Watchtower Study, Drawing Close to the Brethren Is Good for Us, Week of June 23-29, 2025, Comments and Responses.

Watchtower Study, Drawing Close to the Brethren Is Good for Us, June 23-29, 2025, Comments and Responses.

“How good and pleasant it is when brothers dwell together in unity!” (Ps. 133:1).

1, 2. What is one of the most important things to Jehovah, and what does he want us to do?

One of the most important things to Jehovah is how we treat people, and He wants us to love our neighbors as ourselves, being kind even to those who do not worship Him, imitating their goodness. Furthermore, because of His special affection for those who obey Him, Jehovah encourages us to show intense love and tender affection to our brothers and sisters, similar to that which we feel for a close relative or a good friend.

ADDITIONAL COMMENTS

In a world where relationships are often superficial or self-serving, this kind of brotherly love sets us apart; it makes us an oasis of warmth and mutual support, reflecting the heart of our Heavenly Father.

3. What should we remember about love?

We must remember that love isn't something that emerges just once, but must be constantly cultivated and strengthened, like a plant that needs care. Therefore, Jehovah encourages us to continue showing brotherly love every day.

ADDITIONAL COMMENTS

Brotherly love doesn't arise by chance. Just as Paul urged the Hebrews to continue showing love to one another, we too must take the initiative—whether through words of encouragement, time together, or practical support—to help this love flourish even in difficult circumstances.

WHY WE SHOULD GET CLOSER TO OUR BROTHERS

4. What will help us continue to value the unity spoken of in Psalm 133:1? (See also the images.)

To continue to value unity among brothers, it's good to reflect on how valuable each of them is to Jehovah and to the congregation. This way, we avoid taking them for granted and appreciate more the beautiful friendship we share.

ILLUSTRATION

Series of images: 1. A sister admires a beautiful tree. 2. Later, she embraces another sister at a regional assembly. Other assembly attendees chat animatedly.

Let us never take for granted the beauty of the unity of Jehovah's people. (See paragraph 4.)

5. What effect can the love we Witnesses show each other have on others?

The love we show one another as Jehovah's Witnesses can have a profound impact on those who observe us. When people attend our meetings or events, they may be impressed by the genuine affection and unity among us. This tangible love reflects Jehovah's love and demonstrates that this is truly his organization.

ADDITIONAL COMMENTS

This love isn't just for newcomers; it also strengthens the entire congregation, creating an environment where everyone, even those who have served God for years, feels valued and motivated to continue.

6. How does getting closer to our brothers protect us?

Drawing closer to our brothers and sisters protects us because they can encourage us and help us stand firm when we face trials or discouragement. Jehovah can use a fellow believer to strengthen us at just the right time.

7. What is the relationship between love and unity? (Colossians 3:13, 14)

Love and unity are closely related, because love helps us endure and forgive one another. Thanks to this, we enjoy a beautiful unity and atmosphere in the congregation that cannot be found anywhere else.

LET US HONOR ONE ANOTHER

8. How does Jehovah help us stay united?

Jehovah helps us stay united by teaching us through his Word how to love and treat one another with kindness. When we apply his counsel in the congregation, we achieve a unity made possible by his guidance and blessing.

9. What does Romans 12:9-13 teach us about honoring one another?

Romans 12:9-13 teaches us to take the initiative to honor one another, showing tender affection through actions such as forgiveness, hospitality, and generosity. This means actively seeking opportunities to strengthen ties with our brothers and sisters, without waiting for others to take the first step, which brings us greater happiness, as Jesus said.

ADDITIONAL COMMENTS

Honoring others means valuing them as people beloved by Jehovah and treating them with tender affection, considering their feelings and showing genuine concern for their well-being. When we take the initiative to do this, we not only strengthen our unity but also experience the happiness Jesus promised when he said: 'There is more happiness in giving than in receiving.'

10. How can we be hard workers in honoring one another? (See also the image.)

We can be hard workers in honoring one another if we are attentive to the needs of our brothers and sisters and act promptly to help them. We should not postpone doing good, but rather strive enthusiastically to show love in concrete actions.

ADDITIONAL COMMENTS

Proverbs 3:27, 28 advises: “Do not withhold good from those to whom you ought to do it, if it is within your power to help them.” Therefore, if we notice that a brother or sister needs support, we should act immediately and do everything in our power to provide it. We should not put it off or assume that someone else will take care of it.

ILLUSTRATION

A younger brother is standing on a ladder, cleaning leaves from the roof of an older brother's house.

We must take the initiative to help our brothers and sisters in need. (See paragraph 10.)

11. What can help us get closer to our brothers?

Forgiving our brothers and sisters promptly when they offend us helps us draw closer to them, as Ephesians 4:26, 27 advises, so as to give the Devil no opportunity. Colossians 3:13 encourages us to forgive generously, overlooking mistakes and offenses, which strengthens unity and peace in the congregation.

12. How does Jehovah help us forgive others?

Jehovah helps us forgive others through his holy spirit, which fills us with fervor and enthusiasm to do what is right, as Romans 12:11 indicates. With the influence of his spirit, we can show tender affection and forgive generously, even when it is difficult. Therefore, we pray to Jehovah for his help, trusting that he will give us his spirit.

“LET THERE BE NO DIVISIONS AMONG YOU”

13. What could divide us?

Differences of opinion on personal matters, such as grooming, health, or entertainment, can divide us if we're not careful. But Christian love helps us respect each other's decisions without feeling superior, thus preserving unity.

14. What should we always strive to do, and why?

We should always strive to encourage and comfort others, because this helps maintain unity in the congregation and reflects Jehovah's love. By showing genuine support and affection, we can be instruments of relief to those who are burdened or facing difficulties.

ADDITIONAL COMMENTS

When we strive to be a source of encouragement, Jesus can use us as instruments to bring relief and comfort to those who are burdened. In this way, we strengthen the bonds of love and unity in the congregation.

15. How else can we promote unity? (See also the image.)

We can promote unity by thinking carefully before we speak, ensuring our words are uplifting, kind, and comforting. Just as a good cook tastes his food before serving it, we must be careful what we say so as not to offend anyone and strengthen peace in the congregation.

ADDITIONAL COMMENTS

The Bible urges us to control our tongues and use our words to promote peace and harmony. By doing this, we avoid unnecessary misunderstandings and conflicts, creating an atmosphere of respect and love within the congregation.

ILLUSTRATION

A brother tastes what he has cooked before serving it to his guests.

Before you speak, think carefully about what you are going to say. (See paragraph 15.)

16. Who in particular should make an effort to speak in an encouraging manner?

Married men, fathers, mothers, and elders in particular should strive to speak in an encouraging manner. Elders are key to strengthening and supporting their brothers and sisters, using appropriate words that edify and comfort.

LET US LOVE “WITH DEEDS AND TRUTH”

17. What can we do to ensure that our love for our brothers and sisters is sincere?

For our love for our brothers and sisters to be sincere, we must demonstrate it with actions, not just words. Spending time with them is a practical way to strengthen that love. We can look for opportunities to be together in meetings, preaching, and other spiritual activities. It is also important to visit them and show genuine interest in their well-being.

WHAT WOULD YOU ANSWER?

Why is it good for us to get closer to our brothers?

Because by drawing close to our brothers and sisters, we receive encouragement, spiritual protection, and strengthen our unity as Jehovah's family. Furthermore, we reflect His love for us and contribute to an atmosphere of peace and mutual support.

How can we take the initiative to honor one another?

We can take the initiative by looking for opportunities to demonstrate kindness and generosity, forgiving promptly and offering help without waiting for others to do so first. In this way, we reflect Jehovah's love in our actions.

In what ways can we promote unity?

We promote unity with kind and uplifting words, avoiding criticism and respecting personal differences. We also encourage our fellow believers with gestures of affection and support, thus strengthening the bond of peace within the congregation.