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Post by Admin on Feb 14, 2018 14:45:38 GMT -5
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Post by Admin on Feb 14, 2018 15:06:52 GMT -5
see W 19 5/15 a18
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Post by Admin on Feb 14, 2018 15:14:50 GMT -5
9:50 SONG 17: The Divine Pattern of Love Opening Prayer 10:00 What Is the Law of Christ?INTRODUCTION: Many countries have hundreds even thousands of national laws some of which are impractical and outdated. In the bible law is not limited simply to written directions and instructions and can include things that are taught both written and spoken. The bible refers to the written law of God but also the "law of your mother", the instruction that a mother gives to her children. (The word "law" is the same Hebrew word). Each family has its own “house rules” rules of behaviour that govern the home, naturally Jehovah’s house he, as head, sets the rules, he makes the law. Christians are under The law of Christ - What is the "law of the Christ"? The Law of the Christ is all the instructions and commands of Jesus. Love is central to the "law of the christ" since as each Christian has his own resposnsibilities, self sacrificing love is what moves them to assist fellow believers with their burdens. The law of the Christ encompasses everything that Jehovah presently requires of us
- Where did "the law of the Christ" originate? Just as The Mosaic Law originated with Jehovah, Jesus explained "law of the christ" orignates with Jehovah (compare Isaiah 33:22 ; John 14:10). As such we should be moved to have deep respect for everything that Jesus taught.
- How can we learn the law of the Christ? By a dilegent study of God's inspired word. What Jesus said and did, commands under Jesus supervision and timeless bible principles which if applied are always benefitial to us (golden rule Mat 5:23, love your neightbour be forgiving Mat 6:11, Mat 22:39)
- How can we FULFILL the law of the Christ? By unselfishly and willingly subjecting ourselves to God's will. Obedience isn't necessarily always to our liking but like Jesus we should gains strenghth from ( Mat 20:28 . The world, like Satan is selfish. As selfishness increases we must be determined to
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Post by Admin on Feb 14, 2018 15:22:10 GMT -5
XX
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Post by Admin on Feb 14, 2018 15:22:27 GMT -5
10:15 Fulfilling the Law of Christ When Unseen by HumansBecause of inherited perfection all of us must struggle against wrong inclinations and that struggle is often private ( Rom 3:23) what we do in private reveals the depth of our appreciation for the law of Christ. This includes doing good to others even when it goes unnoticed by others and avoiding sins that are practiced in private such as the abuse of alcohol or the viewing pornographyHow to obey the "Law of Christ" even when unseen by others (4):
[1] I Remember Jehovah observes all our actions: Children have a natural tendancy to obey their parents are present, since the "eyes of Jehovah are everywhere" watching us can deepen our regard for the law of Christ ( Prov 15:23). Jehovah is not watching us in a negative way, like a "big brother" authority but rather like a loving father He watches is in order to ...- to provide help to overcome obstacles
- provide warn if corrective measures are necessary
- guide us in difficult situations
- to reward
Unlike a security guard who is only on the lookout for wrongdoing Jehovah observes us with loving concern and wants to reward his obedience children. We for our part must pray for guidance throughout the day, ernestly praying whenever a wrong thought enters our mind. when we express our specific concerns this hightens our awareness of him especially when we see those prayers answered.
[2] Avoid taking even the first step towards what is unclean Prov 7:21-23 Speaks of an unexperienced young man tempted into immorality. Like the young man who initially attracted the worman's attention, there is often an identifiable first step that makes one vulnerable to spiritual danger (read verse 8 ). Curiosity or bordom can lead us to aimlessly surfing television channels or the internet especially when we are alone should be avoided. Set safeguards in place and adhere to them.
[3] Desively reject wrong thoughts ( Jam 2:15). Wrong doing begins with wrong thinking. When wrong desires come to mind choose not to dwell on them, do not underestimate the power of prayer ( Psalms 139:23, 24). Fight wrong thoughts by continously considering the things that please Jehovah God.
[4] Choose to do good because it glorifies Jehovah God and pleases Him. Jesus love for his Father meant "always" did the things pleasing to Jehovah both in public and private ( John 8:29 compare (1 Cor. 10:31). Doing "all thing for God's glory" means that at all times and under all circumstances we think about Jehovah's worthiness to recieve our praise. This is motivated by love for Jehovah.
INTERVIEW Brother explains how some fall into the trap of pornography. Individuals often start by dwelling on images that are not necessarily pornographic such as swimwear ads and rationalizing about the effect this has on him. With a relaxed sense of danger they may stray to inappropriate websites and are particularly vulnerable when hungry or tired. KNOW AND APPLY BIBLE PRINCIPLES
Col 3:5 which instructs us to not only surpress but "strike dead", completely destroying improper desires. Immediately stopping viewing anything that can potentially fuel these improper desires.
James 5:16 "Openly confessing ones sins" means having the courage and self-determination to seek help and confiding in others; this is a vital step in counteracting the powerful influence of pornography.
Phil 2:13 If a person prays to God and yields to the power of the holy spirit it will help him conquer wrong desires and actions.
Rewards clean heart, good conscious
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Post by Admin on Feb 14, 2018 15:24:20 GMT -5
10:30 Fulfilling the Law of Christ in the Field MinistryINTRODUCTION It is comforting to know Jehovah does not have double standards, we are all subject to the same Law of Christ and we are all expected to obey them, including preaching the good news (Compare Lev 24:22 Mat 28: 19, 20). Love would be an identifying mark of true Christians and preaching the good news of the kingdom is one of the primary ways we express that love ( John 15:10). Following godly principles can motivate us to preach and make disciples, not out of a sense of obligation but out of love.
We cover our territory thoroughly: (Luke 16:10. Jesus didn't just stick to the big cities but paid attention to the outer rural villages and less populated areas (Luke 9:1, 6) Are we making a concerted effort to cover our territories especially during special campaigns. Are we diligent to return to call on all interest? Calling at the time that is convenient for the householders. Do we pay attention to our record keeping?
Witness IMPATIALITY(Mat 22:39) to be impelled is to be urged, moved by an internal pressure. Jehovah is the perfect impartiality offering salvation to everyone (Rom 10:12-13). Are there territories we don't particularly enjoy preaching? Could there be a sheeplike person praying to that individual ? If like Peter, we detect in our heart any hint of prejudice or racial pride in us we must make a consciouse effort to root it out against a certain people, we must eradicate it (1 Pet 1:22 ). Who of us deserves salvation, so why should we feel superior indeed we are all of the "household of God".
Experiences of Jennifer and Timothy who were the object of racial slur and prejudice. They managed to "conquer the evil with good" being aware the reproach fighting would bring on Jehovah's name. When we love even those that persecute us, we are fulfilling the Law of Christ. Courageously the friends dignify all people when our personal love for neighbour moves us to preach in all territories
Cultivate interest skillfully When we participate regular in the ministry and our love for Jehovah and our neighbours is present, holy spirit can accentuate our skills and make us more effective in the ministry. By applying the methods from our Workbook: "Teach the truth" and using other tools and available technology we can become more effective, which leads to increased enthusiam and joy (Act 20:35).
INTERVIEW Regular pioneer who is successsful in the Bible Study work. Adapting her schedule and attitude to help her students. The joys and rewards are many.
CONCLUSION Look for other bible principles which we can apply in the ministry. Doing so will help us to be more compassionate, empathetic and respectful.11:05 Song No. 45 and Announcements
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Post by Admin on Feb 14, 2018 15:27:49 GMT -5
11:05 The Law of Christ—Why Superior?INTRODUCTION: Man has endeavored to use laws to establish order and peace but this has often lead to a misuse of authority. Most laws are practical, reasonable and effective but some are not.In 1513 Jehovah gave Israel 600 laws to help them with their lives after their exodus from Egype. Those laws revealed aspects of Jehovah's beautiful personality and were centered on love. Indeed the word "love" appears more than 20 times in the Hebrew code. For example the law "you must love your fellow as yourself" it also prohibed the unjust treatment of immigrants and ordered native Israelites to love foreigners (Lev 19:18, 34). In 33 a new superior law went into effect "The law of the Christ" Did the replacement of The Mosaic Law indicate it to be faulty or lacking in some way? No, the law was Paul compared the law to a "tutor" that supervised the children from infancy to puberty ensuring the child's saftey and the fathers wishes were carried out ( Gal 3:23-25). The law .. - Protected, guarded - Preserved the spiritual purity of the nation - Lead the Israelites to Christ The law oversaw every aspect of their lives was like a child's training wheels on a bike which enabling the child to learn to balance. An essential element of Paul's illustration was that it was a temporary arrangement. "when a boy ceases to be a child and begins to be a lad, he is allowed to go on his own way". WAYS THAT THE LAW OF CHRIST IS SUPERIOR
[1] The law of Christ is comprehensive: The law of christ has very few direct commandments but covers all aspects of life because it is built on principles rather than explicit commands. Principles are broader than rules, timeless and can be applied to numerous circumstances of life, while laws are specific to a time and place (illustration tablecloth v placemants; highway code UK to EUROPE).
We need therefore to identify the principles that apply to our particular sitation in life. This is harder to do than learning a simple rule and demands more retroflection and conscious discernment. (Illustration traffic lights: red light - amber light). NOTE:Avoid dichotomy thinking on “conscience matters” (going through every amber light)
Joseph understood the concept of principle over law (Gen 39:9). - He knew Jehovah's utterance in Eden that a man and his wife become "one flesh"
- He knew the steps Abraham took to protect his wife Sarah (Gen 20:6, 30)
- Joseph didn't want to play a part in damaging the relationship between Potapher and his wife
- He had no doubt observed the harmful consequences of such action
Joseph's appreciation for bible principles lead him to protect his relationship with Jehovah and take immediate action (Gen 39:9) .
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Post by Admin on Feb 14, 2018 15:28:04 GMT -5
[2] The law of Christ belongs to freedom ( Jam 1:25):Only Jehovah is completely free but the law of Christ allows the exercise of a proper degree of free will. Unlike the Mosaic code, we are not born under this law, we are moved by deep appreciation and effection for Jesus and his teaching to obey We need to use our Christian freedoms wisely. Since we are "called to freedom" we must avoid using it as "an excuse" (a cover) to pursue fleshly desires, "missing its purpose" ( 1 Pet 2:16). We have a personal responsibility to use our Christian freedom within the boundaries of love and respect for the the consciences of others. Indeed we may choose to avoid certain rights and preferences we should be moved by love to respect the sensibilities of others [ Illust° Personal freedom v Conscience of others: Stretching out you leg]. ( Rom 14:13 ; 1 Cor 8:12) [3] The law of Christ refreshes: In Jesus' day the Jewish leaders distorted the law with manmade tradition, they focused on trialities, making it oppressive and burdensome. In contrast the Law of Christ is refreshing ( Mat 11:28 compare Mat 18:6). Never should those in authority go beyond the things written as this would be like exercising our own sovereignty over our brothers. The satisfaction we have from refreshing our brothers far outweighs any inconvenience we may have we encounter from foregoing personal freedoms. 11:05 Song No. 45 and Announcements |
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Post by Admin on Feb 14, 2018 15:29:56 GMT -5
11:35 Dedication and Baptism: Never Abanandon your Loyal Love for JehovahINTRODUCTION We live in a hostile and agressive world ruled by Satan, he is deterimined to intimidate and terrorirze anyone that wants to break free from his world, indeed the bible describes Satan like a roaring lion, hoping that fear will paralyze and confuse God's people ( 1 Peter 5:8). It takes courage to stand up for Jehovah but Jehovah's holy spirit has can make you strong enough to " Scare the Devil before he scares you". Serving Jehovah is not for cowards. Being baptised you join Jehovah a people that has made Jehovah their stronghold. 1 Peter 3:6-14- verse 6: Continue doing good and do not give in to fear. Peter felt deep pain because he momentarily gave in to fear and his counsel years later was to designed to help others avoid going through what he did. To do this we must strentghen our love for Jehovah - verse 14: Peter suffered for righteousness when he witnessed the travasty of justice that was the trial and exectution of Jesus. When you suffer for doing what you know is good you will be "happy" because Jehovah will give you the strength to overcome any fear. Never allow Satan to intimidate you into dropping your hands, whether that be through fear ridicule from peers or fear of losing out because of making sacrifice. Jehovah is rich enough to give you much more than you give up. If you fear not being good enough, remember none of us are worthy of Jehovah's love yet we are precious to him ( Hag 2:7). Our love of Jehovah will even enable us to overcome the fear of death! RELY ON JEHOVAH verse 12a Peter probably assumed his sin was too great for Jehovah to forgive him, so imagine his shock when the women reported that the resurrected Jesus had asked for him personally by name. Jehovah didn't see Peter as a coward, he saw in him a drop of fear in an ocean of courage. He will always listen to you.
- Regular prayer: There is a strong link between the intimacy of your prayers and your relationship with Jehovah [Illu° don't limit yourself to one type of prayer: Supplication, Petition, Praise, Thanksgiving...]
- Personal study of the bible:
- Preaching: The more you testify to your faith the stronger you will feel
- Christian meetings: [Illus° Pitt stop in Formula 1 - regular maintanance in order to cross the finish line]
If we regularly make use of Jehovah's provisions we will never become a helpless victim of fear ( Psalms 54?7)
INTERVIEW Interview publishers that overcame their fear. Jehovah assured King Jehoshaphat he would support him when his Jerusalem was under seige ( 2 Chron 20:15). Never forget why you dedicated your life to Jehovah, continue to prove to Jehovah "day after day" despite the imperfections of others (see Experience of w91 11/1 Bethel brother Willi DIEHL)
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Post by Admin on Feb 14, 2018 15:30:11 GMT -5
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Post by Admin on Feb 14, 2018 15:33:44 GMT -5
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Post by Admin on Feb 14, 2018 15:41:53 GMT -5
2:15 Fulfilling the Law of Christ in the FamilyINTRODUCTION: This world promotes the self interest and ruthlessness as Christians we have reject this kind of attitude. Husbands: Husband should show unfading love for their wives just as Jesus did for the congregation ( (Eph. 5:22, 23, 25) Remember to view your wife as someone you "stick to" not someone you are "stuck with" aways showing in words and deeds that you love them. Wives - (Eph 5:22, 23 Respect and submit to your husband's headship. Christ himself submits to Jehovah's headship in spite of his vast wisdom, power and authority. Jesus went so far as saying "Not as I will buy your will" A wife who imitates Christ expresses her thoughts and will but then yields to her husbanding headship as long as it does not compromise bible principle. WHEN DISAGREEMENTS ARISE - Let bible principles guide you Do not allow local culture to determine how you will handle matters.
- Imitate Christ's mildness and humility never restort to angry speech or even violence to resolve difference
TRAINING CHILDREN
- Provide balance discipline: Jesus always corrected mildly and with patience, never in a fit of anger or with belittling or cutting sarcasm. Note Jesus response to his disciple at Acts 1:6
- Show affection: Jesus didn't hesitate to spend time with children, showing love and approval to them, even taking them into his arms. Jehovah always showed love and approval for his son. Do not let your personality, upbringing and culture determine whether or not you express effection for your children.
- Help your child to reason on bible principles: Jesus patiently reasoned with his disciples (read Heb. 5:13, 14). Parents help your children how to reason.
DEMONSTRATION: A teen excited about trying out for the school team. - VERSION ONE: Father says no, without discussion - VERSION TWO: Father helps son reason on the principle of "pondering" found at Prov 14:13
Despite the worlds influence and the stresses of daily life, chrisitans can and must treat each other in a loving way.
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Post by Admin on Feb 14, 2018 15:42:39 GMT -5
Watchtower study in June 2018 FREEDOM2:30 Fulfilling the Law of Christ at SchoolINTRODUCTION This world wants to trick young ones into believing that what it has to offer is of lasting value. Youths are under tremendous pressure to give into wrongdoing and pursue secular goals but victory is possible. Jesus prayed for the disciples because their live course rans in opposition to the world, this may result in ridicule and even hatred. John 17:14 HOW TO GROW IN SPIRITUAL MATURITY Learn to live by bible principles. Youths like all christians will often be faced with the decisions where you will have to choose between Jehovah's way and those that appear to have more freedom. Remember though that that apparent freedom actually is often just another form of slavery (Compare 2 Peter 2:19 ). To grow spritually:
[1] Make a genuine effort to build a close personal relationship (CPR) with Jehovah:
- read the bible daily
- meditate deeply (think deeply and seriously about what you are reading)
- read publication designed specifically for youths (ex: series "What does the bible really teach")
- pray regularly and openly, honestly expressing your feelings.
[2] Prepare to face Peer pressure (Peer Pressure) The YPA book contains practise sessions as to how to prepare for those difficult situations at school, faces with smoking, dating, experimenting with homosexualiity, offers to attend university...
We read “So let us not give up in doing what is fine, for in due time we will reap if we do not tire out.” - Galatians 6:9
[3] Study and imitate Jesus as a youth: Imitate the courage Jesus showed ( Luke 2:47). DEMONSTATION: A sister is pressured by a school friend to exchange pictures with a boy on social media:
- Version ONE: Sister is uncertain
- Version TWO: Sister is ready with logic and information about "sexting". Think ahead and prepare. Study the kind of material you think you'll be faced with (Read Prov 22:3). EDUCATIONAL CHOICES - Divine Education [INDEX]Teachers and schoolmate will pressure you to adopt goals in this world and seek success in this system. Know in advance how you are going to respond to this. When making decisions about education and employment keep in mind bible principles such as that found at Psalms 3:1-3 which promises success to those that seek divine education and spirital careers.
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Post by Admin on Feb 14, 2018 15:42:54 GMT -5
2:45 Song No. 35 and Announcements2:55 Love One Another, Just as Jesus Loved You (John 13:35 )INTRODUCTION: Love is essential to our fulfilling the law of Christ. To love as Christ did that love must be seen, observed and felt by others, within the congregation and the community.
The world is divided into many groups, nationalities, classes and catagories which means they aquire different loyalties. Racism continues to be a Satanic implant to seperate us from each other and Jehovah. Racism is believing that some races are inherently superior or inferior and has lead to riots wars and mass murders. Such distinctions can be made worse by preconceived ideas and family ideologies about cultures and as a result can effect our relationship with some in the congregation. JESUS' PERFECT EXAMPLE In Jesus day the Jews had no dealings with the Samaritans because of their different beliefs, culture, geographic locatinon and appearance( John 4:9). The Religious leaders looked down on the common people. [1] Jesus taught a better way: Jesus' worldview was radically different from the Jews of his time and many in the world today; he taught love for everyone regardless of their circumstances. His illustration of The Pharisee and the Tax collector highlighted that there is no reason to exhalt oneself over others due to race, material prosperity, social position or athletic prowess (see Luke 18:9-14). Jesus shared Jehovah's view who does not show partiality ... or favor the rich over the poor" (Job 34:12). Jesus helped the poor and "felt pity" for them ( Mat 9:8). Indeed love for one another was the central theme that Jesus taught.
How early Christians were challenged Early Christians would be transitioning from a chosen nation, seperated from other nations to a spiritual nations that would embrace all nationalities and all sorts of people. Jesus knew that this would be challenging and wanted that his followers became one united flock regardless of social rank or nationality Luke 14:12-15. Do we tend to socialize with those that are similar to us in age, nationality, social rank? Do we offer to pay for a meal out with someone who could not repay the favor or with whom we don't feel a natural affection for?
Jesus taught his disciples to conduct themselves as "lesser ones" and to serve others, he stressed this was an obligation (John 13:35). Although Jesus disciples at time irritated one another by reflected on his example they no doubt managed to do this FIRST CENTURY CHRISTIANS
[2] Progressively overcame differentces The first century congregation united "all sorts of people" from all kinds of nationalities and social and religious backgrounds (Titus 2:11). The struggle to show love was evident by occassional problems that arose (Acts Chapter 6, 11, 15). There were difficult lessons to be learnt as they transitioned from a Jewish system to a "better" way but the Apostles understood and taught that " (Acts 10:34, 35 compare Gal 3:28). Paul lived by the above principles becoming "all things to people of all sorts" (1 Cor 9:19-23). There was therefore a need to keep free from paritiality and contempt - See w18 6/15 p. 11 par 16
[3] It is essential to cultivate unity and impartiality. Revelation speaks of a great crowd from all nations and languages (Rev 7:9, 10). Such a grouping would normally pose real problems but this group applying bible principles is united (1 Cor 12: 25-26, Eph 4:15) The united brotherhood is a marvel to which is difficult for outsiders to believe. It is important that the congregation is free from pariality and contentiousness. Outsiders very sensitive from being subject to jealousies, contentions and backbiting, can detect unspoken attitudes through body language or innuendo so we must cultivate genuine humility, love and tender affection (Phil 2:2; Luke 9:49)
It usually is not difficult to conduct ourselves as lesser ones with those who in positions of have responsibilities but it is difficult towards our peers. The disciples easily submitted to Jesus but would often found sparing for supremisy Luke 9:49); there was a "sharp burst of anger" between Paul and Barnabus and Euodia & Syntyche had problems. Rivalry may surface among those of similar positions for example ministerial servants working together on a project. Due to human feelings disputes amonge fellow believers, which often start with pride, deep seated feeling of anamosity can surface and spirial out of control. James referred to "wars and fights " in the congreation ( see Jam 9:49) deep seated feelings of anamosity can cause pain to others. If we personally have a tendancy to feel superior to others we need to remember that God finds such an attitude "detestable" and that "God made out of one man every nations. (Prov 16:5; Act 17)
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Post by Admin on Feb 14, 2018 15:44:24 GMT -5
[4] Our personal role within the congregation. Each of us must personally "fulfill the law of Christ" especially those with extra responsibilities.
Gal. 6:1
If you see: If mature ones in the congreations observe someone heading for spirital danger we should not consign helping to do the elders. We might be directed by an elder how we can help that one.
Reajust: meaning to change something negative to something positive, it can refer to a realighnment or setting of a broken bone. This may involve counsel or discipline and can be painful.
With mildness: Like a doctor with a good bedside manner, mildness (which is a facet of love) can help the procedure lead to positive outcome. Even though a spiritual reajustment may be painful a mildn and kind manner can break down initial resistence to councel, helps restor good relations and help an erring one to correct his ways.
Keep an eye on yourself: In assisting others spiritually we need to be alert to our own limitations and this will help us show fellow feeling which contributes to a spirit of mildness and avoid being overly harsh.
We can "carry the burdens" of one another by being...
- Be forgiving Col 3:13 them of the errors they commit relieving them of the burden of guilt. If Jesus carried the burden of our sin we can forgive one another
- Be tenderly compassionate w07 Col 3:12
- Be a strengthening aid Col 4:11b w16 3/15 we should seek to know and understand the needs of others in order to help them
INTERVIEW How the congregation helped a brother as he cared for his wife through a terminal illness.
- verse 3, 4 As well as remaining humble we must be aware of our own limitations (compare "greater things")
- verse 3, 4 Each must carry his own "load" meaning "load of responsibility" (not to be confused with a "burden" which can be shared (see it). Examples of this could be qualifying for batism and qualifying privileges, remaining faithful under test (Jesus carried his own load by remaining faithful to the end)
verse 10
CONCLUDING COMMENTS 3:55 Song No. 13 and Prayer |
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