He Fought Against Fear and Doubt - "Why Did You Give Way to Doubt" -Conclusion

 Peter needed to keep his focus on Jesus.  It was Jesus, using the power of Jehovah, who was keeping Peter above the wind-swept waves.  And Jesus was doing so in response to Peter's faith in him.  But Peter got distracted. We read: "Looking at the windstorm , he got afraid."  Peter took in  eyeful of those waves crashing against the boat, tossing spray and foam to the wind, and he panicked. He probable imagined himself sinking in that lake, drowning there.  As fear rose in his heart, his faith shrank.  The man who had been named Rock because hios his  potential for steadiness  began to sink like  a stone because of his wavering faith.  Peter was an able swimmer, but he did not rely on that ability now.  He cried out: "Lord, save me!" Jesus caught him by the hand and pulled him up.  The, while still on the water's surface, he drove home this important lesson to Peter: "You, with little faith, why did you give way to doubt?" - MATTHEW 14:30, 31. 

"Give way to doubt"-what an apt phrase!  Doubt can be a powerful, destructive force. If we yield to yit, it can away at our faith and cause us to sink spiritually.  We need to fight back vigorously! How? By keeping the right focus. If we dwell on what scares us, what discouragesus, what distracts us from Jehovah and his Son, we will find our dubts growing. If we focus on Jehovah and his Son, on what they have done, are doing, and will do for those who love them, we will keep corrosive doubts at bay. 

As Peter followed Jesus up to the boat, he saw the storm died down.  Quiet fell on the Sea of Galilee.  Peter joined his fellow disciples in declaring: "You are really God's Son."  (Matthew 14:33) As dawn broke ove the lake, Peter's heart must have soared. He repudiated doubt and fear. Granted, he had a long way to go before he became the rocklike Christian that Jesus foresaw. But he was determined to keep trying, to keep growing. Do you have such determination? You will find that Peter's faith is worth imitating.

Next time: He Was Loyal in the Face of Tests

From the jw.org publications

He Fought Against Fear and Doubt

"Why Did You Give Way to  Doubt?" 

Some two years after meeting Jesus, Peter rowed through that windy night on the Sea of Galilee, as mentioned earlier. Of courese we cannot know what memories crossed his mind.  There were so many to choose from!  Jesus had healed Peter's mother-in-law. He had delivered the Sermon on the Mount. Again and again, through his teaching and his powerful works,he had demonstrated that he was Jehovah's Chosen One, the Messiah. As the  months passed, Peter's faults, such as his tendency to give in to him impulses of fear and doubt, had surely subsided to a degree.  Jesus had even chosen Peter to be one of the 12  apostles! Still, Peter had not yet vanquished fear and doubt, as he would soon learn. 

During the fourth watch of the night, or somewhee betweeb  3:00 am and sunrise, Peter suddenly stopped rowing and sat bolt upright.  There-accross the waves-something was moving!  Was it a spray of the waves catching the moonlight! No, it was too steady, too upright.  It was a man! Yes, a man and he was walking on the surface of the sea! As the figure neared, it looked as though he was to walk right by them.  Terrified, the disciples thought it was somed kind of apparition. The man spoke:  "Take courage it is I; have no fear."  It was Jesus! - MATTHEW 14:25-28. 

Peter responded: "Lord, if it is you, command me to come to you over the waters."  His first impulse was a courageous one. Full of excitement at this unique miracle, Peter sought to have his faith confirmed.  He wanted to be part of the action.  Kindly, Jesus beckoned him. Peter clambered over the side of the side of the vessel and down onto the undulating surface of the sea.  Imagine Peter's sensation as he found solid footing beneath him and then stood on top of the waters.  He must have been filled with wonder as he made his way toward Jesus.  However, another impulse soo welled up in him.  - Read MATTHEW 14:29. 

Next time: He Fought Against Fear and Doubt - "Why Did You Give Way to Doubt?" -Conclusion

From the jw.org publications

He Fought Against Fear and Doubt - "Stop Being Afraid" -Conclusion

 Peter felt an unexpected weight as he started hauling in the nets. Incredulous, he pulled harder, and before long he could see a great mass of fish wriggling within the mesh! Frantically, he motioned to the men in the second boat to come to help. As they did, it soon became apparent that one boat could not contain all these fish.  They filled both vessels, but there were too many-the boats started to sink  under the weight. Peter was overwhelmed with astonishment. He had seen Christ's power in action before, but his instance was so personal. Here was a man who could even cause the fish to enter the nets!  Fear welled up in Peter, he sank to his knees and said:  "Depart from me, because I am a sinful man, Lord."  How could he ever prove worthy to associate with the One who wielded the very power of God in such ways? - Read LUKE 5:6-9. 

Jesus kindly said: "Stop being afraid  From now on you will be catching men alive." (Luke 5:10, 11)  This was no time for doubt or fear. Peter's doubts abouts such practical matters as fishing were unfounded; his fears about his own faults and inadequacies were just as baseless. Jesus had great work to do, a ministry that would change history.  He served a God who "will forgive in a large way." (Isaiah 55:7)  Jehovah would take care of Peter's needs, both physical and spiritual. - Matthew 6:33.

Peter responded quickly, as did James and John.  "They brought boats back to land, and abandoned everythig and followed him." (Luke 5:11) Peter put faith in Jesus and in the One who sent him. It was the best decision he could make.  Christians todayt who overcome their doubt and fear to take up service to God are likewisse showing faith.  Such trust in Jehovah is never misplaced. - PSALM 22:4, 5. 

Next time: He Fought Against Fear and Doubt - "Why Did You Give Way to Doubt?" 

From the jw.org publications

He Fought Against Fear and Doubt - "Stop Being Afraid"

Peter like accompanied Jesus on part of the preaching tour that ensued. He may thus have  seen Jesus perform his first miracle, that of turning water into wine at the wedding feast in Cana.  More important, he heard Jesus' marvelous and hope-filled message about the Kingdom of God.  Still, he tore himself away and returned to his fishing business. Some months later, though, Peter was again face-to-face with Jesus-and this time Jesus invited Peter to follow him full-time as a way of life.

Peter had just endured a discouraging night's work. Again and again, the fishermen had let down their nets, only to haul them in empty.  Peter sure brought all his experience and ingenuity to bear on the problem, trying various spots in the lake to find where the fish were feeding.  No doubt, there were times when he, like so many fishermen, wished he could peer right into the murky waters to find the schools of fish or somehow will them into his nets.  Of course, such thoughts could only deepen his frustration.  This was no pleasure sport for Peter; people depended on him to catch fish. Finally, he came ashore empty-handed.  The nets had to be cleaned. He was thus busily engaged when Jesus approached.

A crowd was pressing in on Jesus, eagerly taking in his every word.  Hemmed in by them, Jesus got into Peter's boat and asked him to pull away a bit from land. With his voice carrying clearly over the water, Jesus taught the crowd. Peter lisitened with rapt attention, as did those ashore.  He never tired of  hearing Jesus develop the theme of his preaching-the Kingdom of God. What a privilege it would be to help the Christ spread this message of hope throughout the land!  But would that be practical?  How could Peter feed his family? Perhaps  Peter thought again of the long and  fruitless night behind him. - LUKE 5:1, 3. 

When Jesus finished speaking, he told Peter:  "Pull out where it is deep, and you men let down your nets for a catch."  Peter was full of doubt.  He said: "Instructor, for  a whole night, we toiled and took nothing, but at your bidding I will lower the nets." Peter had just washed off the nets.  Surely the last thing he wanted to do was lower them yet again-especially now whwn the fish would not even be feeding!  Still, he complied, likely signaling his partner in a second boat to follow them. - LUKE 5:4, 5. 

Next time: He Fought Against Fear and Doubt - "Stop Being Afraid"-Conlusion 

From the jw.org publications

He Fought Against Fear and Doubt

 "We Have Found the Messiah"!

Peter would never forget the day he met Jesus.  His brother, Andrew, had first brought hi the astounding news:  "We have found the Messiah." With those words, Peter's life began to change.  It would never again be the same. - JOHN 1:41. 

Peter lived in Capernaum, a city on the northern shore of a freshwater lake called the Sea of Galilee. He and Andrew were partners with James and John, the sons of Zebedee, in a fishing business. Living with  Peter were not only his wife but also his mother-in- law and his brother, Andrew.  To support such a big household by fishing surely required hard work, energy, and resourcefulness. We can imagine this countless long nights of labor-the men letting out their dragnets between two boats and hauling aboard  wahtever catch the lake afforded.  We can also picture toilsome daylight hours as the fish were sorted and sold, the nets mended and cleaned. 

Andrew, the Bible tells us, was a disciple of John the Baptist. Peter surely listened to his brother's reports abotu John's message with intense interest. One day, Andrew saw John point out Jesus of Nazareth and say:  "See, the Lamb of God!" Andrew immediately became a follower of Jesus and eagerly told Peter this thrilling news: The Messiah had arrrived! (John 1:35-40) After the rebellion in Eden some  4,000 years earlier, Jehovah God had promised that  a special individual would come to provide real hope for mankind.  (Genesis 3:15)  Andrew had met this very Rescuer, the Messiah himself!  Peter hurried off to meet Jesus as well. 

Until that day, Peter was known by the name Simon, or Simeon. But Jesus looked at him and said: "You are the son of John: you will be called Cephas'   (which is translated Peter)." (John 1:42) "Cephas" is a common noun meaning "stone," or  "rock." Evidently, Jesus' words were prophetic. He foresaw that Peter would become like  rock-a stable, sturdy, and reliable influence among Christ's follower. Did Peter see himself that way?  It seems doubtful. Even some modern - day readers of the Gospel accouns see little that is rocklike in Peter. Some have suggested that his character as revealed in the Bible seems to be unsteady, inconstant, vacillating. 

Peter did have his faults, Jesus was not blind to those.  But Jesus, like his Father, Jehovah, was always looking for the good in people.  Jesus saw much potential in Peter, and He sought to help him build on those good qualities.  Jehovah and his Son look for the good in us today too.  We may have a hard time believing that there is much good in us for them to find. However, we need to trust their viewpoint and prove ourselves willing to be trained and molded as Peter was. - Read 1 JOHN 3:19, 20 .

Next time: He Fought Against Fear and Doubt - "Stop Being Afraid!" 

From the jw.org publications

He Fought Against Fear and Doubt

 Peter straineed against the oar and peered into the night.  Was that a faint glow he saw on the eastern horizon,  a sign of dawn at last?  The muscles on his back and shoulders burned from long hours of rowing. The wind that whipped his hair about had churned the Sea of Galilee  into rage. Wave after wave crashed against the prow of the fishing boat, soaking him with cold spray.  He rowed on. 

Somewhere back there on shore, Peter and his companions had left Jesus by himself.  That day, they had seen Jesus feed a hungry crowd of thousands with just a few loaves and fish. The people responded by seeking to make Jesus king, but he wanted no part of politics.  He was also determined  to keep his followers from cultivating such ambitions.  Evading the crowds, he compelled his disciples to board the boat and head for the opposite shore while he went into the mountains alone to pray. - MARK 6:35-45; read JOHN 6:14-17.

The moon, nearly full, had been high overhead when the disciples set out; now it was sinking slowly toward the eastern horizon.  Yet, they had managed to travel only a few miles. The exertion and the constant roar of the wind and the waves made conversation difficult. Likely, Peter was alone withe his thoughts. 

How much there was to think about! Peter had first met Jesus of Nazareth over two eventful years earlier.  He had learned a great deal, but he still had much to learn. HIs willingness to do so-to struggle against such obstacles as doubt and fear- make him an outstanding example for us to imitate.  Let us see why.  

Next time: He Fought Against Fear and Doubt - "We Have Found the Messiah"! 

From the jw.org publications 

What Does It Mean to be Born Again?

 Misconceptions aboout being born again

Misconception:  A person must be born again to gain salvation or to be a Christian.

Fact: Christ's sacrifice provides salvation not only for those who are born again as the ones who will rule with Christ in heaven but also for the earthly subects of God's Kingdom.  (1 John 2:1, 2; Revelation 5:9, 10)  That second group of Christians must have the opportunity to live forever in Paradise on earth. - PSALM 37:9; Matthew 6:9, 10; Revelation 21:1-5. 

Misconception:  A  person can choose to be born again.

Fact: The opportunity to have a relationship with GHod and gain salvation is open to all. (1 Timothy 2:3, 4; James 4:8)  However, God chooses those who will be born again, or anointed with holy spirit.  According to the Bible, being born again "depends, not on a person's desire or on his effort, but on God." (Romans 9:16)  The expression "born again" can also be rendered "born from above," confirming that the selection of those who are born again comes "from above," or from God. -  JOHN 3:3. 

Next time:  He Fought Against Fear and Doubt

From the jw.org publications

What Does It Mean to Be Born Again?

 How is a person born again?

When Jesus discussed the subject, he said that those born again would be "born" from water and spirit."  (John 3:5)  This expression refers to baptism in water followed by baptism with holy spirit. - ACTS 1:5; 2:1-4.

Jesus was the first peron to be born again.  He was baptizd in the Jordan River, after which God anointed (or, baptized) him with holy spirit, Jesus was thus born again as  a spiritual so of God with the hope of returning to life in heaven.  (Mark 1:9-11)  God fulfilled his hope by resurrecting Jesus as a spirit creature.. - ACTS 13:33. 

Others who were born again are also baptized in water before they received the holy spirit. (Acts 2:38, 41) They then have the sure hope of life in heaven, which God will fulfill in the resurrection.  - 1 CORINTHIANS 15:42-49.

Next time: What Does It Mean to Be Born Again? - Conclusion

From the jw.org publications

What Does It Mean to Be Born Again?

 The Bible's answer

The term "born again" refers to a new beginning in the relationship between God and the person who is born again. (John 3:3, 7)  God adopts those born again as his children.  (Romans 8:15, 16; Galatians 4:5; 1 John 3:1)  Similar to those  who are legally adopted , they experience a change of status, becoming part of God's family. -  2 CORINTHIANS 6:18.

Why is a person born again? 

Jesus said: "Unless anyone is born again, he cannot see the Kingdom of God." (John 3:3)  So being born again prepares a person a person to rule with Christ in God's Kingdom.  This Kingdm rules from heaven, so the the Bible describes  the "new birth" as providing an inheritance that is "reserved in the heavens." (1 Peter 1:3, 4) Those who are born again are given the conviction that they wil "rule together as kings" with Christ. - 2 TIMOTHY 2:12; 2 CORINTHIANS 1:21, 22. 

Next time: What Does It Mean to be Born Again? Continued

From the jw.org publications

"Believe in Jesus"-Is Belief in Jesus Enough for Salvation?

What about the "Sinner's Prayer"? 

In some religions people say certain prayers such as the "Sinner's Prayer" and the "Salvation Prayer."  Typically, those praying acknowledg their sinfulness and express belief that Jesus died for their sins.  They also ask Jesus  to come into their heart or life. But  the Bible neither mentions nor recommends a formulaic       "Sinner's Prayer."

Where did the "Sinner's Prayer" originate?

Historians disagree regarding the origin of the "Sinner's Prayer." Some suggest that people began to say the "Sinner's Prayer" during religous movements of the 18th and 19th centuries. In any case, the practice is not supported by Scripture-it actually conflicts with Bible teachings. 

Bible verses about Belief in Jesus and salvation

Matthew 24:13: "The one who has endured to the end will be saved."

Meaning:  To gain salvation, people must maintain their faithfulness throughout their life.

Acts 16:30, 31: "Believe in the Lord Jesus Christ, and you will get saved."

Meaning: Belief in Jesus is necessary to attain salvation.

1 Timothy 2:3, 4: "This is fine and acceptable in the sight of our Savior, God, whose will is that all sorts of people should be saved and come to an accurate knowledge of Bible truth.

Meaning: Belief in Jesus must be based on accurate knowledge of Bible truth. 

Hebrews 5:9:  "[Jesus] became responsible for everlasting salvation to all those obeying him."

Meaning: To gain salvation, peope must know and obey Jesus' commands. 

Next time: What Does It Mean to Be Born Again?/The Bible's answer

From the jw.org publications

"Believe in Jesus"-Is Belief in Jesus Enough for Salvation? -Continued

 * Get baptized.   (Matthew 28:19) Jesus said that thsoe who become his disciples would be baptized.  The jailer mentioned earlier as baptized.  (Acts 16:33) Similarly. after the apostle Peter taught a large crowd the truth about Jesus, "those who gladly accepted his word were baptized." -ACTS2:40, 41. 

* Obey Jesus' instructions.  (Hebrews 5:9) Those who "observe all the things" that Jesus commanded show by their life course that they are his followers.  (Matthew 28:20) They become "doers of the word and not hearers only." - JAMES 1:22.

* Endure to the end. (Mark 13:13)  Jesus' disciplles  "need endurace"  in order to be saved ( Hebrews 10:36)  For example, the apostle Paul maintained strict obedience to Jesus' teachings and loyalty to God and he endured  in this couse from the day he became a Christian until he died. - 1 CORINTHIANS 9:27.

Next time: "Believe in Jesus" -Is Belief in Jesus Enough for Salvation? -Conclusion

From the jw.org publications

"Believe in Jesus"-Is Belief in Jesus Enough for Salvation?

 The Bible's answer

Christians believe that Jesus died for the sins of humankind.  (1 Peter 3:18)  However, salvation requires more than believing in Jesus as Savior.  The demons know that Jesus is "the Son of God," But they face destruction, not salvation. - LUKE 4:41: JUDE 6. 

What must I do to be saved?

* You must beleive that Jesus sacrificed his life for our sins.  (Acts 16:30, 31; 1 John 2:2)  This includes believing that Jesus was a real person and that all of what the Bible's account says about him is accurate. 

* Learn what the Bible really teaches.  (2 Timothy 3:15)  The Bible says that the apostle Paul  and Silas told a jailer: "Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will get saved." Then after that, they began to teach "the word of Jehovah" to the jailer. (Acts 16:31, 32)  This indicates that the jailer could not truly believe in Jesus unless he had a basic understanding of God's Word.  He needed accurate knowledge  based on the Scriptures. - 1 TIMOTHY 2:3, 4.

* Repent. (Acts 3:19)  You must also repent, or feel deep sorrow, over precious wrong attitudes and conduct.  Your repentance will be obvious to others as you stop practices that offend God and do "works that befit repentance." - ACTS 26:20.

Next timee: "Belive in Jesus"-Is Belief in Jesus Enough for Salvation? - Continue

From the jw.org publications

Woe to an Unresponsive Generation - Conclusion

 After Jesus characterizes the generation as unresponsivbe, he singles out for reproach the cities of Chorazin, Bethsaida, and Capernaum, where he has done powerful works.  Jesus says that if he had performed such works in the Phoenician cities of  Tyre and Sidon, those cities would have repented. He also mentions Capernaum, which has been his home base for some time.  Even there, most did not respond.   Jesus says of that city:  "It will be more endurable for the land of Sodom on Judgment Day than for you." - MATTHEW 11:24.  

Jesus then praises his Father who hides  precious spiritual truths "from the wise and intellectual ones" but reveals these things to lowly ones, who are like young children. (Matthew 11:25)  He extends an appealing invitation to such ones:  "Come to me, all you who are toiling and loaded down, and I will refresh you.  Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am mild-tempered and lowly in heart, and you will find refreshment for yourselves. For my yoke is kindly, and my load is light." - MATTHEW 11:28-30. 

How does Jesus offer refreshment?  The religous leaders have burdened the people with enslaving traditions, such as overl restrictive Sabbath regulations.  But Jesus refreshes them by preaching the truth of God, free from the taint  of those traditions. He also shows the way of relief to those who are crushed by the domination of political authorities and to those who feel weighed down by sin.  Yes, Jesus reveals to them how their sins can be forgiven and how they can be at peace with God.

All of those accepting Jesus' kindly yoke fcan deicate themselves to God and serve  our compassionate, merciful Father.  Doing do does not resolve  a heavy load, for God's requirements are not at all burdensom. - 1 JOHN 5:3. 

Next time: "Believe in Jesus" Is Belief in Jesus Enough for Salvation? 

From the jw.org publications

Woe to an Unresponsive Generatiion

 Matthew 11:16-30; Luke 7:31-35 

Jesus has high regard for John the Baptist, but how do most people regard John?  "This generation, Jesus declares, "Is like young children sitting the marketplalce who call out to their playmates, saying:  "We played the flute for you, but you did not dance; we wailed, but you not beat yourselves ub grief," - MATTHEW 11:16, 17.

What does Jesus mean? He clarifies the thought:  "John came neither eating or drinking, but people say,  'He has a demon.' The Son of man did come eating and drinking, but people say,  "Look! a man who is a glutton and is given to drinking wine, a friend of tax collectors and sinners. (Matthew 11:18, 19) On the one hand, John has lived a simple life as a Nazarite, even abstaining from wine, yet this generation  says he is demonized.  (Numbers 6:22, 3; Luke 1:15) On the other hand, Jesus lives like other men. He eats and drinks in a balanced way, but he is accused of going to excess. It seems impossible to satisfy the people. 

Jesus likens  the generation to young children in the marketplace who refuses to respond by dancing when other children play the flute or by grieving when  others wail. "All the same,"he says, "wisdom is proved righteou by its works." (Matthew 11:16, 19)  Yes, the "works" -that is the evidence produced by John and Jesus-prove that the accusations against are false. 

Next time: Woe to an Unresponsive Generation - Conclusion

From the  jw.org publications

A Lesson in Forgiveness

 Perceiving Simon's thinking,  Jesus says: "Simon, I have something to say to you." He replies: "Teacher, say it!"  Jesus continues: "Two men were debtors to a certain lender; the one was in debt for 5oo denarii, but the other for 50.  When they did not have anything to pay him back with, he freely forgave them both.  Therefore, which one of the will love him more?" Perhaaps with an air of indifference, Simon answers: "I suppose itis the one whom he forgave more." - LUKE 7:40-43. 

Jesus agrees.  Then looking at the woman, he says to Simon: "Do you see this woman? I entered you house; you gave me no water for my feet. But this woman wet my feet with her tears and wiped them off with her hair.  You gave me no kiss, but this woman, from the hour that I came in, did not stop tenderly kissing my feet.  You did not pour oil on my head, but this woman poured perfyned oil on my feet."  Jesus could see that this woman was giving evidence of the heartfelt  repentance for her immoral life. So he concludes: "I tell  you, her sins, many though they are, are forgiven, because she loved so much. But the one who is forgiven little, loves little." - LUKE 7:44-47. 

Jesus is not excusing immorality. Rather, he is manifesting compassionate understanding of people who commit serious sins, but who then show that they are sorry and turn to Christ for relief.  And what relief this woman feels when Jesus says: "Your sins are forgiven. . . Your faith has saved you go in peace." - LUKE 7:48, 50.

Next time: Woe to an Unresponive Generation

From the jw.org publications

 

What Is Forgiveness?

 How to forgive someone

1. Remember what forgiveness involves.  You are not condoning the wrong or acting as if it never happened-you are simply letting it go.

2. Recognize the benefits of forgiving.  Letting go of anger and resentment can help you to keep calm, improve your health, and increase your happiness.  (Proverbs 14:30; Matthew 5:9)  Even more important forgiving others is a key to receiving God's forgiveness for your own sins. - MATTHEW 6:14 15. 

3. Be empathetic.  All of us are imperfect.  (James 3:2)   Just as we appreciate being forgiven we should likewise forgive  the mistakes of others. - MATTHEW 7:12.

4. Be reasonable.  When we have a minor cause for complaint we can apply the Bible's counsel: "Continue putting up with one another." - COLOSSIANS 3:13.

5.  Act quickly. Work to forgive as soon as you ca rather than letting your anger fester. - EPHESIANS 4:26, 27. 

Next time: A Lesson in Forgiveness

From the jw.org publications

 

What Is Forgiveness? - What forgiveness does not mean - Conclusion

 * Pardoning with no valid basis. God does not forgive people who are guilty of willful, malicious sin and who refuse to acknowledge their mistakes, change their ways, and apologize to those whom they have hurt.  (Proverbs 28:13; Acrts 26:20; Hebrews 10:26)  Such unrepentant ones  become God's enimies, and he does not require us to forgive those who, he has not forgiven.  - PSALM 139:21, 22.

What if you are the victim of cruel mistreatment by someone who refuses to apologize  or even admit waht he has done? The Bible advises:  "Let go of anger and abandon rage." (Psalm 37:8)   While not excusing the error, you can refuse to be consumed with anger.  Trust that God will bring that person to account.  (Hebrews  10:30, 31)  You can also take comfort in knowing that God will bring a time when we will no longer feel the deep pain or hurt that may burden us now. -  ISAIAH 65:17; REVELATION 21:4. 

* "Forgiving" every perceived slight.  Sometimes, rather than pardoning a so-called offender, we may need to admit that we had no valid cause for being offended in the first place.  The Bible says:  "Do not hurry yourself in your spirit to become offended for the taking of offense is in the bosom of the stupiod ones. ." - ECCLESIASTES 7:9.

Next time: What Is Forgiveness? - How to forgive someone

From the jw.org publications

What Is Forgiveness? - What forgiveness does not mean?

* Condoning the offense.  The Bible actually condons those who claim that bad actions are harmless and acceptable - ISAIAH 5:20. 

* Pretending that the offense never happened.  God forgave King David of serious sins, but he did not shield David from the consequences of his actions. God even had David's sins recorded so that they are remembered today. - 2 SAMUEL  12:9-13. 

*  Allowing others to take advantage of you.  Suppose, for example, that you loan money to someone, but he wastes it and then canot repay you as he had promised. He is very sorry and apologizes to you.  You could choose to forgive him by not harboring any resentment, not rehashing the matter with him continually, and perhaps even cancelling the debt altogether.  However,  you mightalso choose not to loan him any more money. - PSALM 37:21; PROVERBS 14:15; 22:3; GALATIANS  6:7.

Next time: What Is Forgiveness? - Conclusion of What forgiveness does not mean

From the jw.org publicaitons

What Is Forgiveness? / The Bible's answer

 Forgiveness is the act of pardoning an offender. In the Bible, the Greek word translated "  "forgiveness" literally means to "let go," as when  a person does not demand payment for a debt.  Jesus used this comparison when he taught his followers to pray:"Forgive us our sins, for we also forgive everyone who is in debt to us."(Luke 11:4) Likewise, in his parable of the unmerciful slave, Jesus equated forgiveness with canceling a debt. - MATTHEW 18:23-35.

We forgive others when we let go of resentment and give up any claim to be compensated for the hurt or loss we have suffered.  The Bible teaches that unselfish love is the basis for true forgiveness, since love "does not keep account of the injury." - 1 CORINTHIANS 13:4, 5. 

Next time: What Is Forgiveness? - What forgiveness does not mean

From the jw.org publications

 

Are There Contradictions in the Bible? - Conclusion of the Bible's answer

 5. Principle 5: Attribution

In Capernaum, who brought the centurion's request to Jesus? Matthew 8:5. 6 says that the centurion (army officer) himself came to Jesus, while Luke 7:3 says that the centurion sent older men of the Jews to make his request.   This apparent Bible contradiction  can be understood in that the army officer initiated the request, but he sent older men as hs representatives. 

Principle 6: Accurate translation

Do we all sin? The Bible teaches that we all inherit sin from the first man Adam. ( Romans 5:12)   Some translations seem to contradict this by saying that a good person "does not sin" or "sinneth not." (1 John 3:6, The Bible in Basic English: King James Version) In the original language, though, te Greek verb for "sin" at 1 John is the present tense, which in that language normally indicates a continuous action.  There is a difference between inherited sin, which we cannot avoid, and the deliberate, continous practice of disobeying God's laws. Thus, some translations clear up this seeming contradiction by accurately using phrases such as "does not practice sin" or  "does not habitually sin." - New World Translation; Phillips. 

Principle 7: The Bible, not dogma

Is Jesus equal to God or lesser than God?  Jesus once said: "I and the Father are one" which contradict his statement that "the Father is greater than I am." (John 10:30; 14:28) To understand those verses correctly, we must examine what the Bible really says about Jehovah and Jesus rather than try to harmonize the verses with the Trinity dogma, which is not based on the Bible.  The Bible shows that Jehovah is not only Jesus' Father, but also Jesus' God, the One whom even Jesus worships.  (Matthew 4:10; Mark 15:34; John 17:3; 20:17; 2 Corinthians 1:3) Jesus is not equal to God. 

Note: Also what that phrase means that he and God are one  is that they have the same qualities and same determination to do what is needed to get done.  They have a purpose.

The context of Jesus' statement "I and the Father are one" shows that he was talking about the oneness of purpose that he shared with his Father, Jehovah God, Jesus later said:  "The Father is in union with me and I am in union with the Father."  (John 10:38) Jesus shared this unity of purpose with his followers as well, for he prayed to God about them:  "I have given them the glory that you have given me, in order that they may be just as we are one.  I in union with them and you in union with me." - JOHN 17:22, 23. 

Next time: What Is Forgiveness?

From the jw.org publications 

Are There Contradictions in the Bible? - Continue with The BIble's answer

  Principles 2 and 3: Viewpoint and history

Where did Jesus heal the blind man?  The book of Luke says that Jesus healed a blindman as Jesus "was getting near to Jericho," while the parallel account in Matthew mentions two blind men and says that the incident occurred when Jesus was "going  out of Jericho." (Luke 18:35-43; Matthew 20:29-34) These two accounts, written from different viewpoints, actually complement each other.  Regarding the number of men, Matthew is more specific as to there being two, while Luke focuses on the one to whome Jesus directed his remaks.  As for the location, archaeologists have found that in Jesus' time  Jericho wasa double city, with the Jewish city situated about one and a half kilometers (1 mi) away from the new Roman city. Jesus may have  been between the two cities when he performed the miracle. 

Principle 4: Figurative and literal terms

 Will the earth be destroyed?   The Bible says that the earth remains forever," which to some apparently conflicts with its statement that "the elements will destroyed by heat-with the earth." (2 Peter 3:10, Beck) In the Bible, however, the word "earth" is used both literally, referring to our  planet, and figuratively, referring to the people who live on it.   (Genesis 1:1; 11:1) The destruction of the "earth" described at 2 Peter 3:10 refers, not to be burning up of the planet, but to the destruction of the ungodly people." - 2 PETER 3:7. 

Next time: Are There Contradictions in the Bible? - Conclusion of The Bible's answer

From the jw.org publications

Are There Contradictions in the Bible?

 The Bible's answer

No, the entire Bible is harmonious.  While some passages might seem to show the Bible contradicting itself, they can usually be understood correctly by applying one or more o fthe following principles: 

1.  Consider the contexy.  Any author can appear to contradict himself if his words are taken out of context.

2. Consider the writer's viewpoint  Eyewitnesses might describe an event accurately but not use the exact same wording or include the same details. 

3. Take into account historical facts and customs.

4. Distinguish between the figurative and the literal uses of the word.

5. Recognize that an action may be attributed to someone-even if he did not personally carry it out.

6. Use an accurate Bible translation.

7.  Avoid trying reconcile what the Bible says with mistaken religious ideas or dogma.

The following examples show how  these principles can explain some seeming inconsistencies in the Bible.

Principle 1. Context

If God rested on the seventh day, how has he continued working?  The context of the Genesis creation account shows that the statement that God " began to rest on th seventh day from all his work that he had been doing" refers specifically to his work of physical  creation respecting the earth.  (Genesis 2:2-4)  Jesus did not contradict this, however, when he said that God kept working until now," because he was talking about other works of God.  (John 5:17)  God's works include the inspiration  of the Bible and his guidance and care of mankind. - PSALM 20:6; 105:5; 1 PETER 1:21.

Next time: Are There Contradictions in the Bible? - Continue with The Bible"s  answer

From the jw.org publications

What Is the Great Tribulation? - Conclusion

* Gathering of Kingdom rulers.  Faithful ones who have been chosen to rule with Christ will finish their earthly  course and be resurrected to life in heaven. - MATTHEW 24:31; 1 CORINTHIANS 15:50-53;  1 THESSALONIANANS  4:15-17. 

Armageddon.  This "war of the great day of God the Almighty" is  also called "the day of Jehovah."  (Revelation 16:14, 16; Isaiah 13:9; 2 Peter 3:12) Those judgend adversely by Christ will be destroyed.  (Zephanial 1:18; 2 Thessalonians 1:6-10) This will include the destruction of the worldwide political system, pictured in the Bible by a seven-headed wild beast. - REVEALATION 19:19-21. 

Events after the great tribulation

* Confinement of Satan and the demons.  A great angel will hurl Satan and the demons  "into the abyss," a symbol of deathlike inactivity.  (Revelation 20:1-3)  Satan's condition in the abyss could be likened to being in prison; he will be  unable to influence affairs elsewhere. - REVELATION 20:7. 

* The Millennium begins.  God's Kingdom will begin its 1, 000-year reign, which will bring great blessings to mankind.  (Revelation 5:9, 10; 20:4-6)  An unnumbered "great crowd" will "come out of the great tribulation," surviving it to see the start of the Millennium on earth. - REVELATION 7:9, 14; PSALM 37:9-11. 

Next time:  Are There Contradicts in the Bible? / The Bible's answer

 From  the jw.org publications

What Is the Great Tribulation?

 The Bible's answer

The great tribulation will bring the greatest time of trouble ever to come upon mankind. According to Bible prophecyt, it will occur during "the last days," or "the end of time." (2 Timothy 3:1; Daniel 12:4, New American Bible)  It will be "a tribulation such as not occurred from the beginning of creation that God created until that time, and will not occur again." -  MARK 13:19; DANIEL 12:1; MATTHEW 24:21, 22.

Events during the great tribulation

* Destruction of false religion.   With surprising speed, false religion will be destroyed.  (Revelation 17:1, 5; 18:9, 10, 21)  The political powers represented by the United Nations will carry out God's will in taking this action. - REVELATION 17:3, 15-18.

* Attack on true religion.  A coalition of nations, referred to in Ezekiel's  vision  as "Gog of the land of Magog" will try to annihilate thsoe who practice true religion.  However, God will protect his worshippers from destruction. - EZEKIEL 38:1, 2, 9-12, 18-23. 

* Judgments of earth's inhabitants.  Jesus will judge all mankind and "will separate one from another, just as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats. (Matthew 25:31-33)   The basis for his judgment will be the support, or lack of support, that each person gave to Jesus'  "brothers," Those who will rule with him in heaven." - MATTHEW 25:34-46. 

Next time: Continue with What Is the Great Tribulation? - The Bible's answer

From the jw.org publications

Why Do Jehovah's Witnesses Observe the Lord's Supper Differently From the Way Other Religions Do?

 When Jehovah's Witnesses observe the Lord's Evening Meal, only a small fraction of us partake of the bread and wine.  Why is that so?

Jesus' shed blood established "a new covenant" that replaced the covenant between Jehovah God and the ancient nation of Israel.  (Hebrews 8:10-13)  Those who are in that new covenant partake of the Memorial  emblems.  it includes not all Christians, but only "those who have been called in a special way by God. (Hebrews 9"15; Luke 22:20)  These ones will rule in heaven, with Christ, and the Bible says that just 114,000,000  people receive that privilege. - LUKE  28:20-30; Revelation 5:9 10; 14:1, 3. 

In contrast to the "lttle flock" of those called to rule with Christ, the cast majority of us hope to be part of "a great crowd" who will gain  everlasting life on earth.  (LUKE 12:32; REVELATION 7:9, 10) While those of us  with a earthly hope do not partake if the Memorial emblems, we do join in expressing thanks for the sacrifice that jesus made in our behalf. - 1 JOHN 2:2. 

Next time:  What Is the Great Tribulation?/The Bible's answer

From the jw.org publications

Why Do Jehovah's Witnesses Observe the Lord's Supper Differently From the Way Other Religions Do?

 Emblems, not literal flesh and blood

The unleavened bread and red wine served at the Memorial are emblems, or symbols of Christ's flesh and blood.  They are not miraculously changed into or mixed with  his literal flesh and blood as some may feel.  Consider the Scriptural basis for this understanding. 

* If Jesus had commanded his disciples to drink his blood, he would have been telling them to break God's law against consuming blood.  (Genesis 9:4; Acts 15:28, 29)  Yet this could not be, for Jesus would never instruct others to violate God's law regarding the sacredmess of blood. - JOHN 8:28, 29.

If the apostles had been literally drinking Jesus' blood, he would no have said that his blood "is to be poured out," indicating that his sacrifice was yet to occur. -MATTHEW 26:28. 

* Jesus' sacrifice took place "once for all time." ( Hebrews 9:25, 26)  However, if the bread and wine were changed into his flesh and blood during the Lord's Evening Meal, then thsoe partaking wouldl be repeating that sacrifice. 

* Jeus said:  "Keep doing this in remembrance of me," 

not "in sacrifice of me." - 1 CORINTHIANS 11:24. 

Those who believe in transsubstantiation, that the bread and wine become Jesus' literal body and blood, base his doctrine on the wording of certain Bible verses.  For example, in many Bible translations, Jesus is recorded as saying of the wine: "This is my blood."  (Matthew 26:28) However, Jesus' words can also be translated as: "This is my blood."  As he had often done, Jesus was teaching by using a metaphor. - MATTHEW 13:34, 35. 

Next time: Why Do Jehovah's Witnesses Observe the Lord's Supper Differently From the Way Other Religions Do? - Who partake? 

From the jw.org publications

Why Do the Jehovah's Witnesses Observe the Lord's Supper Differently From the Way Other Religions Do?

 Date and time

The pattern established by Jesus helps determine not only the frequency but also the date and time of the Memorial.  He introduced the observance after sundown on Nisan 14, 33 C.E., according to the Bible's lunar calendar.  (Matthew 26:18-20)  We continue to observe the Memorial on this date each year, following the practice  of early Christians." 

Although Nisan 14, 33 C.E. was a Friday, the anniversary of that date might fall on  different day of the week each year.  We determine the date that Nisan 14 falls each year sing the ame method as was used in the time of Jesus, rather than applying  the method used for the modern Jewish calendar." 

Bread and wine

For the new observance, Jesus used unleavened bread and red wine that were left over from the Passover meal.  (Matthew 26:26-28)  Following his example, we use bread without leaven or added ingredients and plain red wine, not grape juice or wine that has been sweetened, fortified, or spiced. 

Some denominations use bread with leavening or yeast, but leaven is often used in the Bible as a symbol of sin and corruption. (Luke 12:1; 1 Corinthians 5:6-8; Galatians 5:7-9)  Thus, only bread free from leaven and other additives can be  a fitting symbol for Christ's  sinless body.   (1 Peter 2:22)  Another practice  not supported by the Bible is that substituting prohibition against consuming alcohol. -1 TIMOTHY 5:23.

Next time: Continue same as above - Emblems, not literal flesh and blood

From the jw.org publications

Why Do Jehovah's Witnesses Observe the Lord's Supper Diifferentl'y From the Way Other Religions Do?

 We adhere strictly to the Bible in our observance of the Lord's Evening Meal, which is also known as "the Lord's supper," the Last Supper, and the Memorial of Jesus' death.  (1 Corinthians 11:20; King James Version) In contrast, many beliefs and practices of other denominations in connection with this observance are not based  on  the Bible.

Purpose

The purpose of the Lord's Evening Meal is to remember Jesus, showing our gratitude fo rhis sacrifice in our behalf. ( Matthew 20:28; 1 Corinthians 11:24) The observance is not a sacrament, or a religious practice that imparts merit such as grace or the forgiveness of sins.  The Bible teached  us that our sins can be forgiven,  not by a religious rite, but only through faith in Jesus. - ROMANS 3:25; 1 CORINTHIANA 2:1, 2. 

How often?

Jesus commanded his disciplles to commemorate the Lord's Evening Meal, but he did not specifically say how often.  (Luke 22:19)  Some feel  that it should be monthly, while others observe it weekly, daily, several times each day, or as often as a person feels is appropriate.  However, here are some factors that should be considered. 

Jesus instituted the Lord's Evening Meal on the date of the Jewish Passover, and he died later that same day.  (Matthjew  26:1, 2)  This was no coincidence.  The Scriptures compare Jesus' sacrifice to that  of the Passover Lamb. (1  Corinthians 5:7, 8) The Passover was observed once each year.  (Exodus 12:1-6; Leviticus 23:5)  Likewise,the Memorial of Jesus' death was observed one each year by the early Christians, and  Jehovah's Witnesses follow that Bible-based pattern. 

Next time: Why Do Jehovah's Witnesses Observe the Lord's Supper Differently From the Way Other Religions Do?  - Date and time

From the jw.org publications

What Does the Bible Say About Easter?

 The Bible's answer

The celebration of Easter is not based on the Bible.  If you look into its history, though, you will see the true meaning of Easter-it is a tradition based on ancient fertility rites.  Consider the following: 

1. Name: The Encyclopedia Britannica says: "The English name Easter is of uncertain origins; the Anglo-Saxon priest Venerable Bede  in the 8th century derived it from the Anglo-Saxon spring goddess Eostre."  Others link it to Astarte, the Phoenician fertility goddess who had the Babylonian counterpart Istar.

2. Hares, rabbits: These are symbols of fertility "handed down from the ancient ceremonial and symbolism of European and Middle Easter pagan  spring festivals." - Encyclopedia Britannica. 

3. Eggs:  According to Funk and Wagnalls Standard Dictionary of Folklore, Mythology, and Legend, the hunt for Easter eggs, supposedly brought by the Easter rabbit, "is not mere child's play, but the vestige of a fertility rite."  (Note: Besides rabbits don't lay eggs, they are mammals who bear little baby bunnies🐰)  "Some cultures believed that the decorated Easter egg  "could magically bring happiness, prosperity, health, and protection." - Traditional Festivals:

4. New Easter outfit:  It was considered discourteous and therefore bad luck to greet the Scandinavian goddess of spring, or Estre, in anything but fresh garb." - The Giant Book of  Superstitions.

5. Sunrise services: These have been linked to rites of ancient sun worshippers "performed at the vernal equinox  welcoming the sun and its great power to being new life to all growing things." - Celebrations-The Complete Book of American Holidays.

The American Book of Days well describes the origin of Easter: "There is no doubt that the Church in its early days, adopted the old pagan customs and gave a Christian meaning to them."

The Bible warns against worshipping God by following traditions or customs that have displeased him.  (Mark 7:6-8)   2 Corinthians  states:  "Separate yourselves,' says Jehovah, and quit touching the unclean thing." Easter is a pagan holiday that those who want to please God will avoid.

Next time:Why Do Jehovah's Witnesses Observe the Lord's Supper Differently From the Way Other Religions Do? 

From the jw.org publications