%20(1)-overlay%20(1)%20(1).png)
Congregation Bible study (30 mins.) bt chap. 9 paras. 17-24 and box on page. 73.
17, 18. a) In what sense did Peter's explanation test the disciples of Jewish origin?
Peter's explanation tested the disciples of Jewish origin, challenging their prejudices and convictions about the application of the Mosaic law. Peter presented them with clear evidence that God had accepted the Gentiles and given them the holy spirit. Which clearly indicated that salvation was not limited by circumcision or any other ritual practice.
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS
This explanation challenged the deep-rooted convictions of the Jewish disciples, who had to face the question of whether they were willing to welcome newly converted Gentiles into the congregation. His positive response demonstrated his ability to set aside his prejudices and recognize Jehovah’s work among all nations, which strengthened the unity of the congregation.
As we can see in this study, the disciples of Jewish origin had the challenge of overcoming prejudices and accepting the Gentiles, which was new for them, since there had long been a division between the Jews and the Gentiles regarding acceptance so that they become believers.
This revelation directly clashed with the traditional beliefs of the Jewish disciples, who had to decide if they were willing to overcome their prejudices and accept Gentiles into the congregation.
The positive response of the disciples in ceasing to object to the inclusion of the Gentiles demonstrated their willingness to follow God's will and maintain unity in the congregation.
For many of the Jewish brothers it must have been difficult, since they had been raised with those cultural prejudices, but we see that in the end they put Jehovah's will above and accepted the Gentiles and what is more, they glorified Jehovah because He had given the opportunity so that the Gentiles could also repent AND obtain life.
17, 18. b) Why is it not always easy to maintain unity in the congregation, and what questions should we ask ourselves?
Maintaining unity in the congregation is not always easy, in a congregation composed of people of different nationalities and cultures tensions and conflicts can arise due to deep-rooted prejudices or worldly influences that promote pride of race, nationality or culture.
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS
To maintain unity it is important to ask ourselves, yes, have we eradicated any prejudice in our hearts? And yes, are we committed to preventing worldly attitudes from dividing the congregation?
We must remember the example of Peter, who fell into the trap of prejudice and separated himself from the uncircumcised Christians, requiring correction from Paul. Therefore, we must be aware of external influences and be willing to overcome any prejudice that may arise, thus maintaining unity in the congregation.
These differences can lead to misunderstandings, conflicts, or even prejudices if not properly addressed. For this reason, to preserve harmony in the congregation of brothers, it is important to reflect on the following questions: Have I eliminated any prejudice that I may have in my heart? Am I committed to avoiding pride in race, nationality, language or culture from influencing my treatment of my siblings?
19. To whom did Jesus' disciples begin to preach in Antioch, and what happened?
Jesus' disciples in Antioch began preaching to both Jews and Gentiles, including the uncircumcised, bringing the message of the Kingdom of God to a wide range of people. This city of Antioch in Syria was a strategic location with a mix of cultures and a diverse Greek-speaking population where both Jews and Gentiles lived together in harmony.
What happened was that the disciples, aware of what God wanted, did not limit themselves to preaching only to the circumcised Jews, but they extended their message to everyone with the blessing of Jehovah. And as we can see in the paragraph, the result is that a large number of people became believers.
20, 21. How did Barnabas demonstrate humility, and how can we imitate him in our ministry?
Barnabas demonstrated his humility by recognizing that he needed help to care for the numerous stakeholders in Antioch. Although he was sent by the Jerusalem congregation to tend to the white fields, he realized that the task was too great to face alone, instead of Seeing Saul as a potential rival, Barnabas humbly sought his collaboration, approached Saul in Tarsus, and together they dedicated an entire year to edifying the disciples in Antioch.
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS
We can imitate Barnabas' humility in our ministry by recognizing our own limitations and needs for help. We all have areas where we are strong and others where we may need support. Therefore, instead of feeling ashamed of our weaknesses, we can follow Barnabas' example by seeking help to improve in those areas. By doing so, we not only become better teachers, but we also find greater satisfaction in our service. knowing that we are contributing more effectively to the advancement of the Kingdom of God.
Instead of trying to do everything on our own, we can be Humble by seeking advice and help when we face challenges or areas we need to improve. This involves being open to receiving constructive feedback and working as a team with other brothers and sisters in the faith.
Furthermore, by imitating Barnabas' example in our ministry, we contribute to the spiritual growth of others, while strengthening our own service. Doing this makes us enjoy the Ministry and feel full satisfaction.
“They decided to send help […] to the brothers” (Acts 11:26b-30)
22, 23. How did the Christians of Antioch demonstrate that they truly loved their brothers, and how do we Christians follow their example today?
The Christians of Antioch demonstrated their genuine love for their brothers, both Gentiles and Jews, by responding with compassion and action during a period of famine. When they learned that many of their brothers in Judea were suffering due to food shortages, all regardless of their ethnic origin, they decided to send them help. This act of solidarity and generosity reflected the deep love and unity that existed between them.
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS
The passage tells how, in a time of difficulty during a period of famine Around the year 46, these Christians of Antioch, inspired by their faith and compassion, made the unanimous decision to send help to their brothers in Judea who were facing a particularly difficult situation. difficult due to food shortages.
Today Christians continue to follow the example of love and mutual service established by the first followers of Christ, when our brothers face difficulties, whether due to natural disasters, economic crises or any other situation of need, we strive to provide them with support and practical help.
This practical and selfless love not only strengthens our Christian congregation, but also serves as a powerful testimony of our work. In John chapter 13 verses 34 and 35, we read: "By this everyone will know that they are my disciples if they have love for one another."
This action shows the true brotherly love that existed between them, as they were willing to sacrifice and share what they had to help those who were in need, which is a great example that teaches us the importance of sharing and making sacrifice for our brothers in faith who were in need.
Christians today can follow the example of the believers of Antioch by demonstrating love and solidarity towards our brothers and times of need. Through concrete actions of support, such as organizing relief committees to help those affected by natural disasters or assisting brothers in difficulty, we can show our commitment to brotherly love and mutual aid in the congregation.
24. If we are aware of how important Peter's vision is, what should we do?
If we are aware of the importance of the vision that Peter had, we must take concrete actions to fulfill the Divine purpose of giving a complete testimony about the Kingdom. We recognize that Jehovah is Impartial and wants all people, regardless of race, nationality or social class, to have the opportunity to hear and accept the good news.
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS
Therefore, we must do our best to share the Kingdom message with everyone. This involves being proactive in our preaching by seeking opportunities to share the scriptures and good news with those around us. We must overcome any cultural, linguistic or social barriers that may exist to bring the message of hope to all people.
We must do our best to ensure that people of all races, nationalities, and social classes have the opportunity to hear and accept the good news of the Kingdom, as Peter did in Joppa.
Furthermore, knowing that Jehovah is Impartial and desires a complete testimony about the Kingdom, we must actively work to share the Gospel message with all, remembering that salvation is available to all who believe, regardless of their origin or social status.
ANALYSIS BASED ON THE ANTIOCH BOX OF SYRIA
Antioch of Syria was located next to the Orontes River.
The city was close to the Orontes River, which facilitated transportation and commerce.
And around Antioch there were very important places, since the Mediterranean port of Seleucia was about 30 km away, and Jerusalem was about 550 km to the south.
Antioch was founded by Seleucus l Nicator in 300 BC
Antioch was the capital of the Seleucid empire, which made it a very important city politically.
The conquest of Syria by General Pompey in 64 BC. He converted it into a Roman province, maintaining its importance as a regional capital.
Antioch was an important political and commercial center due to its strategic location and its connection to trade between Syria and the Mediterranean.
Merchandise from all over Syria passed through Antioch to be exported to other countries in the Mediterranean Sea.
And being between the urbanized world of the Mediterranean and the eastern desert, Antioch was a cosmopolitan and prosperous city.
The city was cosmopolitan, with influences from various cultures due to its strategic location.
There was a significant Jewish community in Antioch, and according to Flavius Josephus, they influenced the conversion of Greeks to their religion.
The works of Josephus provided a historical record of Jewish influence in the city.
Only Rome and Alexandria were larger and more prosperous than Antioch in the Roman Empire.
All three cities were important centers in the Roman Empire, but had different geographical locations and political and commercial roles.
Antioch's legacy includes its political, commercial and cultural importance in the region.
Antioquia contributed to cultural and commercial exchange in the region and left a legacy of diversity and religious influence.
The history of Antioch highlights the importance of cultural exchange and peaceful coexistence between different ethnic and religious groups in the cities.
Comments
Post a Comment