Watchtower Study: Imitate Jesus' Zeal for Preaching

Theme: "The Lord sent them out by twos ahead of him into every city and place where he himself was to go." - Luke 10:1

Four Ways to Imitate Jesus' Zeal in Ministry

1. Zeal Sets Jehovah's People Apart

• Unique Quality: Zeal for ministry distinguishes Jehovah's people from the world.
• Despite challenges, Jehovah's servants are eager to preach because of love for Jehovah and others.
• Titus 2:14: Jesus gave himself to make us zealous for fine works, including preaching.

2. Challenges in Maintaining Zeal

• Lack of Immediate Results: Preaching sometimes yields slow results, unlike other service activities like disaster relief.
• Discouragement: Long-term efforts with little response or rejection can be discouraging.
• Luke 13:6-9: Illustrates Jesus' patience and continued effort despite limited results.

3. Jesus' Approach and Example

• Focus on Jehovah's Will: Preaching was Jesus' main goal, reflecting Jehovah's will.
  • Luke 4:43: He prioritized sharing the good news.
  • Continued traveling and teaching others to join the work.
• Relation to Other Assignments: Preaching remains the primary work, supported by other theocratic assignments.
  • Matthew 28:19-20: Direct command to make disciples.

4. Reasons to Keep Preaching

• Jehovah's Desire: 1 Timothy 2:4 – Jehovah wants as many as possible to hear and respond to the good news.
• Bible Prophecies: Knowledge of prophecy helped Jesus use his time wisely, encouraging urgency in preaching.
  • Luke 18:31, Daniel 2:44: Prophecies remind us that time is short.

Biblical Prophecy and Zeal

• Influence on Jesus' Ministry: Prophecy guided Jesus to use his short ministry time effectively.
• Motivation from Prophecy: Understanding current events in light of prophecy strengthens conviction and urgency.
  • Daniel 11:40, 2:43-45: Prophecies showing fulfillment motivate continued effort.

Relying on Jehovah for Support

• Opposition and Support: Jesus relied on Jehovah amid opposition and persecution.
  • Luke 12:53, Matthew 10:20: Jehovah provides strength and wisdom.
• Prayer for Believers: Jesus' prayer for protection covers all believers, offering assurance.
  • John 17:11, 15-20: Confidence in Jehovah’s support.

Maintaining Positivity

• Positive View of the Ministry: Jesus focused on those receptive to the message and saw potential in the work.
  • Luke 10:2: Encouraged prayer for more workers.
  • Illustrations: Mustard seed and leaven describe the growth and impact of the kingdom message.

Conclusion

• Role of Zeal: Zeal reflects our close relationship with Jehovah and Jesus.
  • Acts 4:13: Boldness in preaching shows our connection.
• Stay zealous by focusing on preaching as a priority, relying on Jehovah, and maintaining a positive outlook.