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1-2. (a) What is sin, and how can we win our fight against it? (See also “Expression Explained.”) (b) What will we discuss in this article and in the other articles found in this issue of The Watchtower? (See also “Note to Readers” in this issue.)

WOULD you like to know how much Jehovah God loves you? Here is a good way for you to learn the answer: Study what he has done in order to save you from sin and death. Sina is a terrible enemy, one that you cannot defeat on your own. We all sin daily, and we die because of sin. (Rom. 5:12) There is good news, though. With Jehovah’s help, we can defeat sin. In fact, our victory is absolutely certain!

² Jehovah God has been helping humans fight against sin for some 6,000 years. Why? Because he loves us. He has loved humans from the very beginning, so he has gone to great lengths to help them in this fight. God knows that sin leads to death, and he does not want us to die. He wants us to live forever. (Rom. 6:23) That is what he wants for you. In this article, we will discuss three questions: (1) How did Jehovah offer hope to sinful humans? (2) How did sinful humans in Bible times gain Jehovah’s favor? (3) How did Jesus come to the rescue of sinful humankind?

HOW DID JEHOVAH OFFER HOPE TO SINFUL HUMANS?

3. How did our first parents come to be sinners?

³ When Jehovah created the first man and woman, he wanted them to be happy. He gave them a beautiful home, the gift of marriage, and a fascinating assignment. They were to fill the earth with their descendants, making the whole planet a paradise like the garden of Eden. He gave them only one simple restriction. And he warned them that if they broke that command by deliberately rebelling against him, their sin would lead to death. We know what happened. An invisible spirit, one who had no love for God or for them, entered the picture and tempted them to commit that sin. Adam and Eve gave in to that bad influence. Failing to trust their loving Father, they sinned. As we know, Jehovah’s words proved true. From that day onward, they had to face the consequences: they began to grow old, and finally they died.​—Gen. 1:28, 29; 2:8, 9, 16-18; 3:1-6, 17-19, 24; 5:5.

4. Why does Jehovah hate sin and help us fight against it? (Romans 8:20, 21)

⁴ Jehovah had that sad account recorded for our benefit. It helps us to understand why he hates sin so much. Sin separates us from our Father, and it leads to death. (Isa. 59:2) That is why Satan, the rebel spirit who instigated all this trouble, loves sin and seeks to promote it. He might have thought that he won a great victory in Eden. But he did not understand how loving Jehovah is. God never changed his purpose for the descendants of Adam and Eve. He loves the human family, so he immediately offered hope to all. (Read Romans 8:20, 21.) Jehovah knew that some of those descendants would choose to love him and would seek his help in fighting against sin. And as their Father and Creator, he would give them a way to be set free from sin and draw close to him. What would Jehovah do to make all that possible?

5. When did Jehovah offer a first glimmer of hope to sinful mankind? Explain. (Genesis 3:15)

⁵ Read Genesis 3:15. The first glimmer of hope came when Jehovah pronounced his sentence on Satan. God foretold that an “offspring” would be the key to hope. This offspring would eventually crush Satan, undoing all the evil that he had caused in Eden. (1 John 3:8) However, that offspring would suffer in the process. Satan would strike him, causing his death. That would hurt Jehovah most deeply. But the pain would all be worth it in the end because countless humans would be saved from sin and death.

HOW DID SINFUL HUMANS IN BIBLE TIMES GAIN JEHOVAH’S FAVOR?

6. What did men of faith, such as Abel and Noah, do in order to draw close to Jehovah?

⁶ Through the centuries that followed, Jehovah gradually made it clearer and clearer how sinful humans could draw close to him. Abel, the second son of Adam and Eve, was the first human to put faith in Jehovah after the tragedy in Eden. Because Abel loved Jehovah and sought to please Him and draw close to Him, he offered up a sacrifice. Abel was a shepherd, so he took some of his young lambs and slaughtered them, offering them up to Jehovah. How did Jehovah respond? He “looked with favor on Abel and on his offering.” (Gen. 4:4) Jehovah expressed approval of similar sacrifices offered up by people who loved him and trusted in him​—such as Noah. (Gen. 8:20, 21) By accepting such sacrifices, Jehovah showed that sinful humans could gain his favor and draw close to him.b

7. What do we learn from Abraham’s willingness to sacrifice his own son?

⁷ Jehovah asked Abraham, a remarkable man of faith, to do something extremely difficult​—to offer up his own son Isaac as a sacrifice. Abraham surely found this to be the most painful task imaginable. Nonetheless, he prepared to follow through with it. But God stopped him at the last moment. Still, that example teaches all people of faith a vital truth​—Jehovah would be willing to offer his own beloved Son as a sacrifice. Jehovah loves humans that much.​—Gen. 22:1-18.

8. What did the many sacrifices under the Law point to? (Leviticus 4:27-29; 17:11)

⁸ Centuries later, the Law given to the nation of Israel called for many sacrifices to atone for the sins of God’s people. (Read Leviticus 4:27-29; 17:11.) Such sacrifices pointed to a greater sacrifice, one that would completely save mankind from sin. God’s prophets were inspired to explain that the promised offspring, who turned out to be a special Son of God, would have to suffer and be put to death. He would be slaughtered like a sacrificial sheep. (Isa. 53:1-12) Imagine: Jehovah would arrange for his own beloved Son to be sacrificed in order to save mankind​—including you—​from sin and death!

HOW DID JESUS COME TO THE RESCUE?

9. What did John the Baptist indicate about Jesus? (Hebrews 9:22; 10:1-4, 12)

⁹ In the first century C.E., God’s servant John the Baptist pointed to Jesus of Nazareth and said: “See, the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world!” (John 1:29) These inspired words identified Jesus as the long-foretold offspring. He would offer up the promised sacrifice. Now more than ever before, there was a solid hope for sinful mankind​—a complete victory over sin.​—Read Hebrews 9:22; 10:1-4, 12.

10. How did Jesus show that he “came to call” sinners?

¹⁰ Jesus focused special attention on people who felt weighed down by sin and invited them to become his followers. He knew that sin was the root cause of mankind’s ills. So he reached out to men and women who were known to be sinners. Using an illustration, he explained: “Healthy people do not need a physician, but those who are ill do.” He added: “I came to call, not righteous people, but sinners.” (Matt. 9:12, 13) Jesus lived up to those words. He gently forgave the sins of the woman who washed his feet with her tears. (Luke 7:37-50) He taught vital truths to the Samaritan woman at the well, though he knew of her immoral lifestyle. (John 4:7, 17-19, 25, 26) God even empowered Jesus to undo the end result of all sin​—death. How? Jesus resurrected people​—male and female, children and adults.​—Matt. 11:5.

11. Why were sinful humans drawn to Jesus?

¹¹ It is no wonder that even people deeply caught up in sin were drawn to Jesus. He showed them compassion and empathy. They felt comfortable approaching him. (Luke 15:1, 2) And Jesus commended and rewarded such ones for showing faith in him. (Luke 19:1-10) He provided a perfect, living picture of his Father’s mercy. (John 14:9) By word and deed, he showed that his compassionate, merciful Father loves people and wants to help each of them to win the fight against sin. Jesus helped sinful people to want to change their ways and to follow him.​—Luke 5:27, 28.

12. What did Jesus teach about his own death?

¹² Jesus knew what lay ahead of him. More than once, he told his followers that he would be betrayed and executed on a stake. (Matt. 17:22; 20:18, 19) He knew that his sacrifice would take away the sin of the world, as John had proclaimed and the prophets had foretold. Jesus also taught that after offering his life, he would “draw all sorts of men” to himself. (John 12:32) Sinful humans could please Jehovah by accepting Jesus as their Lord and by following in his steps. If they did so, they would finally be “set free from sin.” (Rom. 6:14, 18, 22; John 8:32) So Jesus willingly and courageously faced his terrible death.​—John 10:17, 18.

13. How did Jesus die, and what did his death teach us about Jehovah God? (See also picture.)

¹³ Jesus was betrayed, arrested, verbally abused, slandered, convicted, and even tortured. Soldiers led him to the site of execution and nailed him to a stake. As he faithfully endured all that agony, there was Someone who felt even more pain. That was Jehovah God. He held back his infinite power and refrained from intervening. Why? What could move a loving Father to act in that way? In a word, love. Jesus said: “God loved the world so much that he gave his only-begotten Son, so that everyone exercising faith in him might not be destroyed but have everlasting life.”​—John 3:16.

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14. What does Jesus’ sacrifice teach you?

¹⁴ Jesus’ sacrifice is the ultimate proof of how much Jehovah loves the descendants of Adam and Eve. It proves how much Jehovah loves you. He went to great lengths, subjecting himself to the worst pain imaginable in order to rescue you from sin and death. (1 John 4:9, 10) Yes, he wants to help each one of us to fight against sin​—and to win!

15. What must we do in order to benefit from God’s gift of the ransom sacrifice of Jesus?

¹⁵ God’s gift, the ransom sacrifice of his only-begotten Son, makes it possible for us to have our sins forgiven. But to receive God’s forgiveness, we must do something. What is that? John the Baptist and then Jesus Christ himself provided the answer: “Repent, for the Kingdom of the heavens has drawn near.” (Matt. 3:1, 2; 4:17) So repentance is key if we truly want to fight against sin and draw close to our loving Father. But what is involved in being repentant, and how does it help us combat our sinful condition? The next study article will provide the answer.

Is the marking described at 2 Thessalonians 3:14 an action taken by the congregation or by individual Christians?

The apostle Paul wrote to the Christians in Thessalonica, saying: “If anyone is not obedient to our word through this letter, keep this one marked.” (2 Thess. 3:14) Previously, we said that this was direction to the elders. If someone continued to ignore Bible principles in spite of repeated counsel, the elders might give a warning talk to the congregation. Thereafter, individual publishers would not socialize with the marked one.

However, an adjustment is needed. Paul’s counsel evidently refers to an action that individual Christians should take under certain circumstances. So there is no need for the elders to give a warning talk. Why the change? Consider Paul’s counsel in its context.

Paul noted that some in that congregation were “walking disorderly.” They were disregarding inspired counsel. During a previous visit, he gave this order: “If anyone does not want to work, neither let him eat.” Yet, some were still refusing to work to support themselves, although able to do so. Also, they were meddling in the affairs of others. How were Christians to treat such disorderly ones?​—2 Thess. 3:6, 10-12.

“Keep this one marked,” said Paul. The Greek word suggests taking special notice of this person. Paul addressed this directive to the whole congregation, not just the elders. (2 Thess. 1:1; 3:6) So individual Christians who might have noticed a fellow Christian disobeying inspired counsel would choose to “stop associating with” the disorderly one.

Did this mean that the person was treated as someone who was removed from the congregation? No, for Paul added: “Continue admonishing him as a brother.” So individual Christians would still associate with the marked one at meetings and in the ministry, but they would choose not to associate with him for social occasions or recreation. Why? “That he may become ashamed,” said Paul. As a result of the marking, the disorderly Christian might become ashamed of his conduct and change his ways.​—2 Thess. 3:14, 15.

How might Christians today apply this counsel? First, we would want to make sure that the conduct in question is actually “disorderly,” as Paul described. He was not talking about those who differ from us in matters of conscience or personal preference. And he did not mean those who simply have hurt our feelings. Rather, Paul had in mind specifically those who deliberately chose to disobey clear, God-given counsel.

Today, if we notice a fellow Christian who shows such a disobedient spirit,a we will make a personal decision not to associate with him for social occasions or recreation. Since this is a personal decision, we would not discuss it with others outside of our immediate family. And we would still associate with that individual at our meetings and in our ministry. When he corrects his course, we would then resume normal association.

1. What is involved in repentance?

WHEN we do something wrong, it is vital that we repent. In the Bible, a person who repents changes his mind about a certain kind of behavior, stops behaving in that way, and is determined not to repeat it.​—See Glossary, “Repentance.”

2. Why do we all need to learn about repentance? (Nehemiah 8:9-11)

² Every human alive needs to learn about repentance. Why? Because we all sin daily. As descendants of Adam and Eve, each of us has inherited sin and death. (Rom. 3:23; 5:12) Not one of us is exempt. Even outstanding men of faith, such as the apostle Paul, struggled against sin. (Rom. 7:21-24) Does this mean that we should be miserable all the time because of our sins? No, Jehovah is merciful, and he wants us to be happy. Consider the experience of the Jews in Nehemiah’s day. (Read Nehemiah 8:9-11.) Jehovah did not want them to be grief-stricken over past sins but wanted them to be joyful in their worship of him. Jehovah knows that repentance leads to happiness. So he teaches us about it. If we repent of our sins, we can be confident that our merciful Father will forgive us.

3. What will we consider in this article?

³ Let us learn more about repentance. In this article, we will consider three aspects. First, we will learn what Jehovah taught Israel about repentance. Then, we will focus on how Jehovah reached out to sinners in order to lead them to repentance. Finally, we will discuss what Jesus’ followers learned about repentance.

WHAT JEHOVAH TAUGHT ISRAEL ABOUT REPENTANCE

4. What did Jehovah teach the nation of Israel about repentance?

⁴ When Jehovah organized the Israelites into a nation, he made a covenant, a formal agreement, with them. If they kept his laws, he would protect and bless them. Regarding those laws, he assured them: “Now this commandment that I am commanding you today is not too difficult for you, nor is it beyond your reach.” (Deut. 30:11, 16) But if they rebelled against him​—for example, by choosing to worship other gods—​he would withdraw his blessing, and they would suffer. Yet, even then, they could still regain God’s favor. They could “return to Jehovah [their] God and listen to his voice.” (Deut. 30:1-3, 17-20) In other words, they could repent. If they did so, Jehovah would draw close to them and bless them once more.

5. How did Jehovah show that he did not give up on his people? (2 Kings 17:13, 14)

⁵ Jehovah’s chosen people repeatedly rebelled against him. In addition to practicing idolatry, they carried out other degraded practices. As a result, they suffered. But Jehovah did not give up on his wayward people. He sent prophets again and again to urge his people to repent and return to him.​—Read 2 Kings 17:13, 14.

6. How did Jehovah use his prophets to teach his people the importance of repentance? (See also picture.)

⁶ Jehovah often used his prophets to warn and correct his people. For example, God said through Jeremiah: “Return, O renegade Israel . . . I will not look down angrily on you, for I am loyal . . . I will not stay resentful forever. Only acknowledge your guilt, for you have rebelled against Jehovah.” (Jer. 3:12, 13) By means of Joel, Jehovah said: “Return to me with all your hearts.” (Joel 2:12, 13) He had Isaiah declare: “Make yourselves clean; remove your evil deeds from my sight; stop doing bad.” (Isa. 1:16-19) And by means of Ezekiel, Jehovah asked: “Do I take any pleasure at all in the death of a wicked person? . . . Do I not prefer that he turn away from his ways and keep living? I do not take any pleasure in the death of anyone, . . . so turn back and live.” (Ezek. 18:23, 32) Jehovah takes delight in seeing people repent because he wants them to keep living​—forever! So Jehovah does not just wait passively for sinful people to change before he offers them help. Let us see some other examples of this.

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7. Using the account of the prophet Hosea and his wife, what did Jehovah teach his people?

⁷ Notice what Jehovah taught his people by means of a real-life example​—that of Gomer, the wife of the prophet Hosea. After committing adultery, she left Hosea for other men. Was she beyond help? Jehovah, who can read hearts, told Hosea: “Go once again, love the woman who is loved by another man and is committing adultery, just as Jehovah loves the people of Israel while they turn to other gods.” (Hos. 3:1; Prov. 16:2) Note that Hosea’s wife was still involved in a course of serious sin. Yet, Jehovah told Hosea to reach out to her and offer forgiveness and reconciliation.a Similarly, Jehovah had not given up on his obstinate people. Even though they were caught up in terrible sins, he still loved them and continued to reach out and help them to repent and change their ways. Does this example suggest that Jehovah, “the examiner of hearts,” will reach out to an individual who is still involved in serious sin and try to lead that one to repentance? (Prov. 17:3) Let us see.

HOW JEHOVAH LEADS SINNERS TO REPENTANCE

8. How did Jehovah reach out to Cain in order to lead him to repentance? (Genesis 4:3-7) (See also picture.)

⁸ Cain was Adam and Eve’s first son. He inherited sinful tendencies from his parents. Additionally, the Bible says of him: “His own works were wicked.” (1 John 3:12) Perhaps that explains why Jehovah “did not look with any favor on Cain and on his offering” when he offered up a sacrifice. Instead of changing his ways, “Cain grew hot with anger and was dejected.” What did Jehovah do next? He spoke to Cain. (Read Genesis 4:3-7.) Note that Jehovah reasoned kindly with Cain, offering him hope and warning him against the danger of sin. Sadly, Cain refused to listen. He did not let Jehovah lead him to repentance. After that negative response, did Jehovah stop trying to lead other sinners to repentance? Far from it!

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9. How did Jehovah lead David to repentance?

⁹ Jehovah dearly loved King David. He even called him “a man agreeable to my heart.” (Acts 13:22) But David became involved in gross sins, including adultery and murder. According to the Mosaic Law, David deserved to die. (Lev. 20:10; Num. 35:31) Yet, Jehovah kindly stepped in.b He sent his prophet Nathan to visit the king, even though David had not yet shown any sign of repentance. Nathan used an illustration designed to touch David’s heart. Deeply moved, David repented. (2 Sam. 12:1-14) He wrote a heartfelt psalm that reveals his repentant spirit. (Ps. 51, superscription) That psalm has comforted countless sinners and motivated them to repent. Are we not glad that Jehovah lovingly led his beloved servant David to repentance?

10. How do you feel about Jehovah’s patience and forgiveness in dealing with sinful humans?

¹⁰ Jehovah hates sin, and he does not condone it in any form. (Ps. 5:4, 5) However, he knows that we are all sinners, and out of love for us, he chooses to help us to fight against sin. He is always trying to help even the worst of sinners to repent and draw close to him. How comforting it is to know that! As we reflect on Jehovah’s patience and forgiveness, we are determined to stay faithful to him and to be quick to repent when we sin. Let us now consider how the Christian congregation was further taught about repentance.

WHAT JESUS’ FOLLOWERS LEARNED ABOUT REPENTANCE

11-12. What did Jesus teach his listeners about his Father’s forgiving nature? (See picture.)

¹¹ In the first century C.E., the time had come for the Messiah to arrive. As mentioned in the preceding article, Jehovah used both John the Baptist and Jesus Christ to teach people how important it is to repent.​—Matt. 3:1, 2; 4:17.

¹² Throughout his ministry, Jesus taught his listeners about his Father’s forgiving nature. Jesus did so in a striking way when he gave the parable of the lost son. That young man chose to pursue a sinful way of life for some time. Yet, he “came to his senses” and returned home. How did the father respond? Jesus said that while the son “was still a long way off, his father caught sight of him and was moved with pity, and he ran and embraced him and tenderly kissed him.” The son intended to ask if he could become a servant in his father’s household, but his father called him “this son of mine” and restored him to his place in the family. The father said: “He was lost and has been found.” (Luke 15:11-32) When Jesus lived in heaven before coming to earth, he had surely seen his Father show such compassion toward countless repentant sinners. What a heartwarming and reassuring picture Jesus painted of our merciful Father, Jehovah!

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13-14. What did the apostle Peter learn about repentance, and what did he teach others about it? (See also picture.)

¹³ The apostle Peter learned a great deal from Jesus about repentance and forgiveness. Peter often needed forgiveness, and Jesus extended it generously. For example, after Peter denied knowing his Lord three times, he felt crushed by his own guilt. (Matt. 26:34, 35, 69-75) But after Jesus was resurrected, he appeared to Peter​—apparently in private. (Luke 24:33, 34; 1 Cor. 15:3-5) No doubt on that occasion, Jesus lovingly forgave and reassured his repentant apostle.​—See Mark 16:7 and study note “and Peter.”

¹⁴ Having had firsthand experience, Peter could now teach others about repentance and forgiveness. Some time after the festival of Pentecost, Peter gave a discourse to a crowd of unbelieving Jews, explaining to them that they had put the Messiah to death. Yet, he lovingly urged them: “Repent, therefore, and turn around so as to get your sins blotted out, so that seasons of refreshing may come from Jehovah himself.” (Acts 3:14, 15, 17, 19) Peter thus showed that repentance moves a sinner to turn around​—to change his wrong way of thinking and acting—​and to pursue a new course, one pleasing to God. The apostle also showed that Jehovah would blot out their sins, or cause their sins to disappear. And decades later, Peter assured Christians: “Jehovah . . . is patient with you because he does not desire anyone to be destroyed but desires all to attain to repentance.” (2 Pet. 3:9) What a beautiful hope for Christians when they commit sins​—even serious ones!

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15-16. (a) How did the apostle Paul learn about forgiveness? (1 Timothy 1:12-15) (b) What will we consider in the following article?

¹⁵ Few people have ever needed to repent and be forgiven more than Saul of Tarsus. He was a vicious persecutor of Christ’s beloved followers. Most Christians likely viewed him as a lost cause, beyond any hope of repentance. Yet, the resurrected Jesus was far above such flawed human reasoning. He and his Father saw good qualities in Saul. Jesus said: “This man is a chosen vessel to me.” (Acts 9:15) Jesus even used a miracle to lead Saul to repentance. (Acts 7:58–8:3; 9:1-9, 17-20) After becoming a Christian, Saul​—later known as the apostle Paul—​often expressed his appreciation for the way he had been shown kindness and mercy. (Read 1 Timothy 1:12-15.) The grateful apostle taught: “God in his kindness is trying to lead you to repentance.”​—Rom. 2:4.

¹⁶ When Paul heard about a scandalous problem regarding immorality in the Christian congregation in Corinth, how did he handle it? He did so in a way that teaches us a great deal about Jehovah’s loving discipline and about the importance of showing mercy. We will consider that account in greater detail in the following article.

1. What does Jehovah want for all people?

JEHOVAH created humans with free will. You use that gift regularly when you make decisions. The most important decision that any person can make is the decision to dedicate himself to Jehovah and to become part of His family of worshippers. Jehovah desires everyone to do so. Why? Because he loves people and wants the best for them. He wants them to enjoy a friendship with him and to live forever.​—Deut. 30:19, 20; Gal. 6:7, 8.

2. How does Jehovah feel about unrepentant wrongdoers? (1 John 2:1)

² However, Jehovah does not force anyone to serve him. He allows each individual to decide what he will do. What if a baptized Christian breaks God’s law, committing a serious sin? If he does not repent, he must be removed from the congregation. (1 Cor. 5:13) Yet, even then, Jehovah fervently hopes that the wrongdoer will return to Him. In fact, that is an important reason why he provided the ransom​—to make forgiveness possible for repentant sinners. (Read 1 John 2:1.) Our loving God warmly appeals to wrongdoers, urging them to repent.​—Zech. 1:3; Rom. 2:4; Jas. 4:8.

3. What will we discuss in this article?

³ Jehovah wants us to adopt his attitude toward wrongdoing and wrongdoers. This article will discuss the way we can do that. As you read the article, look for (1) how a case of serious wrongdoing was handled in the first-century congregation in Corinth, (2) what direction the apostle Paul gave when a wrongdoer repented, and (3) what this Bible account reveals about Jehovah’s attitude toward Christians who commit a serious sin.

HOW SERIOUS WRONGDOING WAS HANDLED IN THE FIRST CENTURY

4. What situation had developed in the first-century congregation in Corinth? (1 Corinthians 5:1, 2)

⁴ Read 1 Corinthians 5:1, 2. During his third missionary tour, Paul heard disturbing news about the newly established congregation in Corinth. A brother in that congregation was having sexual relations with his stepmother. Such behavior was shocking and was “not even found among the nations”! The congregation not only tolerated his behavior but also may have been rather proud of it. Perhaps some thought that it demonstrated how merciful and understanding God is toward imperfect humans. But Jehovah does not condone wrongdoing among his people. With such a brazen course, the man was surely damaging the good reputation of the congregation. He could also have been influencing other Christians who were associating with him. So, what did Paul direct the congregation to do?

5. What did Paul tell the congregation to do, and what did he mean? (1 Corinthians 5:13) (See also picture.)

⁵ Read 1 Corinthians 5:13. Under divine inspiration, Paul wrote a letter directing that the unrepentant sinner be removed from the congregation. How were faithful Christians to treat him? Paul told them “to stop keeping company” with him. What did that mean? Paul explained that this command included “not even eating with such a man.” (1 Cor. 5:11) Sitting down to a meal with someone can easily lead to having further association with him. Clearly, then, Paul meant that the congregation should not socialize with that man. This would protect the congregation from his corrupting influence. (1 Cor. 5:5-7) Additionally, their avoiding close contact with the man might cause him to realize how far he had strayed from Jehovah’s ways, and he might feel shame and be moved to repent.

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6. What effect did Paul’s letter have on the congregation and on the wrongdoer?

⁶ After sending his letter to the Christians in Corinth, Paul began to wonder how the congregation would react to it. Eventually, Titus brought news that delighted him. The congregation had responded well to Paul’s letter. (2 Cor. 7:6, 7) They had followed his instructions. Furthermore, during the months that passed since Paul sent the letter, the wrongdoer had repented of his sinful course! He had changed his conduct and attitude and had begun to follow Jehovah’s righteous standards. (2 Cor. 7:8-11) What would Paul now direct the congregation to do?

HOW THE CONGREGATION WAS TO TREAT THE REPENTANT SINNER

7. Removing the wrongdoer from the congregation produced what good result? (2 Corinthians 2:5-8)

⁷ Read 2 Corinthians 2:5-8. Paul noted that the “rebuke given by the majority [was] sufficient for such a man.” In other words, the discipline had served its purpose toward him. What purpose? To lead him to repentance.​—Heb. 12:11.

8. What did Paul next tell the congregation to do?

⁸ Paul therefore directed the congregation: “Kindly forgive and comfort” the erring brother, and “confirm your love for him.” Note that Paul wanted the congregation to do more than merely allow the man back among Jehovah’s people. Paul wanted them to assure the repentant man by their words, manner, and actions that they truly forgave him and loved him. They would thus make it clear that they welcomed his return to the congregation.

9. Why might some have been hesitant to forgive the repentant wrongdoer?

⁹ Did some in that congregation feel reluctant to welcome the repentant sinner back into their midst? The account does not tell us, but it is possible. After all, his actions brought trouble to the congregation as a whole and perhaps shame to certain individuals as well. Some might have felt that it was unfair that the man should be so warmly accepted as a brother when they were the ones who had fought so hard to remain morally clean. (Compare Luke 15:28-30.) Why, though, was it important for the congregation to show genuine love for their returning brother?

10-11. What could happen if the elders refused to forgive the repentant sinner?

¹⁰ Imagine what could happen if the elders refused to allow the truly repentant man back into the congregation or if after his return, the congregation refused to show him love. He could be swallowed up by “excessive sadness.” He could easily feel that his situation was hopeless. He might even give up in his efforts to repair his relationship with God.

¹¹ Even worse, if the other brothers and sisters in the congregation refused to forgive the repentant sinner, they would put their own relationship with Jehovah in jeopardy. Why? Because they would reflect, not Jehovah’s forgiving attitude toward repentant wrongdoers, but Satan’s harsh and merciless attitude. They would, in effect, become tools that the Devil could use to destroy the man spiritually.​—2 Cor. 2:10, 11; Eph. 4:27.

12. How could the congregation imitate Jehovah?

¹² How, then, could the congregation in Corinth imitate Jehovah, not Satan? By following Jehovah’s way of dealing with repentant sinners. Note what some Bible writers said about Jehovah. He is “good and ready to forgive,” said David. (Ps. 86:5) Micah wrote: “Who is a God like you, pardoning error and passing over the transgression?” (Mic. 7:18) And Isaiah stated: “Let the wicked man leave his way and the evil man his thoughts; let him return to Jehovah, who will have mercy on him, to our God, for he will forgive in a large way.”​—Isa. 55:7.

13. Why was it appropriate to reinstate the repentant sinner into the congregation? (See the box “When Was the Man in Corinth Reinstated?”)

¹³ To imitate Jehovah, the congregation in Corinth had to welcome the repentant man back and assure him of their love. By following Paul’s direction to welcome back the repentant sinner, the congregation showed their “obedience in all things.” (2 Cor. 2:9) True, only months had passed since he was removed, but the discipline had successfully led him to repentance. So there would be no point in delaying his reinstatement into the congregation.

REFLECTING JEHOVAH’S JUSTICE AND MERCY

14-15. What have we learned from the way the case in ancient Corinth was handled? (2 Peter 3:9) (See also picture.)

¹⁴ The account about the way the case in ancient Corinth was handled was written and preserved “for our instruction.” (Rom. 15:4) From that account, we learn that Jehovah does not tolerate serious wrongdoing among his people. He does not take the view that wrongdoers who are unrepentant should be “mercifully” allowed to continue associating with his faithful worshippers. Jehovah is merciful, but he is not permissive; nor does he lower his standards. (Jude 4) Indeed, to do so would not be merciful at all because it would endanger all in the congregation.​—Prov. 13:20; 1 Cor. 15:33.

¹⁵ Still, we learn that Jehovah does not want anyone to be destroyed. He wants to save people whenever possible. He shows mercy to people who have a change of heart and want to repair their relationship with him. (Ezek. 33:11; read 2 Peter 3:9.) Thus, when the man in Corinth repented and turned away from his sinful course, Jehovah used Paul to explain to the congregation that the man should be forgiven and welcomed back.

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16. How do you feel about the way the case in Corinth was handled?

¹⁶ Our review of the way the case in Corinth was handled has helped us to see Jehovah’s love, righteousness, and justice in action. (Ps. 33:5) Are you not moved to give our God added praise? After all, we are sinners​—every one of us—​and we need his forgiveness. Each of us has reason to be grateful to Jehovah for the ransom, which makes forgiveness possible. How comforting, how reassuring, to know that Jehovah truly loves his people and wants the best for them!

17. What will be discussed in the following articles?

¹⁷ What, then, about handling cases of wrongdoing today? How can congregation elders reflect Jehovah’s desire to lead a wrongdoer to repentance? How should the congregation react when the elders decide to remove or to reinstate a person? These questions will be discussed in the following articles.

1. What is true of some who commit a serious sin?

IN THE preceding article, we saw how the apostle Paul handled a case of serious wrongdoing in Corinth. The sinner was unrepentant and had to be removed from the congregation. However, as our theme text shows, some who have committed a serious sin can be reached. They can be led to repentance. (Rom. 2:4) How can the elders help them to repent?

2-3. What should we do if we come to know that a fellow believer has committed a serious sin, and why?

² Before the elders can help, they need to be aware of the matter. So, what should we do if we come to know that a fellow believer has committed a serious sin​—something that could result in his being removed from the congregation? We should encourage the wrongdoer to go to the elders for help.​—Isa. 1:18; Acts 20:28; 1 Pet. 5:2.

³ What, though, if the wrongdoer refuses to speak to the elders? Then we would go to the elders ourselves to make sure that the person will get the necessary help. That is the loving thing to do because we do not want to lose our brother or sister. If the wrongdoer continues in his course, he will further impair his relationship with Jehovah. He may also damage the reputation of the congregation. So we courageously take action out of love for Jehovah and for the wrongdoer.​—Ps. 27:14.

HOW THE ELDERS ASSIST THOSE WHO GET INVOLVED IN SERIOUS SIN

4. What is the elders’ goal when they meet with someone who has committed a serious sin?

⁴ When someone in the congregation commits a serious sin, the body of elders selects three qualified brothers from among them who will serve as a committee.a These men need to be modest and humble. While they will try to help the erring one to repent, they recognize that they cannot force someone to change. (Deut. 30:19) The elders acknowledge that not all wrongdoers will respond in a positive way, as did King David. (2 Sam. 12:13) Some wrongdoers may choose to ignore Jehovah’s admonition. (Gen. 4:6-8) Nevertheless, the elders’ goal is to lead the wrongdoer to repentance if at all possible. What principles guide them as they meet with the wrongdoer?

5. What counsel will the elders have in mind when they meet with the wrongdoer? (2 Timothy 2:24-26) (See also picture.)

⁵ The elders view the wrongdoer as a precious, lost sheep. (Luke 15:4, 6) Therefore, when they meet with the individual, they are not harsh in their speech, attitude, and approach; nor do they view the meeting as a mere routine in which they follow a set procedure. Instead, they will display the qualities found at 2 Timothy 2:24-26. (Read.) The elders remain mild, gentle, and kind as they strive to reach the wrongdoer’s heart.

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6. How will the elders prepare their own heart before meeting with a wrongdoer? (Romans 2:4)

⁶ The elders prepare their own heart. They try to imitate Jehovah in all their dealings with a sinner, remembering Paul’s words: “God in his kindness is trying to lead you to repentance.” (Read Romans 2:4.) The elders must remember that they are primarily shepherds under the direction of Christ. (Isa. 11:3, 4; Matt. 18:18-20) Before meeting with the wrongdoer, the committee will prayerfully consider their goal: to lead the wrongdoer to repentance. They will do research in the Scriptures and in our publications and will pray for discernment. They will consider what they need to know about the individual’s background that may have contributed to his thinking, attitude, and conduct.​—Prov. 20:5.

7-8. How can the elders imitate Jehovah’s patience when they meet with a wrongdoer?

⁷ The elders imitate Jehovah’s patience. They keep in mind how Jehovah dealt with wrongdoers in the past. For example, Jehovah reasoned patiently with Cain, warning him about the consequences of sin and offering him hope of restoration. (Gen. 4:6, 7) Jehovah admonished David by means of the prophet Nathan, who used an illustration that touched the heart of the king. (2 Sam. 12:1-7) And Jehovah “kept sending” his prophets “again and again” to the wayward nation of Israel. (Jer. 7:24, 25) He did not wait for his people to repent before helping them. Rather, he took the initiative by urging them to repent.

⁸ Elders follow Jehovah’s example when trying to help those who have got involved in serious sin. As 2 Timothy 4:2 directs, they reason “with all patience” when dealing with a troubled fellow believer. A study note on that verse says of such an elder: “He would always need to show restraint, patiently appealing to [the sinner’s] desire to do what [is] right. If [the elder] were to give in to annoyance or frustration, he might alienate or even stumble [the sinner].”

9-10. How can elders help the sinner reason on his course?

⁹ The elders try to determine the circumstances that led up to the sin. For example, did the Christian slowly become weak because he neglected personal study or the ministry? Have his prayers to Jehovah become infrequent or superficial? Has he been allowing wrong desires to guide him? Has he made unwise choices in his associations or entertainment? How might such choices have affected his heart? Does he recognize how his recent decisions and actions have affected his Father, Jehovah?

¹⁰ By asking meaningful questions without being unnecessarily intrusive, the elders kindly draw out the wrongdoer and help him to reason on his course. (Prov. 20:5) In addition, they might use illustrations to help the person to reason and to see the wrongness of his actions, as Nathan did with David. Perhaps during the first meeting, the person will begin to feel real sorrow over the course he has followed. He may even repent.

11. How did Jesus deal with sinners?

¹¹ The elders strive to imitate Jesus. When dealing with Saul of Tarsus, the resurrected Jesus asked a probing question: “Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting me?” Jesus thereby helped him to reason on his wrong course. (Acts 9:3-6) And in the case of “that woman Jezebel,” Jesus said: “I gave her time to repent.”​—Rev. 2:20, 21.

12-13. How might the elders give a wrongdoer time to repent? (See also picture.)

¹² In imitation of Jesus, the elders are not hasty to conclude that a wrongdoer will not repent. While some may repent during the committee’s first meeting with them, others may need more time. So the elders may arrange to meet with the sinner more than once. Perhaps after that first meeting, the erring Christian will begin to think seriously about what he has been told. He may approach Jehovah in humble prayer. (Ps. 32:5; 38:18) Thus, at a subsequent meeting, the sinner may have a different spirit from the one he showed at the first meeting.

¹³ To help lead the sinner to repentance, the elders show empathy and kindness. They hope and pray that Jehovah will bless their efforts and that the wayward Christian may come to his senses and repent.​—2 Tim. 2:25, 26.

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14. Who deserves the credit when a sinner repents, and why?

¹⁴ If the sinner repents, that is a cause for great joy! (Luke 15:7, 10) Who deserves the credit? Do the elders? Recall what Paul wrote about sinners: “Perhaps God may give them repentance.” (2 Tim. 2:25) A study note on that verse comments: “The credit for such a change in thinking and attitude goes, not to any human, but to Jehovah, who helps the wayward Christian make this vital change. Paul goes on to mention some of the beautiful results of such repentance​—it leads the sinner to a more accurate knowledge of the truth, it helps him come back to his proper senses, and it enables him to escape from Satan’s snares.​—2Ti 2:26.”

15. How may the elders continue to help a repentant wrongdoer?

¹⁵ When a wrongdoer repents, the committee will arrange for shepherding visits so that the person can continue to receive the help he needs to fight against Satan’s snares and to make straight paths for his feet. (Heb. 12:12, 13) Of course, the elders do not reveal to anyone the details of the sinner’s course. About what, though, might the congregation need to be informed?

“REPROVE BEFORE ALL ONLOOKERS”

16. According to 1 Timothy 5:20, what “onlookers” does Paul refer to?

¹⁶ Read 1 Timothy 5:20. Paul wrote those words to his fellow elder Timothy in connection with how to handle “those who practice sin.” What did he mean? He did not necessarily mean that the whole congregation were the “onlookers.” Rather, he was referring to those few who might already know of the sins. They could be eyewitnesses, or they could be those whom the wrongdoer confided in. The elders would discreetly make them aware that the matter was handled and that the sinner was corrected.

17. If a serious sin is widely known in the congregation or is likely to become known, what announcement would be made, and why?

¹⁷ In some instances, the wrongdoing may have become widely known in the congregation or is likely to become known. In such a case, the “onlookers” would include the entire congregation. So an elder would announce to the congregation that the brother or the sister has been reproved. Why? Paul answers: “As a warning to the rest” not to fall into sin.

18. How will the elders handle situations involving baptized minors? (See also picture.)

¹⁸ What about baptized minors​—those under 18 years of age—​who engage in serious wrongdoing? The body of elders will arrange for two elders to meet with the minor and his Christian parents.b The elders will find out what steps the parents have already taken to help their child come to repentance. If the minor has a good attitude and the parents are reaching him, the two elders might decide that it is not necessary to take the matter any further. After all, it is the parents’ God-given responsibility to provide loving correction to their children. (Deut. 6:6, 7; Prov. 6:20; 22:6; Eph. 6:2-4) The elders will thereafter occasionally check with the parents to make sure that the minor is getting the help he needs. However, what if a baptized minor unrepentantly persists in a wrong course? In that case, a committee of elders will meet with him along with his Christian parents.

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“JEHOVAH IS VERY TENDER IN AFFECTION AND MERCIFUL”

19. How do elders strive to imitate Jehovah when dealing with wrongdoers?

¹⁹ Elders who serve on committees have a responsibility before Jehovah to keep the congregation clean. (1 Cor. 5:7) They also want wrongdoers to be moved to repentance if possible. To that end, elders maintain a positive, hopeful outlook. Why? Because they want to imitate Jehovah, who is “very tender in affection and merciful.” (Jas. 5:11) Note how the aged apostle John showed such a spirit. He wrote: “My little children, I am writing you these things so that you may not commit a sin. And yet, if anyone does commit a sin, we have a helper with the Father, Jesus Christ, a righteous one.”​—1 John 2:1.

20. What will we consider in the final article of this series?

²⁰ Sadly, there are times when a Christian refuses to repent. If so, he must be removed from the congregation. How do the elders handle such serious cases? We will consider that matter in the final article of this series.

1-2. (a) How does Jehovah view willful sin? (b) What is Jehovah’s hope toward wrongdoers?

JEHOVAH is not a permissive God; he does not condone sin. (Ps. 5:4-6) He requires that we respect his righteous standards, which he has set forth for us in his Word. Of course, Jehovah does not expect perfection from imperfect people. (Ps. 130:3, 4) At the same time, he does not tolerate ‘ungodly men who turn his undeserved kindness into an excuse for brazen conduct.’ (Jude 4) Indeed, the Bible speaks of the “destruction of the ungodly” at God’s war of Armageddon.​—2 Pet. 3:7; Rev. 16:16.

² However, Jehovah does not want anyone to suffer destruction. As we discussed earlier in this series of articles, the Bible clearly states that he “desires all to attain to repentance.” (2 Pet. 3:9) Christian elders imitate Jehovah as they patiently try to help wrongdoers to change their ways and be restored to Jehovah’s favor. However, not all wrongdoers respond favorably. (Isa. 6:9) Some continue in a wrong course despite the elders’ repeated efforts to lead them to repentance. What is to be done in such a situation?

“REMOVE THE WICKED PERSON”

3. (a) What does the Bible say should be done with unrepentant sinners? (b) Why can we say that, in a sense, the wrongdoer has chosen to be removed from the congregation?

³ When a wrongdoer is unrepentant, the elders have no choice but to follow the direction found at 1 Corinthians 5:13: “Remove the wicked person from among yourselves.” In a sense, the wrongdoer has chosen that consequence; he is reaping what hea has sown. (Gal. 6:7) Why can we say that? Because he has refused to respond to repeated attempts by the elders to lead him to repentance. (2 Ki. 17:12-15) His actions show that he has chosen not to abide by Jehovah’s standards.​—Deut. 30:19, 20.

4. Why is an announcement made when an unrepentant wrongdoer is removed from the congregation?

⁴ When an unrepentant wrongdoer is removed from the congregation, an announcement is made to inform the congregation that he is no longer one of Jehovah’s Witnesses.b The purpose of that announcement is not to humiliate the wrongdoer. Rather, it is made so that the congregation can follow the Scriptural admonition to “stop keeping company” with that person, “not even eating with” him. (1 Cor. 5:9-11) That direction is given for good reason. The apostle Paul wrote: “A little leaven ferments the whole batch of dough.” (1 Cor. 5:6) Unrepentant wrongdoers can weaken the determination of those who are trying to live by Jehovah’s righteous standards.​—Prov. 13:20; 1 Cor. 15:33.

5. How should we view a person who has been removed from the congregation, and why?

⁵ How, then, should we view a fellow believer who is removed from the congregation? Although we do not socialize with him, we should view him as a lost sheep, not a lost cause. A sheep that has strayed from the fold may well return. Remember, that lost sheep dedicated himself to Jehovah. Sadly, he is not living up to that dedication at present, and that puts him in a dangerous position. (Ezek. 18:31) Nevertheless, as long as Jehovah’s mercy is available, there is hope that the person will return. How do the elders reflect that hope even toward a wrongdoer who has been removed from the congregation?

HOW THE ELDERS ASSIST THOSE WHO ARE REMOVED

6. What steps will the elders take to assist one who has been removed from the congregation?

⁶ Is the individual who has been removed from the congregation abandoned​—left completely on his own to find his way back to Jehovah? By no means! When informing an unrepentant wrongdoer that he will be removed from the congregation, the committee of elders will explain to him what steps he can take to return to the congregation. But the elders will do even more. In most cases, they will tell the wrongdoer that they would like to meet with him again after a few months have passed to see if he has had a change of heart. If the wrongdoer is willing to meet with them again, the elders will at that subsequent meeting make a warm appeal for him to repent and return. Even if he has not had a change of heart at that time, the elders will make periodic efforts to contact him in the future.

7. How do the elders reflect Jehovah’s compassion when dealing with a person who has been removed from the congregation? (Jeremiah 3:12)

⁷ The elders strive to reflect Jehovah’s compassion as they deal with someone who has been removed from the congregation. For example, Jehovah did not wait for his wayward people in ancient Israel to take the first step. Rather, he took the initiative to reach out to them even before they showed any signs of repentance. As noted in the second article in this series, Jehovah illustrated his compassion by telling the prophet Hosea to offer reconciliation to his wife, who was still sinning. (Hos. 3:1; Mal. 3:7) In imitation of Jehovah, Christian elders genuinely want the wrongdoer to return, and they do not make it difficult for him to do so.​—Read Jeremiah 3:12.

8. How does Jesus’ parable of the lost son offer further insight into Jehovah’s compassion and mercy? (Luke 15:7)

⁸ Recall Jesus’ parable of the lost son, as discussed in the second article in this series. When catching sight of his son returning home, the father “ran and embraced him and tenderly kissed him.” (Luke 15:20) Notice that the father did not wait for his son to beg for forgiveness. Rather, he took the initiative, as any loving father would. The elders strive to show a similar attitude toward those who have strayed. They want these lost sheep to “come back home.” (Luke 15:22-24, 32) There is joy in heaven when a sinner returns, and there is joy on earth as well!​—Read Luke 15:7.

9. How does Jehovah warmly appeal to sinners?

⁹ From what we have considered so far, it is clear that Jehovah does not condone unrepentant wrongdoing. However, he does not turn his back on wrongdoers. He wants them to return. Jehovah’s feelings toward repentant wrongdoers are expressed at Hosea 14:4: “I will heal their unfaithfulness. I will love them of my own free will, because my anger has turned away.” What a strong incentive for elders to respond to any signs of repentance. And what a strong incentive for those who have left Jehovah to return without delay.

10-11. How will the elders try to help those who in the past were removed from the congregation?

¹⁰ What about individuals who in the past were removed from the congregation, perhaps many years ago? Such individuals may no longer be practicing the sin for which they were removed. In some situations, they may not even recall why they were removed. Whatever the case, the elders will try to locate and visit these individuals. During such visits, the elders will even offer to pray with them and make a warm appeal for them to return to the congregation. Of course, if a person has been away from the congregation for many years, he would no doubt be very weak spiritually. Therefore, if he indicates that he wants to return to the congregation, the elders might arrange for someone to conduct a Bible study with him, even though he has not yet been reinstated. In all cases, the elders would be the ones to arrange for the Bible study.

¹¹ In imitation of Jehovah’s compassion, the elders want to reach out and help as many as possible to know that the door is open for them to come back. When a sinner manifests repentance and abandons his wrong course, he can be reinstated without delay.​—2 Cor. 2:6-8.

12. (a) What situations require elders to be especially careful? (b) Why should we not feel that it is impossible for certain types of sinners to receive Jehovah’s mercy? (See also footnote.)

¹² In certain circumstances the elders need to be especially careful before reinstating someone. For example, if a person was guilty of child abuse or apostasy or if he schemed to end a marriage, the elders would want to be sure that he is truly repentant. (Mal. 2:14; 2 Tim. 3:6) They must protect the flock. At the same time, we need to realize that Jehovah will accept back any wrongdoer who shows genuine repentance and stops engaging in wrong conduct. So although the elders exercise due caution with those who have dealt treacherously with others, they should not go so far as to say that certain types of sinners can never receive Jehovah’s mercy.c​—1 Pet. 2:10.

WHAT THE CONGREGATION CAN DO

13. What is the difference between the way we treat someone who has been reproved by the elders and the way we treat someone who has been removed from the congregation?

¹³ As discussed in the preceding article, sometimes an announcement is made that a person has been reproved. In such a case, we can continue to associate with him, knowing that he repented and abandoned his wrong course. (1 Tim. 5:20) He is still a part of the congregation and needs the encouragement that comes from associating with fellow believers. (Heb. 10:24, 25) However, the situation is quite different with a person who has been removed from the congregation. We “stop keeping company” with that person, “not even eating with such a man.”​—1 Cor. 5:11.

14. How can Christians use their Bible-trained conscience in dealing with those who have been removed from the congregation? (See also picture.)

¹⁴ Does what we have considered mean that we would completely ignore a person who has been removed from the congregation? Not necessarily. Certainly, we would not socialize with him. But Christians can use their Bible-trained conscience in deciding whether to invite a person who was removed from the congregation​—perhaps a relative or someone they were close to previously—​to attend a congregation meeting. What if he attends? In the past, we would not greet such a person. Here again, each Christian needs to use his Bible-trained conscience in this matter. Some may feel comfortable with greeting or welcoming the person to the meeting. However, we would not have an extended conversation or socialize with the individual.

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15. What type of sinners are described at 2 John 9-11? (See also the box “Were John and Paul Discussing the Same Kind of Sin?”)

¹⁵ Some may wonder, ‘Doesn’t the Bible say that a Christian who says a greeting to such a person becomes a sharer in his wicked works?’ (Read 2 John 9-11.) The context of this scripture shows that this direction refers to apostates and others who actively promote wrong conduct. (Rev. 2:20) Therefore, if a person is actively promoting apostate teachings or other wrongdoing, the elders would not arrange to visit him. Of course, there is hope that he will come to his senses. Until that happens, though, we would neither greet such a person nor invite him to attend a congregation meeting.

IMITATING JEHOVAH’S COMPASSION AND MERCY

16-17. (a) What does Jehovah want sinners to do? (Ezekiel 18:32) (b) How can elders show themselves to be fellow workers with Jehovah when trying to help wrongdoers?

¹⁶ What have we learned in this five-part series? Jehovah does not want anyone to be destroyed! (Read Ezekiel 18:32.) He wants sinners to be reconciled to him. (2 Cor. 5:20) That is why throughout history, Jehovah has repeatedly urged his wayward people​—as well as wayward individuals—​to repent and return to him. Congregation elders are privileged to be fellow workers with Jehovah as they strive to lead wrongdoers to repentance.​—Rom. 2:4; 1 Cor. 3:9.

¹⁷ Imagine the joy in heaven when sinners repent! Our heavenly Father, Jehovah, personally experiences that joy every time one of his lost sheep returns to the congregation. Our love for Jehovah continues to deepen as we meditate on his compassion, mercy, and undeserved kindness.​—Luke 1:78.

Dear Reader

In this issue of The Watchtower, we will feature five study articles that consider the following closely related questions:

• First, what arrangement did Jehovah put in place to help his human sons and daughters to combat sin?

• Second, how has he taught us what genuine repentance is and how has he helped sinners to repent?

• Third, how was the congregation in Corinth instructed to handle a willful, unrepentant sinner?

• Fourth, how should Christian elders today handle cases of serious sin?

• Fifth, after an unrepentant sinner has been removed from the congregation, how can the congregation continue to treat him in a loving and merciful way?