LIFE STORY/AS TOLD BY ANDRE'RAMSEYER - GILEAD AND POSTPONED EXPECTATIONS - Continue

  On the weekends, I served circuit assemblies. We had no Assembly Halls. So the brothers would build a temporary roof of bamboo poles covered with palm branches to provide shelter from the hot sun. Because there was no refrigeration for the cafeteria, live animals were kept on hand and butchered as needed to feed the attendees.

We had some amusing experiences at those assemblies. Once Herb Jennings, a fellow missionary, was giving a talk when a steer escaped from the cafeteria.  It bolted between the platform and the audience. Herb stopped talking and the animals seemed disoriented, But four strong brothers managed to restrain it and carry it back to the cafeteria, to the cheers of the audience. 

 Next time: LIFE STORY/AT TOLD BY ANDRE' RAMSEYER - GILEAD AND POSTPONED EXPECTATIONS - Conclusion

From the j.w.org publications 

LIF STORY/AS TOLD BY ANDRE' RAMSEYER

 GILEAD AND POSTPONED EXPECTATIONS

While in Quebec, I was thrilled to receive an invitation to the 26th class of Gilead School in South Lansing, New York. Graduation day came on February 12, 1956, and I was assigned to what is now Ghana, West Africa. But before I could go, I had returned to Canada for "a few weeks" until my travel documents were ready.

I ended up waiting seven months in Toronto for those documents. During that time, I was kindly housed by the Cripps family, and I came to know Sheila, their daughter. We fell in love. When I was just about to propose marriage, my visa came in. Sheila prayerfully decided that I should go to my assignment. But we would keep corresponding to see if and when a future marriage might be possible. That was not an easy decision, but as it turned out, it was the right one.

After a month of traveling by train, cargo ship, and plane, I arrived in Accra, Ghana. There I was assigned to serve as district overseer. That included throughout Ghana as well as neighboring Ivory Coast (now Cote Togo). Most of the time, I traveled alone in the branch-provided jeep. I enjoyed every minute of that time!

Next time: LIFE STORY/AS TOLD BY ANDRE' RAMSEYER - Continue

From the jw.org publications

LIFE STORY/AS TOLD BY ANDRE' RAMSEYER -BEGINNING FULL-TIME SERVICE

 During the summer of 1950, I attended the Theocracy's Increase Assembly in New York City. I was very motivated to do more in Jehovah's service after meeting brothers and sisters from around the world and listening to exciting interviews of Gilead School graduates! I became more determined than ever to enter the full-time ministry. As soon as I got back home, I applied to become a regular pioneer. The Canada branch office wrote back, suggesting I get baptized first. I did so in October 1, 1950. One month later, I became a regular pioneer and received my first assignment in Kapuskasing. That town was many kilometers away from where I was living at the time.

In the spring of 1951, the branch office invited Witnesses who could speak French to consider moving to the French-speaking province of Quebec. The need was great there. I grew up speaking French and English, so I answered the call and was assigned to Rouyn. I did not know anybody there. All I had was an address, as I related earlier. But things worked out well. Marcell and I became good friends, and I enjoyed serving in Quebec for the next four years, eventually as a special pioneer.

Next time: LIFE STORY/AS TOLD BY ANDRE' RAMSEYER - GILEAD AND POSTPONEDD EXPECTATIONS

From the jw.org publications

 

LIFE STORY/AS TOLD BY ANDRE' RAMSEYER -RAISED IN A RELIGIOUSLY DIVIDED HOME

 I was born in 1934 to Swiss immigrants who settled in Timmins, a mining town in Ontario. Canada. About 1939, my mother began to read the Watchtower magazine and to attend meetings of Jehovah's Witnesses. She brought me and my six siblings with her. Soon, she became one of Jehovah's Witnesses.

Father was not happy with her decision, but Mother loved the truth and was determined to stick with it. She did so even during the early 1940's when the word of Jehovah's Witnesses was banned in Canada. And she always treated Father with kindness and respect, despite his verbal abuse. Her excellent example helped me and my siblings to accept the truth too. Happily, Father's attitude softened in time, and he began to treat our family more kindly.

Next time: LIFE STORY/AS TOLD BY ANDRE' RAMSEYER-BEGINNING FULL-TIME SERVICE

From the jw.org publications

LIFE STORY/AS TOLD BY ANDRE' RAMSEYER- A Rewarding Journey in Jehovah' Service

 IN 1951, I had just arrived at Rouyn, a small town in the Canadian province of Quebec. I knocked on the door of the address I had been given. Marcel Filteau, a Gilead-trained missionary, came to the door. He was 23 years old and tall; I was 16 and shorter. I showed him my pioneer assignment letter. He read it, looked at me and said, does your mother know that you're here?  

Next time: LIFE STORY AS TOLD BY ANDRE' RAMSEYER - RAISED IN A RELIGIOUSLY DIVIDED HOME

From the jw.org publications

"YOU NEED ENDURANCE" - Conclusion

 Some of our brothers are enduring persecution right now. We can loyally support them by means of our prayers and, at times, in practical ways. (Hebrews 10:33) The Bible clearly says, however, that "all those desiring to live in godly devotion in association with Christ Jesus will also be persecuted." (2 Timothy 3:12) For that reason, all of us need to prepare for lies ahead. Let us continue to trust fully in Jehovah, confident that he will help us to endure any trial that may come our way. In due time, he will bring relief to all his faithful worshippers. - 2 THESSALONIANS 1:7, 8. 

No doubt Paul's letter to the Hebrews helped first-century Christians to prepare for the tribulation that they would face. Paul urged his brothers to gain a deeper knowledge and understanding of the Scriptures. Doing so would equip them to identify and reject teachings that would undermine our faith so that they would promptly follow the direction of Jesus and of those taking the lead in the congregation. And he helped Christians to build endurance by having the right view of trials and seeing the trials as an opportunity to be trained by their loving Father. May we too apply this inspired counsel. We will then be able to endure faithfully down to the end. - HEBREWS 3:14. 

Next time: LIFE STORY/AS TOLD BY ANDRE' RAMESEYER - A Rewarding Journey in Jehovah's Service

From the jw.org publications

"YOU NEED ENDURANCE"

 Hebrew Christians would have to endure tests of their faith as conditions in Judea deteriorated. (Hebrews 10:36) Although some Hebrew Christians had faced intense persecution, many had accepted Christianity during a period of relative peace. Paul mentioned that although had endured difficult tests of faith, they had not thus far suffered as Jesus did, that is, to the point of death. (Hebrews 12:4) With the spread of Christianity, however, the Jewish opposers were becoming increasingly bitter and fanatical. Just a few years earlier, Paul's appearance in Jerusalem stirred up a riot. More than 40 Jews "bound themselves with a curse, saying that they would neither eat nor drink until they had killed Paul." (Acts 22:22; 23:12-14) Despite such a climate of religious fanaticism and hatred, those Christians would still need to meet for worship, preach the good news, and keep themselves strong in faith. 

What would help the Hebrew Christians to endure the opposition they faced? Paul knew that they needed to have the right view of their trials. He thus explained that God might allow tests of faith as part of a Christian's training.  (Hebrews 12:7.) Such training can help one to cultivate and refine Christian qualities. By focusing on the end result of such trials, those Hebrew Christians would find it easier to endure. - HEBREWS 12:11.

Paul urged the Hebrew Christians to endure trials with greater determination. He was in a good position to write to them about this. As a former persecutor of Christians, he knew what they were up against. He also knew how to endure persecution. After all, he experienced various form of opposition after becoming a Christian. (2 Corinthians 11:23-25) So Paul could speak with conviction about what it takes to endure. He reminded those Christian that when enduring trials, they needed to rely not on themselves but on Jehovah. Paul would say with courage:  "Jehovah is my helper; I will not be afraid." - HEBREWS 13:6.

Next time: "YOU NEED ENDURANCE" - Conclusion

From the jw.org publications

"HAVE FAITH FOR THE PRESERVING OF OUR LIVES" - Conclusion

 While they waited for the signal to flee, the Hebrew Christians also needed to keep a simple life, rejecting "the love of money." (Read Hebrews 13:5.) Some of them had been through times of famine and poverty. (Hebrews 10:32-34) Even though they were once willing to endure hardship for the sake of the good news, some might even have begun to see wealthy as indispensable for their protection. But no amount of money would protect them the coming destruction. (James 5:3) In fact, any who loved material things would likely find it more difficult to flee, leaving behind their hopes and possessions.

We will be motivated to reject materialism if we have strong faith that the end of the present system of things is imminent. People will, in effect, "throw their silver into the streets" because they will realize that neither their silver or their gold will be able to save them in the day of Jehovah's fury." (Ezekiel 7:19) Rather than focus on accumulating as money as we can, we need to make decisions that help us to live simple yet balanced lives. That includes resisting temptation to take on unnecessary debt or to get bogged down caring for many material things. We will also carefully avoid becoming overly attached to the possessions we already have. (Matthew 6:19, 24) Our faith may be tested with regard to material things and other matters as we wait for the end of this system of things to come. 

Next time: "YOU NEED ENDURANCE"

From the jw.org publications

"HAVE FAITH FOR THE PRESERVING OF OUR LIVES" -Continue

 Today we need faith as did those who first received Paul's letter. We live at a time when most people reject-and even ridicule -the Bible's warning about the end of this system of things. (2 Peter 3:3, 4) Additionally, although the Bible reveals a number of details about how the great tribulation will unfold, there are many things that we do not know. We need to have strong faith  that the end of this system of things will come right on time and that Jehovah will care for us. - HABAKKUK 2:3. 

We must also strengthen our faith in the channel Jehovah  is usinig today to guide us-"the faithful and discreet slave." (Matthew 24:45) When the great tribulation begins, we may receive special lifesaving instructions, as the Hebrew Christians may have received when the Romans came.  Now is the tie to strengthen our trust and confidence in the direction we receive from those taking the lead in Jehovah's organization. We cannot expect to follow their direction confidently during the great tribulation if we struggle to follow it now. 

Next time: "HAVE FAITH FOR THE PRESERVING OF OUR LIVES" - Conclusion 

From the jw.org publications

"HAVE FAITH FOR THE PRESERVING OF OUR LIVES"

 The Hebrew Christians would need strong faith to survive the approaching tribulation in Judea. (Hebrews 10:37-39) Jesus had warned his followers that when they saw Jerusalem surrounded by encamped armies, they should flee to the mountains. His counsel applied to all Christians, whether they lived in the city or in the open countryside. (Luke 21:20-40) People back there who were threatened by an invading army would normally seek protection in a walled city like Jerusalem. Fleeing to the mountains would have seemed logical and would have taken great faith.

The Hebrew Christians would also need to trust those whom Jesus was using to direct the congregation. Those taking the lead likely gave specific instructions to help all in the congregation to follow Jesus' direction at the right time and in an orderly manner. (Read Hebrews 13:17.) The Greek word used at Hebrews 13:17 for "be obedient" implies that someone is persuaded to obey because he trusts the person who is giving the direction. That involves more than simply obeying him because he is authorized to give direction. So the Hebrew Christians needed to build trust in those taking the lead before the tribulation came. If during times of peace Christians obediently followed the instructions of those taking the lead, it would be much easier for them to do so in times of crisis.  

Next time: "HAVE FAITH FOR THE PRESRVING OF OUR LIVES" - Continue

From the jw.org publications

"PRESS ON TO MATUR ITY" -Conclusion

 Like the Hebrew Christians, we are confronted by information and reasonings that go against Jehovah's righteous standards. Opposers often attack our Bible-based beliefs on morality, claiming that we are intolerant or cruel. The attitudes and opinions of the world are becoming ever more distant from God's view matters. (Proverbs 17:15) We, therefore, must strengthen our ability to identify and reject ideas that opposers use in an attempt to discourage us or even to lead us astray. -HEBREWS 13:9. 

We do well to take to heart the counsel Paul gave the Hebrew Christians to press on to maturity. That includes acquiring a deep knowledge of the truth and adopting Jehovah's way of thinking. This process continues even after dedication and baptism. No matter how long we have been in the truth, all of us must regularly read and study God's Word. (Psalm 1:2) A good routine of personal study will help us to strengthen a quality that Paul emphasized in his letter to the Hebrews: faith. - HEBREWS 11:1, 6. 

Next time: "HAVE FAITH FOR THE PRESERVING OF OUR LIVES"

From the jw.org publications 

"PRESS ON TO MATURITY"

 Christians of a Jewish background faced a big challenge. At one time, the Jews had been Jehovah's chosen people Jerusalem was the earthly seat of God's Kingdom, and the temple was the center of pure worship. All faithful Jews followed the Mosaic Law as explained by their religious leaders. Those teachings governed their diet, their view of circumcision, and even their association with Gentiles.  However, Jehovah no longer accepted the Jewish sacrifices after Jesus' death. That presented a challenge for Jewish Christians who were used to following the Law. (Hebrews 10:1, 4, 10) Even mature Christians, such as the apostle Peter, struggled to adapt to some of these changes. (Acts 10:9-14: Galatians 2:11-14) Because of their new beliefs, those Christians became a target of the Jewish religious leaders.

The Hebrew Christians were challenged by opposers on two fronts. For one thing, there were the Jewish religious leaders who were treating them like apostates. In addition, some professed Christians were insisting that followers of Christ continue practicing various aspects of the Mosaic Law, perhaps to avoid persecution. (Galatians 6:12) What would help faithful Christians to stick to the truth?

In his letter to the Hebrews, Paul encouraged his fellow believers to dig deeper into God's Word. (Read Hebrews 65:14-6:1.) Using the Hebrew Scriptures, Paul reasoned with his brothers on superiority of the Christian way of worship over Judaism. Paul knew that increased knowledge and a deeper understanding of the truth would equip those Christians to identify and reject false reasonings so that they would not be led astray.

Next time:  "PRESS ON TO MATURITY" - Conclusion 

From the jw.org publications

A Letter That Can Help Us to Endure

 "We hold firmly to the end the confidence we had at the beginning." - HEBREWS 3:14.

Hebrew Christians living in Jerusalem and Judea went through hard times in the years following Jesus' death. Soon after the Christian congregation was formed, intense persecution arose against it. (Acts 8:1) The some 20 years later, Christ's followers faced serious economic hardships, possibly caused by a famine that had previously afflicted the land. (Acts 11:27-30) However, about 61 C.E., Christians were experiencing a time of relative peace compared with what was to come. During that period, they received an inspired letter from the apostle Paul-a letter that would prove very timely. 

The letter to the Hebrews was timely because the peace that the Christians were experiencing would not last. Paul provided practical counsel that would help those Christians to endure the tribulation that they would soon face. The destruction of the Jewish system of things, which Jesus had foretold, was approaching. (Luke 21:20) Of course, neither Paul nor the Christians in Judea knew exactly when that destruction would occur. Nevertheless, those Christians could use that the time remaining to prepare themselves by building up such qualities as faith and endurance. - HEBREWS 10:25; 12:1, 2. 

We are about to face a tribulation far greater than the one experienced by the Hebrew Christians. (Matthew 24: 21; Revelation 16:14, 16) So let us consider some of the practical counsel that Jehovah provided for those Christians that can benefit us too. 

Next time: "PRESS ON TO MATURITY" 

From the jw.org publications 

MORAL AND SOCIAL BREAKDOWN ON AN UNPREDENTED SCALE

 ________________________________________

"In the last days critical times hard to deal with will be here. For men will lovers of themselves, lovers of money, . . . disloyal, having no natural affection, not open to any agreement, slanderers, without love of goodness, betrayers, headstrong puffed up with pride. - 2 TIMOTHY 3:1-4. 

GOOD NEWS OF GOD'S KINGDOM PRECHED WORLDWIDE

"This good news of the Kingdom will be preached in all the inhabited earth for a witness to all the nations, and then the end will come." - MATTHEW 24:14. 

CRITICS DENY THAT THE END IS NEAR

"In the last days ridiculers will come with their ridicule, . . .says: 'Where is this promised presence of his? Why, from the day our forefathers fell asleep in death all things are continuing exactly as they were from creation's beginning."'- 2 PETER 3:3, 4. 

Next time: A Letter That Can Help Us Endure Faithfully to the End

From the jw.org publications 

DRAMATIC WORLD EVENTS SIGNALING THAT THE END IS NEAR

 ______________________________________________________________________________

GLOBAL WAR AND ESCALATING CHAOS

"You are going to hear of wars and reports of wars. See that you are not alarmed, for these things must take place, but the end is not yet. For nation will against nation and kingdom against kingdom . . . All these things are the beginning of pangs of distress." - MATTHEW 24:6-8.

DISEASE AND HUNGER WORLDWIDE

"In one place after another food shortages and pestilences." - LUKE 21:11.

WIDESPREAD LAWLESSNESS AND RELIGIOUS CONFUSION

"Many false prophets will arise and mislead many; and because of the increasing of lawlessness, the love of the great number will grow cold." - MATTHEW 24:11, 12. 

Next time: MORAL AND SOCIAL BREAKDOWN ON AN UNPRECENDENTED SCALE 

From the jw.org publications

FL;EE TO SAFETY!

 Recall that the residents of Simeulue's coastal villages fled to higher ground for safety the moment they saw the tide receding; they did not wait until it returned. Their decisive action meant their survival. To survive the coming tribulation, you too need to flee to higher ground, so to so speak, before it is too late. How? The prophet Isaiah was inspired to write about a stirring invitation that is being extended during "the time in which we now live. It says: "Come, let us go up to the mountain of Jehovah . . . He will instruct us about his ways, and we will walk in his paths." - Isaiah 2:2, 3. 

Going to the top of the mountain affords you and elevated view and a place of safety. In a similar way, getting to know God's ways through the pages of the Bible is helping millions of people worldwide today to make beneficial changes in their lives.  (2 Timothy 3:16, 17) By so doing, they begin to "walk in [God's] paths" and enjoy his favor and protective care. 

Will you respond to that invitation and avail yourself of God's loving protection in these critical days? We urge you to examine carefully the Scriptural evidence of the "last days" presented in the box accompanying this article. Jehovah's Witnesses in your area would be happy to provide any assistance you may need to get a clear understanding of the scriptures provided as well as to how to apply them. Or you may find answers to your questions by visiting our website, www.jw.org. Look under Bible Teachings >Bible Questions Answered.

Next time: DRAMATIC WORLD EVENTS SIGNALLING THAT THE END IS NEAR

From the jw.org publications

AN EXPRESSION OF GOD'S LOVE

 "Early warning systems . . . do save lives," said one former U.S. president. Following the 2004 tsunami, a warning system was installed in the effected region in an effort to prevent similar loss of life from occurring in the future. Similarly, God has made provision for advance warning to be given before the end comes. The Bible foretold: "This good news of the Kingdom will be preached in all the inhabited earth for a witness to all the nations, and then the end will come." - MATTHEW 24:14.

Last year alone, Jehovah's Witnesses spent well over 1.9 billion hours preaching the good news in 240 lands and in more than 700 languages. This modern-day development offers strong proof that the end is near. Moved by love for their neighbor, Jehovah's Witnesses spare no effort as they warn others of God's Day of judgment that is fast approaching. (Matthew 22:39) The fact that you can benefit from this information is evidence of Jehovah's love for you. Remember "[God] does not desire for anyone to be destroyed but desires all to attain to repentance." (2 Peter 3:9) Will you respond to God's love and heed the warning?

Next time: FLEE TO SAFETY!

From the jw.org publications

BE ALERT TO THE CHANGING TIDE

 We cannot determine the specific date of the end of all wickedness and suffering for Jesus said: "Concerning that day and hour nobody knows, neither the angels of the heavens nor the Son, but only the Father." Nonetheless, Jesus encouraged us to keep on the watch." (Matthew 24:36; 25:13) For what? The Bible gives us a description of world conditions that would exist before God brings the end. Just as the sudden shifting of the tide alerted the residents of Simeulue to an approaching tsunami, the dramatic shifting of the tide of world events would signal to us that the end is near. The accompanying box highlight some of the dramatic changes the Bible speaks of.

Granted, taken individually, some of the events or conditions listed in the box have occurred in the past to some extent. But Jesus said "that upon all seeing "all these things," we would know that the end is at hand. (Matthew 24:33) Ask yourself, 'When in history have all the things described (1) taken place on a global scale, (2) occurred at the same time, and (3) progressed to an unprecedented extent?' Clearly, we are living in such a time. 

NOTE: Remember in Noah's day, no one thought or believed Noah that it would happen. But it did and all but Noah and his family, who God deemed righteous were killed. Jehovah's time is not our time, it is slower. So think hard about this and save yourself by getting God in your life now! You won't regret it. I am so blessed and happy, that God is in my life. 

Next time: AN EXPRESSION OF GOD'S LOVE

From the jw.org publications

Heeding Advance Warning Can Save Your Life - Conclusion

 The Bible speaks of an approaching disaster, a "great tribulation such as not occurred since the world's beginning until now, no, nor will occur again." (Matthew 24:21) But this is not the end of planet earth by irresponsible human activities or some catastrophic natural event-for it is God's purpose that the earth remain forever. (Ecclesiastes 1:4) Rather, the coming tribulation is an act of God to "bring to ruin those ruining the earth."  It will be the end of all wickedness and suffering.  (REVELATION 11:18; PROVERBS 2:22) What a blessing that will be!

Furthermore, like tsunamis, earthquakes, or volcanic eruptions, the coming destruction will not result in the death of innocent people. "God is love," says the Bible, and God, whose name is Jehovah, promises that "the righteous will possess the earth, and they will live forever on it." (John 4:8; Psalm 37:29) How, though, can you survive the great tribulation and enjoy the promised blessings? The key is: Heed the advance warning!

Next time: BE ALERT TO THE CHANGING TIDE

From the jw.org publications

Heeding Advance Warning Can Save Your Life

 ON December 26, 2004, a9.1 magnitude earthquake jolted Simeulue, an island off the northwest coat of Sumatra, Indonesia. All eyes on the shore out to sea. The tide was receding beyond normal. Instantly, everyone started running for the hills, shouting "Smong! Smong!" the local word for Tsunami. Within 30 minutes, powerful waves came crashing down onto the coast, destroying most of the home and villages. 

Simeulue Island was the first location to be hit by that devastating tsunami. Yet, of the 78,000 residents, only 7 died. Why comparatively so few?  A saying among the islanders is: 'If a strong tremor occurs and the sea withdraws, run to the hills, for the sea will soon rush ashore. From past experience, the people of Simeulue had learned to recognize an approaching tsunami by the change of the sea. Heeding the advance warning saved their lives. 

Next time: Heeding Advance Warning Can Save Your Life - Conclusion 

From the jw.org publications 

IMITATING JEHOVAH'S COMPASSION AND MERCY

 What have we learned in this five-part series? Jehovah does not want anyone to be destroyed! (Read Ezekiel 18:32.) He wants sinners to be reconciled to him. (2 Corinthians 5:20) That is why throughout history, Jehovah has repeatedly urged his wayward people -as well as wayward individuals -to repent and return to him. Congregation elders privileged to be fellow workers with Jehovah as they strive wrongdoers to repentance. - ROMANS 2:4; 1 CORINTHIANS 3:9.

Imagine the joy in heaven when sinners repent! Our heavenly Father, Jehovah, personally experiences that joy every time one of his lost sheep returns to the congregation. Our love for Jehovah continues to deepen as we meditate on is compassion, mercy, and undeserved kindness. - LUKE 1:78. 

Next time: Heeding Advance Warning Can Save Your Life!

From the jw.org publications

WHAT THE CONGREGATION CAN DO

 As discussed in the preceding article, sometimes an announcement is made that a person has been reproved. In such a case, we continue associate with him, knowing that he repented and abandoned his wrong course. (1 Timothy 5:20) He is still part of the congregation and needs the encouragement that comes from associating with fellow believers. (Hebrews 10:24, 25) However, the situation is quite different with a person who has been removed from the congregation. We "stop keeping company " with that person, not even eating with such a man." - 1 CORINTHIANS 5:11.

Does what we have considered mean that we would completely ignore a person who has been removed from the congregation? Not necessarily. Certainly we would not socialize with him. But Christians can use their Bible-trained conscience in deciding whether to invite a person who was removed from the congregation -perhaps a relative or someone they were close to previously-to attend a congregation meeting. Here again, each Christian needs to use his Bible-trained conscience in this matter. Some may feel comfortable with greeting or welcoming the person at the meeting. However, we would not have an extended conversation or socialize with the individual.

Some may wonder, 'Doesn't the Bible say that a Christian who says a greeting to such a person becomes a sharer in his wicked works?' (Read 2 John 9-11.) The context of this scripture shows that this direction refers to apostates and other who actively promote wrong conduct. (Revelation 2:20) Therefore, if a person is actively promoting apostate teachings or other wrongdoing, the elder would not arrange to visit him.  Of course, there is hope that he will come to his senses. Until that happens, though, we would neither greet such a person nor invite him to attend a congregation meeting. 

Next time: IMITATING JEHOVAH'S COMPASSION AND MERCY

From the jw.org publications

HOW THE ELDERS ASSIST THOSE WHO ARE REMOVED - Conclusion

What about individuals who in the past were removed from the congregation, perhaps many years ago? Such individuals may no longer be practicing the sin for which they were removed. Whatever the case, the elders try to locate and visit these individuals. During such visits, the elder will often pray with them and make a warm appeal for them to return to the congregation. Of course, if a person has been away from the congregation for many years, he would no doubt be very weak spiritually. Therefore, if he indicates that he wants to return to the congregation, the elders might arrange for someone to conduct a Bible study with him, even though he has not yet been reinstated.  In all cases, the elders would be the ones to arrange for a Bible study.

In imitation of Jehovah's compassion, the elders reach out and help as many as possible to know that the door is open to them to come back.  When a sinner manifests repentance ad abandons his wrong course, he can be reinstated without delay. - 2 CORINTHIANS 2:6-8.

In certain circumstances the elders need to be especially careful before reinstating someone. For example, if a person was guilty of child abuse or apostasy or if he schemed to end a marriage, the elders would want to make sure that is truly repentant. (Malichi 2:14; 2 Timothy 3:6) They must protect the flock. At the same time, we need to realize that Jehovah will accept back any wrongdoer who shows genuine repentance and stops engaging in wrong conduct. so although the elders exercise due caution with those who have dealt treacherously with others, they should not go so far as to say that certain types of sinners can receive Jehovah's mercy. - 1 PETER 2:10,

Next time:  WHAT THE CONGREGATION CAN DO

From the jw.org publications

 

HOW THE ELDERS ASSIST THOSE WHO ARE REMOVED- Continue

 Recall Jesus' parable of the lost son, as discussed in the second article of this series. When catching sight of his son returning home, the father "ran and embraced him and tenderly kissed him." (Luke 15:20) Notice that the father did not wait for his son to beg for forgiveness. Rather, he took the initiative like any loving father would. The elders strive to show a similar attitude toward those who have strayed. They want these lost sheep to "come back home." (Luke 15:22-24, 32) There is joy in heaven when a sinner returns, and there is joy on earth as well! - Read LUKE 15:7. 

From what we have considered so far, it is clear that Jehovah does not condone unrepentant wrongdoing. However, he does not turn his back on wrongdoers. He wants them to return. Jehovah's feeling toward unrepentant wrongdoers are expressed at (Hosea 14:4: "I will heal their unfaithfulness. I will love them of my own free will, because my anger has turned away."  What a strong incentive for elders to respond to any signs of repentance. And what a strong incentive for those who have left Jehovah to return without delay.

Next time: HOW THE ELDER ASSIST THOSE WHO ARE REMOVED - Conclusion

From the jw.org publications

HOW THE ELDERS ASSIST THOSE WHO ARE REMOVED

 Is the individual who has been removed from the congregation abandoned-left completely on his own to find his way back to Jehovah? By no means! When informing of an unrepentant wrongdoer that he will be removed from the congregation, the committee of elders will explain to him what steps he can take to return to the congregation. But the elders will do even more. In most case, they will tell the wrongdoer that they would like to meet with him again after a few months have passed to see if he has had a change of heart. If the wrongdoer is willing to meet with them again, the elders will at that subsequent meeting make a warm appeal for him to repent and return. Even if he has not had a change of heart at that time, the elders will make periodic efforts to contact him in the future.

The elders strive to reflect Jehovah's compassion as they deal with someone who has been removed from the congregation. For example, Jehovah did not wayward people in ancient Israel to take the first step. Rather, he took the initiative to reach out to them even before they showed any signs of repentance. As noted in the second article in this series, Jehovah illustrated his compassion by telling the prophet Hosea to offer reconciliation to his wife, who still sinning. (Hosea 3:1; Malichi 31:7) In imitation of Jehovah, Christian elders genuinely want the wrongdoer to return, and they do not make it difficult for him to do so. -Read JEREMIAH 3:12.

Next time: HOW THE ELDERS ASSIST THOSE WHO ARE REMOVED

From the jw.org publications

"REMOVE THE WICKED PERSON"

 When a wrongdoer is unrepentant, the elders have no choice but to follow the direction found at 1Corinthians 5:13: "Remove the wicked person from among yourselves." In a sense, the wrongdoer had chosen that consequence; he is reaping what he has sown. (Galatians 6:7) Why can we say that? Because he has refused to respond to repeated attempts by the elders to lead him to repentance. (2 Kings 17:12-15) His actions show that he has chosen not to abide by Jehovah's standards. - DEUTERONOMY 30:19, 20.

When an unrepentant wrongdoer is removed from the congregation, an announcement is made to inform the congregation that he is no longer one of Jehovah's Witnesses. The purpose of that announcement is not to humiliate the wrongdoer. Rather, it is made so that the congregation can follow the Scriptural admonition to "stop keeping company with that person, "not even eating with" him. 1 Corinthians 5:9-11) That direction is given for good reason. The apostle Paul wrote: "A little leaven ferments the whole batch of dough." (1 Corinthians 5:6) Unrepentant wrongdoers can weaken the determination of those who are trying to live by Jehovah's righteous standards. - PROVERBS 13:20; 1 CORINTHIANS 15:33.

How, then, should we view a fellow believer who is removed from the congregation? Although we do not socialize with him, we should view him as lost sheep, not a lost cause. A sheep that has strayed from the fold may well return. Remember, that lost sheep dedicated himself to Jehovah. Sadly, he is not living up to that dedication at present. and that puts him in dangerous position. (Ezekiel 18:31) Nevertheless, as long as Jehovah's mercy is available, there is hope that the person will return.  How do the elders reflect that hope even toward a wrongdoer who has been removed from the congregation? 

Next time: HOW THE ELDERS ASSIST THOSE WHO ARE REMOVED 

From the jw.org publications 

Help for Those Who Are Removed From the Congregation

 "There will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than 99 righteous ones who have no need of repentance." - LUKE 15:7. 

JEHOVAH is not a permissive God; he does not condone sin. (Psalm 5:4-6) He requires that we respect his righteous standards, which he has set forth for us in his Word. Of course, Jehovah does not expect perfection from imperfect people. (Psalm 130:3, 4) At the same time, he does not tolerate 'ungodly me who turn his undeserved kindness into an excuse for brazen conduct.' (Jude 4) Indeed the Bible speaks of the "destruction of the ungodly" at God's war of Armageddon. - 2 PETER 3:7; REVELATION 16:16. 

However, Jehovah does not want anyone to suffer destruction. As we discussed earlier in this series of articles, the Bible clearly states that he "desires all to attain to repentance." (2 Peter 3:9) Christian elders imitate Jehovah as they patiently try to help wrongdoers to change their ways and be restored in Jehovah's favor. However, not all wrongdoers respond favorably.  (Isaiah 6:9) Some continue in a wrong course despite the elders' repeated efforts to lead them to repentance. What is to be in a done in such a situation?

Next time: "REMOVE THE WICKED PERSON"

From the jw.org publications

JEHOVHA IS VERY TENDER IN AFFECTION AND Merciful"

 Elders who serve on committees have a responsibility before Jehovah to keep the congregation clean. (1 Corinthians 5:7) They also want wrongdoers to be moved to repentance if possible. To that end, elders maintain a positive, hopeful, outlook. Why? Because they want to imitate Jehovah, who is  "very tender in affection and merciful." (James 5:11) Note how the aged apostle John showed such a spirit. He wrote: "My little children, I am writing you these things so that you may not commit a sin. And yet, if anyone does commit a sin, we have a helper with the Father, Jesus Christ, a righteous one. -1 JOHN 2:1. 

Sadly, there are times when a Christian refuses to repent. If so, he must be removed from the congregation. How do the elders handle such case?  We will consider that matter in the final article of this series.

Next time: Help for Those Who Are Removed From the Congregation

From the jw.org publications

"REPROVE BEFORE ALL ONLOOKERS"

 Read 1 Timothy 5:20. Paul wrote those words to his fellow elder Timothy in connection with how to handle "those who practice sin." What did he mean? He did not necessarily mean that the whole congregation were the "onlookers." Rather, he as referring to those few who might already know of the sins. They could be eyewitnesses. or they could be those whom the wrongdoer confided in. The elders would discreetly make them aware that the matter was handled and that the sinner was corrected.

In some instances, the wrongdoer may have become widely known in the congregation or is likely to become known. In such a case, the "onlookers" would include the entire congregation. So an elder would announce to the congregation that the brother or the sister had been reproved. Why? Paul answers: "As a warning to the rest" not to fall into sin.

What about baptized minors-those under 18 years of age-who engage in serious wrongdoing? The body of elders will arrange for two elders to meet with the minor and his Christian parents.  The will elder will find out what steps the parents have already taken to help their child come to repentance. If the minor has a good attitude and the parents are reaching him, the two elders might decide that it is not necessary to take the matter any further. After all, it is the parents' God-given responsibility to provide loving correction to their children. (Deuteronomy 6:6, 7; Proverbs 6:20; 22:6; Ephesians 6:2-4) The elders will thereafter occasionally check with the parents to make sure that the minor is getting the help he needs. However, what if a baptized minor unrepentantly persists in a wrong course? In that case, a committee of elders will meet with him along with his Christian parents.

Next time: "JEHOVAH IS VERY TENDER IN AFFECTION AND MERCIFUL" 

From the jw.org publications

 

HOW THE ELDERS ASSIST THOSE WHO GET INVOLVED WITH SERIOUS SIN - Conclusion

 If the sinner repents, that is cause for great joy! (Luke 15:7, 10) Who deserves the credit? Do the elders? Recall what Paul wrote about sinners: "Perhaps God may give them repentance." (1 Timothy 2:25) A study note on that verse comments:  "The credit for such a change in thinking and attitude goes, not to any human, but to Jehovah, who helps the wayward Christian make this vital change. Paul goes on to mention some of the beautiful results of such repentance-it leads the sinner to a more accurate knowledge of the truth. It helps him come back to his proper sense, and it enables him to escape from Satan's snares. - 2 TIMOTHY 2:26. 

When a wrongdoer repents, the committee will arrange for shepherding visits so that the person can continue to receive the help he needs to fight against Satan's snares and to make straight paths for his feet. (Hebrews 12:12, 13) Of course, the elders do not reveal to anyone the details of the sinner's course. About what, though, might the congregation need to be informed?

Next time: "REPROVE BEFORE ALL ONLOOKERS"

From the jw.org publications 

HOW THE ELDERS ASSIST THOSE WHO GET INVOLVED IN SERIOUS SIN - Continue

 The elders strive to imitate Jesus. When dealing with Saul of Tarsus, the resurrected Jesus asked a probing question: "Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting me?" Jesus thereby helped him to reason on his wrong course. (Acts 9:3-6) And in the case of "that woman Jezebel," Jesus said: "I gave her time to repent." - REVELATION 2:20, 21. 

In imitation of Jesus, the elders are not hasty to conclude that a wrongdoer will repent. While some may repent during the committee's first meeting with them, others may need more time. So the elders may arrange to meet with the sinner more than once. Perhaps after that first meeting, the erring Christian will begin to think seriously about what he has been told. He may approach Jehovah in a humble prayer. (Psalm 32:5; 38:18) Thus, at a subsequent meeting, the sinner may have a different spirit from the one he showed at the first meeting. 

To help the sinner to repentance, the elders show empathy and kindness. They hope and pray that Jehovah will bless their efforts and that the wayward Christian may come to his senses and repent. - 2 TIMOTHY 2:25, 26. 

Next time: HOW THE ELDERS ASSIST THOSE WHO GET INVOLVED WITH SERIOUS SIN - Conclusion

From the jw.org publications

HOW THE ELDERS ASSIST THOSE WHO GET INVOLVED IN SERIOUS SIN - Continue

 Elders follow Jehovah's example when trying to help those who have got involved with serious sin. As 2 Timothy 4:2 directs, they reason "with all patience" when dealing with a troubled fellow believer. A study note on that verse says of such an elder: "He would always need to show restraint, patiently appealing to [the sinner's] desire to do what [is] right. If the [elder] were to give in to annoyance or frustration, he might alienate or even stumble [the sinner]." 

The elders try to determine the circumstances that led up to sin. For example, did the Christian slowly become weak because he neglected personal study or the ministry? Have his prayers to Jehovah become infrequent or superficial? Has he been allowing the wrong desires to guide him? Has he made unwise choices in his associations or entertainment? How might such choices have affected his heart? Does he recognized how his recent decisions and actions have affected his Fathe, Jehovah? 

By asking meaningful questions without being unnecessarily intrusive, the elders draw out the wrongdoer and help him to reason on his course. (Proverbs 20:5) In addition, they might use illustrations to help the person to reason and see the wrongness of his actions, as Nathan did with David. Perhaps during the first meeting, the person will begin to feel sorrow over the course he has followed He may even repent.

Next time: HOW THE ELDERS ASSIST THOSE WHO GET INVOLVED WITH SERIOUS SIN - Continue 

From the jw.org publications

HOW THE ELDERS ASSIST THOSE WHO GET INVOLVED IN SERIOUS SIN -

The elders prepare their own heart. They try to imitate Jehovah in all their dealings with a sinner, remembering Paul's words: "God in is kindness is trying to lead you to repentance." (Read Romans 2:4.) The elders must remember that they are primarily shepherds under the direction of Christ.  (Isaiah 11:3, 4; Matthew 18:18-20) Before meeting with the wrongdoer, the committee will prayerfully consider their goal: to lead the wrongdoer to repentance. They will do research in the Scriptures and in our publications and will pray for discernment. They will consider what they need to know about the individual's background that may have contributed to his thinking, attitude, and conduct. - PROVERBS 20:5.

The elders imitate Jehovah's patience. They keep in mind how Jehovah dealt with wrongdoers in the past. For example, Jehovah reasoned patiently with Cain, warning him about the consequences of sin and offering him hope of restoration.  (Genesis 4:6, 7) Jehovah admonished David by means of the prophet Nathan, who used an illustration that touched the heart of the king. (2 Samuel 12:1-7) And Jehovah "kept sending "his prophets "again and again" to the wayward nation of Israel.  (Jeremiah 7:24, 25) He did not wait for his people to repent before helping them. Rather, he took the initiative by urging them to repent.

Next time: HOW THE ELDERS ASSIST THOSE WHO GET INVOLVED IN SERIOUS SIN -Continue

From the jw.org publications

HOW THE ELDERS ASSIST THOSE WHO GET INVOLVED IN SERIOUS SIN

 When someone in the congregation commits a serious sin, the body of elders selects three qualified brothers from among them who will serve as a committee. These men need to be modest and humble. While they try to help the erring one to repent, they recognize that they cannot force someone to change. (Deuteronomy 30:19) The elders acknowledge that not all wrongdoers will respond in a positive way, as did King David. (2 Samuel 12:13) Some wrongdoers may choose to ignore Jehovah's admonition. (Genesis 4:6-8) Nevertheless, the elder' goal is to lead the wrongdoer to repentance if at all possible. What principles guide them as they meet with the wrongdoer? 

The elders view the wrongdoer as a precious lost sheep. (Luke 15:4, 6) Therefore, when they meet the individual, they are not harsh in their speech, attitude, and approach; not do they view the meeting and a mere routine in which they follow a procedure. Instead, they will display the qualities found at 2 Timothy 2:24-26. (Read.) The elders remain mild, gentle, and kind as they strive to reach the wrongdoer's heart.

Next time: HOW THE ELDERS ASSIST THOSE WHO GET INVOLVED IN SERIOUS SIN - Continue

From the jw.org publications 

Responding to Sin With Love and Mercy

 "God in his kindness is trying to lead you to repentance." - ROMANS 2:4. 

IN THE preceding article, we saw how the apostle Paul handed a case of serious wrongdoing in Corinth. The sinner was unrepentant and had to be removed from the congregation. However, as our them text shows, some who have committed a serious sin can be reached.  They can be led to repentance. (Romans 2:4) How can the elders help them to repent? 

Before the elders can help, they need to be aware of the matter, so, what should we do if we come to know that a fellow believer has committed a serious sin-something that could result in his being removed from the congregation? We should encourage the wrongdoer to go to the elders for help. - ISAIAH 1:18; ACTS 20:28; 1 PETER 5:2. 

What, though, if the wrongdoer refuses to speak to the elders? Then we would go to the elders ourselves to make sure that the person will get the necessary help. That is the loving thing to do because we do not want to lose our brother or sister. If the wrongdoer continues in his course, he will further impair his relationship with Jehovah. He may also damage the reputation of the congregation. So we courageously take action out of love for Jehovah and the wrongdoer.  - PSALM 27:14. 

Next time: HOW THE ELDERS ASSIST THOSE WHO GET INVOLVED IN SERIOUS SIN

From the jw.org publications