Watchtower Study, “Article 4”, Week of March 23-29, 2026, What Will You Do to Show Your Appreciation for the Rescue? Answers.

Watchtower Study, “Article 4”, March 23-29, 2026, What will you do to show that you appreciate the rescue? Answers.

“The love of Christ compels us” (2 COR. 5:14).

1, 2. What should we be moved to do when we think about Jesus’ sacrifice, and why? (2 Corinthians 5:14, 15; see also the picture.)

When we think about Jesus' sacrifice, we should be moved to act with gratitude, not just to feel moved. As 2 Corinthians 5:14-15 says, "The love of Christ compels us," meaning it moves us from within to no longer live for ourselves.

Jehovah gave his Son to redeem us from sin and open the door to forgiveness, friendship with him, and everlasting life. That is no small thing. This makes us reflect: Am I living in a way that shows I value this gift?

In the congregation, when we enthusiastically participate in or support spiritual activities, we show that we don't take the ransom for granted. Thinking about such great love touches the heart and awakens a sincere desire to reciprocate.

ILLUSTRATION

The man from the previous article being freed by a rescuer from the rubble of the collapsed building.

We are indebted to the one who rescues us, whether from a collapsed building or from inherited sin. (See paragraphs 1 and 2.)

3. Why are there different ways to show that we are grateful for the rescue?

There are different ways to show gratitude, because each person is at a different point in their friendship with Jehovah. The article compares this to three people traveling to the same place from different cities. The destination is the same, but the route varies.

Something similar happens in the spiritual realm. A Bible student, a baptized person, or someone who has strayed will not express their gratitude in the same way. However, everyone can. This leads us to ask: What concrete steps can I take now?

Within our congregation, we see diverse examples of service and progress, and all are valuable. What matters is that this rescue inspires us to keep moving forward from where we are, with grateful and sincere hearts.

BIBLE STUDENTS

4. In what sense does Jehovah examine the hearts of Bible students?

Jehovah examines hearts in the sense that he sees the sincere efforts each student makes to draw close to him. According to Proverbs 17:3, he tests the heart, meaning that he values ​​motivations.

When someone studies the Bible, makes changes, and strives to apply what they learn, Jehovah is pleased, as Proverbs 27:11 indicates. The ransom enables that person to be reconciled to God, as Romans 5:10-11 states. This makes us realize that nothing we do goes unnoticed.

In the congregation, we may not always see all the effort a student puts in, but Jehovah does. Knowing this is very encouraging and strengthens the desire to keep progressing with a grateful heart.

5. How can Bible students follow the counsel found at Philippians 3:16?

They can do this by staying on the same spiritual path they are already on, without turning back. In Philippians 3:16, Paul encourages them to continue walking correctly according to the progress they have made, which implies perseverance.

As Matthew 7:14 also says, the road to life is narrow, and Luke 9:62 shows that we should not look back. This makes us reflect: Am I being consistent in my study and attendance?

In the congregation, we see that progress isn't always rapid, but it is steady. The important thing is not to stop. When a student keeps taking small steps, it shows that he values ​​the ransom and wants to see it through to the end. That perseverance, even if it's quiet, makes Jehovah's heart very happy.

6. What can Bible students do if they find it difficult to make a change? (Deuteronomy 30:11-14; see also the picture.)

If they find it difficult to accept a teaching or to abandon an incorrect practice, they can investigate further and pray for help, as reflected in Psalm 86:11. Jehovah does not ask the impossible. Deuteronomy 30:11-14 assures us that his commandments are not unattainable.

Furthermore, Jehovah promises support, as mentioned at Isaiah 41:10, and always provides a way out, as stated at 1 Corinthians 10:13. This helps us understand that change is a process, not something instantaneous. In our congregation, we have seen brothers and sisters who struggled with difficult habits, but with patience and help, they were able to overcome them.

The important thing is not to give up or focus solely on the difficulty, but rather on all the good that Jehovah has already done for us. When love grows, obedience ceases to be a burden and becomes an expression of gratitude.

ILLUSTRATION

A man is reading lesson 40 of the book "Enjoy Life." On his desk are a pack of cigarettes and an ashtray full of cigarette butts.

Jehovah never asks the impossible of us. He will help us to obey his standards. (See paragraph 6.)

7. What can young people who have parents who are Witnesses meditate on?

Young people who have Witness parents can reflect on the fact that their relationship with Jehovah should be personal. James 4:8 says: “Draw close to God, and he will draw close to you. It is not enough for your parents to love Jehovah; each one must take his own steps.”

1 Chronicles 28:9 shows that Jehovah examines the individual heart. The ransom makes it possible for each young person to have a real friendship with God, as Romans 5:1-2 points out. This makes us wonder: Am I serving Jehovah out of my own conviction?

Before the Memorial, meditating on what Jesus did can motivate us to set spiritual goals. In the congregation, when we see young people making progress through their own personal choice, it is very encouraging, and Jehovah values ​​such sincere effort.

ADDITIONAL COMMENT

A young person can meditate on the fact that Jehovah wants a personal friendship with him, not just with his family. James 4:8 reminds us that if we take the first step, Jehovah will draw near. The ransom allows each person to have his own relationship with God. Reflecting on what Jesus did can motivate him to set spiritual goals and show that his faith is genuine, not borrowed.

BAPTIZED CHRISTIANS

8. How have baptized Christians demonstrated that they have faith in the ransom?

Baptized Christians have already demonstrated faith in the ransom by making important decisions. They drew close to Jehovah, obeyed his standards, and followed the command to preach and make disciples. They dedicated themselves to God and were baptized, publicly demonstrating their faith.

They have even faced opposition, as mentioned in 2 Timothy 3:12, and have kept their eyes on the example of Jesus, as Hebrews 12:2, 3 says. This makes us reflect on all that we have experienced since our baptism.

In the congregation, every experience of endurance demonstrates love for Jehovah. It was not a momentary emotional decision, but a deep commitment based on gratitude. Remembering this strengthens our desire to remain faithful and to appreciate the ransom each day.

9. Why should baptized Christians be careful?

We must be careful, because over time we could begin to take the ransom for granted. Jesus told the Christians in Ephesus, in Revelation 2:3, 4, that they had lost the love they had at the beginning. They were still doing the right things, but their worship had become routine.

This can happen to us if we act on autopilot. It makes us reflect: Am I still serving out of love or out of habit? We may be busy in the congregation, but if our hearts aren't involved, something is missing.

The rescue should continue to move us as it did at the beginning. Honestly examining our motivations helps us keep the flame of love alive and prevents worship from becoming just another routine.

10. How can we follow the counsel of 1 Timothy 4:13, 15?

We can follow that counsel by seriously reflecting on our worship and devoting ourselves fully to it. In 1 Timothy 4:13, 15, Paul encouraged Timothy to be absorbed in spiritual things. This involves preparation and conscious effort.

Romans 12:11 invites us to maintain spiritual fervor. This prompts us to reflect on whether we are preparing our meetings well and whether we are seeking undistracted study time. In the congregation, when someone participates enthusiastically, it is clear that they have meditated.

Just as a fire needs wood to keep burning, our love for Jehovah needs constant spiritual nourishment. If we nurture our gratitude for the ransom, our enthusiasm will remain alive and genuine.

11, 12. If we lose our enthusiasm for a time, does that mean that Jehovah is not giving us his spirit? (See also the picture.)

If we lose our enthusiasm for a time, that does not mean Jehovah stops giving us his spirit. The example of the apostle Paul, at 1 Corinthians 9:17, shows that he sometimes acted out of a sense of responsibility, even though he did not always feel the same way. Nevertheless, he kept going.

Furthermore, Philippians 2:13 assures us that Jehovah gives us both the desire and the strength to act. This leads us to understand that feelings may change, but the decision to serve is constant.

In the congregation, we have all had difficult times, but staying active in the preaching work and at meetings helps us to regain our enthusiasm. Jehovah does not withdraw his spirit during times of discouragement; on the contrary, he sustains us as we continue to strive faithfully.

ILLUSTRATION

A sister with a downcast expression pushes her baby's stroller. She is preaching with another sister, who has her arm around her.

Let us keep busy with spiritual activities even if we feel discouraged for a time. (See paragraphs 11 and 12.)

13. How can we continue to examine ourselves to see if we are “firm in the faith”?

We can do this by honestly examining ourselves, thus applying the counsel of 2 Corinthians 13:5. We can ask ourselves if the Kingdom is first in our life, as Matthew 6:33 indicates. We can also ask ourselves if we hate what is bad, as Psalm 97:10 says.

Furthermore, we can reflect on whether we are promoting peace and unity, according to Ephesians 4:2, 3. All of this applies to our daily decisions, entertainment, conversations, and personal goals. The Memorial season is an ideal time for such deep reflection.

In the congregation, when we all humbly examine our hearts, our collective spirituality is strengthened. Self-examination is not meant to discourage us, but to help us adjust our course and continue demonstrating sincere gratitude for our redemption.

THE SHEEP THAT HAVE STRAYED

14. Why have some Christians drifted away from the congregation?

Some Christians have drifted away for various reasons. Jesus spoke of “the cares of this life” in Luke 21:34, which can gradually stifle spirituality.

Some may have been hurt by something someone said or did, remembering that we are all imperfect, as James 3:2 points out. Others may have committed a serious sin and feel shame or fear. This reminds us that no one is exempt from going through difficult times.

In the congregation, we must be understanding and not judgmental. The ransom is available to all, even those who have strayed. Knowing this gives us hope and reminds us that Jehovah never stops loving his servants.

15. How does Jehovah view Christians who have strayed? (Ezekiel 34:11, 12, 16).

Jehovah does not see them as lost causes, but as sheep in need of help. In Ezekiel 34:11, 12, 16, he promises to search for his lost sheep, bind up the wounded, and strengthen the weak. This demonstrates his tenderness.

The very fact that someone is reflecting on or reading this study indicates that their heart still responds. This leads us to believe that Jehovah does not focus solely on past mistakes, but also on the good that still exists in a person.

In the congregation, when someone returns, we feel a special joy because we see the love of the Supreme Shepherd reflected back at them. Their ransom still has value for them. Jehovah wants them to come back and enjoy his friendship again.

16. What can help lost sheep return to Jehovah? (See also the picture.)

It may help them to remember that Jehovah wants them to return and is willing to guide them. He promises help and relief, as Isaiah 1:18 says, offering sincere forgiveness. Furthermore, elders are described at Isaiah 32:2 as a protective refuge.

1 Peter 2:25 speaks of returning to the Shepherd and Overseer of our souls. This suggests that we don't have to do it alone. A simple step like attending a meeting or talking to an elder can mark the beginning of that return.

In the congregation, there are always open arms to welcome you with love. Jehovah blesses every sincere effort. The ransom shows that there is still real hope and restoration is possible.

ADDITIONAL COMMENT

Taking a concrete first step, such as attending a meeting or speaking with an elder, can help. Isaiah 1:18 shows that Jehovah is willing to forgive. He has not forgotten them and wants them to return. The ransom guarantees that restoration is possible if they sincerely take that step.

ILLUSTRATION

An older brother, holding a Bible, stands looking at a Kingdom Hall a few feet away. He watches the brothers and sisters greeting each other warmly.

Ask yourself: “What steps can I take to make things right with Jehovah?” (See paragraph 16.)

WHAT WILL YOU DO?

17, 18. How can we make the most of the days leading up to the Commemoration?

We can use the days leading up to the Memorial to reflect deeply on the love Jehovah showed in giving his Son. As John 3:16 says, the ransom frees us from sin and death, something Romans 3:23, 24 clearly explains.

We must not accept this kindness in vain, as 2 Corinthians 6:1 warns. This makes us think about how we live each day. Meditating before the Memorial can prompt us to make adjustments, strengthen spiritual goals, or rekindle our enthusiasm.

In our congregation, this time feels special because we are all focused on the same supreme act of love. May this reflection motivate us to live not for ourselves, but for Christ, as 2 Corinthians 5:15 points out.

HOW CAN THE FOLLOWING GROUPS OF PEOPLE SHOW THEIR APPRECIATION FOR THE RESCUE?

Bible Students.

Bible students can show their appreciation for the ransom by continuing to make progress without stopping, making changes with Jehovah's help, and developing a personal friendship with him based on their own conviction.

Baptized Christians.

Baptized Christians can show their gratitude for the redemption by keeping alive the love they had at the beginning, avoiding spiritual routine, and honestly examining themselves so that the Kingdom remains first.

The sheep that have strayed.

Sheep that have strayed can show their appreciation for being rescued by taking a step to return, trusting in Jehovah's forgiveness and accepting the loving help of the elders and the congregation.