Congregation Bible Study (30 min.) lfb lessons 84, 85.
Analysis of Lesson 84: Jesus Walks on Water
Why did Peter start to sink?
Peter began to sink as he approached Jesus, who was walking on the water, because he saw the storm and was afraid. When he felt himself beginning to sink, he cried out, “Lord, save me!” Jesus caught him by the hand and said to him, “Why did you begin to doubt? Do you have no faith?” Then Jesus and Peter got into the boat, and immediately the storm stopped.
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS
Peter began to sink because he allowed fear and doubt to become stronger than his faith. At first, he trusted Jesus completely and had the courage to walk on the water. But when he began to focus on the strength of the wind and the waves, he stopped concentrating on Jesus and became afraid. This caused him to lose confidence and begin to sink. Even so, Jesus immediately helped him, demonstrating that he is always ready to support those who trust in him.
In Matthew 14:29-30, we see that Peter had great faith when he got out of the boat in the middle of a storm. No other disciple dared to do so. However, when he began to focus on the circumstances instead of Jesus, fear overwhelmed him. This teaches us that problems can weaken our faith if we allow them to consume all our attention.
Matthew 14:31 shows that Jesus immediately reached out to save Peter. Although Peter doubted, Jesus did not reject or abandon him; rather, he helped him and then taught him a valuable lesson about faith. This reminds us that Jehovah and Jesus are patient and merciful when we struggle with our fears.
According to Mark 6:51, 52, the disciples still did not fully understand who Jesus was or the extent of his power. The miracle of walking on water and calming the storm strengthened their confidence. Often, Jehovah allows certain experiences to help us develop a stronger and more mature faith.
The account harmonizes well with Psalm 27:13, where David highlighted the importance of maintaining faith even in difficult times. Peter began with confidence, but for a moment he allowed fear to overcome it. We too face “storms” in life, but if we keep our eyes fixed on Jehovah, we can move forward with courage.
What did the apostles learn?
The apostles learned that Jesus had power over the forces of nature and that if they trusted him completely, they had nothing to fear. They also understood that Jesus truly was the Son of God.
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS
The apostles learned that Jesus had authority over the forces of nature and that they could trust him completely. They understood that they did not need to be overcome by fear, because Jesus could protect and help them even in impossible situations. They also learned that they needed to strengthen their faith and trust more fully in Jehovah’s power working through Jesus.
In Matthew 14:33, the disciples were so impressed by the miracle that they recognized Jesus as truly the Son of God. This event greatly strengthened their faith and helped them to better understand Jesus’ special relationship with Jehovah. It was not only an amazing miracle but also powerful proof of who he was.
Mark 4:39-41 shows that Jesus calmed the wind and the sea with a simple command. The disciples were amazed because they understood that even the forces of nature obeyed Jesus. This taught them that, with Jehovah backing him, Jesus had authority over any situation, no matter how dangerous it seemed.
According to Luke 8:24-25, Jesus asked them why they had so little faith. That question made them reflect on the need to trust more and not let fear control them. Sometimes, trials reveal how much we need to strengthen our trust in Jehovah and depend on him more.
In John 6:19-21, the disciples felt reassured when Jesus got into the boat and the storm ended. This taught them that Jesus’ presence brings peace and security even in the midst of terrifying circumstances. Today, we too can feel calm and confident when we place our problems in Jehovah’s hands.
What does this account teach us about Jehovah?
This account teaches us that Jehovah gave Jesus great power to help people and that he could also control the forces of nature. Furthermore, it shows us how much Jehovah and Jesus care for their servants and how much they want us to trust them completely. Jehovah wants us to have faith and trust in him and his Son, even in the midst of difficulties or situations that cause us fear.
What practical lessons can we learn?
We learn that we must not let fear or difficulties weaken our faith, that we must remain steadfast, focus on Jesus, and trust in Jehovah’s help. Furthermore, we learn that if we fully trust in Jehovah and Jesus, we should not be afraid, even when we face problems or difficult situations.
Analysis of Lesson 85: Jesus Heals on the Sabbath
How did Jesus help the blind man?
Jesus helped the blind man by mixing saliva with dirt to make mud and applying some to his eyes. Then he told him, “Go and wash your eyes in the Pool of Siloam.” By doing this, the blind man was able to see for the first time in his life. Furthermore, Jesus also helped him to have faith by revealing that he was the Messiah.
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS
Jesus helped the blind man completely. He not only restored his physical sight, which he had never had since birth, but also helped him spiritually by teaching him who the Messiah was. Furthermore, Jesus showed him love, dignity, and personal attention, even when others despised him or treated him as nothing more than a beggar. Because of this, the man developed a strong faith and was willing to courageously defend the truth.
In John 9:1-7, Jesus took the initiative to approach the blind man, even though many people likely ignored him every day. This shows that Jesus was deeply compassionate and genuinely interested in those who suffered. Furthermore, the miracle made it clear that Jehovah can completely change a situation that seems impossible for humans.
John 9:6-7 shows that Jesus gave the man specific instructions, and the man obeyed without question. Although he may not have fully understood how the miracle would work, he demonstrated trust in Jesus. This teaches us that obedience and faith go hand in hand, and that Jehovah blesses those who follow his guidance, even if they do not understand all the details.
According to John 9:24-34, the man did not allow the pressure from the Pharisees to weaken his faith. Even though he was facing powerful religious leaders, he courageously defended what Jesus had done for him. This shows that faith based on real experiences with Jehovah can give us the courage to stand firm in the face of opposition.
In John 9:35-38, Jesus sought out the man again after he had been expelled by the Pharisees. This reveals that Jesus was concerned not only with healing physical illnesses but also with strengthening people spiritually. The man eventually recognized Jesus as the Messiah and put faith in him, showing that the greatest gift he received was the opportunity to draw closer to Jehovah.
Why did the Pharisees hate Jesus?
The Pharisees hated Jesus because he healed the sick on the Sabbath and said he shouldn't do so, since the Sabbath was a day of rest. Furthermore, they claimed that if Jesus healed on the Sabbath, his power did not come from God, and they looked for a reason to arrest him.
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS
The Pharisees hated Jesus because he exposed their hypocrisy and evil attitudes. Although Jesus helped people and performed obvious miracles, they refused to accept that he came from God. They were more interested in protecting their traditions, their authority, and their position in the eyes of the people than in showing love and mercy. Furthermore, they resented that so many people listened to and followed Jesus.
In John 9:13-16, the Pharisees focused more on the fact that Jesus had healed on the Sabbath than on the miracle itself. Instead of rejoicing that a blind man could now see, they criticized Jesus for not following their human rules. This shows that they had lost sight of the true purpose of the Law and were placing more importance on traditions than on compassion.
John 9:18-23 shows how the Pharisees intimidated people to maintain religious control. The man's parents were afraid to express their opinions because they could be expelled from the synagogue. This reveals that the Pharisees used pressure and fear to protect their authority and prevent others from putting faith in Jesus.
According to John 9:24-29, the Pharisees rejected even clear proof of God's power. Although the man had been blind from birth and could now see, they chose to deny the truth rather than acknowledge Jesus. Pride and prejudice can cause a person to close their eyes to very clear evidence.
In Matthew 22:29, Jesus explained that they did not truly know the Scriptures or the power of God. Despite being religious leaders and experts in the Law, they did not understand Jehovah’s qualities or the Messiah’s purpose. This helps us understand why they rejected Jesus. They were spiritually blinded by pride, human traditions, and the desire to maintain their position.
What does this account teach us about Jehovah?
This account teaches us that Jehovah is compassionate and uses his power to help people. It also shows us that Jehovah gave Jesus power to heal the sick and strengthen the faith of those who listened to him. Furthermore, we learn that Jehovah values sincere faith more than human traditions.
What practical lessons can we learn?
We learn that we must have faith in Jesus and obey his instructions, just as the blind man did. We also learn that we must not be influenced by the opinions of those who oppose the truth. Furthermore, we must strive to strengthen our faith and trust in Jehovah’s power and help.
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