Answer 1:<\/strong> All of us have the responsibility to maintain and protect the peace of the congregation. Jehovah makes that peace possible, but each of us contributes through the way we treat our brothers, especially when difficult situations arise.<\/p> Romans 12:18<\/strong> \u2014 If possible, as far as it depends on you, be peaceable with all men.<\/em> Isaiah 32:17-18<\/strong> \u2014 The result of true righteousness will be peace, And the fruitage of true righteousness will be lasting tranquility and security. My people will dwell in a peaceful abiding place, In secure dwellings and in tranquil resting-places.<\/em> Answer 1:<\/strong> Philemon was a Christian from Colossae, and Onesimus was his non-Christian slave. Onesimus fled to Rome, possibly after taking money from Philemon. There he became a Christian and eventually became a friend of Paul.<\/p> Colossians 4:9<\/strong> \u2014 He is coming along with Onesimus, my faithful and beloved brother, who is from among you; they will tell you all the things happening here.<\/em> Answer 3:<\/strong> According to Roman law, Onesimus had to return to his master. Paul sent him back, although he would have liked to keep him with him. In this way, he gave priority to doing what was right and preserving peace between these two brothers.<\/p> Answer 1:<\/strong> Paul may have wondered how Philemon would receive Onesimus. Would he exercise his legal right to punish him severely, or would he treat him as a brother? Philemon\u2019s reaction could deeply affect the peace of the congregation.<\/p> Answer 2:<\/strong> He may also have thought about the other brothers, including slaves and masters. A harsh reaction could lead to comments, divisions, or controversy. Paul understood that a personal situation could influence the entire congregation.<\/p> Colossians 4:7-9<\/strong> \u2014 Tychicus, my beloved brother and faithful minister and fellow slave in the Lord, will tell you all the news about me. I am sending him to you so that you will know how we are and that he may comfort your hearts. He is coming along with Onesimus, my faithful and beloved brother, who is from among you; they will tell you all the things happening here.<\/em> Answer 1:<\/strong> Elders contribute to peace when they treat the brothers as friends, just as Paul treated Philemon. They do not place themselves above them but view them as valuable fellow workers and show them affection.<\/p> 2 Corinthians 1:24<\/strong> \u2014 Not that we are the masters over your faith, but we are fellow workers for your joy, for it is by your faith that you are standing.<\/em> 1 Peter 5:1-3<\/strong> \u2014 Therefore, as a fellow elder, a witness of the sufferings of the Christ and a sharer of the glory that is to be revealed, I make this appeal to the elders among you: Shepherd the flock of God under your care, serving as overseers, not under compulsion, but willingly before God; not for love of dishonest gain, but eagerly; not lording it over those who are God\u2019s inheritance, but becoming examples to the flock.<\/em> Answer 1:<\/strong> Sincere praise makes the brothers feel loved and valued. This is very necessary because at times someone may be struggling with insecurities or worries that others do not know about.<\/p> Proverbs 12:25<\/strong> \u2014 Anxiety in a man\u2019s heart weighs it down, But a good word cheers it up.<\/em> Answer 3:<\/strong> Paul praised Philemon for his love and faith. We can look for opportunities to sincerely praise not only accomplishments but also efforts. If we see something good in a brother, we should not keep it to ourselves\u2014let us tell him.<\/p> Answer 1:<\/strong> We need to be careful because our words influence how others view and treat a brother. If we speak well of him, they will be more likely to treat him with kindness and respect.<\/p> Answer 2:<\/strong> Paul spoke well of Onesimus. His kind words may have helped Philemon see him differently\u2014not focusing on what had happened before, but on the Christian he had become.<\/p> Answer 3:<\/strong> The opposite is also true: Negative comments can prejudice others and harm peace. Therefore, we need to cultivate a positive view of our brothers before speaking about them.<\/p> Answer 1:<\/strong> It will help us to imitate Paul and focus on the virtues of the brothers. He knew their faults, but he did not allow those faults to become the main thing he saw in them.<\/p> Philippians 1:3-5<\/strong> \u2014 I thank my God always when I remember you in every supof faith, with which you will be able to extinguish all the wicked one\u2019s burning arrows. because of the contribution you have made to the good news from the first day until this moment.<\/em> 1 Thessalonians 1:2-3<\/strong> \u2014 We always thank God when we mention all of you in our prayers, for we continually remember your faithful work, your loving labor, and your endurance because of your hope in our Lord Jesus Christ in the presence of our God and Father.<\/em> Answer 1:<\/strong> It is striking because Paul wrote with affection and kindness while he was a prisoner. He had previously suffered violence, unjust arrests, detention, and a shipwreck. Even so, he did not take out his stress on Philemon.<\/p> Answer 2:<\/strong> When we are tired, stressed, or facing a trial, we might lose patience and speak harshly. Paul\u2019s example shows that our circumstances do not have to determine how we treat others.<\/p> Answer 3:<\/strong> Paul chose a loving tone because he wanted to resolve the matter peacefully. This teaches us that kindness is not weakness; it can be a strength that protects relationships within the congregation.<\/p> Answer 1:<\/strong> Onesimus teaches us that if we have offended someone, we should acknowledge the mistake and do everything in our power to restore the friendship. He did not avoid the situation but returned to make peace.<\/p> Answer 2:<\/strong> Returning to Philemon could not have been easy. Onesimus made a long, costly, exhausting journey and was willing to face the possible consequences. His example shows that humility requires actions, not merely good intentions.<\/p> Answer 3:<\/strong> We do not know whether Onesimus thought he had reasons to flee. But even if he did, he did not allow that to prevent him from seeking peace with the man who was now his brother. That is a fine model for us.<\/p> Matthew 5:23-25<\/strong> \u2014 \u201cIf, then, you are bringing your gift to the altar and there you remember that your brother has something against you, leave your gift there in front of the altar, and go away. First make your peace with your brother, and then come back and offer your gift. \u201cBe quick to settle matters with your legal opponent, while you are with him on the way there, so that somehow the opponent may not turn you over to the judge, and the judge to the court attendant, and you get thrown into prison.<\/em> Answer 2:<\/strong> We can begin by sincerely apologizing. We should also listen to the other person and try to understand how he feels. A humble apology focuses on repairing the damage, not on defending ourselves.<\/p> Answer 3:<\/strong> It is important to acknowledge the mistake without justifying ourselves or blaming other people or circumstances. That could diminish the value of our apology and prolong the problem. Asking for forgiveness requires humility, but it is usually the quickest path to peace.<\/p> Answer 1:<\/strong> Paul was convinced that Philemon would forgive Onesimus because he knew his good qualities. He knew that Philemon loved Christ and the brothers, qualities that would move him to act mercifully.<\/p> Answer 2:<\/strong> The account does not directly say how Philemon reacted. However, Paul asked him to receive Onesimus and expressed confidence in him. That confidence was based on the kind of Christian Philemon had shown himself to be.<\/p> Answer 3:<\/strong> This teaches us not to define our brothers by a painful matter. If we know their spiritual qualities, it will be easier for us to trust that they want to do what is right and contribute to a peaceful solution.<\/p> Colossians 3:14<\/strong> \u2014 But besides all these things, clothe yourselves with love, for it is a perfect bond of union.<\/em> Answer 2:<\/strong> Philemon was known for his love for the brothers, and that quality would be indispensable for forgiving Onesimus. The stronger our love is, the easier it will be to forgive and continue treating kindly the person who has offended us.<\/p> 1 Corinthians 13:4-7<\/strong> \u2014 Love is patient and kind. Love is not jealous. It does not brag, does not get puffed up, does not behave indecently, does not look for its own interests, does not become provoked. It does not keep account of the injury. It does not rejoice over unrighteousness, but rejoices with the truth. It bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.<\/em> Answer 1:<\/strong> We know that Philemon was hospitable because he made his home available for the congregation to hold meetings there. Opening his home in that way showed practical love for the brothers.<\/p> Answer 2:<\/strong> Additionally, Paul asked him to prepare a place for him to stay. This request indicates that Paul knew Philemon\u2019s generosity and trusted that he would gladly welcome the brothers.<\/p> Answer 3:<\/strong> His hospitality surely made many feel welcome and encouraged. It was not simply a matter of making a house available; he used what he had to strengthen the congregation.<\/p> Answer 1:<\/strong> Hospitality allows us to get to know the brothers better, including those who are not part of our close circle. As we talk and spend time together, we discover qualities that we may not have seen before.<\/p> Answer 2:<\/strong> When we learn about their background, how they learned the truth, and what trials they have endured, our affection and respect grow. We thus gain a better understanding of the beautiful variety that exists among Jehovah\u2019s people.<\/p> John 6:44<\/strong> \u2014 No man can come to me unless the Father, who sent me, draws him, and I will resurrect him on the last day.<\/em> Colossians 3:13<\/strong> \u2014 Continue putting up with one another and forgiving one another freely even if anyone has a cause for complaint against another. Just as Jehovah freely forgave you, you must also do the same.<\/em> Answer 2:<\/strong> The counsel does not deny that someone may have a reason for complaint. But it encourages us not to remain focused on the offense. Philemon could choose not to let what had happened before define his relationship with Onesimus.<\/p> Answer 3:<\/strong> When we find it difficult to forgive, we can ask ourselves how we would apply those words in our own case. Remembering Jehovah\u2019s generous forgiveness helps us take concrete steps to restore peace.<\/p> Answer 1:<\/strong> It means being patient with the brothers and treating them kindly even when they irritate or offend us. Putting up with one another does not mean enduring with resentment, but continuing to show love.<\/p> Psalms 103:13-14<\/strong> \u2014 As a father shows mercy to his sons, Jehovah has shown mercy to those who fear him. For he well knows how we are formed, Remembering that we are dust.<\/em> Psalms 130:3<\/strong> \u2014 If errors were what you watch, O Jah, Then who, O Jehovah, could stand?<\/em>
Answer 2:<\/strong> Romans 12:18 shows that we should do everything within our power to live at peace. So we do not passively wait for a problem to be resolved; we try to speak and act in a way that promotes peace.<\/p>
Answer 3:<\/strong> The peace we enjoy now allows us to imagine the tranquility and security of Paradise. Isaiah connects true righteousness with peace. Thus, when we do what is right in our relationships with our brothers, we reflect that hope.<\/p>2. Briefly tell the story of Philemon and Onesimus (Philemon 8, 9, 17).<\/h3>
Answer 2:<\/strong> When he returned, Onesimus was no longer the man who had left. Colossians presents him as a faithful and beloved brother. Paul pleaded with Philemon to receive him kindly, appealing to the love he had for Christ and for the brothers.<\/p>3. What might Paul have wondered about when sending Onesimus back? (See also the picture.)<\/h3>
Answer 3:<\/strong> Paul sent Tychicus along with Onesimus. Colossians shows that both would bring information to the brothers, and it presents Onesimus in a positive way. Speaking about him in that manner surely helped prepare a peaceful atmosphere.<\/p>4, 5. How can elders contribute to creating a peaceful atmosphere in the congregation?<\/h3>
Answer 2:<\/strong> Paul said that he was not the master of the brothers\u2019 faith but a fellow worker for their joy. This viewpoint helps elders give counsel and assistance humbly, without giving the impression that they want to control others.<\/p>
Answer 3:<\/strong> First Peter reminds us that elders should shepherd willingly and be examples, not act as masters. When they take time to listen to, value, and help the sheep, the peaceful atmosphere of the congregation is strengthened.<\/p>6. Why is it important to praise others?<\/h3>
Answer 2:<\/strong> Proverbs 12:25 says that a good word cheers a person up. Praise can relieve anxiety and prevent someone from becoming irritable, defensive, or competitive. Thus, a kind word can contribute greatly to peace.<\/p>7. Why must we be careful about what we say about others? (Philemon 10-12)<\/h3>
8. What will help us think and speak well of our brothers? (See also the pictures.)<\/h3>
Answer 2:<\/strong> Paul thanked Jehovah when he remembered the brothers in Philippi. We can do something similar: pray for our brothers and thank Jehovah for their qualities. This habit will help us speak about them affectionately.<\/p>
Answer 3:<\/strong> Paul remembered the faithful work, love, and endurance of the Thessalonians. When we focus on such qualities, our view of our brothers becomes more positive, and we are moved to express it with upbuilding words.<\/p>9. Why is it so noteworthy that Paul spoke kindly to Philemon?<\/h3>
10. What does the example of Onesimus teach us?<\/h3>
11. If we have offended someone, how can we make peace? (See also the pictures.)<\/h3>
Answer 1:<\/strong> Jesus taught that we should take the initiative to make peace. So if we know that a brother has something against us, we should not let time pass. Resolving the matter promptly shows that we value the friendship.<\/p>12. Why was Paul convinced that Philemon would forgive Onesimus?<\/h3>
13. Why is showing love essential for maintaining peace? (Colossians 3:14)<\/h3>
Answer 1:<\/strong> Colossians 3:14 calls love \u201ca perfect bond of union.\u201d That is why it is essential for peace: Love unites brothers of different backgrounds and motivates us to protect that unity when difficulties arise.<\/p>
Answer 3:<\/strong> First Corinthians describes a patient and kind love that does not keep account of the injury. Such love does not ignore the problem, but it prevents resentment from controlling the way we treat our brother.<\/p>14. How do we know that Philemon was hospitable?<\/h3>
15. Why will we love our brothers more if we are hospitable? (See also the pictures.)<\/h3>
Answer 3:<\/strong> John 6:44 reminds us that Jehovah draws people to his family. Thinking about this helps us value each brother and look beyond differences in personality, age, or background.<\/p>16. What might Philemon have done to apply the words of Colossians 3:13?<\/h3>
Answer 1:<\/strong> Philemon may have remembered these words when thinking about Onesimus. If he still felt resentful, he knew that he should continue putting up with him and forgive him generously, just as Jehovah forgives his servants.<\/p>17. What does Paul\u2019s counsel \u201cContinue putting up with one another\u201d mean?<\/h3>
Answer 2:<\/strong> Jehovah knows our weaknesses well and remembers that we are dust. His example teaches us to be reasonable with others. If Jehovah focuses on our virtues, we too should strive to see the good qualities of our brothers.<\/p>
Answer 3:<\/strong> Psalm 130:3 makes us think that no one could stand if Jehovah kept a record of all errors. Remembering this helps us not keep account of the faults of others or feed resentment.<\/p>