Explain your beliefs (5 mins.) Role play. ijwbq 157. Topic: What does the Bible say about natural disasters? (lmd lesson 3 point 3).
Scenario: A casual conversation at home with someone who mentions concerns about recent natural disasters.
Publisher: Hi, thanks for having me. I hope I'm not interrupting a busy time. How have you and your family been with everything that's been going on lately? I know the recent natural disasters have been difficult for many people.
Person: Yes, it is a very sad situation indeed. It is hard to see people losing their homes and even their lives.
Publisher: That's true. It's heartbreaking to see so many tragedies. Sometimes, such news makes us think. Many people wonder, "Why do these things happen? Is there a purpose for them?" Have you ever thought about that?
Person: Yes, I do wonder about that sometimes. Some say it's climate change's fault, others say it's something God allows to punish us.
Publisher: That's something a lot of people think. And it's not uncommon to come to that conclusion when we see so much suffering. But did you know that the Bible doesn't teach that God causes natural disasters?
Person: Really? Then what does it say?
Publisher: The Bible says that God is loving and compassionate. For example, James 1:13 explains that God does not test people with bad things. He does not cause tragedies. Rather, the Bible shows that we live in a world filled with problems due to human imperfection and the influence of a spiritual enemy called Satan.
Person: Satan? What does he have to do with natural disasters?
Publisher: That's a good question. According to the Bible, Satan has control over the world system and fosters attitudes that make problems worse, such as greed and neglect of nature. Although he can't create natural disasters, his influence contributes to the suffering we see. But there is something very hopeful. May I share it with you?
Person: Sure, tell me.
Publisher: In Revelation 21:4, the Bible promises that God will soon eliminate all suffering. Look at what it says: “He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death will be no more, neither will sorrow nor crying nor pain be anymore. The former things have passed away.” It’s a promise of a future in which there will be no more disasters and tragedies.Religious products
Person: That sounds very nice, but hard to believe.
Publisher: I understand. Many people think the same at first. But one thing that gives me confidence is that the Bible has a record of promises fulfilled in the past, which gives us reason to trust in future ones. For example, the people of Israel received fertile land after years in the desert, just as God had promised. If you want, I could show you some evidence of how that promise was fulfilled and how we can trust in the promise of a future without suffering.
Person: It could be interesting, but I don't know if I have time for that right now.
Publisher: No problem. You may be interested in exploring this at home. There is a free website that we use a lot for topics like this: jw.org. Here you can find reliable information, articles, and videos that explain what the Bible says.
Person: And they talk about natural disasters there too?
Publisher: Yes, exactly. In fact, there is an article that answers questions like why they happen and how God will help us in the future. And there is also a video about how the Bible gives comfort in difficult times.
Person: It sounds interesting. Maybe I'll take a look at it when I have time.
Publisher: I'm glad you're interested. If you'd like, I could also show you later how these promises can help us have peace even now. And by the way, here's my contact card, in case you have questions later or want to talk more about this.Religious products
Person: Thank you very much, I appreciate it.
Publisher: Thank you for talking to me. I hope you have a great day, and if you need anything, I'm here to help.
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