SA41 - Lessons We Can Learn From Peter’s Two Letters
Summary:
This week's article delves into key lessons derived from the letters of the apostle Peter, composed towards the end of his life. These lessons offer valuable insights for modern day Christians, emphasizing endurance, faith, and love amid trials.
Peter’s Last Service:
- Peter wrote two inspired letters around 62-64 C.E.
- Despite imminent trials, he continued his faithful service.
Addressing Contemporary Challenges:
- Peter's letters addressed issues like false teachings and the upcoming destruction of Jerusalem.
- Provides guidance on enduring trials and preparing for future challenges.
Timeless Relevance:
- Though initially aimed at first-century Christians, Jehovah made these letters part of His Word (Romans 15:4).
- Relevance for us today as we face challenges in a world promoting unclean conduct.
Overcoming Fear of Man:
- Examines Peter's experience of overcoming fear, providing insights for us today.
- Urges Christians to continue to sanctify Christ in their hearts and be prepared to defend their faith.
Cultivating Intense Love:
- Stresses the importance of not only feeling but actively showing love for fellow worshippers.
- Highlights Peter's emphasis on "unhypocritical brotherly affection" and loving one another intensely.
Shepherding the Flock:
- Elders are reminded of their role in shepherding God's flock willingly and eagerly.
- Acknowledges the challenges elders face and encourages them to depend on Jehovah's strength.
Perseverance and Reward:
- Encourages self-examination and improvement, trusting in God's training.
- Draws parallels with Peter's perseverance and assurance of receiving the reward of everlasting life.
Conclusion:
Maintaining perseverance, like Peter's, leads to the reward of everlasting life and therefore we are encouraged to apply these lessons in our lives for spiritual growth and endurance.
Thank you for reading,
-Soli Jehova Gloria (1 Corinthians 10:31)
Do you have a comment that did not get mentioned during the Watchtower study? What encouraging observations would you like to point out? Share your thoughts by leaving a comment below.
8 comments
Great summary of the key points. My favorite point was that we need to keep “stretching the limits of our natural inclination to love” and to remain kind and considerate even when we are hurt by others.
My comment from paragraph 5:
To keep the right perspective regarding the end of this system, we should remember that Jehovah’s view of time is vastly different from ours, just as God’s understanding of time is different from ours, our understanding of events and situations may also be limited. What may seem slow to us is actually swift in his eyes. We should also be patient, as Jehovah is, and use the time we have to give a witness to people of all nations.
Great summary. I can see myself referring to this later and picking up exactly what we studied.