Congregational Book Study, Week of February 17 to 23, 2025, Chapter 22, paragraphs 15-21. Answers.

Congregational Book Study, February 17-23, 2025, Chapter 22, paragraphs 15-21. Answers.

Congregation Bible study (30 mins.) bt chap. 22 paras. 15-21.

15, 16. What did Agabus prophesy, and what effect did it have on those present?

Agabus, a highly respected prophet, announced that Paul would be bound by the Jews in Jerusalem and handed over to the Gentiles. To illustrate this, he took Paul's belt and tied his hands and feet. This prophecy shocked everyone present, who tried to persuade Paul not to go. However, he was willing to suffer and even die for Jesus.

ADDITIONAL COMMENTS

As Acts 11:27,28 mentions, Agabus had already prophesied a great famine in the time of Claudius, which shows that God guided his people through the Holy Spirit. Likewise, his warning about Paul showed that trials were ahead, but also that Jehovah never leaves his servants without direction.

As Acts 21:12,13 relates, upon hearing the prophecy, those present begged Paul not to go to Jerusalem, but he firmly responded that he was ready to be bound and even die for Jesus. His attitude demonstrates that when we trust in Jehovah, we do not allow fear to prevent us from doing his will.

Agabus, known as a respected prophet, arrived while Paul was at Philip's house. He used a symbolic action to convey his message: he took Paul's belt, tied his feet and hands with it, and, guided by the holy spirit, announced that the owner of that belt, that is, Paul, would be bound in Jerusalem by the Jews and handed over to the Gentiles. This announcement was not taken lightly, as Agabus had proven himself to be a reliable prophet by accurately predicting the time of famine during the time of Emperor Claudius.

The prophecy shocked everyone present, including Luke, who begged him not to go to Jerusalem. However, Paul, with admirable faith and determination, responded that he was willing not only to be arrested, but also to die if necessary for the name of the Lord Jesus. This demonstrates Paul's total dedication to his mission.

17, 18. How did Paul show the brothers that he was determined to do God's will, and what did they do?

Paul showed that he was determined to do God's will because, despite the brothers' tears and pleas, he did not allow them to convince him to change his decision. Boldly, he explained to them that he must go to Jerusalem, showing the same determination that Jesus had. Even though he knew he could face death, he was willing to move on.

Realizing that they could not persuade Paul, the brothers stopped insisting, respected his determination, and submitted to Jehovah's will, even though it hurt them deeply. His attitude shows a mature faith, recognizing that God's plans are always the best, even if they are not easy to accept.

ADDITIONAL COMMENTS

As Hebrews 12:2 mentions, Jesus endured suffering because he had his eye on the reward. Paul showed the same attitude, as he did not seek martyrdom, but if he had to die for Christ, he would do so with honor and without hesitation.

Just as Acts 21:14 says, when the brothers saw that they could not convince Paul, they stopped insisting and said: “Let the will of the Lord be done.” His reaction shows that, although sometimes it is difficult for us to accept certain decisions, trusting in God's will gives us Peace.

When the brothers, including Luke, begged Paul with tears not to go to Jerusalem, he showed his great love and empathy by lovingly telling them that their crying broke his heart. However, Paul was clear that fulfilling God's will was his priority, even if it meant putting his life in danger. His bravery was evident; He did not seek to become a martyr, but if he had to die to be a faithful follower of Christ, he would accept it as an honor. Like Jesus, Paul stood firm in his decision to go to Jerusalem, undeterred by the concerns of others.

19. What valuable lesson does this story teach us?

This story teaches us that we should not try to convince others not to make sacrifices to serve God. Although it may be difficult at times to accept their decisions, we must support them in their service to Jehovah, trusting that they are doing the right thing.

ADDITIONAL COMMENTS

As 21:14 mentions, the brothers stopped insisting when they saw that Paul was determined and said: “Let the will of the Lord be done.” This reminds us that even if it hurts us, we must respect and support the spiritual decisions of others.

Hebrews 12:2 shows that Jesus endured suffering because he had his eye on the reward. Likewise, when our loved ones make sacrifices for Jehovah, we should encourage them rather than discourage them, knowing that their efforts serve a great purpose.

Paul’s story teaches us the importance of supporting those who make courageous decisions to serve Jehovah, even if it means personal sacrifices. Although it is natural for us to feel sadness or worry when someone we love takes a path that may be difficult, we must remember that their decision is motivated by their love for God and their desire to put the kingdom first.

Phyllis, for example, felt deep pain when her only daughter decided to serve as a missionary in Africa, far from her family. However, instead of becoming discouraged or trying to convince her to return, he prayed in faith to accept the situation. She herself had instilled in her daughter the importance of putting the kingdom first, and now she could see the fruits of that effort. This example teaches us that we must trust in Jehovah and his ability to care for those who serve him sacrificially. Our support and encouragement can be a great boost to strengthen your faith and perseverance.

ILLUSTRATION

Images of parents and a missionary couple. 1. Parents talking with a smile on the phone. 2. The marriage, happy, also talking on the phone in the country in which they serve.

Let us encourage the brothers who make sacrifices to serve Jehovah.

20, 21. How do we know that Paul sought the company of his fellow believers, and why did he do so?

Paul always sought the company of his brothers in the faith. During his trip to Jerusalem, he stayed with them in different places, enjoying their support and hospitality. When he arrived, the brothers welcomed him with joy. Spending time with them strengthened him and helped him stand firm in the face of opposition.

ADDITIONAL COMMENTS

As Acts 21:17 mentions, the brothers received Paul “with joy.” This shows the love and unity among Christians, as they always found comfort and encouragement in the company of their spiritual family.

Paul knew he would face difficulties, but, as Acts 21:4-8 says, everywhere he went, he sought out the brothers and spent time with them. This teaches us that the Christian brotherhood is a great support in difficult times.

Paul deeply valued the company of his fellow believers, and this is reflected in how he organized his trip to Jerusalem. At every place he stopped, he made an effort to find local Christians, such as in Tyre, Ptolemais, and Caesarea, spending time with them. This closeness not only encouraged him, but also created bonds of love and mutual support within the Christian congregation. The encouragement he received from these brothers was vital to face the great difficulties that awaited him, including the hostility of his enemies.

Paul knew he couldn't stand on his own; He needed the spiritual support of those who shared his faith and love for Jehovah. This shows how important it is to seek the company of our brothers, especially in difficult times. Just as Paul was welcomed with joy by the brothers in Jerusalem, we too can find strength and encouragement in our spiritual family.