Watchtower Study, “Article 36”, Week of November 10-16, 2025, “Let him call the elders”, Answers.

Watchtower Study, “Article 36”, November 10-16, 2025, “Call the Elders”, Answers.

“Let him call the elders of the congregation” (JAMES 5:14).

1. How has Jehovah shown that he loves all his sheep very much?

Jehovah has shown his great love for each of his sheep by purchasing them with the precious blood of his Son Jesus. Furthermore, he has appointed elders to care for them and protect them spiritually.

These men reflect Jehovah's tenderness and follow the instructions of Christ himself, who is the head of the congregation.

As Isaiah 32:1, 2 says, their work is like a refuge and shade for those facing difficulties. They encourage us, strengthen us, and protect us from spiritual dangers.

All this shows that Jehovah does not leave us alone, but uses faithful servants to demonstrate his constant love and personal care for his people.

2. Who is Jehovah especially interested in? (Ezekiel 34:15, 16).

Jehovah cares deeply for all his sheep, but he pays special attention to those who are suffering. As Ezekiel 34:15, 16 shows, he searches for the lost, heals the wounded, and strengthens the weak. Today he does this through elders, who act as shepherds and teachers.

When someone feels discouraged, weak, or is struggling spiritually, Jehovah wants them not only to pray but also to seek help from these spiritual shepherds. They offer comfort, listen without judgment, and help restore our relationship with God. Thus we see Jehovah’s tender concern for each suffering sheep, ensuring that no one is left without spiritual support.

3. Why will this article benefit us all?

This article benefits us because it teaches us how Jehovah uses elders to strengthen us spiritually. It helps us recognize when we need to turn to them, why we should do so, and how they help us. It also encourages those who are firm in the faith to appreciate Jehovah’s loving guidance more fully.

Furthermore, by understanding the role of elders, we learn to trust them and not see them merely as an authority, but as shepherds who reflect the love of Christ.

This knowledge prepares us for the future, in case we ever face spiritual weakness, and strengthens our appreciation for the care that Jehovah has arranged within his organization.

WHEN TO “CALL” THE ELDERLY

4. How do we know that James 5:14-16, 19, 20 refers to someone who is spiritually ill? (See also the pictures.)

We know that James, in these verses, is referring to spiritual illness because the context doesn't mention going to a doctor, but rather to the elders, and he states that the person will be healed when their sins are forgiven. This indicates a spiritual, not a physical, problem.

Just as a doctor listens to symptoms and provides treatment, the elderly listen with empathy, apply the Bible, and pray for us to help us regain spiritual health.

Therefore, when someone feels that their faith or their relationship with Jehovah has weakened, they should not isolate themselves but seek the spiritual support of the elders. Jehovah uses this shepherding to bring comfort and restoration.

ILLUSTRATION

Series of images: 1. A man explains to a doctor that his arm hurts. 2. A brother is sitting on an outdoor bench with an elderly man and is telling him what's wrong.

When we get physically sick, we go to the doctor; when we get spiritually sick, we go to the elders. (See paragraph 4.)

5. How can we check our state of spiritual health?

We can check our spiritual health by examining our enthusiasm and love for Jehovah. James 1:22 reminds us not to deceive ourselves, and Revelation 3:1, 2 shows that some Christians in Sardis thought they were well when they were not.

So we should ask ourselves: Do I still enjoy reading the Bible? Do I prepare for the meetings? Do I still feel the same desire to preach? If we notice that our love for Jehovah has diminished or that material things are taking up more space, it is time to seek help.

If we are unable to improve on our own, or if we have done something that Jehovah disapproves of, we should go to the elders. They can help us before the problem becomes more serious.

6. What should someone do who has committed a serious sin?

If someone has committed a serious sin, he should speak to the elders without delay. This is not a punishment, but an expression of humility and a sincere desire to be reconciled with Jehovah.

He forgives us only when we demonstrate repentance through our actions, and one of those actions is confessing our sins. Elders can help us regain peace with God by guiding us with biblical principles and praying for us.

It is important to remember that hiding sin only makes it worse, but seeking help opens the door to divine forgiveness. In this way, we show that we trust in Jehovah's arrangements and that we sincerely desire to repair our friendship with him.

7. Who else needs the help of the elderly?

Besides those who have sinned seriously, those who feel spiritually weak also need help. If someone struggles with wrong desires or past habits, he or she can go to the elders for encouragement. The elders listen with understanding and remember that Jehovah continues to approve of those who do not give in to evil.

If we feel discouraged or ashamed because of our inner struggles, the elders can remind us that these very things show our desire to please God and our refusal to rely on our own strength. Their support can make the difference between giving up and standing firm. Jehovah uses them to sustain and strengthen us in our most difficult times.

8. What kind of mistakes do you not need to tell the elderly about?

It is not necessary to go to the elders for every mistake. If, for example, we say something hurtful or react with anger, we can follow Jesus' advice in Matthew 5:23, 24 and seek reconciliation directly.

We can also consult our publications and apply the principles of self-control, gentleness, and patience. However, if we find that the problem persists or we are unable to resolve it, seeking help from an elder may be appropriate.

As Paul advised the Philippians, a mature brother can help two Christians overcome their differences. The idea is to find a balance: not to burden the elderly with minor issues, but also not to face alone what clearly requires spiritual guidance.

ADDITIONAL COMMENT

We don't need to tell the elders every mistake we make. If we offend someone, we should follow Jesus' advice and make amends. But if the problem persists or we can't resolve it, an elder can help us, just as Paul encouraged us to do at Philippians 4:2, 3.

WHY “CALL” THE ELDERLY

9. Even if we feel embarrassed to talk to the elders, why should we do it? (Proverbs 28:13).

Although speaking with elders may make us feel embarrassed, we must remember that Jehovah has appointed them to help us. They are not there to judge us, but to strengthen us and guide us spiritually.

Turning to them shows that we trust in Jehovah and his loving provision. If we confess and forsake our sins, he promises to forgive us.

Shame is often a trap set by the Devil to keep us from divine comfort. But when we take the step of seeking help, we feel relief, peace, and spiritual renewal.

In this way we demonstrate faith that Jehovah uses the elderly as instruments of his mercy and we strengthen our confidence that he can heal us completely in a spiritual sense.

10. What can happen if we try to hide our sins?

Hiding sins only brings suffering, as happened to King David. He himself acknowledged that, while he remained silent, his spirit weakened and even his body suffered. Spiritual problems are like physical illnesses: if left untreated, they worsen. Jehovah lovingly invites us to reason with him and set things right.

When we approach the elders with humility, we do not lose our dignity; rather, we allow Jehovah to heal our wounds. In contrast, hiding what we have done can cause a spiritual infection that spreads to the heart and damages our relationship with God. Therefore, opening up and seeking help is the first step toward recovery and peace with Jehovah.

11. What else can happen when serious sins are hidden?

When serious sins are concealed, not only is one's relationship with Jehovah damaged, but also the spiritual peace of the congregation. Ephesians 4:30 warns that this can grieve the holy spirit, hindering its free flow.

Furthermore, Leviticus 5:1 teaches that whoever knows of a sin and conceals it is also responsible. Therefore, if we know that a brother has committed a serious sin, we should lovingly encourage him to speak with the elders.

The goal is not to denounce him, but to help him restore his good relationship with God. Acting with sincerity keeps the congregation clean and shows that we love both Jehovah and our brothers and sisters.

HOW THE ELDERLY HELP US

12. How do the elderly support those who are spiritually weak?

Elders lovingly and patiently support those who are spiritually weak. They do not rush to judge, but rather ask wise questions to understand what is happening in the heart.

They listen with empathy, even if the person has difficulty expressing themselves due to shame or emotion. Their goal is not just to give quick advice, but to accompany the spiritual healing process, knowing that some wounds require time to heal.

They reflect the spirit of Christ, who also listened with compassion. Thus, every conversation with the elders becomes a reflection of Jehovah's care, who desires that no one should perish, but that all should be strengthened.

13. What else will the elderly do to help us? (See also the pictures.)

The elderly don't try to make us feel guilty, but rather to encourage us. They pray for us, and those prayers have a powerful effect that can lift our spirits.

They also apply oil in the name of Jehovah, which represents Bible truth used with love and skill. Through the Scriptures, they ease our pain and help us feel close to God again.

Their counsel and prayers reflect Jehovah’s personal care, who tells us: “This is the way, walk in it.” Thus, with the Bible and prayer, elders become instruments of spiritual healing, restoring our inner peace and the joy of serving Jehovah.

ILLUSTRATION

Series of images: 1. The doctor in the previous image is examining the man's arm. There is an X-ray of the arm on the wall. 2. The elderly man in the previous image is with another elderly man at the brother's house, encouraging him with the Bible. The brother listens to them with a smile.

Elderly people use the Bible for comfort and solace. (See paragraphs 13 and 14.)

14. According to Galatians 6:1, how do elders help someone who takes “a false step”? (See also the pictures.)

This verse shows that elders should gently correct those who have gone astray. The Greek word for “correct” implies readjusting or putting something back in place, like a dislocated bone.

Thus, the advice of elders should not cause further pain, but rather help to heal. They treat the person with tenderness, aware that they too are imperfect and can stumble. Their goal is to restore, not humiliate. That is why they strive to show humility, compassion, and empathy.

This kind of loving correction shows that Jehovah uses spiritual men to guide his sheep back to the right path, with tact and kindness.

15. What can we do if we have a problem?

We can have complete confidence in the elders, for they maintain confidentiality and base their counsel on the Bible, not on personal opinions. Although each has his own personality and level of experience, they are all qualified to help us with wisdom and humility.

If we have a problem, we can talk to any of them, knowing that, if necessary, they will consult with each other to give us the best advice.

We shouldn't seek out those who tell us what we want to hear, but rather those who speak to us with the truth of God's Word. Turning to them is an act of faith in Jehovah, who has appointed them to guide us with love and discernment.

ADDITIONAL COMMENT

We can trust the elders, for they maintain confidentiality and base their counsel on the Bible. If we have a problem, we can talk to any of them, knowing that they seek our spiritual peace and that Jehovah uses them to guide us in love.

WHAT RESPONSIBILITY DOES EACH OF US HAVE?

16. What responsibility do we have?

Although the elders give us counsel, the final responsibility for our decisions is ours. Jehovah wants each of us to show our love for him through our daily actions.

The elders show us what the Bible says, but it is up to us to apply the principles and act with discernment. This helps us to strengthen our conscience and spiritual maturity. Thus, instead of always depending on others to make decisions, we learn to make decisions that please Jehovah based on our own conviction.

Being guided by the Bible and the Holy Spirit makes us stronger, more faithful, and able to maintain a firm relationship with our loving God, who always desires our well-being.

17. What should we be determined to do?

We must be determined to make the most of the wonderful gift of elders that Jehovah has given us. Through Jesus, the fine Shepherd, he provides us with shepherds who act according to his will.

When we are spiritually weak or sick, turning to them is not a sign of weakness, but of trust in Jehovah. Their loving guidance and Bible knowledge are proof that God tenderly cares for each sheep.

So we must be determined not to isolate ourselves or face our trials alone, but to seek help when we need it. In that way, we will be responding gratefully to Jehovah’s love and strengthening our faith to continue serving him with joy and peace.

WHAT WOULD YOU ANSWER?

When should we "call" the elderly?

We should call on the elders when we feel spiritually weak, have sinned seriously, or cannot overcome a problem on our own. They can help us heal, counsel us, and pray for us.

Why should we "call" the elderly?

We should call on them because Jehovah uses them to strengthen us. Hiding our sins only causes suffering, but seeking help demonstrates faith and humility, and allows us to receive God's mercy.

How do the elderly help us?

The elders listen to us patiently, pray for us, and lovingly apply the Bible. Their counsel comforts us, strengthens us, and helps us to feel close to Jehovah again.