Lesson 56

When we are among fellow believers, we feel as King David did: “How good and how pleasant it is for brothers to dwell together in unity!” (Psalm 133:1)

Our unity is not an accident. Each of us plays a role in maintaining it.

If you attend a congregation meeting in another land, you may find that you cannot understand the language, but in many ways you will feel at home. Why? Because we study the Bible using the same publications everywhere. And we strive to show love for one another. No matter where we live, we all “call on the name of Jehovah, to worship him in unity.” — Zephaniah 3:9, footnote.

“Love one another intensely from the heart.” (1 Peter 1:22)

How can you apply this counsel? Rather than focusing on the imperfections of others, look for their good qualities. Instead of associating with only those who share your interests, try to get to know brothers and sisters who come from different backgrounds. We can also work hard to root out any feelings of prejudice we may have.

Read 1 Peter 2.17: Honor men of all sorts, have love for the whole association of brothers, be in fear of God, honor the king. Footnote 1

We are united, but we are also imperfect. Sometimes we disappoint or even hurt one another. So God’s Word tells us to “continue... forgiving one another,” adding: “Just as Jehovah freely forgave you, you must also do the same.”

Read Colossians 3.13: Continue putting up with one another and forgiving one another freely even if anyone has a cause for complaint against another. Just as Jehovah freely forgave you, you must also do the same.

We have hurt Jehovah countless times, and yet he has forgiven us. So he expects us to forgive our brothers. If you realize that you have hurt someone, take the initiative to settle matters.

Read Matthew 5.23, 24: “If, then, you are bringing your gift to the altar and there you remember that your brother has something against you, leave your gift there in front of the altar, and go away. First make your peace with your brother, and then come back and offer your gift. Footnote 2

Look for ways that you can contribute to the unity and peace of the congregation.

We want to love all our brothers. But we may struggle to accept someone who seems different from us. What can help?

Read Acts 10.34, 35: At this Peter began to speak, and he said: “Now I truly understand that God is not partial, but in every nation the man who fears him and does what is right is acceptable to him.

Discuss these questions:

Jehovah accepts as his Witnesses all sorts of people. How should that affect your view of others who come from a background different from yours?

What kinds of prejudice common in your area do you want to avoid?

Read 2 Corinthians 6.11-13: We have opened our mouth to speak to you, Corinthians, and we have opened wide our heart. We are not restricted in our affections for you, but you are restricted in your own tender affections for us. So in response—I speak as to my children—you too open your hearts wide.

Discuss this question:

How do you think you could draw closer to brothers and sisters of a different background?

Jehovah forgives us freely even though he will never need us to forgive him.

Read Psalm 86.5: For you, O Jehovah, are good and ready to forgive; You abound in loyal love for all those who call on you.

Discuss these questions:

How great is Jehovah’s forgiveness?

Why are you grateful for his forgiveness?

What situations could make it difficult for us to get along with others?

How can we imitate Jehovah and remain united with our brothers and sisters?

Read Proverbs 19.11: The insight of a man certainly slows down his anger, And it is beauty on his part to overlook an offense.

Discuss this question:

When someone annoys or offends you, what could you do to make the situation better?

Sometimes we offend others. When that happens, what should we do? Play the VIDEO, and then discuss the question that follows.

In the video, what did the sister do to make peace?

When we get closer to our brothers and sisters, we get to know their strengths and their weaknesses. How can we focus on their strengths? Play the VIDEO, and then discuss the question that follows.

What can help you to see the positive qualities of your brothers and sisters?

Jehovah focuses on our good qualities.

Read 2 Chronicles 16.9a: For the eyes of Jehovah are roving about through all the earth to show his strength in behalf of those whose heart is complete toward him.

Discuss this question:

How does knowing that Jehovah focuses on your good qualities make you feel?

Why should we be eager to forgive others?

You can help to maintain unity in the congregation by being forgiving and showing love for all your brothers and sisters.

How can you overcome prejudice?

What will you do if you have a disagreement with a fellow Christian?

Why do you want to imitate Jehovah’s example of forgiving others?

Lesson completed on:

If you find it difficult to get along with another Christian, get to know him better and identify some of his good qualities.

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 56, memorize Colossians 3:13: Continue putting up with one another and forgiving one another freely even if anyone has a cause for complaint against another. Just as Jehovah freely forgave you, you must also do the same.

1. Learn how one of Jesus’ illustrations can help us to avoid judging others.

Remove the Rafter (6:56) Open explore 1 in new page

2. Do we need to apologize if we feel we have not done anything wrong?

“Apologizing—A Key to Making Peace” (The Watchtower, November 1, 2002) Open explore 2 in new page

3. See how some have learned to treat others impartially.

Do Not Judge by Outward Appearance (5:06) Open explore 3 in new page

4. Consider ways you can deal with personal conflicts before they disturb the peace of the congregation.

“Settle Differences in a Spirit of Love” (The Watchtower, May 2016) Open explore 4 in new page