Lesson 45

Jesus taught that his followers should be “no part of the world.” (John 15:19)

This includes being neutral—not taking sides in the world’s politics and wars. Realistically, it is not always easy to be neutral. We may be ridiculed because of this. How can we stay neutral and remain loyal to Jehovah God?

Christians respect the government. We do as Jesus said and “pay back Caesar’s things to Caesar” —that is, we obey the laws of the land, such as those that require us to pay taxes. (Mark 12:17)

The Bible teaches that human governments rule only because Jehovah allows them to rule. (Romans 13:1)

So we recognize that human governments have only relative, or limited, authority. We look to our God and his heavenly Kingdom to solve mankind’s problems.

Like Jesus, we do not get involved in politics. When the people saw one of Jesus’ miracles and tried to make him their king on earth, he did not let them. (John 6:15)

Why not? Because, as he later said, “my Kingdom is no part of this world.” (John 18:36)

As Jesus’ disciples, we show our neutrality in a number of ways. For example, we do not go to war.

Read Micah 4.3: He will render judgment among many peoples And set matters straight respecting mighty nations far away. They will beat their swords into plowshares And their spears into pruning shears. Nation will not lift up sword against nation, Nor will they learn war anymore.

We respect national symbols—such as flags—but we do not worship them. (1 John 5:21)

And we do not take sides for or against any political party or candidate. In these ways and others, we show that we are completely loyal to God’s government—his Kingdom.

Examine situations that may test our neutrality, and see how you can make decisions that will please Jehovah.

Jesus and his followers set the example for us.

Read Romans 13.1: Let every person be in subjection to the superior authorities, for there is no authority except by God; the existing authorities stand placed in their relative positions by God.

Read Romans 13.5-7: There is therefore compelling reason for you to be in subjection, not only on account of that wrath but also on account of your conscience. That is why you are also paying taxes; for they are God’s public servants constantly serving this very purpose. Render to all their dues: to the one who calls for the tax, the tax; to the one who calls for the tribute, the tribute; to the one who calls for fear, such fear; to the one who calls for honor, such honor.

Read 1 Peter 2.13, 14: For the Lord’s sake subject yourselves to every human creation, whether to a king as being superior or to governors as sent by him to punish wrongdoers but to praise those who do good.

Then, play the VIDEO and discuss the questions that follow.

Why should we respect secular authorities?

What are some ways we show that we are in subjection to them?

In times of war, some nations may claim to be neutral, but they assist both sides in the conflict. What is real neutrality?

Read John 17.16: They are no part of the world, just as I am no part of the world.

Then, play the VIDEO and discuss the question that follows.

What does it mean to be neutral?

What if secular authorities demand something that conflicts with God’s law?

Read Acts 5.28, 29: and said: “We strictly ordered you not to keep teaching on the basis of this name, and yet look! you have filled Jerusalem with your teaching, and you are determined to bring the blood of this man upon us.” In answer Peter and the other apostles said: “We must obey God as ruler rather than men.

Then, play the VIDEO and discuss the questions that follow.

If there is a conflict between human law and God’s law, whose law should we obey?

Can you think of any circumstances in which Christians would not obey secular authorities?

Read 1 John 5.21: Little children, guard yourselves from idols.

Then, play the VIDEO and discuss the questions that follow.

In the video, why did Ayenge decide not to join the political party or participate in nationalistic ceremonies, such as saluting the flag?

Do you think that he decided wisely?

What other situations can test our neutrality? Play the VIDEO, and then discuss the questions that follow.

How can we remain neutral when it comes to international sporting events?

How can we remain neutral even if we are personally affected by the decisions of politicians?

How could the news media or our associations affect our neutrality?

How would you respond?

Christians work hard to be politically neutral in their thoughts, words, and actions.

What do we owe human governments?

Why do we remain politically neutral?

What situations can test our neutrality?

Lesson completed on:

Think of a situation in which your neutrality could be tested, and decide in advance how you will handle it.

Other: Memorizing Bible scriptures is vital for blind individuals to defend the truth using the Bible, build faith, provide comfort during difficult times, and keep God’s principles firm in heart and mind.

From lesson 45, memorize Mark 12:17: Jesus then said: “Pay back Caesar’s things to Caesar, but God’s things to God.” And they were amazed at him.

1. What sacrifices may we need to make in order to remain neutral?

Jehovah Has Never Let Us Down (3:14) Open explore 1 in new page

2. What can families do to prepare in advance for tests of their neutrality?

Maintain Neutrality at Public Events (4:25) Open explore 2 in new page

3. Why is defending one’s country not the highest honor a person could have?

“All Things Are Possible With God” (5:19) Open explore 3 in new page

4. Consider how to remain no part of the world when making decisions about your employment.

“Each One Will Carry His Own Load” (The Watchtower, March 15, 2006) Open explore 4 in new page