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UNIT 3 (A)
Keep Pace With Spiritual Enlightenment
OPENING DISCUSSION
Jesus taught his disciples many truths that were new to them. However, they still had much to learn. For example, there were questions about the new covenant that had gone into effect at Pentecost 33 C.E. Was the new covenant limited to Jews and Jewish proselytes? Could those uncircumcised also be accepted into this covenant and be anointed with holy spirit? (Acts 10:45) Holy spirit was needed to search into these doctrinal issues. (Luke 12:12) Indeed, Jesus had indicated that such deep spiritual truths as these would be revealed progressively.
Jehovah God continues to shed light on his people today. This illuminates our path and refines us doctrinally, morally, and organizationally. (Prov. 4:18) As we personally make a search into “the deep things of God,” are we keeping pace with such refinements? How can we continue to build appreciation for “the things that God has prepared for those who love him”? (1 Cor. 2:9, 10) Let us see.
QUESTION OUTLINE
Explain how Jehovah is the Source of all spiritual enlightenment. (Ps. 43:3; Isa. 42:6, 7)
What does the fact that Jehovah reveals his purpose progressively reveal about him? (w00 3/15 p. 10 par. 1)
What was Jesus’ role in illuminating Jehovah’s purposes? (John 9:5; 12:35; 2 Cor. 4:6)
True Worshippers in the First Century
How did responsible brothers in the first century respond to progressive spiritual enlightenment? (Acts 15:7-12)
After considering the evidence, the governing body made decisions on what basis?
How were these decisions communicated to the congregations? (Acts 16:4)
How could first-century Christians show their willingness to walk by spirit? (Acts 15:25-31; 16:4, 5)
True Worshippers Today
Whom did Jesus appoint to feed his sheep during the last days? How does this arrangement benefit us? (w14 1/15 p. 13 par. 6; w13 7/15 p. 22 par. 10)
Why is the study of Bible prophecy important in building faith? (1 Pet. 1:10-12)
When it comes to doctrinal refinement, explain how truths regarding Jehovah’s great spiritual temple were progressively clarified. (w10 7/15 p. 22 box)
How has clearer understanding of the following scriptures benefited us?
How does our refined understanding of the faithful slave affect you personally? (w13 7/15 pp. 20-25)
How do doctrinal refinements build your faith and confidence in Jehovah and his organization?
What refinements with regard to morality have helped Jehovah’s people to glorify God’s name in word and deed? (jv pp. 172-175)
How does a clear understanding of the following scriptures benefit us?
• 1 Corinthians 5:13 (w95 5/15 p. 13 par. 15; km 8/02 pp. 3-4)
• Ephesians 4:19 (w12 3/15 pp. 30-31; w06 7/15 pp. 30-31; g 11/13 pp. 4-5)
What organizational developments in modern times fulfill Isaiah 60:17? (w06 2/15 pp. 26-28 pars. 1-12; w95 5/15 pp. 22-23 pars. 6-8)
How do features of jw.org give evidence of the faith and discretion of the slave? (g 1/14 pp. 2-6; km 10/13 p. 2; km 12/12 pp. 3-6)
How have you been able to use our Web site in strengthening . . .
• your family?
• your service partners?
• your own faith?
Personally Keeping Pace
What personal adjustments have you made in order to keep pace with spiritual enlightenment and what impact have they had on your pioneer ministry? How have peace and righteousness been the results? (Isa. 48:17, 18)
What do we learn from the way that Israel regarded “the pillar of fire and cloud”? (Ex. 14:24; w11 4/15 pp. 3-5)
How can we show that we appreciate God’s guidance regarding . . .
• conducting Bible studies?
• preaching to those who speak a foreign language?
• sharing regularly in Family Worship?
• cooperating with Hospital Liaison Committees?
• conducting ourselves properly at conventions?
How are you reassured by the descriptions of Jehovah’s heavenly arrangement found in the writings of Isaiah, Ezekiel, Daniel, and John? (Isa. 6:1-4; Ezek. 1:4-14, 22-24; Dan. 7:9-14; Rev. 4:1-11; w13 4/15 pp. 23-25 pars. 5-8)
Note to Instructor: Using Watchtower Library, Watchtower Online Library, or a printed copy of the Index, demonstrate how the pioneers can ensure that they have the current understanding of Bible truths by searching under the topic “Beliefs Clarified.” If using the Research Guide for Jehovah’s Witnesses, go to the subject “Jehovah’s Witnesses,” then to the subheading “Views and Beliefs.” Recent adjustments to our understanding of Bible truths are cited under “Clarification of Our Beliefs.” Entertain comments on the advantages of making use of available research tools.
What attitude will help us go on walking in the path of increasing light? (w11 9/15 p. 14 pars. 14-15)
How will this attitude help us respond favorably when faced with an adjustment regarding a cherished custom or tradition? (w98 10/1 pp. 19-23)
EXPERIENCE: One longtime elder admits: “Accepting a change when it comes and adapting to it can be difficult.” What has helped him accept the many refinements he has witnessed in the 48 years that he has been a Kingdom proclaimer? He answers: “Having the right attitude is the key. Refusing to accept a refinement means being left behind as the organization moves ahead. If I find myself in a situation where changes seem hard to accept, I reflect on Peter’s words to Jesus: ‘Lord, whom shall we go away to? You have sayings of everlasting life.’ Then I ask myself, ‘Where shall I go away to
How can we show continued appreciation for flashes of spiritual light? (Ps. 97:11)
How will such refinements affect your methods of Bible study? (2 Pet. 1:19-21)
How do we let our light shine? (Matt. 5:14-16; Mark 13:10; w08 5/15 p. 5 par. 12)
Why do you want to keep on walking in the path of increasing light?
