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THEOCRATIC MINISTRY SCHOOL 2013
WEEK OF: Sept. 23
HIGHLIGHTS FROM BIBLE READING: 2 Corinthians 8-13
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ASSIGNMENT No. 1: 2 Corinthians 10:1-18
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ASSIGNMENT No. 2: * If Someone Says, ‘I Believe in Reincarnation’? (rs p. 321 ¶ 1-3)
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ASSIGNMENT No. 3: How Are We to Understand 1 Corinthians 10:13?
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TMS WORKBOOK 2013
1
Theocratic Ministry School
BIBLE READING: 2 Corinthians 8-13
Sept. 23, 2013
(2 Corinthians 8:1-13:14) Now we let YOU know,
brothers, about the undeserved kindness of God that
has been bestowed upon the congregations of
Mac·e·do′ni·a, 2 that during a great test under
affliction their abundance of joy and their deep
poverty made the riches of their generosity abound.
3
For according to their actual ability, yes, I testify,
beyond their actual ability this was, 4 while they of
their own accord kept begging us with much entreaty
for the [privilege of] kindly giving and for a share in
the ministry destined for the holy ones. 5 And not
merely as we had hoped, but first they gave
themselves to the Lord and to us through God’s will.
6
This led us to encourage Titus that, just as he had
been the one to initiate it among YOU, so too he
should complete this same kind giving on YOUR part.
7
Nevertheless, just as YOU are abounding in
everything, in faith and word and knowledge and all
earnestness and in this love of ours to YOU, may
YOU also abound in this kind giving. 8 It is not in the
way of commanding YOU, but in view of the
earnestness of others and to make a test of the
genuineness of YOUR love, that I am speaking. 9 For
YOU know the undeserved kindness of our Lord
Jesus Christ, that though he was rich he became
poor for YOUR sakes, that YOU might become rich
through his poverty. 10 And in this I render an opinion:
for this matter is of benefit to YOU, seeing that
already a year ago YOU initiated not only the doing
but also the wanting [to do]; 11 now, then, finish up
also the doing of it, in order that, just as there was a
readiness to want to do, so also there should be a
finishing up of it out of what YOU have. 12 For if the
readiness is there first, it is especially acceptable
according to what a person has, not according to
what a person does not have. 13 For I do not mean for
it to be easy for others, but hard on YOU; 14 but that
by means of an equalizing YOUR surplus just now
might offset their deficiency, in order that their surplus
might also come to offset YOUR deficiency, that an
equalizing might take place. 15 Just as it is written:
“The person with much did not have too much, and
the person with little did not have too little.” 16 Now
thanks be to God for putting the same earnestness
for YOU in the heart of Titus, 17 because he has
indeed responded to the encouragement, but, being
very earnest, he is going forth of his own accord to
YOU. 18 But we are sending along with him the
brother whose praise in connection with the good
news has spread through all the congregations.
19
Not only that, but he was also appointed by the
congregations to be our traveling companion in
connection with this kind gift to be administered by us
for the glory of the Lord and in proof of our ready
mind. 20 Thus we are avoiding having any man find
fault with us in connection with this liberal contribution
to be administered by us. 21 For we “make honest
provision, not only in the sight of Jehovah, but also in
the sight of men.” 22 Moreover, we are sending with
them our brother whom we have often proved in
many things to be earnest, but now much more
earnest due to his great confidence in YOU. 23 If,
though, there is any question about Titus, he is a
sharer with me and a fellow worker for YOUR
interests; or if about our brothers, they are apostles of
congregations and a glory of Christ. 24 Therefore
demonstrate to them the proof of YOUR love and of
what we boasted about YOU, before the face of the
congregations.
9 Now concerning the ministry that is for the holy
ones, it is superfluous for me to write YOU, 2 for I
know YOUR readiness of mind of which I am
boasting to the Mac·e·do′ni·ans about YOU, that
A·cha′ia has stood ready now for a year, and YOUR
zeal has stirred up the majority of them. 3 But I am
sending the brothers, that our boasting about YOU
might not prove empty in this respect, but that YOU
may really be ready, just as I used to say YOU would
be. 4 Otherwise, in some way, if Mac·e·do′ni·ans
should come with me and find YOU not ready, we—
not to say YOU—should be put to shame in this
assurance of ours. 5 Therefore I thought it necessary
to encourage the brothers to come to YOU in
advance and to get ready in advance YOUR bountiful
gift previously promised, that thus this might be ready
as a bountiful gift and not as something extorted.
6
But as to this, he that sows sparingly will also reap
sparingly; and he that sows bountifully will also reap
bountifully. 7 Let each one do just as he has resolved
in his heart, not grudgingly or under compulsion, for
God loves a cheerful giver. 8 God, moreover, is able
to make all his undeserved kindness abound toward
YOU, that, while YOU always have full selfsufficiency in everything, YOU may have plenty for
every good work. 9 (Just as it is written: “He has
distributed widely, he has given to the poor ones, his
righteousness continues forever.” 10 Now he that
abundantly supplies seed to the sower and bread for
eating will supply and multiply the seed for YOU to
sow and will increase the products of YOUR
righteousness.) 11 In everything YOU are being
enriched for every sort of generosity, which produces
through us an expression of thanks to God;
12
because the ministry of this public service is not
only to supply abundantly the wants of the holy ones
but also to be rich with many expressions of thanks to
God. 13 Through the proof that this ministry gives,
they glorify God because YOU are submissive to the
good news about the Christ, as YOU publicly declare
2
YOU are, and because YOU are generous in YOUR
contribution to them and to all; 14 and with
supplication for YOU they long for YOU because of
the surpassing undeserved kindness of God upon
YOU. 15 Thanks be to God for his indescribable free
gift.
10 Now I myself, Paul, entreat YOU by the mildness
and kindness of the Christ, lowly though I am in
appearance among YOU, whereas when absent I am
bold toward YOU. 2 Indeed I beg that, when present, I
may not use boldness with that confidence with which
I am counting on taking bold measures against some
who appraise us as if we walked according to [what
we are in the] flesh. 3 For though we walk in the flesh,
we do not wage warfare according to [what we are in
the] flesh. 4 For the weapons of our warfare are not
fleshly, but powerful by God for overturning strongly
entrenched things. 5 For we are overturning
reasonings and every lofty thing raised up against the
knowledge of God; and we are bringing every thought
into captivity to make it obedient to the Christ; 6 and
we are holding ourselves in readiness to inflict
punishment for every disobedience, as soon as
YOUR own obedience has been fully carried out.
7
YOU look at things according to their face value. If
anyone trusts in himself that he belongs to Christ, let
him again take this fact into account for himself, that,
just as he belongs to Christ, so do we also. 8 For
even if I should boast a bit too much about the
authority that the Lord gave us to build YOU up and
not to tear YOU down, I would not be put to shame,
9
that I may not seem to want to terrify YOU by [my]
letters. 10 For, say they: “[His] letters are weighty and
forceful, but [his] presence in person is weak and
[his] speech contemptible.” 11 Let such a man take
this into account, that what we are in our word by
letters when absent, such we shall also be in action
when present. 12 For we do not dare to class
ourselves among some or compare ourselves with
some who recommend themselves. Certainly they in
measuring themselves by themselves and comparing
themselves with themselves have no understanding.
13
For our part we will boast, not outside our assigned
boundaries, but according to the boundary of the
territory that God apportioned to us by measure,
making it reach even as far as YOU. 14 Really we are
not overstretching ourselves as if we did not reach to
YOU, for we were the first to come even as far as
YOU in declaring the good news about the Christ.
15
No, we are not boasting outside our assigned
boundaries in the labors of someone else, but we
entertain hope that, as YOUR faith is being
increased, we may be made great among YOU with
reference to our territory. Then we will abound still
more, 16 to declare the good news to the countries
beyond YOU, so as not to boast in someone else’s
territory where things are already prepared. 17 “But he
that boasts, let him boast in Jehovah.” 18 For not the
one who recommends himself is approved, but the
man whom Jehovah recommends.
11 I wish YOU would put up with me in some little
unreasonableness. But, in fact, YOU are putting up
with me! 2 For I am jealous over YOU with a godly
jealousy, for I personally promised YOU in marriage
to one husband that I might present YOU as a chaste
virgin to the Christ. 3 But I am afraid that somehow,
as the serpent seduced Eve by its cunning, YOUR
minds might be corrupted away from the sincerity and
the chastity that are due the Christ. 4 For, as it is, if
someone comes and preaches a Jesus other than
the one we preached, or YOU receive a spirit other
than what YOU received, or good news other than
what YOU accepted, YOU easily put up [with him].
5
For I consider that I have not in a single thing
proved inferior to YOUR superfine apostles. 6 But
even if I am unskilled in speech, I certainly am not in
knowledge; but in every way we manifested [it] to
YOU in all things. 7 Or did I commit a sin by humbling
myself that YOU might be exalted, because without
cost I gladly declared the good news of God to YOU?
8
Other congregations I robbed by accepting
provisions in order to minister to YOU; 9 and yet
when I was present with YOU and I fell in need, I did
not become a burden to a single one, for the brothers
that came from Mac·e·do′ni·a abundantly supplied
my deficiency. Yes, in every way I kept myself
unburdensome to YOU and will keep myself so. 10 It
is a truth of Christ in my case that no stop shall be
put to this boasting of mine in the regions of A·cha′ia.
11
For what reason? Because I do not love YOU?
God knows [I do]. 12 Now what I am doing I will still
do, that I may cut off the pretext from those who are
wanting a pretext for being found equal to us in the
office of which they boast. 13 For such men are false
apostles, deceitful workers, transforming themselves
into apostles of Christ. 14 And no wonder, for Satan
himself keeps transforming himself into an angel of
light. 15 It is therefore nothing great if his ministers
also keep transforming themselves into ministers of
righteousness. But their end shall be according to
their works. 16 I say again, Let no man think I am
unreasonable. Still, if YOU really do, accept me even
if as unreasonable, that I too may do some little
boasting. 17 What I speak I speak, not after the Lord’s
example, but as in unreasonableness, in this
cocksureness peculiar to boasting. 18 Since many are
boasting according to the flesh, I too will boast. 19 For
YOU gladly put up with the unreasonable persons,
seeing YOU are reasonable. 20 In fact, YOU put up
with whoever enslaves YOU, whoever devours [what
YOU have], whoever grabs [what YOU have],
whoever exalts himself over [YOU], whoever strikes
YOU in the face. 21 I say this to [our] dishonor, as
though our position had been weak. But if anyone
else acts bold in something—I am talking
unreasonably—I too am acting bold in it. 22 Are they
Hebrews? I am one also. Are they Israelites? I am
one also. Are they Abraham’s seed? I am also. 23 Are
they ministers of Christ? I reply like a madman, I am
more outstandingly one: in labors more plentifully, in
prisons more plentifully, in blows to an excess, in
3
near-deaths often. 24 By Jews I five times received
forty strokes less one, 25 three times I was beaten
with rods, once I was stoned, three times I
experienced shipwreck, a night and a day I have
spent in the deep; 26 in journeys often, in dangers
from rivers, in dangers from highwaymen, in dangers
from [my own] race, in dangers from the nations, in
dangers in the city, in dangers in the wilderness, in
dangers at sea, in dangers among false brothers,
27
in labor and toil, in sleepless nights often, in hunger
and thirst, in abstinence from food many times, in
cold and nakedness. 28 Besides those things of an
external kind, there is what rushes in on me from day
to day, the anxiety for all the congregations. 29 Who is
weak, and I am not weak? Who is stumbled, and I am
not incensed? 30 If boasting there must be, I will boast
of the things having to do with my weakness. 31 The
God and Father of the Lord Jesus, even the One who
is to be praised forever, knows I am not lying. 32 In
Damascus the governor under A·re′tas the king was
guarding the city of the Dam·a·scenes′ to seize me,
33
but through a window in the wall I was lowered in a
wicker basket and escaped his hands.
12 I have to boast. It is not beneficial; but I shall pass
on to supernatural visions and revelations of [the]
Lord. 2 I know a man in union with Christ who,
fourteen years ago—whether in the body I do not
know, or out of the body I do not know; God knows—
was caught away as such to the third heaven. 3 Yes, I
know such a man—whether in the body or apart from
the body, I do not know, God knows— 4 that he was
caught away into paradise and heard unutterable
words which it is not lawful for a man to speak. 5 Over
such a man I will boast, but I will not boast over
myself, except as respects [my] weaknesses. 6 For if I
ever do want to boast, I shall not be unreasonable,
for I shall say the truth. But I abstain, in order that no
one should put to my credit more than what he sees I
am or he hears from me, 7 just because of the excess
of the revelations. Therefore, that I might not feel
overly exalted, there was given me a thorn in the
flesh, an angel of Satan, to keep slapping me, that I
might not be overly exalted. 8 In this behalf I three
times entreated the Lord that it might depart from me;
9
and yet he really said to me: “My undeserved
kindness is sufficient for you; for [my] power is being
made
perfect in
weakness.
” Most
gladly,
therefore,
will I rather
boast as
respects
my
weakness
es, that
the power
of the
Christ may
like a tent remain over me. 10 Therefore I take
pleasure in weaknesses, in insults, in cases of need,
in persecutions and difficulties, for Christ. For when I
am weak, then I am powerful. 11 I have become
unreasonable. YOU compelled me to, for I ought to
have been recommended by YOU. For I did not
prove to be inferior to [YOUR] superfine apostles in a
single thing, even if I am nothing. 12 Indeed, the signs
of an apostle were produced among YOU by all
endurance, and by signs and portents and powerful
works. 13 For in what respect is it that YOU became
less than the rest of the congregations, except that I
myself did not become a burden to YOU? Kindly
forgive me this wrong. 14 Look! This is the third time I
am ready to come to YOU, and yet I will not become
a burden. For I am seeking, not YOUR possessions,
but YOU; for the children ought not to lay up for [their]
parents, but the parents for [their] children. 15 For my
part I will most gladly spend and be completely spent
for YOUR souls. If I love YOU the more abundantly,
am I to be loved the less? 16 But be that as it may, I
did not burden YOU down. Nevertheless, YOU say, I
was “crafty” and I caught YOU “by trickery.” 17 As for
any one of those I have dispatched to YOU, I did not
take advantage of YOU through him, did I? 18 I urged
Titus and I dispatched the brother with him. Titus did
not take advantage of YOU at all, did he? We walked
in the same spirit, did we not? In the same footsteps,
did we not? 19 Have YOU been thinking all this while
that we have been making our defense to YOU? It is
before God that we are speaking in connection with
Christ. But, beloved ones, all things are for YOUR
upbuilding. 20 For I am afraid that somehow, when I
arrive, I may find YOU not as I could wish and I may
prove to be to YOU not as YOU could wish, but,
instead, there should somehow be strife, jealousy,
cases of anger, contentions, backbitings,
whisperings, cases of being puffed up, disorders.
21
Perhaps, when I come again, my God might
humiliate me among YOU, and I might mourn over
many of those who formerly sinned but have not
repented over their uncleanness and fornication and
loose conduct that they have practiced.
13 This is the third time I am coming to YOU. “At the
mouth of two witnesses or of three every matter must
be established.” 2 I have said previously and, as if
4
present the second time and yet absent now, I say in
advance to those who have sinned before and to all
the rest, that if ever I come again I will not spare,
3
since YOU are seeking a proof of Christ speaking in
me, [Christ] who is not weak toward YOU but is
powerful among YOU. 4 True, indeed, he was
impaled owing to weakness, but he is alive owing to
God’s power. True, also, we are weak with him, but
we shall live together with him owing to God’s power
toward YOU. 5 Keep testing whether YOU are in the
faith, keep proving what YOU yourselves are. Or do
YOU not recognize that Jesus Christ is in union with
YOU? Unless YOU are disapproved. 6 I truly hope
YOU will come to know we are not disapproved.
7
Now we pray to God that YOU may do nothing
wrong, not that we ourselves may appear approved,
but that YOU may be doing what is fine, though we
ourselves may appear disapproved. 8 For we can do
nothing against the truth, but only for the truth. 9 We
certainly rejoice whenever we are weak but YOU are
powerful; and for this we are praying, YOUR being
readjusted. 10 That is why I write these things while
absent, that, when I am present, I may not act with
severity according to the authority that the Lord gave
me, to build up and not to tear down. 11 Finally,
brothers, continue to rejoice, to be readjusted, to be
comforted, to think in agreement, to live peaceably;
and the God of love and of peace will be with YOU.
12
Greet one another with a holy kiss. 13 All the holy
ones send YOU their greetings. 14 The undeserved
kindness of the Lord Jesus Christ and the love of
God and the sharing in the holy spirit be with all of
YOU.
5
Theocratic Ministry School
BIBLE HIGHLIGHTS: 2 Corinthians 8-13
*** w08 7/15 p. 28 Highlights From the Letters to the Corinthians ***
‘CONTINUE TO BE READJUSTED’
(2 Cor. 1:1–13:14)
Paul tells the Corinthians that they should “kindly forgive and comfort” a repentant wrongdoer who has been
rebuked. Although his first letter had saddened them, Paul expresses joy because they were “saddened into
repenting.”—2 Cor. 2:6, 7; 7:8, 9.
‘Just as they are abounding in everything,’ Paul encourages the Corinthians to ‘abound in giving.’ After
answering opposers, he gives final advice to all: “Continue to rejoice, to be readjusted, to be comforted, to think in
agreement, to live peaceably.”—2 Cor. 8:7; 13:11.
(2 Corinthians 8:7) Nevertheless, just as YOU are abounding in everything, in faith and word and knowledge and
all earnestness and in this love of ours to YOU, may YOU also abound in this kind giving.
(2 Corinthians 13:11) Finally, brothers, continue to rejoice, to be readjusted, to be comforted, to think in
agreement, to live peaceably; and the God of love and of peace will be with YOU.
*** w92 1/15 p. 16 par. 9 Jehovah Loves Cheerful Givers ***
Cheerful giving is prompted by faith, knowledge, and love. Paul said: “Just as you [Corinthians] are abounding
in everything, in faith and word and knowledge and all earnestness and in this love of ours to you, may you also
abound in this kind giving. It is not in the way of commanding you, but in view of the earnestness of others and to
make a test of the genuineness of your love, that I am speaking.” (2 Corinthians 8:7, 8) Contributing to Jehovah’s
cause, especially when the giver has limited means, requires faith in God’s future provisions. Christians abounding
in knowledge want to serve Jehovah’s purpose, and those who abound in love for him and his people cheerfully
use their resources to further his cause.
9
*** w08 9/1 p. 5 What Is Our Heavenly Father Really Like? ***
“The God of Love and of Peace”
The apostle Paul called our Maker “the God of love and of peace.” (2 Corinthians 13:11) Why? Jesus Christ
earlier said: “God loved the world so much that he gave his only-begotten Son, in order that everyone exercising
faith in him might not be destroyed but have everlasting life.” (John 3:16) Out of his deep love for mankind, God
gave his beloved Son as a ransom, making it possible for those who exercise faith in him to enjoy life without end,
free from the pain and suffering that resulted from sin. That is why Paul also said: “The wages sin pays is death, but
the gift God gives is everlasting life by Christ Jesus our Lord.” (Romans 6:23) Should that not move us to love God
and draw close to him?
God expresses his love not only to mankind as a whole but also to faithful ones personally. To the ancient
Israelites, who were often wayward, Moses said: “Is it to Jehovah that you keep doing this way, O people stupid
and not wise? Is he not your Father who has produced you, he who made you and proceeded to give you stability?”
(Deuteronomy 32:6) Do you appreciate what that means? As a loving Father, Jehovah felt for his people, despite
being aware of their shortcomings. And he provided for all their legitimate needs—material, emotional, and spiritual.
We all go through life with its many ups and downs and at times feel distressed, even depressed. We need
someone to help us look at our situation and problems with the right perspective. Who can help us? Through his
Word, the Bible, Jehovah proves to be a loving Counselor and Caregiver. That Sacred Volume explains why we
experience so much suffering and how we can cope with it successfully. Just as a father lovingly helps his son who
has fallen and hurt himself, Jehovah in his great love stoops down, as it were, to provide the help we need. Truly,
Jehovah’s hand is not short toward those who show faith in him.—Isaiah 59:1.
God’s love for us is also shown by his being the “Hearer of prayer.” (Psalm 65:2) How is that so? The apostle
Paul explains: “Do not be anxious over anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication along with
thanksgiving let your petitions be made known to God; and the peace of God that excels all thought will guard your
hearts and your mental powers by means of Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:6, 7) By turning to God in heartfelt prayer
and following the guidance he provides in his Word, you too can experience “the peace of God that excels all
thought.”
6
Theocratic Ministry School
EXBH HIGHLIGHTS: 2 Corinthians 8-13
(2 Corinthians 11:1) I wish YOU would put up with me in some little unreasonableness. But, in fact, YOU are
putting up with me!
(2 Corinthians 11:16) I say again, Let no man think I am unreasonable. Still, if YOU really do, accept me even if as
unreasonable, that I too may do some little boasting.
(2 Corinthians 12:11) I have become unreasonable. YOU compelled me to, for I ought to have been
recommended by YOU. For I did not prove to be inferior to [YOUR] superfine apostles in a single thing, even if I am
nothing.
*** w08 7/15 p. 28 pars. 5-12 Highlights From the Letters to the Corinthians ***
11:1, 16; 12:11—Was Paul being unreasonable with the Corinthians? No, he was not. However, he may
have appeared to some to be boastful and unreasonable because of what he was compelled to say in defense
of his apostleship.
*** ip-2 chap. 22 p. 333 par. 26 Righteousness Sprouts in Zion ***
Clad in “the sleeveless coat of righteousness,” anointed Christians are determined to remain pure and
clean in Jehovah’s eyes. (2 Corinthians 11:1, 2) Declared righteous by Jehovah with a view to inheriting
heavenly life, they will never return to the desolate estate of Babylon the Great, from which they have been
liberated. (Romans 5:9; 8:30) The garments of salvation are priceless to them. Their other sheep companions
are similarly determined to observe Jehovah God’s elevated standards of pure worship. Having “washed their
robes and made them white in the blood of the Lamb,” they are declared righteous and will survive “the great
tribulation.” (Revelation 7:14; James 2:23, 25) Until then, they imitate their anointed companions in avoiding
any contamination by Babylon the Great.
26
*** it-2 p. 406 Mind ***
Paul showed the Corinthian congregation that he was sound in mind although he appeared in their eyes to
be ‘out of his mind’ (or, ‘out of himself’) when boasting about his credentials as an apostle, a thing a Christian
would not normally do. He explains that he was forced to do this to bring them back to God, to save them from
being pulled away. This was because they had looked to false apostles and were being turned in the wrong
direction.—2Co 5:13; 11:16-21; 12:11, 12, 19-21; 13:10.
(2 Corinthians 12:1-4) I have to boast. It is not beneficial; but I shall pass on to supernatural visions and
revelations of [the] Lord. 2 I know a man in union with Christ who, fourteen years ago—whether in the body I do not
know, or out of the body I do not know; God knows—was caught away as such to the third heaven. 3 Yes, I know
such a man—whether in the body or apart from the body, I do not know, God knows— 4 that he was caught away
into paradise and heard unutterable words which it is not lawful for a man to speak.
*** w08 7/15 p. 28 pars. 5-12 Highlights From the Letters to the Corinthians ***
12:1-4—Who “was caught away into paradise”? Since the Bible does not speak of any other person who
had such a vision and the passage follows Paul’s defense of his apostleship, he was probably relating his own
experience. What the apostle envisioned was likely the spiritual paradise enjoyed by the Christian congregation
in “the time of the end.”—Dan. 12:4.
*** w04 10/15 p. 8 Paradise—For You? ***
A Vision of Paradise
4 In this connection, note what the apostle Paul wrote: “I know a man in union with Christ who . . . was
caught away as such to the third heaven. Yes, I know such a man—whether in the body or apart from the body,
I do not know, God knows—that he was caught away into paradise and heard unutterable words which it is not
lawful for a man to speak.” (2 Corinthians 12:2-4) That passage comes right after verses in which Paul
defended his apostleship. Moreover, the Bible does not speak of any other person who had such an
experience, and Paul is the one who tells us of it. So it was likely Paul who had this vision. In this supernatural
experience, what “paradise” did he enter?—2 Corinthians 11:5, 23-31.
7
Lessons for Us:
(2 Corinthians 8:12) For if the readiness is there first, it is especially acceptable according to what a person has,
not according to what a person does not have.
*** w00 11/1 pp. 29-30 Riches of Generosity Bring Joy ***
*** w98 11/1 p. 26 “God Loves a Cheerful Giver” ***
*** w80 8/1 p. 4 Is Your Giving Good, Better or Best? ***
Paul states the principle that in making contributions to help needy fellow believers the readiness has to be there
first. When a person is motivated by love what he offers will be acceptable to God, no matter how seemingly small
the amount may be. Contributions are not a matter for competition or comparison. A person gives according to his
means.
I learn two things from this:
1) Although no one can actually enrich Jehovah, who owns all things, contributing is a privilege that affords
worshipers opportunity to display their love for him. Contributions given, not for show or for other selfish motives,
but with the proper attitude and to advance true worship, bring joy and with it God’s blessing.
2) This matter of giving in proportion to what one has is both a comforting and a heart-searching. It is a comforting
principle for the Christian who has little to give. As long as what he gives is in proportion to what he has he can be
content. On the other hand, it is a heart-searching principle for the Christian who has many possessions, who is
rich, for he may well ask himself if his gift, though larger than that of others, is in proportion to his wealth.
(2 Corinthians 8:14-15) but that by means of an equalizing YOUR surplus just now might offset their deficiency,
in order that their surplus might also come to offset YOUR deficiency, that an equalizing might take place. 15 Just
as it is written: “The person with much did not have too much, and the person with little did not have too little.”
*** it-2 p. 309 Manna ***
*** km 6/98 p. 6 par. 19 Caring for the Master’s Belongings ***
The apostle Paul is here encouraging the Christians at Corinth to use their material surplus to offset the material
deficiency of their brothers. Today, in every Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses around the world, there is a
contribution box marked “Contributions for the Society’s Worldwide Work.” Unsolicited contributions placed in those
boxes are available for use wherever there is a need. Money placed in a contribution box in one country might
support the activities of Jehovah’s Witnesses in another country thousands of miles away. Contributions have also
been used in some lands to provide emergency aid for fellow believers suffering because of such things as
hurricanes, tornadoes, earthquakes, and civil wars.
(2 Corinthians 8:21) For we “make honest provision, not only in the sight of Jehovah, but also in the sight of
men.”
*** g76 6/8 pp. 3-4 What Would You Have Done? ***
Christians are honest. However, they are not trying to make a name for themselves by being honest. They are not
seeking praise from others. Nor are they merely following the old adage “honesty is the best policy.” It is the only
policy. A person who is dishonest may believe that his course is beneficial. However, when others find out about
the man’s dishonesty, they no longer trust him and do not want to have further dealings with him. On the other
hand, people are inclined to trust a person known for his honesty. Most of all, the honest person is able to maintain
a clear conscience. He does not have to ‘live a lie,’ only pretending to act with honesty. Nor does he have to worry
about being caught in some dishonest practice. No sleepless nights for him on that account.
(2 Corinthians 9:6) But as to this, he that sows sparingly will also reap sparingly; and he that sows bountifully will
also reap bountifully.
*** g78 6/8 p. 4 Riches within Your Reach ***
*** w60 12/15 p. 739 Sow Bountifully and Reap Bountifully ***
Paul did not mean, primarily or necessarily, that the one who gives material things may reap like material things.
Rather, the apostle meant that he who gives generously to needy ones will reap spiritual riches, favor with God,
happiness and contentment. Truly, such riches are within our reach. It is noteworthy that the emphasis is not on
quantity but on quality. A person may give much and yet be giving sparingly; a person may give little and yet be
giving bountifully. Our conscience comes into play. It gives us a sense of well-being when we do the unselfish, the
8
generous, the merciful, the loving thing.
(2 Corinthians 9:7) Let each one do just as he has resolved in his heart, not grudgingly or under compulsion, for
God loves a cheerful giver.
*** w92 1/15 18 Jehovah Loves Cheerful Givers ***
*** w98 11/1 p. 26 “God Loves a Cheerful Giver” ***
*** w92 1/15 p. 16 par. 9 Jehovah Loves Cheerful Givers ***
*** w67 5/15 p. 315 Do You Give ‘Just as You Have Resolved in Your Heart’?***
Here is a very interesting point: From the Greek term here rendered “cheerful” comes the word “hilarious.” After
pointing this out, scholar R. C. H. Lenski said: “God loves the lighthearted, joyous, happy giver . . . whose faith is
wreathed in smiles when another opportunity for giving greets him.” A person with such a joyful spirit does not give
grudgingly or under compulsion but has his heart in his giving. Paul’s aim was not to pressure the Corinthians, for a
person can hardly be a cheerful giver when he is coerced. Evidently, Paul assumed that proper motive was already
present, that each one had already resolved to give.
Here is an important lesson for us: Contributing to Jehovah’s cause, especially when the giver has limited means,
requires faith in God’s future provisions. Christians want to serve Jehovah and those who abound in love for him
and his people cheerfully use their resources to further his cause. Such giving is not an unpleasant duty, a burden.
Rather, it is a joy, done out of gratitude to Jehovah God for the ability to give.
(2 Corinthians 9:14-15) and with supplication for YOU they long for YOU because of the surpassing
undeserved kindness of God upon YOU. 15 Thanks be to God for his indescribable free gift.
*** it-2 p. 155 Kindness ***
The Insight Book makes an important comment on the expression “undeserved kindness.” “Scholar R. C. Trench, in
Synonyms of the New Testament, says kha´ris (undeserved kindness) implies “a favour freely done, without claim
or expectation of return. Aristotle lays the whole stress on this very point, that it is conferred freely, with no
expectation of return, and finding its only motive in the free-heartedness of the giver.” Joseph H. Thayer in his
lexicon says: “The word [kha´ris] contains the idea of kindness which bestows upon one what he has not deserved.”
William Barclay’s New Testament Wordbook says: “The whole basic idea of the word is that of a free and
undeserved gift, of something given to a man unearned and unmerited.”
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*** w93 12/1 p. 28 The Giver of “Every Good Gift” ***
*** w92 1/15 p. 19 par. 23 Jehovah Loves Cheerful Givers ***
“The surpassing undeserved kindness of God” is what the apostle Paul calls Jehovah’s “indescribable free gift.”
This gift includes the sum total of all the goodness and loving-kindness that God extends to his people through
Jesus. Our deep gratitude goes to Jehovah for his indescribable free gift and many other spiritual and material gifts
to his people. Our heavenly Father’s goodness to us is so wonderful that it surpasses human powers of expression.
(2 Corinthians 10:13) For our part we will boast, not outside our assigned boundaries, but according to the
boundary of the territory that God apportioned to us by measure, making it reach even as far as YOU.
*** w08 7/15 p. 28 pars. 5-12 Highlights From the Letters to the Corinthians ***
10:13. As a general rule, unless some specific arrangements have been made for us to help where the need
is greater, we should work only the territory assigned to our congregation.
*** w90 9/15 p. 27 “Keep Testing Whether You Are in the Faith” ***
Paul—A Caring Apostle
When we accomplish anything in Jehovah’s service as ministers, let us boast in him, not in ourselves.
(10:1–12:13) After all, only with spiritual weapons “powerful by God” can we overturn false reasonings. The
boastful “superfine apostles” among the Corinthians could never match Paul’s record of endurance as a
minister of Christ. Yet, that he might not be overly exalted, God did not remove his “thorn in the flesh”—perhaps
poor eyesight or those false apostles. Paul would rather boast in his weaknesses anyway so that “the power of
the Christ” might remain over him like a tent. As a man who stood firm in the faith, he had not proved inferior to
the superfine apostles. The Corinthians had seen the proofs of apostleship Paul had produced among them “by
all endurance, and by signs and portents and powerful works.”
As a minister and as an apostle, Paul had the spiritual interests of fellow believers at heart, even as we
should have. (12:14–13:14) He ‘would most gladly be completely spent for their souls.’ But Paul feared that
upon arrival in Corinth, he would find some who had not repented of works of the flesh. Hence, he advised all to
keep testing whether they were in the faith and prayed that they “do nothing wrong.” In conclusion, he urged
them to rejoice, be readjusted and comforted, to think in agreement, and to live peaceably. What fine counsel
for us too!
(2 Corinthians 13:5) Keep testing whether YOU are in the faith, keep proving what YOU yourselves are. Or do
YOU not recognize that Jesus Christ is in union with YOU? Unless YOU are disapproved.
*** w08 7/15 p. 28 pars. 5-12 Highlights From the Letters to the Corinthians ***
13:5. To ‘test whether we are in the faith,’ we have to measure our conduct in the light of what we learn from
the Bible. To ‘prove what we ourselves are,’ we have to evaluate the level of our spirituality, including the
sharpness of our “perceptive powers” and the extent of our works of faith. (Heb. 5:14; Jas. 1:22-25) By applying
Paul’s sound advice, we can keep on walking in the way of the truth.
*** w10 11/15 pp. 8-9 Young Ones—Resist Peer Pressure ***
“Keep Proving What You Yourselves Are”
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To handle peer pressure, you first have to be convinced that your beliefs and standards are right. (Read
2 Corinthians 13:5.) Conviction will help you to be bold, although you may be timid by nature. (2 Tim. 1:7, 8) But
even if a person is normally bold, it may be quite difficult for him to stand up for something that he only
halfheartedly believes in. So why not prove to yourself that what you have been taught from the Bible is indeed
the truth? Start with the basics. For example, you believe in God and you have heard others express why they
have faith in his existence. Well, then, ask yourself, ‘What convinces me that God exists?’ The purpose of that
question is not to arouse skepticism but to strengthen your faith. In a similar vein, ask yourself, ‘How do I know
that the Scriptures are inspired of God?’ (2 Tim. 3:16) ‘Why am I convinced that these are “the last days”?’
(2 Tim. 3:1-5) ‘What makes me believe that Jehovah’s standards are for my good?’—Isa. 48:17, 18.
*** w62 3/15 pp. 169-170 “Keep Proving What You Yourselves Are” ***
“Keep Proving What You Yourselves Are”
“Keep testing whether you are in the faith, keep proving what you yourselves are.”—2 Cor. 13:5.
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WHEN was the last time that you took a good look at yourself? Were you satisfied with what you saw? What
does your personality tell others about you? Are you a complex individual made up of so many different
thoughts and feelings that it is difficult to say what your personality is really like? Are you a faithful Abraham
one day and a doubting Thomas the next? Are you a submissive Sarah on Monday and a domineering Jezebel
on Tuesday? or an energetic Paul on Wednesday and a world-loving Demas on Thursday? What are you really
like?
2 As far as other people are concerned, your personality, like your face, is always showing. But is what they
see the real you, or are you acting the part of the hypocrite and letting some people see only what you want
them to see? Is what they see or what you really are an honor to the great God Jehovah?
3
It is important that we look at ourselves to see what sort of persons we are. We do not want our
appearance or personality to offend others. We enjoy the pleasure of good company and we desire others to
enjoy our association with them. Therefore, we seek not to displease our friends or our God, who is our closest
Friend. Such concern is proper, because it is an expression of our love of God and neighbor.—Matt. 22:37-39.
It is amazing how many times the Bible uses such words as “try,” “test,” “examine” and “prove.” It would be
worth your while, in fact, to trace the usage of such words in a Bible concordance. You will be surprised, not
only at the number of times they are used, but also at where, to whom and why they were spoken. Here, for
example, are passages taken from six different epistles of Paul: “Be transformed by making your mind over,
that you may prove to yourselves the good and acceptable and perfect will of God.” (Rom. 12:2) “First let a man
approve himself after scrutiny.” (1 Cor. 11:28) “Keep testing whether you are in the faith, keep proving what you
yourselves are.” (2 Cor. 13:5) “If anyone thinks he is something when he is nothing, he is deceiving his own
mind. But let him prove what his own work is.” (Gal. 6:3, 4) “Keep on making sure of what is acceptable to the
Lord.” (Eph. 5:10) “Make sure of all things; hold fast to what is fine.” (1 Thess. 5:21) By such appeals the
apostle is emphasizing the need for a constant examining of ourselves, that we may be found “blameless and
innocent, children of God without a blemish in among a crooked and twisted generation” of mankind.—Phil.
2:14-16.
4
To examine ourselves, as Paul admonishes, we must see ourselves as God does. “He sees what the heart
is.” (1 Sam. 16:7; Prov. 21:2) He looks upon our hidden motives and desires. Therefore, to be sure we have
God’s approval we must check our hidden motives and desires and discern the thoughts and intentions of the
heart. We must know why we should make changes in our personality, what changes to make and how. All of
this calls for an accurate knowledge of ourselves, our motives, the world around us and God’s infallible written
Word, the Bible.
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Assignment No. 1: 2 Corinthians 10:1-18
(2 Corinthians 10:1-18) Now I myself, Paul, entreat YOU by the mildness and kindness of the Christ, lowly though
I am in appearance among YOU, whereas when absent I am bold toward YOU. 2 Indeed I beg that, when present, I
may not use boldness with that confidence with which I am counting on taking bold measures against some who
appraise us as if we walked according to [what we are in the] flesh. 3 For though we walk in the flesh, we do not
wage warfare according to [what we are in the] flesh. 4 For the weapons of our warfare are not fleshly, but powerful
by God for overturning strongly entrenched things. 5 For we are overturning reasonings and every lofty thing raised
up against the knowledge of God; and we are bringing every thought into captivity to make it obedient to the Christ;
6
and we are holding ourselves in readiness to inflict punishment for every disobedience, as soon as YOUR own
obedience has been fully carried out. 7 YOU look at things according to their face value. If anyone trusts in himself
that he belongs to Christ, let him again take this fact into account for himself, that, just as he belongs to Christ, so
do we also. 8 For even if I should boast a bit too much about the authority that the Lord gave us to build YOU up
and not to tear YOU down, I would not be put to shame, 9 that I may not seem to want to terrify YOU by [my] letters.
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For, say they: “[His] letters are weighty and forceful, but [his] presence in person is weak and [his] speech
contemptible.” 11 Let such a man take this into account, that what we are in our word by letters when absent, such
we shall also be in action when present. 12 For we do not dare to class ourselves among some or compare
ourselves with some who recommend themselves. Certainly they in measuring themselves by themselves and
comparing themselves with themselves have no understanding. 13 For our part we will boast, not outside our
assigned boundaries, but according to the boundary of the territory that God apportioned to us by measure, making
it reach even as far as YOU. 14 Really we are not overstretching ourselves as if we did not reach to YOU, for we
were the first to come even as far as YOU in declaring the good news about the Christ. 15 No, we are not boasting
outside our assigned boundaries in the labors of someone else, but we entertain hope that, as YOUR faith is being
increased, we may be made great among YOU with reference to our territory. Then we will abound still more, 16 to
declare the good news to the countries beyond YOU, so as not to boast in someone else’s territory where things
are already prepared. 17 “But he that boasts, let him boast in Jehovah.” 18 For not the one who recommends himself
is approved, but the man whom Jehovah recommends.
12
Assignment No. 2:
Theme: * If Someone Says, ‘I Believe in Reincarnation’?
(rs p. 321 ¶ 1-3)
*** rs p. 321 Reincarnation ***
If Someone Says—
‘I believe in reincarnation’
You might reply: ‘You hope that it will eventually result in a better life, is that right? . . . Tell me, would you like
to live in a world like the one described here at Revelation 21:1-5?’
Or you could say: ‘I appreciate your telling me that. May I ask, Is this something that you have always
believed? . . . What was it that made you leave behind your former beliefs?’ (Then perhaps use the ideas under the
heading on page 320.)
Another possibility: ‘I have enjoyed conversations with others who share that belief. May I ask, Why do you
feel that reincarnation is needed?’ Then perhaps add: (1) ‘Do you remember all the details of the earlier lives you
believe you had? . . . But that would be necessary if a person were to correct his former errors and improve, would
it not?’ (2) If the person says that it is a kindness that we forget, you might ask: ‘But do you view a bad memory as
an advantage to a person in everyday life? Then, by forgetting every 70 years or so everything we have learned,
would we be helped to improve our lot?’ (3) If the person says that only the better people are born again as
humans, you might ask: ‘Why is it, then, that world conditions have continued to get worse? . . . The Bible shows
how real improvement will be made in our day. (Dan. 2:44)’
(Revelation 21:1-5) And I saw a new heaven and a new earth; for the former heaven and the former earth had
passed away, and the sea is no more. 2 I saw also the holy city, New Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven
from God and prepared as a bride adorned for her husband. 3 With that I heard a loud voice from the throne
say: “Look! The tent of God is with mankind, and he will reside with them, and they will be his peoples. And
God himself will be with them. 4 And he will wipe out every tear from their eyes, and death will be no more,
neither will mourning nor outcry nor pain be anymore. The former things have passed away.” 5 And the One
seated on the throne said: “Look! I am making all things new.” Also, he says: “Write, because these words are
faithful and true.”
(Daniel 2:44) “And in the days of those kings the God of heaven will set up a kingdom that will never be
brought to ruin. And the kingdom itself will not be passed on to any other people. It will crush and put an end to
all these kingdoms, and it itself will stand to times indefinite;
*** rs p. 320 - p. 321 Reincarnation ***
How much of a difference is there between reincarnation and the hope held out in the Bible?
Reincarnation: According to this belief, when a person dies, the soul, the “real self,” passes on to a better
existence if the individual has lived a good and proper life, but possibly to existence as an animal if his record has
been more bad than good. Each rebirth, it is believed, brings the individual back into this same system of things,
where he will face further suffering and eventual death. The cycles of rebirth are viewed as virtually endless. Is
such a future really what awaits you? Some believe that the only way of escape is by extinguishing all desire for
things pleasing to the senses. To what do they escape? To what some describe as unconscious life.
Bible: According to the Bible, the soul is the complete person. Even though a person may have done bad things
in the past, if he repents and changes his ways, Jehovah God will forgive him. (Ps. 103:12, 13) When a person
dies, nothing survives. Death is like a deep, dreamless sleep. There will be a resurrection of the dead. This is not a
reincarnation but a bringing back to life of the same personality. (Acts 24:15) For most people, the resurrection will
be to life on earth. It will take place after God brings the present wicked system to its end. Sickness, suffering, even
the necessity to die, will become things of the past. (Dan. 2:44; Rev. 21:3, 4) Does such a hope sound like
something about which you would like to learn more, to examine the reasons for confidence in it?
(Psalm 103:12, 13) As far off as the sunrise is from the sunset, So far off from us he has put our
transgressions. 13 As a father shows mercy to his sons, Jehovah has shown mercy to those fearing him.
(Acts 24:15) and I have hope toward God, which hope these [men] themselves also entertain, that there is
going to be a resurrection of both the righteous and the unrighteous.
13
(Daniel 2:44) “And in the days of those kings the God of heaven will set up a kingdom that will never be
brought to ruin. And the kingdom itself will not be passed on to any other people. It will crush and put an end to
all these kingdoms, and it itself will stand to times indefinite;
(Revelation 21:3, 4) With that I heard a loud voice from the throne say: “Look! The tent of God is with mankind,
and he will reside with them, and they will be his peoples. And God himself will be with them. 4 And he will wipe
out every tear from their eyes, and death will be no more, neither will mourning nor outcry nor pain be anymore.
The former things have passed away.”
14
Assignment No. 3:
Theme: How Are We to Understand 1 Corinthians 10:13?
(1 Corinthians 10:13) No temptation has taken YOU except what is common to men. But God is faithful, and he
will not let YOU be tempted beyond what YOU can bear, but along with the temptation he will also make the way
out in order for YOU to be able to endure it.
*** w11 1/15 pp. 22-23 Empowered to Fight Temptation and Cope With Discouragement ***
Empowered to Fight Temptation
Jesus taught his followers to pray: “Do not bring us into temptation, but deliver us from the wicked one.”
(Matt. 6:13) Jehovah will not abandon his faithful servants who make this request. On another occasion, Jesus
said that “the Father in heaven [will] give holy spirit to those asking him.” (Luke 11:13) How reassuring that
Jehovah promises to grant us this force for righteousness! This, of course, does not mean that Jehovah will
prevent us from being tempted. (1 Cor. 10:13) But when we face temptation, that is a time to pray even more
intensely.—Matt. 26:42.
5
In answer to the Devil’s temptations, Jesus quoted scriptures. God’s Word was clearly in Jesus’ mind
when he responded: “It is written . . . Again it is written . . . Go away, Satan! For it is written, ‘It is Jehovah your
God you must worship, and it is to him alone you must render sacred service.’” Love for Jehovah and for his
Word impelled Jesus to reject the allurements that the Tempter put before him. (Matt. 4:1-10) After Jesus
repeatedly resisted temptation, Satan left him.
6
*** w11 1/15 p. 30 Empowered to Overcome Any Trial ***
Helped to Overcome Trials and Temptations
Jehovah’s people are not surprised to meet up with temptation, discouragement, persecution, and peer
pressure. The world is basically hostile toward us. (John 15:17-19) Yet, holy spirit can make us equal to any
challenge we might face in our service to God. Jehovah will not let us be tempted beyond what we can bear.
(1 Cor. 10:13) He will by no means ever leave or forsake us. (Heb. 13:5) Obedience to his inspired Word
protects and fortifies us. Moreover, God’s spirit can impel fellow believers to impart the assistance we need
when we need it most.
18
19 May all of us continue to seek holy spirit through prayer and study of the Scriptures. May we go on “being
made powerful with all power to the extent of [God’s] glorious might so as to endure fully and be long-suffering
with joy.”—Col. 1:11.
*** w10 11/15 p. 27 Jehovah Is Our Sovereign Lord! ***
We Can Maintain Integrity!
We can uphold Jehovah’s sovereignty and maintain our integrity, for the apostle Paul wrote: “No temptation
has taken you except what is common to men. But God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond what
you can bear, but along with the temptation he will also make the way out in order for you to be able to endure it.”
(1 Cor. 10:13) What is the source of the temptation mentioned by Paul, and how does God make the way out for
us?
16
As illustrated by Israel’s experiences in the wilderness, the “temptation” comes through circumstances that
could induce us to break God’s law. (Read 1 Corinthians 10:6-10.) The Israelites could have resisted temptation,
but they desired “injurious things” when Jehovah miraculously provided a month’s supply of quail for them. Even
though the people had been without meat for some time, God had given them enough manna to eat. Yet, they gave
way to the temptation of yielding to unrestrained greed when gathering the quail.—Num. 11:19, 20, 31-35.
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