Let Nothing Separate You From Jehovah - WHEN RESPONSIBLE BROTHERS ARE MISTREATED

 By means of the media and social networks, our enemies spread lies or misinformation about responsible brothers in Jehovah's organization. (Psalm 31:13) Some brothers have been arrested and charged as criminals. The first-century Christians faced a similar situation when the apostle Paul was wrongfully accused and arrested. How did they react?

Some Christians in the first-century stopped supporting the apostle Paul when he was imprisoned in Rome. (2 Timothy 1:8, 15) Or were they ashamed of Paul because the public viewed him as a criminal? (2 Timothy 2:8, 9) Or were they intimidated, fearing they too would be persecuted? Whatever their reason, imagine how Paul must have felt. He had endured many hardships and had even risked his life for them. (Acts 20:18-21; 2 Corinthians 1:8)  May we never become like those who abandoned Paul during his time of need!  What should keep in mind when responsible brothers are persecuted?

 Remember why we are persecuted and who causes it. Second Timothy 3:12 states:  "All those desiring to live with godly devotion in association with Christ Jesus will also be persecuted." So we should not be surprised that Satan targets responsible brothers in his attacks.  His intent is that such attacks will break their integrity and intimidate us. - 1 PETER 5:8.

Next time: Let Nothing Separate You From Jehovah - WHEN RESPONSIBLE BROTHERS ARE MISTREATED - Conclusion

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