Let's Examine the Scriptures Every Day 2021
Sunday, October 10, 2021
I am sending you out as sheep in the midst of wolves (Matt. 10:16).
Many brothers live in countries where they cannot preach either in public or from house to house, so they use their ingenuity to do it in other ways (Matt. 10: 17-20). In one such country, a circuit overseer suggested that each publisher preach in his or her own “territory” - relatives, neighbors, school and workmates, and other acquaintances. In two years, the number of congregations in that circuit increased dramatically. Perhaps we can preach freely. Still, we learn a valuable lesson from these brothers: Let us always look for ways to fully participate in the preaching work, confident that Jehovah will give us the strength we need to overcome any obstacle. --Philip. 2:13. In these historic days, let's make sure we know what the most important things are, Let us strive to be without defects, let us not stumble others and bear righteous fruit. Then our love will be abundant and we will honor our loving Father, Jehovah. w19.08 13 pars. 17, 18
What are some of the “most important things” that Paul spoke about in his letter to the Philippians?
Inspired by the holy spirit, Paul commanded the Philippians, and all Christians, to make sure of "the most important things" (Philippians 1:10). Among them are the sanctification of God's name, the fulfillment of his purpose, and the peace and unity of the congregation (Matt. 6: 9, 10; John 13:35). When our lives focus on these things, we show that we love Jehovah.
What must we do so that Jehovah can see us without any blemish?
Paul also said that we must be "without fault." This does not mean that perfection is asked of us. We cannot be like Jehovah, who has no sin. But he will see us flawlessly if we do our best to deepen our love and make sure of the most important things. One way to show love is by doing our best not to trip others up.
Why should we not trip others?
The warning not to trip others is very serious. Our entertainment, our clothes, or even our jobs can trip other people. We may not do anything wrong, but it would be very serious if our decisions hurt someone's conscience and caused them to stumble. Jesus said that it would be better to have a huge stone tied around our necks and thrown into the sea than to trip one of his sheep (Matt. 18: 6).
What do we learn from the example of a pioneer marriage?
Let's see how one pioneer marriage followed the warning not to trip others. In her congregation, there was a newly baptized couple who had grown up in a very conservative environment. These brothers believed that Christians should not go to the movies, not even to see an acceptable movie. So they were shocked when they learned that the pioneers had seen a movie. Because of this, the pioneers decided not to go to the movies until the newly baptized brothers had raised their consciences and were more balanced (Heb. 5:14). Thus they showed that they loved them not only in word, but in deed (Rom. 14: 19-21; 1 John 3:18).
How can we induce someone to sin?
We could also stumble someone if we incited them to sin. Let's see how it could happen. Imagine that a Bible student manages to overcome his addiction to alcohol after a long and difficult struggle. He realizes that he shouldn't drink anything at all. He makes many changes in a short time and is baptized. One day a brother invites him and other Christians to his home. Without any ill intention, he offers him an alcoholic drink and says: “You are already baptized and you have the spirit of Jehovah. Remember that one aspect of the fruit of the spirit is self-control. If you control yourself, you can drink in moderation ”. It goes without saying what the consequences would be if the new brother heeded this bad advice.
How do the meetings help us follow the counsel in Philippians 1:10?
Meetings help us to follow the counsel of Philippians 1:10 in many ways. First, they remind us of what Jehovah considers most important. Second, they teach us to apply what we learn and thus have no defects. And third, they motivate us to show love and do good works (Heb. 10:24, 25). The more encouragement we receive from the brothers, the more love we feel for them and for our God. If we love Jehovah and our brothers with all our hearts, we will do our best not to stumble any brother.
All Rights Reserved Copyright © 2020 Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society of Pennsylvania JW.ORG.
Comments
Post a Comment