pork2: August 2011

When his apostles repeatedly argued among themselves as to who was greater, Jesus firmly but patiently helped them to understand the need for humility. (Mark 9:33-37; Luke 9:46-48; 22:24-27; John 13:14) Similarly, while firm for righteousness, Christian elders today do not lord it over God’s flock. (Mark 10:42-44) They imitate Christ by being “kind to one another” and “tenderly compassionate” in their dealings with others. (Eph. 4:32) By being candid with our brothers but not overly frank, we can express what is on our mind without being offensive. Indeed, never would we want our tongue to be “sharpened like a razor,” using it to inflict painful wounds with abusive or degrading speech. (Ps. 52:2; Prov. 12:18) In this way, we honor God and promote unity in the congregation.