesus' followers in Jerusalem, must have generated fear and concern.

As a disciple of Jesus, Ananias likely felt overwhelmed by the responsibility and challenge of this mission. However, his obedience and trust in Jesus led him to fulfill the assigned task. This situation teaches us that, although we face fears and doubts in difficult situations, trust in Jesus and obedience to his instructions will enable us to overcome obstacles and faithfully fulfill our mission.

10. What does the way he treated Ananias tell us about Jesus?

Jesus showed understanding and patience toward Ananias by clearly explaining the purpose of his mission. This demonstrates Jesus' empathy toward the doubts and fears of his followers while providing them with the guidance necessary to do his will. 

ADDITIONAL COMMENTS

The way Jesus treated Ananias reveals his compassion, patience, and care for his followers. Despite the concerns expressed by Ananias, Jesus did not scold him or reject him, but instead gave him clear instructions and showed him his divine plan regarding Saul.

Jesus demonstrated understanding towards Ananias' emotions and doubts by explaining to him the purpose behind the entrusted mission and offering him the necessary context for him to understand the importance of his task.

The way Jesus treated Ananias also shows his trust in him as his follower and his ability to carry out the assigned task. Jesus trusted Ananias' obedience and provided him with the support necessary to successfully fulfill his mission.

11, 12. What do we learn from this story in which Jesus, Ananias and Saul appear?

We learn from the story that Jesus fulfills his promise to direct the preaching through the governing body and the faithful who carry out this work. This shows us that the work of preaching continues to be guided by Jesus even if it does not communicate directly with human beings. Today, publishers and pioneers under the direction of the governing body seek out those who claimed to know more about Christ, just as the Witnesses mentioned in this account did.

ADDITIONAL COMMENTS

This story offers us valuable lessons about divine direction in preaching and the importance of obedience and willingness to fulfill the assigned mission. Jesus continues to guide the preaching through the faithful and prudent slave, who coordinates this work in his name.

Furthermore, the story highlights the need to overcome our fears and anxieties to fulfill our duty to fully bear witness, even in challenging situations. Ananias' obedience despite his fears shows how trust in God leads to divine blessing.

Finally, the story underscores the importance of treating others with love and consideration, even those who might seem adversarial to us. Ananias demonstrated this by helping Saul, showing that everyone has the ability to change and become brothers in faith.