7. In ancient Israel, why were faithful people not disheartened when the nation and its kings chose a wicked course?

⁷ The time of ancient Israel. Shortly before his death, Moses told the Israelites: “I well know that after my death you will surely act wickedly and turn aside from the way about which I have commanded you.” (Deut. 31:29) Moses also warned that if Israel rebelled, the nation would be sent into exile. (Deut. 28:35, 36) Did those words come true? Yes. Over the centuries, many kings chose a wicked course and led God’s people astray. This caused Jehovah to cast off his wicked people and to end the line of earthly kings. (Ezek. 21:25-27) But faithful Israelites took courage when they saw that God’s word had come true.​—Isa. 55:10, 11.

8. Should we be surprised that the second-century Christian congregation became corrupted? Explain.

⁸ The time period after the apostles died. Should we be surprised that the second-century Christian congregation became corrupted? Not at all. Jesus foretold that a great apostasy would take place. (Matt. 7:21-23; 13:24-30, 36-43) The apostles Paul, Peter, and John had all confirmed that Jesus’ prophecy was already beginning to be fulfilled in the first century C.E. (2 Thess. 2:3, 7; 2 Pet. 2:1; 1 John 2:18) In the second century C.E., the Christian congregation became corrupted. Apostate Christianity arose and became a prominent part of Babylon the Great, the world empire of false religion. Again, inspired prophecy was being fulfilled.