Congregation Bible study (30 mins.) bt chap. 22 paras. 1-6.
1-4. Why would Paul travel to Jerusalem, and what awaited him there?
Paul went to Jerusalem because he felt that the holy spirit was prompting him to fulfill his mission. He wanted to give the collection money to the needy Christians of Judea and finish the work God had given him. Although he knew that prison and difficulties awaited him, the most important thing for him was to obey Jehovah and do what was asked of him, despite the sacrifices that this implied.
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS
In Acts 20:22,23, Paul shows his courage by saying that although he knows that prison and difficulties await him, he presses on because the spirit guides him. This teaches us to trust in Jehovah even when the future seems uncertain.
Acts 20:4,14, 15 Reminds us of the importance of support between brothers. Paul did not travel alone, but accompanied by other servants of God, which shows the value of working together in the work of Jehovah.
5. What route did Paul and his companions take to reach Tyre?
Paul and his companions sailed without detouring, taking advantage of the favorable wind, which allowed them to quickly reach Kos. After passing through Rhodes and Patara, they took a merchant ship that took them directly to Tyre. During the trip, they left behind the island of Cyprus that could be seen on the left, which Luke mentions to give a detailed and realistic touch to the story.
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS
Acts 21:1 Highlights how Paul and his companions took advantage of favorable conditions to advance their journey. This reminds us that when we work in Jehovah's work, we must take advantage of the opportunities and resources He provides us.
In Acts 21:3, Luke mentions how they left the island of Cyprus on the left. This detail shows the effort and precision that the biblical writers put into it, helping us visualize how Jehovah cares for each part of his word.
6. a) Why should seeing the island of Cyprus strengthen Paul?
Seeing the island of Cyprus surely strengthened Paul, as it reminded him of experiences from his first missionary journey, such as his confrontation with Elymas. Reflecting on how Jehovah helped him in the past gave him strength to face the trials he knew awaited him in Jerusalem.
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS
In Acts 13:4-12, Paul experienced Jehovah's support when confronting Elymas. This memory surely reminded him that no matter the challenges, Jehovah always supports those who do his will.
Reflecting on experiences like Acts 13 teaches us that each test overcome strengthens our trust in Jehovah. Just as Paul surely felt when remembering his time in Cyprus.
6. b) What conclusion do you come to as you reflect on how Jehovah has blessed and helped you?
As I think about how Jehovah has helped me overcome difficulties, I come to the conclusion that He has always been there to give me the strength I need, fulfilling His promise to deliver us in times of trial.
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS
Psalm 34:19 reminds us that, although we righteous people face many trials, Jehovah promises to deliver us. This teaches us to trust that, as with Paul, He will always help us as well.
When we look back and see how Jehovah has helped us in the past, as Psalm 34:19 says, we can feel gratitude and confidence that he will continue to strengthen us in the future.
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