“They will perform a sacred service with their reasoning ability” (ROM. 12:1).
1, 2. a) Why can we say that the Bible is a very old book?
The Bible can be considered a very old book, as it began to be written about 3,500 years ago and was completed almost 2,000 years ago. However, although it was written in times very different from our own, it remains the inspired Word of God.
Hebrews 4:12 says that the Word of God is “living and active.” Furthermore, 2 Timothy 3:16-17 explains that it is useful for teaching, correcting, and guiding us. This demonstrates that it is not simply a historical document.
Millions of people have found that its advice remains invaluable in facing life's challenges. This underscores the profound value of regularly reading the Bible and allowing its teachings to influence our daily decisions.
1, 2. b) Why is the Bible still relevant?
The Bible remains practical because it comes from Jehovah, the living God and the source of all wisdom. As 1 Timothy 4:10 and Romans 16:26, 27 indicate, its Author perfectly understands human nature and our needs.
Furthermore, it contains principles that never change and remain useful, regardless of the era or the challenges we face. World circumstances are constantly changing, but divine principles continue to offer sure guidance.
Therefore, we find advice applicable to family, friendships, work, and our relationship with God. This leads us to believe that when we seek guidance in the Bible, we are not consulting outdated ideas, but rather the wisdom of Jehovah, who always knows what is best for us.
3. What questions will this article answer?
This article answers three fundamental questions: What are biblical principles? Why are they important? And how can we identify them when we read the Bible?
Furthermore, it will help us understand how Jesus emphasized the value of principles in his teachings, especially in the Sermon on the Mount.
Rather than learning definitions, the goal is to understand how Bible principles help us to think like Jehovah and to make good decisions in a wide variety of situations.
This leads us to believe that reading the Bible should go beyond simply knowing stories or commandments. We should also seek the lessons and the reasons behind them.
WHAT ARE BIBLICAL PRINCIPLES?
4. What are biblical principles?
Biblical principles are fundamental truths that serve as the basis for Jehovah's laws. We could say that they express the reasons or values behind God's commands.
While a law may apply to a specific situation, principles reflect, in a broader way, God's way of thinking. That is why they remain valid over time.
Matthew 22:37 clearly expresses a principle: to love Jehovah with all your heart. Furthermore, Isaiah 40:8 reminds us that God's word endures forever.
This leads us to believe that it is not enough to know the rules; we must also understand the values that underpin them. In this way, we can apply divine guidance to new situations that may not be directly mentioned in the Bible.
5. What example could be used to explain the difference between laws and principles? (See also the images).
The difference between laws and principles is easily understood with the example of a mother telling her young child, “Don’t touch the fire.” That is a specific rule to protect him. However, the principle behind that instruction is to avoid anything that could cause him harm or burns.
As the child grows, they may be able to use the kitchen without problems, so that specific rule will no longer apply in the same way. Even so, they will still need to be careful around hot objects.
This example shows that laws may vary according to circumstances, while principles remain the same. This leads us to believe that Jehovah not only wants us to obey specific instructions, but also to learn to understand the reasons why they are necessary for our well-being.
ILLUSTRATION
Images of a woman with her son in the kitchen. 1. While she cooks, she warns her young son not to touch the fire so he doesn't get burned. 2. Years later, she prepares a salad while he cooks.
The law may change, but the basic principle behind it does not. (See paragraph 5).
WHY ARE BIBLICAL PRINCIPLES IMPORTANT?
6. a) How does Jehovah guide us through his Word?
Jehovah guides us through his Word in several ways. On the one hand, he gives us specific laws that protect us from dangers and bad decisions, as James 2:11 points out. But he also helps us to understand the principles behind those laws.
Thanks to them, we can receive guidance even in matters for which there is no specific rule. Principles allow us to analyze situations, exercise good judgment, and act in accordance with what pleases God.
This leads us to believe that the Bible is not simply a set of rules, but a source of practical wisdom for every aspect of life. When we seek divine principles, we learn to make more balanced and spiritually sound decisions.
6. b) How does Jehovah dignify us?
Jehovah dignifies us by granting us the freedom and responsibility to make principled decisions. As Galatians 5:13 indicates, he does not treat us as incapable of reasoning, but as mature servants who can demonstrate love and respect for his standards.
He teaches us principles that reflect his way of thinking and trusts us to apply them in our daily lives. This makes us appreciate what a great honor it is to have Jehovah's trust.
Both in the congregation and in our personal lives, we encounter many situations where we must make decisions for ourselves. When we use Bible principles to do so, we show that our desire is to please Jehovah wholeheartedly, and not merely to fulfill an obligation.
7. Explain the value of biblical principles with an example (see also the image).
Biblical principles are like certain traffic signs that not only indicate a rule, but also warn of potential dangers.
A prudent driver doesn't wait for an accident to happen before reacting. Upon seeing a warning sign, they adapt their driving to the circumstances.
Similarly, biblical principles help us identify situations that could lead us to sin before the problem arises. They enable us to act with foresight and sound judgment.
This leads us to believe that Christian maturity consists of avoiding not only what the Bible explicitly condemns, but also what could lead us into spiritual danger. When we apply Jehovah's principles, we protect our friendship with him and make wiser and safer decisions.
ADDITIONAL COMMENT
Bible principles are like warning signs on a highway. They help us spot dangers before they become a problem. Thanks to them, we not only avoid what the Bible clearly forbids, but also situations that could lead us to disobey Jehovah. In this way, we demonstrate good judgment and protect our friendship with him.
ILLUSTRATION
A car is driving at night along a winding mountain road. Its headlights illuminate several hazard signs.
Many traffic signs warn of potential hazards. Bible principles help us in a similar way. (See paragraph 7.)
8. According to Romans 12:1, 2, how does seeking the principles contained in the Bible benefit us?
Seeking Bible principles helps us to think more and more like Jehovah. Romans 12:1, 2 explains that we should use our reasoning ability to prove for ourselves what God’s good, pleasing, and perfect will is.
When we analyze the Bible’s accounts, laws, and counsel, we try to discover the lessons they contain and the reasons why Jehovah included them in his Word. In this way, we learn to see matters from his perspective.
This leads us to believe that Bible reading should be reflective and profound. It is not just about acquiring knowledge, but about allowing our way of thinking to be shaped by Jehovah's values.
9. What other benefit do we receive from living in harmony with Bible principles? (Hebrews 5:13, 14)
Living according to biblical principles helps us reach Christian maturity. Hebrews 5:13, 14 explains that mature people have the ability to distinguish between right and wrong through the constant use of their perceptive faculties.
Jehovah wants us to develop that maturity and learn to make decisions in harmony with his will. He does not treat us like children who need an endless list of rules, but like servants capable of acting out of conviction. This makes us reflect on the trust Jehovah places in us.
When we use Bible principles to guide our conduct, we strengthen our friendship with Jehovah. Moreover, as Proverbs 27:11 and 23:15 indicate, by acting wisely we also make Jehovah’s heart happy.
HOW CAN WE IDENTIFY BIBLICAL PRINCIPLES?
10. How can we identify biblical principles?
We can identify biblical principles by striving to discover the reasons behind the laws and lessons contained in the accounts of Scripture. Proverbs 2:10-12 highlights the importance of acquiring wisdom and discernment.
To do this, we must ask for Jehovah’s help in prayer and use our reasoning ability. Some questions that can help us are: “Why did God establish this law?”, “What does this account teach us about his way of thinking?”, or “How can I apply this lesson in my life?”
This leads us to believe that personal study requires meditation and analysis. When we look for principles, and not just facts, we gain a better understanding of Jehovah's will and make wiser decisions in our daily lives.
11. How did Jesus teach us in his Sermon on the Mount to identify biblical principles? (See also the image.)
Jesus taught how to identify biblical principles by showing that behind every law there was a deeper reason, related to Jehovah's way of thinking.
In the Sermon on the Mount, he first mentioned certain laws and then explained the principle behind them. In this way, he helped his disciples understand that God is not only interested in outward actions, but also in attitudes, thoughts, and the motivations of the heart.
This leads us to believe that true spirituality is not simply about avoiding certain behaviors, but about cultivating a way of thinking that reflects Jehovah’s values. When we imitate Jesus’ method of studying the Bible, we learn to apply his teachings to real-life situations.
ILLUSTRATION
Jesus sitting under a tree teaching a group of disciples.
In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus teaches us to identify the biblical principles behind God's laws. (See paragraph 11.)
12. What is one of the principles behind the law mentioned in Matthew 5:21, 22? (See also the picture.)
One of the principles behind the law “Do not murder” is that Jehovah looks not only at actions, but also at what is in the heart.
In Matthew 5:21, 22, Jesus explained that a person may not actually commit murder and still be acting against the spirit of that law if he harbors anger, hatred, or contempt toward others.
Jehovah wants us to maintain peaceful relationships and to avoid feelings that could harm others. In fact, 1 John 3:15 links hatred with an attitude completely incompatible with Christian love.
This leads us to believe that true obedience to Jehovah goes beyond simply avoiding bad actions. It also involves guarding our thoughts and motivations so that we reflect his love.
13. How can we apply the principle of Matthew 5:21, 22 in our lives? (See also the image.)
We can apply this principle by fighting against resentment, bitterness, and any feelings that might take root in our hearts. Leviticus 19:18 encourages us not to hold a grudge, and Proverbs 10:12 reminds us that love covers all offenses.
In practice, this means avoiding gossip, destructive criticism, and comments that could damage others' reputations. Today, especially with social media and messaging apps, it's easy to spread negative information without considering the consequences.
This makes us reflect on the importance of using our words to build up, not to hurt. When we promote peace and show empathy, we contribute to the unity of the congregation and demonstrate that we are applying the principle Jesus taught.
ILLUSTRATION
Series of images: 1. A text box displays the words: “Do not murder.” 2. Two sisters are gossiping while another listens with an uncomfortable expression.
(See paragraphs 12 and 13).
14. What principle is behind the law mentioned in Matthew 5:27, 28? (See also the picture.)
Behind the law “Do not commit adultery” we find the principle that Jehovah wants us to keep our thoughts, desires, and motivations clean.
In Matthew 5:27, 28, Jesus taught that a person can begin to stray from God's standards long before committing an immoral act, simply by nurturing wrong desires in their heart.
Jehovah values moral purity in its broadest sense, not just outward conduct. That is why Jesus encouraged taking firm steps to avoid anything that could arouse improper desires.
This leads us to believe that loyalty to Jehovah begins in the mind and heart. When we guard our thoughts, we strengthen our spirituality and protect our friendship with God.
15. How can we apply the principle of Matthew 5:27, 28 in our lives? (See also the image.)
We apply this principle by avoiding anything that feeds immoral desires or weakens our moral purity. Job 31:1 shows the determination to control our gaze and guard our heart, while Proverbs 5:3-14 warns of the dangers of following the wrong path.
Today, this includes rejecting pornography, sexually suggestive content, and any practice that promotes immoral fantasies. It also involves being prudent with internet use, social media, and entertainment.
This leads us to understand that purity is not preserved by chance; it requires vigilance and good choices. When we set healthy boundaries and avoid dangerous situations, we demonstrate respect for Jehovah’s standards and protect both our spirituality and our relationships.
ILLUSTRATION
Series of images: 1. A text box quotes these words: “Do not commit adultery.” 2. A brother deletes a social media account from his phone.
(See paragraphs 14 and 15).
16. What principle is behind the law mentioned in Matthew 5:43, 44? (See also the picture.)
Behind the law “Love your neighbor” we find the principle that Jehovah wants us to view all people with love, compassion and impartiality.
In Matthew 5:43, 44, Jesus corrected the idea that it was acceptable to hate enemies and taught that we should reflect the way our Heavenly Father acts.
Jehovah shows kindness even to those who do not serve him and expects his servants to imitate that attitude. As the following verses indicate, he makes the sun rise and sends rain on all sorts of people.
This leads us to believe that Christian love should not be limited by differences in nationality, race, culture, or social status. By cultivating this broad perspective, we better reflect Jehovah's qualities.
ADDITIONAL COMMENT
Behind the command “Love your neighbor” is the principle that Jehovah wants us to treat all people with love, even those who are different from us or do not share our beliefs. Jesus taught that we should imitate the impartial love of our heavenly Father and see others as he sees them.
17. How can we apply the principle of Matthew 5:43, 44 in our lives? (See also the picture.)
We can apply this principle by treating all people with respect and kindness, regardless of their background, nationality, race, or religion. Acts 10:34, 35 shows that Jehovah is not partial, and neither do we want to be. Furthermore, this love helps us to remain neutral in the world’s conflicts and to avoid divisive attitudes.
It also prompts us to forgive when someone offends us, following the advice of Matthew 18:21, 22. This makes us think that Christian love is especially demonstrated when it is difficult to show.
In the congregation and in our ministry, we find many opportunities to reflect this quality. When we act with kindness and a willingness to forgive, we give an excellent witness and honor Jehovah by our conduct.
ILLUSTRATION
Series of images: 1. A text box quotes these words: “Love your neighbor.” 2. A married couple is preaching to a man of another race in a marketplace and shows him the pamphlet “Enjoy Life.”
(See paragraphs 16 and 17).
RESOLVED TO LIVE ACCORDING TO BIBLICAL PRINCIPLES
18. a) What should we be determined to do?
We should be determined to use Bible principles to make good decisions and strive to understand Jehovah’s will. Ephesians 5:17 encourages us precisely to keep trying to understand what Jehovah expects of us.
The goal is not to act out of fear of the consequences, but because we deeply love our Heavenly Father. Furthermore, 1 Corinthians 14:20 reminds us of the importance of achieving maturity in our thinking.
This makes us realize that every daily decision can become an opportunity to demonstrate love and loyalty to Jehovah. When we allow his principles to guide our conscience and our actions, we strengthen our friendship with him and enjoy a more secure spiritual life.
18. b) What will we talk about in the next article?
In the next article, we will consider another gift Jehovah has given us to help us make good decisions: our conscience. After learning how Bible principles guide our reasoning, we will study how our conscience works together with those principles to guide us in everyday situations. Jehovah wants us to use both tools in a balanced way to maintain a good relationship with him.
WHAT WOULD YOU ANSWER?
What is a biblical principle?
A Bible principle is a fundamental truth that reflects Jehovah's way of thinking and serves as the basis for his laws. Unlike a specific rule, it can be applied to many different situations.
What is the difference between principles and laws?
Laws are usually applied to specific situations, while principles express Jehovah's enduring values. Circumstances may change, but the principles remain valid.
What are some principles that Jesus taught in the Sermon on the Mount?
Jesus taught that we should avoid hatred that can lead us to harm others, reject immoral thoughts, and show love to all people no matter who they are.
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