Learn From Examples

Can virtue be taught in a classroom?  This question is one that has perplexed thinkers for millenniums.  The Greek philosopher Plato leaned toward thinking that it can.  Aristotle, on the other hand, reasoned that virtue is gained through practice.  A journalist summed up the debate on the issue this way:  "In short, an ethnics of virtue cannot be learned alone.  Nor can it be taught from textbooks.  Good character comes from living in communities . . .where virtue is encouraged and rewarded."  But where would we find truly virtuous individuals?  While most cultures offer some examples of virtue, at least in their mythological heroes and stories,  the Bible contains abundant true examples.

The most outstanding example of virtue is Jehovah.  He always acts in a virtuous way and does what is righteous and good.  We can cultivate virtue by becoming "imitators of God."  (Ephesians 5:1)  And God's Son, Jesus Christ,  'left us a model for us to follow his steps closely.'  (1 Peter 2:21)  Moreover, the Bible contains accounts of many faithful individuals, such as Abraham, Sarah, Joseph, Ruth, Job and Daniel and his three Hebrew companions.  Not to be overlooked are the examples of virtue among modern-day servants of Jehovah.

Next time: We Can Succeed

The Watchtower, 2001