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“They watched him for forty days, and he spoke about the Kingdom of God” (ACTS 1:3).
1, 2. What happened while two of Jesus' disciples were on the road to Emmaus?
As two disciples walked toward Emmaus, a stranger joined them on the road. The disciples were discouraged and shared their sadness over the recent execution of Jesus, who had been the focus of their hopes as the Messiah.
During the conversation, the stranger, who was actually the resurrected Jesus, explained the scriptures to them, starting with Moses and the prophets, and demonstrated how these prophecies pointed out that the Messiah had to suffer and die. Later, when they arrived at Emmaus, the disciples recognized that this man was Jesus. This encounter filled them with joy as they realized that Jesus was alive, which encouraged them to share this good news.
3, 4. (a) What happened to Jesus' disciples? (Acts 1:3)
Jesus spent the last 40 days before his Ascension strengthening his disciples emotionally and spiritually. According to Acts 1:3, he provided them with compelling evidence that he had risen, removing any doubt they might have had. This time was crucial in transforming their sadness and fear into deep joy and renewed commitment.
Jesus assured them that the Kingdom of God was a reality, and his words and actions gave them the confidence to take on the work of preaching in the midst of opposition. This change was essential to prepare the disciples as leaders of the Christian congregation, which they demonstrated after Pentecost.
3, 4. b) What will we see in this article?
This article will examine how Jesus used his last 40 days on earth to do the following: encourage his disciples, help them understand the scriptures, and equip them for greater responsibilities. We will also look at how we can imitate these aspects of his example today.
HOW TO ENCOURAGE OTHERS
5. Why did Jesus' disciples need encouragement?
Jesus' disciples needed encouragement, because they had made great personal sacrifices to follow him. Many left their homes, families, and jobs, devoting themselves to full-time service.
Others faced social rejection and ostracism because of their faith that Jesus was the Messiah. However, Jesus' execution shook their confidence and left them heartbroken, as their hopes that Jesus would restore the Kingdom seemed to have faded. This discouragement showed the need for Jesus to strengthen them and rekindle their faith.
6. What did Jesus do after he was resurrected?
Jesus showed great empathy toward his disciples after his resurrection. He recognized that their sadness and discouragement were a natural human reaction, and not a sign of a lack of faith.
In appearing to Mary Magdalene, Jesus showed her individual attention, restoring her hope and reminding her that he was alive. The appearance to the two disciples on the road to Emmaus highlighted his pastoral care as he used the scriptures to strengthen them spiritually.
Finally, by visiting Peter, he probably helped them overcome their feelings of guilt, reaffirming his place as an apostle and leader among the disciples. These actions reflect how Jesus understood the emotional and spiritual needs of his followers.
7. What did Jesus see Mary doing, and what did He do for her? (John 20:11-16; see also image.)
According to these verses, Jesus' reaction to Mary Magdalene's tears reflects his empathy and deep interest in caring for his followers, as he describes how Mary, upon finding the empty tomb, felt inconsolable. Jesus, upon seeing her cry, not only appeared to her, but called her by name, a gesture that highlighted his personal attention and affection for her.
This personal recognition instantly encouraged her, helping her to understand that Jesus had risen, just as He had promised. Furthermore, by entrusting her with the task of announcing His resurrection to the other disciples, Jesus gave her a significant role in the work of the Kingdom, reaffirming her value as a faithful servant.
ILLUSTRATION
The risen Jesus speaks to Mary Magdalene outside an empty tomb. Let us imitate Jesus by being observant and empathetic toward those who are discouraged. (See paragraph 7.)
8. How can we imitate Jesus?
Jesus' example of comforting his disciples sets a pattern for Christians to follow in encouraging their brothers and sisters. Romans 12:15 encourages us to empathize and share in the joys and sorrows of others.
Jocelyn’s experience illustrates how a simple act of kindness, such as empathetic listening, can be a powerful means of strengthening someone emotionally and spiritually. Like Jesus, who encouraged his disciples after his resurrection, Christians can be a source of comfort and support by being attentive to the needs of others.
Furthermore, these actions foster unity and love within the congregation, helping everyone to persevere in their service to Jehovah, even in the midst of trials.
HOW TO HELP OTHERS UNDERSTAND THE SCRIPTURES BETTER
9. What were the disciples lacking, and how did Jesus help them?
The disciples faced a spiritual dilemma. They believed in Jesus as the Messiah, but his execution left them baffled. They did not understand the purpose behind his death, nor how it fit into the fulfillment of prophecy.
Jesus recognized their sincerity and good heart, but He also noticed that they were confused and needed more clarity. So He took the time to explain the scriptures to them. For example, when He appeared to the two disciples on the road to Emmaus, He helped them understand that the prophecies from Moses to the prophets pointed out that the Messiah must suffer and die before entering into His glory. This strengthened their faith and gave them a deeper understanding of the scriptures.
10. How did Jesus convince his disciples that he was the Messiah? (Luke 24:18-27)
This account highlights Jesus' strategy in convincing his disciples. Rather than imposing his identity, he first listened to their concerns. This approach not only allowed them to express their doubts, but also created a teachable moment. Jesus demonstrated that messianic prophecies, from Moses to the prophets, were fulfilled in his life, death, and resurrection.
This gave him a solid foundation of faith, showing that everything that had happened was part of God's purpose. When Jesus met with the larger group of disciples that same night, He reinforced this learning by fully opening their understanding of the scriptures. This prepared the disciples for the mission of preaching the Kingdom of God with confidence and courage. Religious products
11, 12. (a) What lessons can we learn from the way Jesus used Scripture? (See also images.)
An important lesson we learn from Jesus is to ask questions that encourage reflection. Rather than giving direct answers, Jesus used questions to help his listeners discover the teachings of the scriptures for themselves. This allowed them to better internalize the message and reflect on its application in their lives.
Jesus also relied on the scriptures to clarify his disciples' doubts and strengthen their faith, showing them how prophecies were fulfilled in him. It is not just about giving answers, but about helping others think and apply biblical teachings for themselves.
11, 12. b) How did Nortey's Bible teacher help him?
Nortey's Bible teacher helped him reason and apply biblical principles to deal with the difficulties that arose in his life. When Nortey faced opposition from his family, his teacher didn't simply tell him what to do; he used Scripture, specifically Matthew 10:16, to help him understand that persecution was an expected part of the Christian life.
He also taught him to be cautious in his responses and to use wisdom when speaking to his family. When Nortey wanted to pioneer, his teacher guided him through questions and helped him think about how to make decisions based on biblical principles, rather than giving him direct instructions. This approach allowed Nortey to make informed decisions and gave him the confidence to handle his father's opposition.
ILLUSTRATION
Series of images: 1. During a class, a brother helps his student reason using the Bible. 2. The man throws away his Christmas decorations. Let us imitate Jesus by helping others reason using the Scriptures. (See paragraph 11.)
HOW TO TRAIN BROTHERS TO BECOME LIKE A GIFT
13. What did Jesus do to ensure that the preaching continued after he returned to heaven? (Ephesians 4:8)
To ensure that the preaching would continue after his ascension, Jesus trained his disciples during his ministry, trusting them fully to take responsibility for continuing his work.
Although some of these disciples were young and inexperienced, Jesus taught them how to preach, teach the good news, and care for Jehovah's flock. Before returning to heaven, Jesus gave them further training, enabling them to faithfully fulfill this mission.
According to Ephesians 4:8, Jesus distributed spiritual gifts so that His disciples, as “A Gift,” could continue His work of preaching and building up the Christian congregation, thus ensuring that the work would continue generation after generation.
14. How did Jesus help his disciples grow spiritually during the last 40 days he was on Earth? (See also image.)
During his last 40 days on earth, Jesus helped his disciples grow spiritually by giving them direct and loving advice. He encouraged them to overcome doubt about his resurrection. He advised them to focus on serving God’s servants rather than seeking material gain. And he corrected them when they focused on the responsibilities of others, urging them to keep their attention on their own tasks.Christian books
He also corrected their misconceptions about the kingdom and taught them to prioritize preaching. This advice strengthened their faith, equipped them for their future responsibilities, and prepared them to lead the work after his ascension.
ILLUSTRATION
Jesus speaks to his disciples on the seashore while they are roasting fish on the embers. Let us imitate Jesus by helping our brothers take on more responsibilities. (See paragraph 14.)
15, 16. (a) In what ways can the elderly imitate Jesus?
Elders can imitate Jesus by training and helping brothers, including younger ones, to take on more responsibilities.
Like Jesus, they do not expect perfection from others, but rather lovingly counsel them to develop qualities such as humility, trustworthiness, and consideration for others. In this way, they motivate young people to gain experience and grow spiritually, since currently, young elder circuit overseers between the ages of 25 and 30 can be appointed, provided they have experience as elders.
15, 16. b) How did the advice given to Patrick help him?
Patrick, who in his youth was not kind to others, received frank and kind advice from a mature elder. This advice helped him to reflect and change his attitude, allowing him to focus on serving with humility, rather than seeking responsibilities.
As a result, Patrick was named an elder at age 23, demonstrating the value of loving and constructive counsel.
17. How did Jesus show that he trusted his disciples?
Jesus not only entrusted his disciples with preaching, but also with teaching, a task that required preparation and effort. Although they may have felt insecure about whether they could accomplish this task, Jesus showed them that he trusted them. He did so clearly by reminding them of his own Mission and comparing it to theirs. He said: “Just as the Father has sent me, so I am sending you.”
Jesus motivated them to carry out their mission with conviction and confidence, knowing that they had his support. This example shows how confidence and courage can strengthen those who face great challenges.
18. How can the elderly imitate Jesus?
Elders follow Jesus' example by delegating tasks and training others to take on responsibilities, showing confidence in their abilities. This includes giving young people opportunities, such as helping with cleaning or maintaining the Kingdom Hall. Such confidence fosters spiritual and practical growth in those receiving training.
One example is Matthew, a newly appointed elder, who expressed his appreciation that experienced elders not only assigned him tasks but also patiently helped him learn from his mistakes and taught him how to improve. This approach reflects the spirit of Philippians 2:19-22, which highlights the importance of working together in love and trust.
19. What decision should we make?
Jesus dedicated his last 40 days on earth to encouraging, teaching, and training his disciples, setting the perfect example of how to lead others in their service to God. Following in his footsteps, we must make a firm decision to imitate his example in our lives, both in our attitude and in our actions. This involves showing sincere interest in the spiritual well-being of others, training them so that they can contribute to the advancement of the work of the Kingdom.
Furthermore, we can be assured that we are not alone in this task. Jesus promised us in Matthew 28:20: “I will be with you always, until the conclusion of the system of things.”
HOW DID JESUS TAKE ADVANTAGE OF THE LAST 40 DAYS HE WAS ON EARTH TO DO THE FOLLOWING?
Encourage others.
Jesus encouraged his disciples by giving them loving and direct advice, helping them overcome their doubts and focus on the Kingdom and preaching.
Help others better understand what the Scriptures said.
Jesus used the scriptures to explain to his disciples how prophecies had been fulfilled in him, correcting misconceptions and helping them grasp their true meaning.
Training men to take on greater responsibilities.
Jesus delegated important responsibilities to his disciples, training them and showing confidence in them to preach, teach, and care for Jehovah's sheep.
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