Watchtower Study, "Article 27," Week of September 8-14, 2025, How to Help a Student Make the Decision to Serve Jehovah, Answers.

Watchtower Study, "Article 27," September 8-14, 2025, How to Help a Student Make the Decision to Serve Jehovah, Answers.

“Be firm in the faith, [...] be strong” (1 COR. 16:13).

1, 2. (a) Why do some Bible students hesitate to become Jehovah’s Witnesses?

Many Bible students hesitate because they have understandable fears. For example, some are afraid of rejection from family or friends, and so they don't become Jehovah's Witnesses. Others think they won't be able to live up to God's standards, that it's too much for them.

That could hinder their progress. But, as we read in Matthew 13:20-22, Jesus was not discouraged by those who doubted. He knew that problems, worries, and even attachment to material things could stifle the message.

So, like Him, we can help students identify what is holding them back, strengthen their love for Jehovah, and, little by little, help them make stronger spiritual decisions.

1, 2. b) What will we see in this article?

This article will be very useful for all of us who teach Bible courses. It will help us better understand why some students hesitate to become Jehovah's Witnesses. As mentioned in the paragraph, they often have fears, whether of losing friends, facing family opposition, or feeling unable to meet the standards.

But the article doesn't stop at the problem. It will also teach us how to imitate Jesus in helping these students. For example, we'll see how to identify what's holding them back, how to strengthen their love for Jehovah, help them reorganize their priorities, and overcome obstacles. All of this with the support of the book Enjoying Life, which is an excellent tool.

HELP YOUR STUDENT IDENTIFY THE OBSTACLES THAT HINDER THEIR PROGRESS

3. What obstacle could have prevented Nicodemus from becoming a disciple of Jesus?

Nicodemus faced an obstacle that many still face today: the fear of what others would say. Although he was a highly respected man among the Jews and had already recognized that Jesus came from God, he decided to go to see him at night, hiding.

Why? Because he was afraid of what the other leaders would think of him. Maybe he was thinking about everything he was going to lose: his position, his prestige, and his connections. And that held him back for a while.

This example helps us understand that there are students who also struggle with these types of fears, and that we need to be understanding and patient with them.

4. How did Jesus help Nicodemus understand what God expected of him?

Something very important is that Jesus didn't let Nicodemus' status get to him, but rather treated him with love and dedication. He dedicated time to him. He even agreed to meet with him at night, when he was probably already tired.

In that conversation, Jesus was neither confusing nor evasive; on the contrary, he clearly explained what Jehovah expected of him. As John 3:5, 14-21 mentions, he had to be born again—that is, repent, be baptized, and have faith in the Son of God.

That example teaches me that to help students, we must be willing to adapt to their circumstances, be clear in our explanations, and show patience and love, as Jesus did.

5. What can we do to help a student see what prevents him from serving Jehovah?

Something that can be very practical is what was mentioned about dedicating time to the student, not only during formal study but also outside of it. Sometimes the student doesn't open up in a structured conversation, but if we invite them for coffee or a walk, they may feel more relaxed and share what's really bothering them.

In this way, we can help him clearly see what's holding him back, such as overwork or pressure from his family. But the important thing is not to make him feel he has to please us, but rather to remind him that the changes he makes should be out of love for Jehovah, as a sign of his sincere desire to serve him.

6. How can you help a student find the strength they need to put what they learn into practice? (1 Corinthians 16:13)

One way we can help students find the strength to put what they learn into practice is by giving them constant encouragement and assuring them that they are not alone. As 1 Corinthians 16:13 says: "Be alert, stand firm in the faith, be courageous and strong." But we don't achieve this alone; we have Jehovah's help.

Therefore, more than just telling them what to do, we must instill confidence in them, just as when, as children, a teacher reassured us and made us feel we could achieve something. This is how we must be like Bible teachers: patient, positive, reminding them that Jehovah will give them the strength to change, even when it seems difficult. This can make all the difference in their spiritual progress.

HELP YOUR STUDENT TO LOVE JEHOVAH MORE

7. How did Jesus help his listeners to love Jehovah more?

Jesus focused on helping his listeners love Jehovah more, not only by telling them what to do, but also by teaching them things that touched their hearts.

For example, in Matthew 7:9-11 he compared Jehovah to a loving father who gives good things to his children. And in Luke 15:20-24 he used the parable of the prodigal son to show that Jehovah is a compassionate father who lovingly welcomes those who repent.

Many of those listening may not have had that image of a loving father, so these illustrations helped draw them to God. We can do the same with students today: help them love Jehovah.

8. How can you help a Bible student love Jehovah more?

One way we can help our students love Jehovah more is by always highlighting his qualities during the study. We don't just teach doctrines, but every teaching should be connected to Jehovah's love for us.

For example, when we talk about the ransom, we can help them see that it is not something general or distant, but a personal gift that Jehovah gave for them, as Romans 5:8 and 1 John 4:10 say.

If a student understands that God loves him deeply, even when he has mistakes or struggles, as Paul expressed in Galatians 2:20, that love will most likely awaken in his heart a sincere affection for Jehovah. And that, in the long run, is what will motivate him to serve Him gladly.

9. What helped Michael make changes in his life?

For Michael, understanding the value of the ransom helped him make changes. Although he had known the truth since childhood, he hadn't chosen Jehovah. But when he reached lesson 27 of the Enjoy Life book and reflected on how much Jehovah felt when he saw his Son suffer, the scene moved him to tears and deeply touched his heart.

That emotion led him to feel deeply grateful and to want to reciprocate God's love. He is an example of how knowledge alone is not enough; we need to reach the hearts of our students. When they understand the love behind the rescue, they can be motivated to make great changes, just as Michael did.

ADDITIONAL COMMENT

Michael was helped to make changes by deeply understanding how much Jehovah suffered at seeing his Son die. This reflection during Lesson 27 moved him so much that he burst into tears, and this gratitude motivated him to be baptized and reorganize his life.

HELP YOUR STUDENT MAKE CHANGES IN THEIR PRIORITIES

10. How did Jesus help his first disciples keep their priorities straight? (Luke 5:5-11; see also the image.)

Jesus helped Peter and the other disciples put preaching first when, in asking them to follow him full-time, he not only told them so, but gave them clear help to trust.

The miracle of the abundant catch showed them that Jehovah would take care of their material needs. This reassured them so much that they left their nets and business, knowing that God would provide. This teaches us that when we help a student, we must also strengthen their faith that Jehovah will take care of them if they put the Kingdom first.

ILLUSTRATION

Two fishermen leave their boat when Jesus invites them to follow him. The other fishermen stay in the boat working with their nets.

What do we learn from the way Jesus helped his disciples change their priorities? (See paragraph 10.)

11. What can we do to strengthen our student's faith?

A good way to strengthen a student's faith is to share our own experiences. If we tell them how Jehovah has helped us in situations similar to theirs, they'll see that putting God first is truly worth it. It's not just about telling them what's right, but showing them, with real-life examples, how Jehovah blesses those who obey him. This greatly strengthens faith.

12. a) Why is it good to invite different publishers to the Bible course?

Inviting other publishers to your Bible study can be very helpful because the student can identify more with someone who has gone through similar circumstances and see how Jehovah helped them overcome them.

For example, if the student is young, perhaps hearing from another young person who also had to leave things behind to please Jehovah will touch their heart more. Or, if they are a single mother, hearing from a sister who went through something similar can be very encouraging.

Furthermore, seeing that others have also made sacrifices for Jehovah and are now happy serving him strengthens their motivation. Seeing different personalities and backgrounds, the student also understands that Jehovah attracts people of all kinds. This helps them feel part of a real and close spiritual family.

12. b) What else can you do with your student to help him or her put Jehovah first? Give an example.

In addition to inviting other members, we can also use the videos provided by the organization, because sometimes an image or a testimony touches the heart more than a thousand words.

For example, we can use the video Jehovah Will Provide for Our Needs. Watching the video and hearing the real-life testimony of someone who put Jehovah first can help you feel encouraged to do the same.

So these resources prove to be powerful tools, because seeing how others have trusted in Jehovah motivates the student to believe that he can do the same, which greatly strengthens his resolve.

HELP YOUR STUDENT OVERCOME DIFFICULTIES

13. How did Jesus prepare his disciples to face opposition?

Jesus was very realistic with his disciples. He didn't hide from them that following him would bring opposition, even from their own family members. But the important thing is that he not only told them this, but also prepared them with practical advice. He taught them to be prudent, to avoid unnecessary confrontations, and to be clear that, even when there were difficulties, Jehovah would be with them.

Sometimes we hope everything will go well, but Jesus already warned us that we would suffer for his sake. And if he prepared his disciples, we can do the same with those who study the Bible. That way, they won't be surprised when opposition comes.

14. How can we help a student cope with opposition? (2 Timothy 3:12)

It would be best to discuss the topic from the beginning, before problems arise. Sometimes, for fear of discouraging the student, we avoid addressing this point. But if we do so with care and realism, it will be a huge help.

We can explain that it's normal for some colleagues or family members to not understand your decision, and may even mock or criticize you. We can also prepare you with examples or help you think of possible responses.

If you know what to expect and how to react, you won't crumble when it happens. On the contrary, you'll see it as a sign that you're on the right path, as 2 Timothy 3:12 says. This strengthens your resolve to keep going.

15. If a student's family turns against them, what can we do to help them?

If the family turns against the student, the first thing is to help them understand that this doesn't mean they're doing anything wrong. Sometimes family members act this way because they're confused or feel they might lose them.

So, we can encourage him to put himself in his family members' shoes and think, "What if I didn't know the truth, how would I react?" This can help him be more patient and understand why they act the way they do.

It's also key to teach him to speak tactfully, as Jesus did, even though his brothers didn't believe in him. And remind him that, over time, good behavior can change his family's minds. The important thing is to not give up or isolate himself, but to continue showing love.

ADDITIONAL COMMENT

If a student's family is opposed, we can help them understand that this opposition often stems from fear or misinformation. Like Jesus, they may be misunderstood. Therefore, it's key to encourage them to be patient and speak tactfully with their loved ones.

16. What can we do to help the student talk about his beliefs tactfully?

One thing that can be very helpful is teaching the student not to feel compelled to explain everything at once. Sometimes, out of enthusiasm, one wants to share everything they're learning, but that can be overwhelming for a family member who isn't used to it.

So we can encourage short, simple conversations without getting into arguments. For example, you can share a positive thought or a practical Bible teaching. You can also mention JW.org, which is a friendly and non-invasive way to spark interest.

And most importantly, always speak with affection, without losing your composure. That way, the family member might be curious and want to continue the conversation another day. That shows true tact.

17. What tools can you use to teach your student how to answer questions about Jehovah's Witnesses? (See also the image.)

It may be helpful to show the student the Frequently Asked Questions about Jehovah's Witnesses section on jw.org. It's a very practical tool because the answers are clear and well explained.

We can also take great advantage of the "What Some People Say" box at the end of each lesson in the Enjoy Life book. This allows students to practice responding in their own words. We can even do short essays, as if we were having a real conversation, and offer some suggestions if needed.

Doing so helps you feel more prepared and confident, especially if you have to speak to a family member or coworker. It gives you the confidence to express your beliefs with respect and firmness.

ILLUSTRATION

As part of a Bible course, a sister is teaching her student how to preach. The student is rehearsing a presentation using the tract "Where Can We Find Answers to Life's Great Questions?"

Having practice sessions with your student will help them talk about their faith with everyone. (See paragraph 17.)

18. How can you encourage your student to set a goal of preaching with the congregation? (Matthew 10:27)

One thing that can work very well is to take advantage of preaching campaigns to talk to the student about the privilege of being a publisher. We explain that these campaigns are a perfect time to start because they're accompanied, have simple material, and the congregation is very lively.

We can also tell him that the sooner he begins to preach, the sooner he will see how Jehovah helps him and gives him courage. And if he feels a little shy, we encourage him to participate in small assignments during the weekday meeting. This gives him practice speaking confidently about his beliefs. We can even rehearse a simple presentation together, and this can give him more confidence to take this important step.

SHOW YOUR STUDENT THAT YOU TRUST HIM

19. How did Jesus show his disciples that he trusted them, and what can we do to imitate him?

Jesus showed his disciples that he trusted them. Although they still didn't fully understand important things, such as the hope of heaven, he didn't focus on their failures, but on their loyalty.

This teaches us that, like Jesus, we too should see the spiritual potential of those who study the Bible. Perhaps the student has doubts or doesn't yet grasp certain truths, but if they demonstrate sincerity and a desire to please Jehovah, that is already worthy of appreciation.

We can show him that we trust him by encouraging him, congratulating him on his progress, and giving him small responsibilities, such as praying. This way, he'll see that we believe in his progress, and this can motivate him even more to continue growing spiritually.

20. How did a Malawian sister show her student that she trusted her?

A very beautiful example is that of Sister Chifundo. She didn't get discouraged when her student reacted badly to the subject of images. Perhaps many would have thought it was no longer worth pursuing, but she trusted that her student would, in time, reason better.

That patient and trusting attitude bore fruit, because later the student herself recognized that the Witnesses are governed by the Bible and even decided to be baptized. This teaches us that if we wholeheartedly trust our students and continue to guide them with love, Jehovah can make his word bear fruit, even if at first it seems like there's no progress. We must always have faith in the power of truth.

21. What can we do to help a student make the decision to serve Jehovah?

Something very important is helping the student see that we are not just teaching them rules, but that we are bringing them closer to a personal relationship with Jehovah. Therefore, it's not enough to explain what they should do; we must help them truly love God.

We must also encourage them to make small changes in their priorities and to trust in Jehovah when they face challenges. And, above all, show them that we trust that he can achieve it. Sometimes they doubt themselves, but when they feel someone believes in them, it gives them strength. Let us remember that we are not just transmitting knowledge, but helping to form a heart of loyalty to Jehovah.

WHAT WOULD YOU ANSWER?

How can we help a student identify the obstacles that impede their progress?

We can help you with caring, non-judgmental questions that make you reflect, also observing whether there are attitudes, habits, or fears that are holding you back, and encouraging you to talk openly about them so we can find solutions together.

How can we help a student to love Jehovah more?

We don't just teach him rules, we also bring him closer to Jehovah as to a loving father. By showing him how much God loves him and how he has helped him, his heart will be filled with true love for Him.

How can we help a student make changes in their priorities?

We can motivate him to put Jehovah first by helping him see the benefits of doing so. With our example, consistent encouragement, and small spiritual goals, he'll reorganize his life with joy.