SECTION 24
Paul Writes to the Congregations
Paul’s letters strengthen the Christian organization
THE newly established Christian congregation would have an important role in the fulfillment of Jehovah’s purpose. But the first-century Christians quickly came under attack. Would they keep their integrity to God in the face of persecution from without and other more subtle dangers from within? The Christian Greek Scriptures contain 21 letters that offered needed counsel and encouragement.
Fourteen of the letters
Admonition on morals and conduct. Those who practice fornication, adultery, and other gross sins “will not inherit God’s kingdom.” (Galatians 5:19-21; 1 Corinthians 6:9-11) Worshippers of God must be united regardless of nationality. (Romans 2:11; Ephesians 4:1-6) They should cheerfully give of themselves to help fellow believers in need. (2 Corinthians 9:7) “Pray incessantly,” Paul says. Indeed, worshippers are encouraged to pour out their hearts to Jehovah in prayer. (1 Thessalonians 5:17; 2 Thessalonians 3:1; Philippians 4:6, 7) For prayers to be heard by God, they must be offered in faith.
What will help families to thrive? Husbands should love their wives as their own bodies. Wives should have deep respect for their husbands. Children should obey their parents, for this is pleasing to God. Parents need to guide and train their children lovingly, using godly principles.
Light shed on God’s purpose. Many aspects of the Mosaic Law served to safeguard and guide the Israelites until the arrival of Christ. (Galatians 3:24) Christians, however, do not need to observe that Law in order to worship God. In writing to the Hebrews
Direction on proper congregation organization. Men willing to handle responsibilities in the congregation must have high moral standards and meet spiritual qualifications. (1 Timothy 3:1-10, 12, 13; Titus 1:5-9) Worshippers of Jehovah God should regularly gather with fellow believers to encourage one another. (Hebrews 10:24, 25) Meetings for worship should be upbuilding and instructive.
By the time Paul wrote the second of his two letters to Timothy, the apostle was back in Rome; he was imprisoned, awaiting judgment. Only a courageous few risked visiting him. Paul knew that his time was short. “I have fought the fine fight,” he said. “I have run the course to the finish, I have observed the faith.” (2 Timothy 4:7) Likely Paul suffered martyrdom shortly thereafter. But the apostle’s letters guide true worshippers of God to this day.
THE BIBLE