Watchtower Study, Week of July 6-12, 2026, Why Are Bible Principles Important? Underlined Answers.

Watchtower Study, July 6-12, 2026, Why Are Bible Principles Important? Underlined Answers.

Yellow: Direct Response

Light Yellow: Additional Response

Celeste: Additional Points

“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? b) Why is the Bible still relevant today?

The Bible is a very old book. It began to be written about 3,500 years ago and was completed almost 2,000 years ago. However, within its pages is found “the word of God,” which is alive and acts with power. (Heb. 4:12; 2 Tim. 3:16, 17). Millions of people testify that the Bible helps them cope with the problems of life today.

2 But how is it possible that such an old book is practical today? For two reasons. First, because the message of the Bible comes from the “living God,” who is our Creator and the wisest being in the universe. (1 Tim. 4:10; Rom. 16:26, 27). And secondly, because the Bible contains principles that never change over time. These principles are always useful, regardless of the era in which people live or the challenges they face.

3. What questions will this article answer?

3 What are biblical principles? Why are they so important to us? How can we identify them when we read the Bible? This article will answer these questions. It will also show how the value of principles is highlighted in Jesus' teachings.

WHAT ARE BIBLICAL PRINCIPLES?

4. What are biblical principles?

4 Biblical principles are fundamental truths that serve as the basis for God's laws. They could be described as the reasons behind those laws. In the case of Jehovah's laws, there is always a justifiable reason behind them. Sometimes, a principle may be clearly stated in a law. (Matt. 22:37). However, principles are always superior to laws. Laws tend to be more specific and have a limited application. They may be given for a particular time or situation. In contrast, Bible principles reflect Jehovah's way of thinking more broadly and can be applied to different circumstances and times. (Ps. 119:111). The laws may need to be changed. But principles never expire or become outdated. (Is. 40:8).

5. What example could be used to explain the difference between laws and principles? (See also the images).

5 To better understand the difference between laws and principles, let's look at an example. A mother might tell her young child, “Don’t touch the stove!” This is a command, or a rule. But the principle, or idea, behind this rule is not to touch anything that is hot because you could get hurt. This principle doesn't just apply to the stove. It also applies to a clothes iron, a space heater, or any other hot appliance that can cause burns. Furthermore, this principle isn't limited to the home; it applies to other places as well. Of course, when your child grows up, they will likely use the stove. Even so, they should still be careful not to get burned. So the law may change, but the basic principle behind it does not.

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? b) How does Jehovah dignify us?

6 Motivated by his love for us, Jehovah gives us guidance through specific laws that enable us to avoid many dangers. (James 2:11). Furthermore, it helps us understand the principles, or ideas, behind the laws. And in His Word, He also gives us guidance in different areas of life for which there are no specific laws. Bible principles help us to make good decisions and to do what is right. By giving us these principles, Jehovah dignifies us by granting us the freedom to make choices that show we love him and respect his standards. (Gal. 5:13).

7. Explain the value of biblical principles with an example (see also the image).

7 To better understand how biblical principles help us, let's consider traffic signs in various countries. Many inform drivers of the laws they must obey to avoid being penalized. For example, they can indicate the speed limit or when to stop. However, other signs warn of potential hazards. They might warn that the road may be slippery or that animals may be present. Upon seeing these signs, an experienced driver uses good judgment and drives with caution. This way, if it rains or snows, they adapt to these weather conditions.  Likewise, the Christian not only carefully avoids any behavior specifically condemned in the Bible, but also any thought or action that could lead him to disobey God's laws. For this, you need to demonstrate good judgment.

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?

8 However, when we strive to find the principles contained in the Bible and live in accordance with them, we gain other important benefits. For example, we learn to think like Jehovah on certain matters. As we read the accounts in the Scriptures, we try to draw practical lessons. Then we wonder why these lessons were included in the Bible and how we can apply them in our lives. In this way, we learn to use our “reasoning ability” to serve Jehovah. We also prove for ourselves “what is the good, pleasing, and perfect will of God.”  (see Romans 12:1, 2). a

9. What other benefit do we receive from living in harmony with Bible principles? (Hebrews 5:13, 14)

9 Learning to live in harmony with Bible principles helps us to become mature Christians. By applying these principles, our relationship with Jehovah improves. (Read Hebrews 5:13, 14.) Young children may need a long list of laws or rules to know how to act in different situations. Perhaps they obey them simply out of fear of punishment. But Jehovah does not treat us like little children, but like mature adults. He trusts that we will make decisions that are in harmony with his will. And if we do so, we will make his heart very glad. (Psalm 147:11; Proverbs 23:15, 26; 27:11)

HOW CAN WE IDENTIFY BIBLICAL PRINCIPLES?

10. How can we identify biblical principles?

10 When we try to draw lessons from the Bible, we find principles that help us understand how Jehovah views things. And when we strive to discover the reasons behind certain laws, we can also identify principles. The better we understand the reasons, the better we understand Jehovah's way of thinking. But to achieve this, we must ask him for help and also develop our own thinking skills.  (Prov. 2:10-12). We could ask ourselves questions like these: “Why did God establish this law? If Jehovah does not approve of this conduct, what will he think of similar conduct? What lesson do I learn from the Bible account I am reading? And how can I apply it in my life?” Once we identify the reasons and lessons behind the laws and stories in the Bible, we will be able to make better decisions in life, decisions that are in harmony with Jehovah's will.

11. How did Jesus teach us in his Sermon on the Mount to identify biblical principles? (See also the image.)

11 In his Sermon on the Mount, Jesus taught us to identify biblical principles. Let's look at three examples. In each instance, Jesus first mentioned the law, and then revealed the underlying idea or principle. By meditating on what he revealed, we will understand how to apply these principles in our lives today. And, at the same time, we will see the practical benefits of these lessons.

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.)

12 (Read Matthew 5:21, 22). “You shall not murder.” What is one of the principles behind this law? Jehovah does not want us to hate others, whether that hatred is reflected in our actions or words or is limited only to our thoughts. Jesus indicated that even if a person does not murder anyone, if he hates his brother, he could still be violating the principle or reason behind this law. “Anyone who remains angry with his brother” or verbally abuses him will also “have to answer” before God. Why? Because those are the same attitudes and actions that lead to murder (1 John 3:15).

13. How can we apply the principle of Matthew 5:21, 22 in our lives? (See also the image.)

13 How can we apply the principle of Matthew 5:21, 22 in our day? Fighting against resentment and bitterness (Lev. 19:18; Job 36:13). Why? Because these feelings can stir up hatred in our hearts and lead to hurtful words or actions. (Prov. 10:12). These include gossip and slander, which can damage or ruin the reputation of others (Prov. 20:19; 25:23). So, long before tools like social media, blogs, the internet, or messaging apps existed, Jesus already gave a principle that would help mature Christians use them without falling into the dangers they entail. In all facets of life, we must always avoid any kind of language that fosters hatred and that can lead to what some call "reputation assassination".

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.)

14 (Read Matthew 5:27, 28). “You shall not commit adultery.” What principle is behind this law? Jehovah not only hates immoral sexual conduct, but also the thoughts that can lead to it. Jesus explained that if a married man continues to look at a woman (other than his wife) with the intention of feeling lust for her, he has already sinned. Therefore, immoral thoughts must be avoided at all costs, however difficult it may be. (Matt. 5:29, 30). This principle also applies to single Christians.

15. How can we apply the principle of Matthew 5:27, 28 in our lives? (See also the image.)

15 How can we apply the principle of Matthew 5:27, 28 in our day? Not indulging in immoral desires (2 Sam. 11:2-4; Job 31:1-3). Therefore, it is obvious that mature Christians avoid all forms of pornography. They do not justify themselves by saying that they are only watching and not doing anything immoral. Nor do they excuse their behavior by saying that they only watch “softcore porn,” which is not usually considered as offensive as other, more explicit types of pornography. In Jesus’ day, there were no electronic devices, movies, or photographs. Even so, the principle he gave us shows how Jehovah views immoral content distributed through these media. This helps us understand that Jehovah greatly dislikes modern practices such as sexting or virtual activities that simulate immoral acts. The principle Jesus gave helps married couples avoid betraying their spouse (Mal. 2:15). In fact, it helps all Christians—whether married or single—to avoid anything that could lead them into sexual immorality. (Prov. 5:3-14).

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.)

16 (Read Matthew 5:43, 44). “Love your neighbor.” What principle is behind this law? Jehovah wants us to see everyone as our neighbor and treat them with love. Unfortunately, in Jesus' time, the Jews misapplied this commandment and taught that they could hate their enemies. But Jesus was clear that this was not the purpose of the law. He knew that his loving Heavenly Father expected us to consider others as our neighbors, regardless of their race or nationality. (Matt. 5:45-48).

17. How can we apply the principle of Matthew 5:43, 44 in our lives? (See also the picture.)

17 How can we apply the principle of Matthew 5:43, 44 in our day? Love for our neighbor motivates us not to get involved in the wars and conflicts of this world (Isaiah 2:4; Micah 4:3). It also moves us to treat with kindness those who are of a different race, nationality, or religion than our own. (Hebrews 10:34, 35) And finally, it encourages us to forgive those who harm us or our loved ones. (Matt. 18:21, 22; Mark 11:25; Luke 17:3, 4).

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? b) What will we talk about in the next article?

18 How grateful we are to Jehovah for treating us like adults and not like little children! He wants us to use Bible principles to make good decisions every day (1 Cor. 14:20). And when we do so, we must be determined to understand “what is the will of Jehovah.” (Ephesians 5:17). It is love for Jehovah, not fear of punishment, that will help us to make decisions that are in harmony with his will. But to achieve this goal, he has given us another gift: our conscience. And that is what we will discuss in the next article.

WHAT WOULD YOU ANSWER?

What is a biblical principle?

A Bible principle is a fundamental truth that serves as the basis for a law of God. It could be said that it is the reason behind that law. A principle always takes precedence over laws, since laws tend to be more specific and have a limited application. Furthermore, they may apply to a particular time or situation. In contrast, a Bible principle more broadly reflects Jehovah's way of thinking and can be applied to different circumstances and times.

What is the difference between principles and laws?

The difference between principles and laws is that laws can change, but the principles on which they are based do not. For example, a mother tells her child not to touch the stove. That is a law or a commandment. However, the underlying principle is that the child should not touch anything hot, because they could get hurt.

What are some principles that Jesus taught in the Sermon on the Mount?

Some of the principles that Jesus taught in the Sermon on the Mount are the following:

In Matthew 5:21, 22, when speaking of the law “Do not murder,” he taught that Jehovah does not want us to hate others, whether that hatred is reflected in our actions or words, or remains only in our thoughts.

In Matthew 5:27, 28, when referring to the law “Do not commit adultery,” he showed that Jehovah condemns not only immoral sexual conduct, but also the thoughts that can lead to it.

And in Matthew 5:43, 44, when referring to the law “Love your neighbor,” he taught that Jehovah wants us to view all people as our neighbor and treat them with love.