Congregational Book Study, Week of July 27–August 2, 2026, Let Us Be Courageous in Walking with God. Introduction to Section 1, Timeline, and Chapter 1.

Congregational Book Study, July 27–August 2, 2026, Let Us Be Courageous in Walking with God. Introduction to Section 1, Timeline, and Chapter 1.

Congregation Bible Study (30 mins.) wcg Introduction to section 1, timeline and chapter 1.

Introduction to Section 1: From the Days of the Patriarchs to the Time of the Judges

In this section, we will take an exciting journey through biblical history spanning some 22 centuries. We will begin with Enoch, who was born while Adam was still alive, and continue to the time of the prophet Samuel, whom Jehovah used to appoint the first king of Israel.

During this journey, we will meet men and women who demonstrated extraordinary faith and courage. We will examine the examples of faithful servants such as Noah, Abraham, Sarah, Moses, Rahab, Deborah, and Gideon. Some undertook long journeys through dangerous places, while others accepted the challenge of participating in “Jehovah’s wars.”

Although their circumstances were very different, they all had something in common: they deeply loved Jehovah and courageously carried out the assignments he entrusted to them. Their examples will help us to strengthen our faith and to face with courage the responsibilities we have today as servants of God.

COMMENTS

It is striking that, throughout so many centuries, Jehovah has always had faithful servants willing to obey him. This encourages us, because it shows that, regardless of the times or difficulties, it is always possible to remain loyal to Jehovah.

We learn that each faithful servant received a different assignment. Some had to travel, others to fight, and still others to demonstrate their faith in various ways. This reminds us that Jehovah can also use our abilities to serve him. The important thing is to fulfill the assignment he gives us with courage, love, and faithfulness.

Timeline of section 1:

This timeline allows us to see how Jehovah guided his people for over 2,000 years. From Adam to Samuel, there were always faithful men and women willing to do his will. This teaches us that Jehovah has never abandoned his servants and that he has always had a purpose for every generation.

It is interesting to see how the most important events occurred at the time Jehovah had determined. For example, the Flood, the covenant with Abraham, the exodus from Egypt, and the entry into Canaan were not isolated events, but rather part of the fulfillment of his purpose. This strengthens our confidence that Jehovah always fulfills his promises at the right time.

The timeline also helps us place the characters in history and better understand how they were related to one another. By seeing that some lived during the same period and others many years later, we gain a better understanding of the unfolding of Bible events and how Jehovah gradually prepared his people to do his will.

One striking feature is the diverse range of roles depicted. Some were patriarchs, others prophets, judges, or individuals who demonstrated their faith in challenging times. This reminds us that Jehovah does not expect everyone to do the same thing, but rather that each person faithfully fulfill the role he has assigned, no matter how large or small it may seem.

Analysis of Chapter 1: Enoch: He Walked with God

What would I say?

In what ways did Enoch demonstrate courage?

Enoch demonstrated courage in several ways. First, he was not swayed by the violent and rebellious spirit that prevailed in his time. Although most people had adopted the disobedient attitude of Adam and Eve, he remained peaceful and “continued walking with the true God.”

He also showed courage by respecting and honoring Jehovah’s holy name. While others invoked it disrespectfully, Enoch made it clear by his conduct that he deeply loved Jehovah and that he was different from those around him.

Furthermore, he was courageous in fulfilling the assignment Jehovah gave him as a prophet. He firmly proclaimed a message of judgment against irreverent people, even knowing that this message would provoke their rejection and the hatred of the people. Despite the danger and even attempts on his life, he did not stop proclaiming what Jehovah wanted them to hear.

ADDITIONAL COMMENTS

The example of Enoch demonstrates that true courage lies in remaining faithful to Jehovah, defending his name, and obeying his instructions, even when that involves facing opposition or danger.

Enoch showed courage by remaining faithful to Jehovah in a time when most people were violent and disrespectful of God. He did not allow the bad conduct of those around him to influence him. Furthermore, he accepted the difficult assignment of delivering a message of judgment, even knowing that many would reject him and might even try to harm him. His trust in Jehovah gave him the strength to stand firm.

Genesis 5:24 says that Enoch “walked with God,” meaning that he lived a life completely in accordance with Jehovah’s will. While most followed a path of violence and rebellion, he chose to obey God. His example demonstrates that true courage lies not only in facing danger but also in remaining faithful when everyone else is doing the opposite.

Jude 14, 15 records that Enoch firmly proclaimed Jehovah’s judgment against the irreverent. He did not soften the message to avoid trouble, but conveyed exactly what Jehovah wanted him to say. This teaches us that courage also involves standing up for the truth with respect and firmness, even when it is not always well received by those who listen.

Investigate a little more

1. How might people have begun to “call on the name of Jehovah”? (Gen. 4:26; w01 9/15 29 par. 3)

People may have begun to “call on the name of Jehovah” in a disrespectful or profane way. Instead of using the divine name to worship it in faith and in accordance with pure worship, they probably used it to refer to themselves or to others through whom they claimed to worship God. They may also have assigned the divine name to idols. In this way, they profaned God’s holy name instead of honoring it.

ADDITIONAL COMMENTS

It is likely that people began to use Jehovah's name in a disrespectful manner, without giving it the honor it deserved. Instead of sincerely worshipping him, they misused his name, reflecting the rebellious attitude prevalent at that time.

Although Genesis 4:26 mentions that people began to call on the name of Jehovah, the context of those chapters shows that wickedness was rapidly increasing. This helps us understand that it was not pure worship, but rather a misuse of the divine name without the respect it deserves.

In contrast to that attitude, Enoch chose to honor Jehovah’s name with his entire life. Genesis 5:24 shows that he “walked with God,” demonstrating that respecting Jehovah’s name involves much more than pronouncing it. It means living in a way that glorifies him and reflects his qualities.

2. Enoch was the first servant of God to do a certain work. What was that work? What helped him to fulfill his commission? (w01 9/15 31 par. 5)

Enoch was the first servant of God to become a faithful prophet of Jehovah. He was commissioned to deliver a message of judgment against the ungodly and irreverent people of his day. Although it was a difficult message to deliver and could provoke opposition, Enoch courageously fulfilled the task Jehovah had assigned him.

What helped Enoch fulfill his commission was his genuine faith and deep devotion to Jehovah. Although he lived in a violent world far from God, he remained different and “kept walking with Jehovah.” Furthermore, Jehovah gave him the strength to proclaim his message and protected him when he faced opposition from his enemies.

ADDITIONAL COMMENTS

This account teaches us that if we imitate Enoch's faith, Jehovah will also strengthen us to courageously fulfill any assignment he gives us.

Enoch was the first servant of God whom the Bible says acted as a prophet. Jehovah commissioned him to deliver a message of judgment against irreverent people. What enabled him to fulfill this assignment was his deep faith, his love for Jehovah, and his confidence that God would always be with him and support him.

The prophecy recorded in Jude 14, 15 shows that Enoch delivered exactly the message Jehovah gave him. Although it was a stark announcement of judgment, he did not alter its content to please people. His example teaches us that a faithful servant puts Jehovah's will above the fear of man.

Hebrews 11:5 highlights that Enoch pleased God by his faith. That faith was not just a belief, but a deep trust that motivated him to obey even when the assignment was difficult. The stronger our faith, the more courage we will have to fulfill any responsibility Jehovah gives us.

3. It is possible that, before beginning his work as a prophet, Enoch already knew that his courage would be tested. Why do we say this? (w06 10/1 19 pars. 13, 14)

We say that Enoch may have known his faith and courage would be tested because Jehovah had already announced in the Garden of Eden that there would be enmity between his servants and the followers of Satan. Furthermore, Enoch knew that this hatred had been unleashed at the beginning of human history, when Cain murdered his brother Abel.

Enoch understood that defending true worship in a world dominated by wickedness could bring him opposition and even endanger his life. Even so, he showed great courage, for he “kept walking with the true God” and proclaimed Jehovah’s message even though it earned him many enemies. His faith and trust in Jehovah helped him to remain steadfast.

ADDITIONAL COMMENTS

Because Enoch knew very well the kind of people who lived in his time. He had seen how violence and rebellion had increased since the days of Cain. So he could imagine that announcing a message of judgment would provoke rejection and persecution. Even so, he accepted the assignment and remained faithful to Jehovah.

Genesis 4:23-24 shows that violence was already a part of society at that time. Enoch knew that preaching against people with such attitudes could endanger his life. However, he chose to obey Jehovah rather than let himself be overcome by fear.

The content of Jude 14-15 was a direct condemnation of people's irreverent behavior. It was logical to think that many would react with anger. Even so, Enoch did not let fear paralyze him, but instead trusted fully in Jehovah and fulfilled the mission he had received.

4. Although some believe that Enoch was taken to heaven, how could you prove that this was not the case? (John 3:13; Heb. 11:5, 13).

Although some believe that Enoch was taken to heaven, the Bible shows that this was not the case. In John 3:13, Jesus stated, “No one has ascended into heaven except the one who descended from heaven, the Son of Man.” Since Jesus was the first to open the way to heaven, no human being, including Enoch, had ascended to heaven before him.

Furthermore, although Hebrews 11:5 says that Enoch was “taken away so that he did not see death,” this does not mean that he was taken to heaven. Rather, Jehovah prevented him from suffering a violent death at the hands of his enemies.

This explanation is confirmed by Hebrews 11:13, which states that “all of them died holding fast to the faith,” including Enoch. Therefore, the Bible itself confirms that Enoch died and was not taken to heaven. Furthermore, Jehovah removed his body to prevent it from being desecrated or made an object of worship.

ADDITIONAL COMMENTS

We can prove this because Jesus explained that no human being had ascended to heaven before him. Furthermore, the Bible shows that Enoch died, as did the other faithful servants of old. Jehovah simply prevented him from dying a violent death and allowed him to rest in death, where he remains safely in his memory until the time of the resurrection.

In John 3:13, Jesus clearly stated that no man had ascended to heaven. This helps us understand that when Hebrews 11:5 says that Enoch was “translated,” it does not mean that he was taken to heaven, but that Jehovah ended his life before his enemies could violently take it from him.

Hebrews 11:5, 13 shows that Enoch was a man of great faith and pleased Jehovah, but it also indicates that these faithful servants died without yet receiving the full fulfillment of the promises. This strengthens our hope in the resurrection, for we know that Jehovah never forgets those who serve him faithfully and will reward them in the future.

Think about the lessons

In what situations are we most likely to need courage to preach?

We are more likely to need courage when the Bible's message is unpopular or confronts people's beliefs and lifestyles. We also need it when we face rejection, hatred, or persecution for preaching, or when we are the only Jehovah's Witnesses at school, work, or other settings where we are pressured to remain silent about our faith.

Furthermore, it takes courage to bear witness in public places, such as when preaching with displays, where some people may approach with the intention of debating or questioning our beliefs.

ADDITIONAL COMMENTS

We need courage when we preach to people who show no interest, when we fear being ridiculed, or when speaking about our faith might bring rejection or criticism. Enoch's example teaches us to fear Jehovah, not people. If we trust in him, we can continue preaching with courage, even if we don't always receive a positive response.

In Jude 14, 15 we see that Enoch proclaimed a very difficult message to people who did not respect God. Even knowing that his message would not be popular, he did not fail to fulfill his assignment. This teaches us that courage does not depend on people's reactions, but on our trust in Jehovah and our desire to obey him.

How can the example of Enoch help us?

Enoch’s example teaches us to remain steadfast and faithful to Jehovah even when we face opposition. He courageously proclaimed a message of judgment in a world full of irreverent people and did not allow fear to silence him. His example encourages us to trust in Jehovah and to continue speaking boldly about him, regardless of the place or circumstances.

ADDITIONAL COMMENTS

Hebrews 11:5 highlights that Enoch pleased God because of his faith. This detail helps us understand that his primary concern was not avoiding trouble, but remaining faithful. When we remember his example, we are motivated to continue preaching with courage, knowing that Jehovah appreciates our efforts, even if others do not.

How does Jehovah feel when we are courageous in walking with him? (Prov. 27:11; Heb. 11:5).

When we are courageous in walking with Jehovah, we give him great joy and make his heart happy. As Proverbs 27:11 points out, our loyalty and courage enable him to respond to those who defy him with contempt, demonstrating that we truly love and respect him.

Furthermore, Jehovah is pleased with those who remain faithful. Just as with Enoch, he testifies that those who walk with faith and courage please him (Heb. 11:5). He is also honored to be called their God, for, as Hebrews 11:15, 16 indicates, he is not ashamed of those who continue to serve him faithfully.

Finally, Jehovah considers us not only his servants but also his dear friends. When we remain peaceful and distinguish ourselves by not following the spirit of the world, we strengthen our friendship with him and can be assured that he keeps us safe in his memory.

ADDITIONAL COMMENTS

When we are courageous and remain faithful to Jehovah, he is very pleased with us. Our faithfulness shows that we truly love him and trust in him above any difficulty. Furthermore, our conduct answers Satan’s challenge that no one would serve God out of love.

Proverbs 27:11 shows that our faithfulness makes Jehovah’s heart happy. Every time we choose to do what is right, despite the difficulties, we demonstrate that our love for him is sincere. This makes our efforts, even if they seem small, very valuable to Jehovah.

Hebrews 11:5 says that Enoch received the testimony that he pleased God. Jehovah did not overlook his worth or his faithfulness. This assures us that he also observes our efforts and rejoices when we continue walking with him, even if we face opposition or challenges.

In what ways can you copy Enoch's example of value?

We can emulate Enoch's example of courage in several ways. First, by being different from the world and maintaining peaceful and respectful behavior, without being influenced by the rebellious spirit that surrounds us.

We also follow his example when we defend and respect Jehovah’s name. Like Enoch, we are not ashamed to identify ourselves as Jehovah’s Witnesses and we honor his name when others use it irreverently.

Furthermore, we imitate their courage in preaching the Bible's full message, announcing both the good news of the Kingdom and Jehovah's warnings, without allowing fear of rejection to silence us.

Finally, we copy Enoch's example by remaining loyal to Jehovah despite opposition, trusting that he loves us, strengthens us, and will care for us as we continue walking with him.

ADDITIONAL COMMENTS

I can follow Enoch’s example by remaining faithful to Jehovah, even when most people think differently, respectfully defending my beliefs, and carrying out the preaching work without letting fear stop me. I can also strive to make decisions that please Jehovah and trust that he will always give me the strength to do what is right.

Genesis 5:24 says that Enoch walked with God, which implies that he was steadfast in his friendship with Jehovah. Imitating his example means striving each day to draw closer to Jehovah through prayer, study, and obedience, without letting my surroundings change my principles.

The prophecy recorded at Jude 14, 15 shows that Enoch was courageous in speaking in Jehovah’s name. I can imitate that courage by seizing opportunities to bear witness tactfully and respectfully. Even if some people do not accept the message, the important thing is to remain faithful and remember that Jehovah always values ​​our efforts.

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What does this account teach me about Jehovah?

This account teaches me that Jehovah is a loving and considerate God, who tenderly cares for and protects his servants. It also teaches me that he notices our decisions and rejoices when we remain faithful and do what is right, even in a world that opposes him.

Furthermore, I learn that Jehovah values ​​and rewards faith and loyalty. Just as he let Enoch know that he had his approval, he also blesses those who remain faithful.

Finally, this account strengthens my confidence that Jehovah’s judgments and promises are certain and always fulfilled. Therefore, I can fully trust everything he has promised, including the future of the new world.

ADDITIONAL COMMENTS

This account teaches me that Jehovah deeply values ​​the faith, courage, and loyalty of his servants. He never abandons those who remain close to him, even when they face opposition. I also learn that Jehovah observes our efforts, strengthens us to fulfill our responsibilities, and rewards those who serve him with a sincere heart.

How does this account relate to Jehovah's purpose and the main theme of the Bible?

This account relates to Jehovah’s purpose and the main theme of the Bible because it highlights the sanctification of God’s name and the vindication of his sovereignty by means of the Kingdom. Enoch’s example demonstrates that it is possible to remain loyal to Jehovah and defend his holy name, even in a world that rejects him.

Furthermore, Enoch's prophecy announces Jehovah's judgment against wickedness, confirming that God will eliminate violence and irreverence to fulfill his purpose of restoring the Earth.

Finally, this account strengthens the hope of Paradise, for it shows that Jehovah rewards those who are faithful to him and guarantees the fulfillment of his original purpose: that mankind live forever in peace on an Earth transformed into a paradise.

ADDITIONAL COMMENTS

This account shows that from the beginning, Jehovah has always had faithful people who support his purpose. Enoch defended Jehovah’s name and announced that he would end wickedness, demonstrating that God’s Kingdom will put an end to injustice and bring peace. This is in harmony with the Bible’s main theme: the sanctification of Jehovah’s name by means of his Kingdom.

What would I like to ask Enoch when he is resurrected?

When Enoch is resurrected, I would like to ask him how he felt about receiving the commission to proclaim a message of judgment to such a violent society, and what helped him maintain his composure and courage while fulfilling that assignment.

I would also ask him what he remembers about the moment when Jehovah delivered him from his enemies and what the possible vision of the future Paradise he received was like before passing into the sleep of death.

In addition, I would like to know what spiritual habits or thoughts helped him to keep walking with Jehovah, to remain faithful despite opposition, and to maintain a deep love for God's name, even when he seemed to be the only one who remained loyal.

ADDITIONAL COMMENTS

I would like to ask you how you managed to remain so steadfast and courageous at a time when almost everyone opposed Jehovah. I would also like to know how you felt when you received the assignment to announce a message of judgment and what helped you most to trust in Jehovah during those difficult times. It would be very encouraging to hear your experience firsthand and to learn from your faith, your courage, and your example of faithfulness.