Watchtower Study, Young Man, Imitate Mark and Timothy, Week of July 7-13, 2025, Comments and Responses.

Watchtower Study, Young Man, Imitates Mark and Timothy, July 7-13, 2025, Comments and Responses.

“Bring Mark with you, for he is useful to me in the ministry” (2 TIM. 4:11).

1, 2. What might have prevented Mark and Timothy from doing more in their service to Jehovah?

What might have prevented Mark and Timothy from doing more in their service to Jehovah included fear of the unknown or lack of experience. Mark may have been afraid to leave his comfortable home to embark on an uncertain missionary journey. Similarly, Timothy might have hesitated because of his youth and inexperience. However, both decided not to let these concerns deter them and moved forward in faith.

ADDITIONAL COMMENTS

This story teaches us that excuses like fear or inexperience don't have to be insurmountable barriers when it comes to serving Jehovah. Mark and Timothy show us that taking the step of faith, even when we feel our limitations, allows us to enjoy great spiritual blessings.

That, since they were young, and depending on the tasks they were offered, they might be afraid of the unknown.

Perhaps, because they were young, they thought they couldn't do many responsible things due to their lack of life experience.

In Acts, we learn a little about Mark's story, and we see that he lived in a relatively well-off family because he had a servant. He lived in his mother's house, so he had a fairly comfortable life. However, in verse 25, it says that he left everything to go to the relief work. So, it shows that it was a big change for him.

Timothy was probably living with his parents when Paul invited him to preach, so he might have thought, 'I'm too young and inexperienced to accept this invitation.'

Perhaps Timothy's fears were due to the fact that he looked younger than the brothers he was going to help. For example, in 1 Corinthians 16:10, Paul tells the congregation, "If Timothy comes, make sure he doesn't feel any fear." Or maybe he was shy, and he was also a little afraid. He tells him, "Let no one despise your youth." So it's possible he had these feelings.

Although much time has passed, the situations that Mark and Timothy faced, and their fears, are the same ones that young people in the congregation face today. The fear of the unknown, wondering if they'll be able to carry out the assignment, having a relative who opposes them and not knowing what to decide—these are the same situations. But we know that, just like back then, there are many young people eager to do much more in the congregation. That's why it's good for us to analyze these kinds of articles.

3. a) How do we know that Mark and Timothy were very valuable to Paul? (2 Timothy 4:6, 9, 11; see also the images.)

We know that Mark and Timothy were very precious to Paul because, when the apostle was nearing the end of his life and knew his time was short, he expressed a strong desire to have them by his side. In 2 Timothy 4:6-9, 11, Paul specifically mentions Mark as useful for the ministry and asks that Timothy visit him soon, emphasizing how much he appreciated and trusted them.

ADDITIONAL COMMENTS

Because they became so valuable to Paul that when the apostle knew he had little time left to live, he wanted to have them by his side.

Normally, when someone finds themselves in this situation, knowing they have little time left to live, they want to have their loved ones or loved ones close by. Thus, the fact that Paul wanted to have both Mark and Timothy close to him shows that he came to have a great affection for them.

Mark and Timothy learned, from a very young age, to have responsibilities in the congregation. They always made themselves very valuable. This is a good example for our times, as we see many, many young people following their example.

3. b) What questions will we analyze in this article?

The questions we will explore in this article are: What qualities of Mark and Timothy endeared them to Paul? How can young brothers follow their example? And what advice can Paul give them?

ADDITIONAL COMMENTS

In the image on the left we see Mark, who is with Paul and Barnabas, and physically he is taking care of them, he is attending to them.

In the image on the right, we see Timothy visiting a congregation, strengthening and encouraging the brothers. And, as he says at the end of the engraving, this is why they earned affection, because they took on responsibilities even when they were young.

ILLUSTRATION

Series of images: 1. Mark prepares something to eat and drink for Paul and Barnabas. 2. Timothy reads a letter to a group of elders, who listen attentively.

Mark and Timothy won Paul's affection by taking on responsibilities while still young. (See paragraph 3.)

BE LIKE MARCOS BY BEING WILLING TO SERVE OTHERS

4, 5. How did Mark show his willingness to serve others?

Mark demonstrated his willingness to serve others by not giving up when Paul refused to take him on his second journey. Instead of becoming discouraged, he continued serving alongside Barnabas, and years later became a great help and comfort to Paul himself.

ADDITIONAL COMMENTS

One point to highlight is Mark's perseverance. Despite rejection and possible disappointment, he did not abandon his service to Jehovah, demonstrating that true devotion overcomes personal setbacks.

Because when Paul decided not to take him on his second trip, he, although he may have felt hurt, wasn't discouraged, but instead decided to go with his cousin Barnabas to serve elsewhere. He had a desire to help others, and in the future Paul counted on him again.

He didn't get discouraged, he didn't focus on the negative aspects of that situation, but instead, he looked for ways to do more. In other words, he had in mind that he wanted to serve others, and that was his Plan A, his Plan B, and his Plan C. So we see what Mark was like.

His attitude shows us that Mark wasn't seeking a specific title or assignment, but rather went much deeper, to what was truly important. His desire was to serve others. This change in circumstances demonstrates this: that he wasn't chasing an assignment, but rather that he loved Jehovah, and that's why he served the brothers.

Mark shows how, years later, he supported Paul even though Paul had rejected him. He wasn't hurt, but rather, he was one of those who also supported him. He kept the service of Jehovah in mind.

The paragraph mentions "constancy and diligence." This was because Mark didn't pursue privileges, titles, or responsibilities, but rather wanted to demonstrate his desire to serve others.

Mark may have been hurt when his trip was rejected, but his interest wasn't in acting that way, but in doing Jehovah's will and, of course, helping his brothers. And that's why he was a 'source of great comfort.' That's a great lesson for all of us, that we too can be a 'source of comfort' to our brothers and sisters.

6. How did spending time with mature Christians help Mark? (See note.)

Spending time with mature Christians, like Paul and Peter, helped Mark tremendously. Collaborating with them allowed him to grow and mature spiritually. In fact, he became such a close friend of Peter that Peter called him “my son.” Peter likely shared many details about Jesus with him, which Mark later used in writing his gospel.

ADDITIONAL COMMENTS

This point highlights the importance of surrounding ourselves with mature brothers who inspire and guide us on our spiritual journey. Like Mark, we can learn much by observing and listening to those who have more experience serving Jehovah.

He was very helpful because he not only spent time with Paul, but also joined the apostle Peter, who was in Babylon. This undoubtedly sparked a very intense relationship between them, to the point that Peter called him "my son." And it's likely that, while they were together, Peter told him many experiences he had with Jesus. In fact, he recorded all of these in the Gospel that bears his name.

As the note mentions, Mark not only wrote in the Gospel that bears his name things Jesus did, but he also captured his feelings and emotions. And it's likely that Peter conveyed this to him when he told him; he focused on telling him that side of Jesus: not just what he did, but how he felt about it.

Perhaps that was what helped him to be diligent and constant, and to want to serve his brothers, following the example that Jesus had left.

The paragraph shows us Mark's self-sacrifice, as he spent time with Paul in Rome and then traveled to Babylon to be with Peter, a journey of over 3,000 km. He traveled a great distance, but that self-sacrifice undoubtedly helped him spend time with these mature people and become good friends.

7. How did a young brother follow Mark's example? (See also the image.)

Seung-woo followed Marcos's example by not getting discouraged when he felt he wasn't receiving responsibilities quickly, but instead continued to look for practical ways to serve others. Although he compared himself to other brothers and felt overlooked, he decided to focus on helping older brothers and providing transportation to meetings. In doing so, he learned what it meant to serve selflessly and found joy in being useful, just as Marcos did in his ministry.

ADDITIONAL COMMENTS

This story teaches us that serving Jehovah doesn't always involve visible or immediately recognized roles. Sometimes, the most humble tasks are those that most strengthen our spirit and prepare us for greater responsibilities.

This brother enjoyed being with mature brothers, he made an effort to help others, and he learned what it meant to serve others. He realized that it made him happy. So, undoubtedly, this brother had a good attitude and a desire to help others. So, in our case, let's look for ways to help and do it.

He followed the suggestion of an elder, who recommended that, even if his work went unnoticed, he offer to help other older brothers. And that's what he did: he offered to drive them to and from meetings.

This brother says he compared himself to others and saw that some were given responsibilities while he was overlooked. He was advised to look up to his older brothers, help them, and set goals for himself. Looking back on that time, he says, "I learned what it truly meant to serve others and realized that helping the brothers in practical ways made me very happy." It's good advice for young people to make an effort to get to know their older brothers.

What helped Marcos make this journey without becoming discouraged was surrounding himself with mature, spiritual brothers and sisters. Similarly, Seung-woo found it helpful to receive counsel from mature people to prevent those emotions from dominating him and turning away from Jehovah.

The advice an elder gave him helped him greatly. He told him to strive to help others, even if it sometimes goes unnoticed. What makes us happy isn't that others see what we do, but the fact that we help our brothers and sisters when they really need it, and that we can look out for them. Our happiness often depends on that.

Young people can imitate Marcos, as we can see in the image, by helping their fellow siblings. Offering, for example, to drive them in the car, help them with their tablet, or anything else, means being available to them. And in this way, even if it's something that isn't very visible, it will help us prepare ourselves to take on more responsibilities in the future.

ILLUSTRATION

A young man drives an elderly brother to a congregation meeting.

Why is it good for young people to spend time with experienced Christians? (See paragraph 7.)

BE LIKE TIMOTHY BY SHOWING THAT YOU CARE FOR OTHERS

8. Why did Paul want Timothy to accompany him on his travels? (Philippians 2:19-22)

Paul wanted Timothy to accompany him on his travels for two main reasons: because he had a good reputation among the brethren, and because Paul knew that Timothy genuinely cared about people, as indicated in Philippians 2:20.

ADDITIONAL COMMENTS

This example teaches us that it's not just skill or experience that makes someone valuable in service, but also their attitude of love and care toward others. Timothy shows us that genuinely caring for people can open doors to serving in even greater ways.

One reason is the one we read in verse 20. There Paul says, 'I don't have anyone else with an attitude like his, someone who sincerely cares about you.' So Paul wasn't pointing out that Timothy was an excellent speaker or that he had a great ability to organize things in the congregation, but that he was especially useful and valuable to him because he showed great love and sincere concern for the brothers.

Paul saw that Timothy had a very good reputation, and this is earned over time and through the way one acts with the brothers. Therefore, Paul wanted Timothy to accompany him on all his trips. The example of Paul and Timothy leads us to reflect on how we are in the congregation: whether or not we are accessible to all our brothers, regardless of whether they are young or old.

Philippians 2:21 says, "For others seek their own interests, not the interests of Jesus Christ." Instead, we see that Timothy served as a slave and always put preaching first. So, he didn't seek his own interests, but those of other people.

He genuinely cared about others. That's why Paul's words stand out: when he says he has no one else with an attitude like his, and then later adds that Timothy had proven his worth. So we see that it wasn't just words or a reputation, but that it was truly like that in practice.

9. How did Timothy show that he genuinely cared for his brothers?

Timothy demonstrated his genuine concern for his brothers by putting the interests of others before his own. Paul was able to confidently leave him in Berea to encourage the new disciples, and then send him alone to Thessalonica to strengthen the congregation. Over the next 15 years, Timothy grew to love his brothers so much that he sometimes even wept with those who wept.

ADDITIONAL COMMENTS

Timothy demonstrated his genuine concern for the brothers by being willing to stay in difficult situations to encourage them, even alone. Over the years, he became so involved with them that he shared their joys as well as their tears. His genuine love is a great example for young people today.

From the moment he began serving alongside Paul, Timothy demonstrated that he was more concerned about others than himself.

In Berea, the Jews began to become agitated by the preaching, and so they sent Paul away to the sea. But Silas and Timothy stayed behind. This demonstrated that Timothy was genuinely interested and concerned for the brothers, as he stayed even though the disturbances and difficulties were beginning for them.

Throughout that time, about 15 years, Timothy demonstrated how much he loved his brothers, to the point of weeping with them, as 2 Timothy 1:4 mentions. He shed tears for them because he loved them so much.

Surely, those who knew him remembered Timothy as a very loving brother, who truly took a deep interest in the brothers when he visited them.

10. How did a brother learn to care more about other people?

Woo Jae learned to take a greater interest in other people by following the advice of an elder. Since he found it difficult to converse with his older siblings, the elder suggested that he tell them something he liked about them and think of things that might interest them. By applying this advice, he can now converse easily with people of all ages and better understands others' problems, allowing him to help his siblings more effectively.

ADDITIONAL COMMENTS

This example teaches us that genuine interest in others can be cultivated with effort and practice. Sometimes, small gestures—such as highlighting a quality or showing genuine care—open doors to building deeper relationships.

It seems this brother was shy; he had a hard time having conversations with older siblings. So, he started slowly. An elderly man suggested that he tell them something he liked about them and take an interest in topics they might have in common. And, little by little, he improved, until now he finds it easy to converse with people of all ages.

This brother comments on how doing this has helped him better understand the problems of others. This allows him to help them in the way they need, and it also makes him feel good. Thanks to what he did, this brother contributed to his own well-being and that of the congregation.

Noticing the positive aspects of others, focusing on them, and telling them those nice things—those qualities, those virtues they have—not only encourages them, but also reflects interest and spiritual progress.

Young men, if they progress spiritually, will likely eventually become ministerial servants or elders. And one of the elders' primary duties is to shepherd, among others, brothers of all kinds.

He got used to caring about what others were interested in; he learned to know what each brother was interested in. This made it easier for him to help and shepherd any brother, regardless of age.

11. How can young people learn to take a greater interest in the members of the congregation? (See also the image.)

Young people can show more interest in their brothers and sisters by engaging with everyone at meetings, listening attentively, and looking for practical ways to help. Simple actions, such as accompanying preachers or helping with technology, demonstrate Christian love and strengthen unity.

ADDITIONAL COMMENTS

At meetings, you can talk to everyone, regardless of age. You can start by asking them how they are and listening to their answers. You may even discover that you have common hobbies and interests, and you'll have a wide variety of friends. Then, you may find out when they need help, and you can offer them the much-needed support.

In the image, you can see how this young man is helping the older brother by showing him a video. At the same time, it's clear he's watching with admiration, because he can understand, see, and learn from what this older brother is doing when he preaches. In this way, the two can support each other.

The previous photo shows a brother giving his older brother a ride in the car. And in this photo, we can already see the practice: how they're preaching with the tablet. This shows the interest the younger brother has shown in this older brother, an interest that didn't arise suddenly, but rather has been cultivated over time.

We must keep in mind that it's not enough to ask or speak with a brother just once to gain his trust. That comes over time, not just by saying, "Whenever you need me," but by saying, "I'm here, I can help you with this or that, or whatever you need."

In this image, we could see the perfect preaching duo, as we have both sides: the younger brother, who has experience with modern things—such as using tablets, adjusting the volume, or any other detail related to technology—and the older brother, who has a lifetime of experience. When it comes to preaching, he knows how to give good presentations and how to lead Bible studies. Thus, the fact that we younger brothers make an effort to join with older brothers will help us learn from them, and they can also learn something from us.

ILLUSTRATION

A young man and an older man preach from house to house. The older man speaks to a man while the younger man holds a tablet with a video.

Young brothers can help the congregation in many ways. (See paragraph 11.)

PABLO'S ADVICE CAN HELP YOU

12. What can young people do to benefit from the advice Paul gave Timothy?

Young people can benefit from Paul's counsel to Timothy by reading his letters as if they were addressed personally. They will then find principles that will strengthen them and help them advance in their service to Jehovah.

ADDITIONAL COMMENTS

One of the things you can do is read the two letters Paul wrote to Timothy, and as you do so, think as if they were addressed to him and see how you can apply that advice.

The letters Paul wrote were written with the concern a father would have for his son; therefore, with every desire for Timothy's well-being.

13. What will help you have devotion to God?

Being devoted to God means being loyal to Jehovah and desiring to do what pleases Him, something we must cultivate with effort. To achieve this, Paul encourages us to train ourselves, comparing this process to the rigorous training of an athlete. We need self-discipline to develop spiritual habits.

ADDITIONAL COMMENTS

It requires training, as Paul told Timothy, because devotion is not something we are born with, but must be cultivated. It requires, like athletes, self-discipline and the development of habits.

Having devotion to God also means being loyal to Jehovah and having a desire to do what pleases Him. This isn't something you're born with; it must be cultivated.

Self-discipline will help us cultivate good habits that will strengthen our friendship with Jehovah, so that we may have a deep attachment to Him and thus achieve that devotion.

We think about training and that practicing a sport might not be something we enjoy. We don't always realize we're doing it for a purpose. Sometimes it involves getting up early or making an effort. We know it's a bad time at the time, but how do we feel afterward? Considering the benefits, the same thing happens with training spiritually. Obviously, it requires effort, but the results are well worth it.

14. What is our goal when reading the Bible? Explain it with a practical exercise.

When we read the Bible, our goal is to strengthen our friendship with Jehovah. For example, by meditating on how Jesus treated the rich young man with affection, we better understand how much Jehovah loves us. This kind of reflection motivates us to draw closer to Him and to seek ways to better serve others.

ADDITIONAL COMMENTS

This exercise demonstrates how Bible reading can be active and personal. It's not just about reading the words, but about applying them to our lives and learning more about Jehovah's heart. By asking personal questions during our study, such as "What can I improve?", we turn reading into a powerful tool to strengthen our relationship with God.

The goal is to strengthen our relationship and friendship with Jehovah. The example of the rich young man who spoke to Jesus is mentioned. He lacked the faith to put into practice what Jesus said, but Jesus treated him with affection. Since we want to strengthen our relationship with Jehovah, what does this example teach us about Jehovah? Well, since Jesus was the living example of what his Father was like, we learn that Jesus' way of thinking and feeling was the same as Jehovah's. Just as Jesus showed affection for this young man and wanted to help him, we see how Jehovah does the same with us: He shows affection for us and wants to help us.

By reading the Bible every day and doing so, we will fulfill our goal, which is to be closer to Jesus and, of course, to Jehovah.

Consider this man who was keeping the commandments, but Jesus said to him, "One thing you lack." He had to keep progressing. He doesn't seem to have any attachment to material things. So we too should reflect on ourselves and ask: Can I do more, even though I'm doing things right? Can I do more to draw closer to Jehovah and do things for others?

15. Why is it important for young people to strive to be a good example? (1 Timothy 4:12, 13)

It's important for young people to strive to be a good example, because their actions can have more influence than their words. As Paul told Timothy, demonstrating love, faith, and purity strengthens the message we teach and gives credibility to our words.

ADDITIONAL COMMENTS

This passage reminds us that being a good example is not only a responsibility, but also a powerful tool for building others. Young people who strive to live according to biblical principles inspire the entire congregation.

Because what we do, our example, is more powerful than what we can say. And that's important, because if we have, for example, a speech and we're talking about a topic, but we're not an example in that—for example, in preaching if the speech is about preaching—then what we say has no weight.

At the beginning, you mentioned a good speaker and a brother who will be remembered, perhaps not just because he speaks well. Well, this paragraph hits the nail on the head, doesn't it?

If young people are a good example, their brothers will recognize them for the good example they set. Then, they will strive to be good students, good preachers, and loving toward their brothers.

By striving to be a good example, they will try to connect with all the brothers in the congregation, and that's what others will remember. When they take the platform, if they are also good speakers, they will reach hearts; but if they aren't, the brothers will still retain the teaching they provide because of the example they set in the congregation.

The text of 1 Timothy 3:13 says that the person who performs his service well earns the freedom to speak about the faith. That is, when one strives, works, and does all he can, and his best, for the work and for the brothers and sisters, he then has the freedom to explain or speak about it.

The advice, "What we do is more powerful than what we say," has no age limit. On the contrary, it's advice that those who lead the congregation should especially reflect on.

16. a) In what five ways can young brothers be an example?

In 1 Timothy 4:12, Paul lists five ways in which young brothers can be an example: their speech, their conduct, their love, their faith, and their chastity. These encompass both what they say and what they do, reflecting a life that honors Jehovah.

ADDITIONAL COMMENTS

As it says in 1 Timothy 4:12, it first mentions the way of speaking, the conduct, the love shown, the faith and chastity.

16. b) What can a young person do to be an example through his or her way of speaking?

To be a good example in the way they speak, a young person can look for ways to encourage others with their words, express gratitude at home, give feedback at meetings with their own ideas, and praise their fellow members for their contributions.

ADDITIONAL COMMENTS

This passage teaches us that our words have enormous power to influence others. A young person who speaks with gratitude, respect, and encouragement not only reflects his love for Jehovah but also inspires others to improve their own speech.

You might think practically about how you can improve your speech—for example, by thanking your parents often if you live with them, or by working on giving better comments at church services, perhaps by choosing your words more carefully, or by encouraging a member of the congregation. In other words, think of practical ways you can apply that advice.

Speech has so much power that it can, as the Bible says, destroy or encourage. Normally, it's the people we live with who we find most difficult to encourage, perhaps because of trust. But when you acquire a habit as simple as saying thank you—whether to your husband or wife—it has so much power that it does good to both the receiver and the giver. Therefore, it's so beneficial that it's worth the effort and asking yourself: "To what extent do I use my speech to encourage others?"

In the letters of the apostle Paul, a recurring piece of advice is precisely to give thanks. In Ephesians 5:4, for example, Paul contrasts vulgar language and obscene jokes with giving thanks. Therefore, thanking those closest to us—young people, their parents, or within the congregation—should not be done to please others, but because they genuinely care about others. Thanking them for their comments, or for something specific they liked about a meeting, is a practical way to give thanks.

17. What things will help a young person achieve his spiritual goals? (2 Timothy 2:22)

Things that will help a young man achieve his spiritual goals include rejecting desires that could hinder his spiritual progress and distance him from Jehovah. He should assess whether there are activities that, while not bad, leave him little time for spiritual pursuits, such as sports, internet use, or video games. He can use some of this time to do more for Jehovah and his fellow believers.

ADDITIONAL COMMENTS

This advice highlights the importance of prioritizing spiritual life over recreational life. By reevaluating how we spend our time and focusing on serving Jehovah, we open the door to even greater blessings.

Spending time on other activities that may not be bad in and of themselves, such as sports, using the internet, or playing video games, but restricting that time and dedicating it to spiritual pursuits—such as maintaining the Kingdom Hall, preaching with the wagons, among many other activities—can help them strengthen their faith and have friends who help them set spiritual goals.

A very good question to ask ourselves is: "Do I spend five minutes a day texting or checking my social media?" And the truth is, we all do this at the end of the day. Another question would be: "Can I even spend five minutes reading the Bible, studying, or preparing for the meeting?" The truth is, if we have five minutes for one thing, we can also make five minutes for another. That's a start. Then, we can find more time and increase our service to Jehovah.

It's interesting that Paul used the word "flee from desires." The world has created so many desires and so many things that, in some way, become so attractive to young people. And of course, there are so many hobbies that, in a way, they can absorb all their time. They're not necessarily bad, but if they don't leave time for spiritual things, then that's where the problem comes in. That's why Paul used the word "flee from those desires."

THE BLESSINGS OF SERVING OTHERS

18. Why can we say that Mark and Timothy had a happy and exciting life?

Mark and Timothy lived happy and exciting lives because they made sacrifices to serve others, which brought them joy. Mark traveled the world in his ministry and wrote a compelling gospel about the life of Jesus. Timothy collaborated with Paul in forming congregations and encouraging the believers.

ADDITIONAL COMMENTS

This example teaches us that true happiness comes not from seeking self-pleasure, but from giving and serving selflessly. Mark and Timothy found joy in using their skills and time to help others and honor Jehovah.

Mark and Timothy made sacrifices to serve others, and thanks to that, they had a happy life.

Mark and Timothy demonstrated this in both their way of life and their actions, as Acts 20:35 says, "There is more happiness in giving than in receiving." So, they put this into practice by helping people in every way they could.

Timothy helped Paul form congregations and encourage the brothers. It's clear that Jehovah was pleased with both Mark and Timothy for the sacrifices they made to serve.

19. Why is it important for young men to apply Paul’s advice, and what will be the result?

It is important for young men to apply Paul's counsel because it reflects Jehovah's love, who desires them to live happy and fulfilling lives. By following this counsel and cultivating a spirit of service, young men can enjoy present blessings and prepare to receive "the life that is truly life" in the future.

ADDITIONAL COMMENTS

Because Paul gave Timothy the advice he gave because he loved him very much. Likewise, Jehovah also loves us and gives us this advice so that we may do well and be happy.

If we all follow this advice, in one way or another, we can help our brothers and sisters, and they can help us too. But we won't just have a happy life now; more importantly, a happy life in the future, in the new world.

WHAT WOULD YOU ANSWER?

What have you learned from Mark's example?

From Mark's example, I learned the importance of not giving up in the face of difficulties and maintaining an attitude of constant service. When Paul refused to take him on his second missionary journey, Mark didn't lose heart but continued serving in other places with Barnabas.

ADDITIONAL COMMENTS

The fact that Mark did not remain still, but actively sought ways to serve Jehovah, also shows the importance of joining with more experienced brothers and learning from them.

What does Timothy's example teach you about how you should treat others?

Timothy's example teaches me to take a genuine interest in the brothers and sisters, to be willing to support them and share their joys and difficulties, showing a genuine love that strengthens the congregation.

ADDITIONAL COMMENTS

We must take a sincere and heartfelt interest in the brothers of the congregation, and be willing to do whatever we can to help them within our means, like Timothy himself, who at times shed tears for them.

What advice can Paul give a young man to help him progress in his service to Jehovah?

Paul's advice—such as training oneself for devotion to God, reading and teaching effectively, avoiding youthful desires, and being a good example in conduct and speech—helps a young man advance and gain the trust of the congregation.

ADDITIONAL COMMENTS

Advice such as training with devotion to God as the goal, being an example for the faithful, fleeing from the desires of youth, and seeking justice.