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UNIT 10 (B)

Think in Terms of Bible Principles

OPENING DISCUSSION

Principles are fundamental truths that never change, regardless of time or circumstance. They provide the basis on which specific laws are founded. The Universal Sovereign established many principles before creation. Therefore, everything in heaven and on earth, animate or inanimate, has been designed to function according to Jehovah’s unchangeable principles. When all things function within the framework of his principles, there is harmony that reflects his glory, and Jehovah can bestow his blessing.

Principles are living, essential truths, and a wise Christian learns to love them. Understanding Bible principles is the key to our making sound decisions that reflect godly wisdom.—Prov. 3:6, 21-23; 4:7; w02 4/15 pp. 18-23; w02 2/15 pp. 4-7.

QUESTION OUTLINE

Recognizing Principles and How They Work

What are principles, and how do they differ from laws? Give examples. (w09 6/1 p. 7; w02 4/15 p. 19 pars. 4-6)

How would you illustrate to a Bible student the difference between principles and laws?

SPECIFIC LAW: You must not eat blood. (Lev. 17:14)

PRINCIPLE: Life is in the blood. (Lev. 17:11)

Life belongs to God. (Ps. 36:9; Ezek. 18:4; Eph. 4:18)

The Creator has authority over creation. (Isa. 29:16; Rev. 4:11)

Why is our discerning and applying Bible principles not as easy as following a set of laws? (w02 4/15 p. 20 par. 9)

Why is it beneficial for us to think and act on the basis of principles? (Heb. 6:1)

Give examples of the principles behind . . .

• Bible directives. (w06 6/15 pp. 21-22; w02 4/15 p. 22 par. 16; it-1 p. 344)

• Bible doctrines, such as the ransom and everlasting life on a paradise earth.

How are false teachings, such as the Trinity and the immortality of the soul, refuted by focusing on principles?

Though the Mosaic Law ended, how do we see its underlying principles carried over and embodied in Christian law? Give examples. (w12 1/15 pp. 16-20; w97 10/15 pp. 29-30)

Of what value is it to study the laws and events in the Hebrew Scriptures? (1 Cor. 10:11)

Becoming a Person of Godly Principles

How did Jesus apply principles when being tempted by the Devil? (Matt. 4:1-10)

How did Jesus help his listeners to think on the basis of principles? (Matt. 5:17-48)

How did this approach dignify his listeners?

How did the following individuals show that they could “distinguish both right and wrong”? (Heb. 5:14; w02 2/15 p. 5; w97 10/15 pp. 28-29)

• Abel (Gen. 3:15; 4:3-5)

• Noah (Gen. 6:8, 9; 2 Pet. 2:5)

• Esther (Esther 4:14; 7:3)

◆ Searching for Bible principles allows us to ‘perceive what the will of Jehovah is’ and reveals what is in our heart.—Eph. 5:17; Rom. 12:2.

Applying Bible principles gives us an opportunity to show Jehovah that we are more concerned with pleasing Him than with satisfying ourselves.—Ps. 40:8.

Use Bible Principles to Make Wise Choices

What should be our goal when searching for Bible principles on which to base decisions? (Eph. 5:1)

What role will godly fear play when seeking direction from God’s Word? (Neh. 5:15)

How does reasoning on principles help us to train our conscience? (Prov. 2:3-5; Eph. 4:15; Heb. 5:14)

Why will a principled person not look for loopholes in God’s laws?

Note to Instructor: Use two or three of the questions in the following list for discussion. Do not indicate what the decision should be.

What Bible principles would help you to decide if you should . . .

• confront a brother in your congregation about his annoying mannerism?

• attend your Bible student’s wedding?

• use social networking sites?

• pursue an opportunity to relocate?

• accept a particular type of employment?

• pursue additional secular education?

• accept a job promotion?

• adopt a certain style of dress and grooming?

• attend a social gathering?

• stop pioneering?

Although a mature Christian might help you to locate Bible principles that apply, why must you personally make proper application of them? (Gal. 6:5)

Guide Your Steps by Godly Principles

Why does it take trust in Jehovah to apply Bible principles?

SITUATION: You have a disagreement with one of your service partners. Why is faith needed to apply the Bible’s direction to apologize and forgive?—Luke 17:1-5.

Does forgiving others imply that we condone offenses? By forgiving, are we letting others take advantage of us? Explain.

Why will thorough grounding in Bible principles help us enjoy a superior way of life? (Ps. 32:8)