Within the Congregation

Consider yet another possible source of harmful ideas.  While not intending to teach falsehoods, a dedicated Christian can develop the habit of speaking thoughtlessly. (Proverbs 12:18) Because of our imperfect nature, all of us at times transgress with out tongue. (Proverbs 10:19; James 3:8) Evidently, in the apostle Paul's day there were some in the congregation who failed to control their tongue and got involved in the quibbling debates about words. (1 Timothy 2:8)  There were others who thought too much of their own opinions and even went so far as to challenge the authority of Paul.  (2 Corinthians 10:10-12) Such a spirit resulted in needless conflicts.

Sometimes these disagreements escalated into "violent disputes about trifles," disrupting the peace of the congregation.  (1 Timothy 6:5; Galatians 5:15) Of those who caused these arguments, Paul wrote: "If any man teaches other doctrine and does not assent to healthful words, those of out Lord Jesus Christ, not the teaching that accords with godly devotion, he is puffed up with pride,not understanding anything, but being mentally diseased over questionings and debates about words.  From these things spring envy, strife, abusive speeches,wicked suspicions." -1 Timothy 6:3, 4. 


Happily, in apostolic times the majority of Christians were faithful and remained focused on the work of declaring the good news of God's Kingdom.  They were busy looking after "orphans and widows in their tribulation" and kept themselves "without spot from the world," not wasting their time on futile debates about words. (James 1:27)  They avoided "bad association even within the Christian congregation in order to safeguard their spirituality. -1 Corinthians 15:33; 2 Timothy 2:20, 21.

Similarly, the situation described in paragraph 11 are not typical of the congregations of Jehovah's Witnesses today.  Still, we do well to acknowledge he potential for such futile debates.  Of course, it is normal to discuss Bible accounts or wonder about aspects of the promised new world that have not as yet been revealed.  And there is nothing wrong with exchanging ideas on personal matters, such as dress and grooming or choice of entertainment.  However, if we become dogmatic about our ideas and take offense when others do not agree with us, the congregation may end up becoming divided over minor issues.  What begins as harmless small talk may become harmful indeed. 

Next time: Guarding Our Trust

The Watchtower, 2000