1. "Internet bullying has become a common problem online," notes The Wall Street Journal. "Both young and old are victims and villains, all for the sake of a little anonymous fun." Sadly, such behavior has led to depression, heart attacks, and even suicide amongst those who suffer ill effects from the aggressive ones they have encountered on the Internet.
1. What trend has become common on the Internet, and with what results?
2. Should this surprise us? No, for the behavior of those who hide what they are online is merely another reflection of the fulfillment of Bible prophecy regarding the times in which we live. "For know this, that in the last days....men will be lovers of themselves...haughty...blasphemers... disloyal...without self-control, fierce...headstrong...puffed up with pride." (2 Tim. 3:1-5) Thankfully, as Jehovah's people, we are taught "the pure language", which helps us to be "peaceable, reasonable", and to resist the "spirit of the world". (Zeph. 3:9; Jas. 3:17; Eph. 2:2, 3)
2. Why are we not surprised at the behavior some encounter online, and why are Jehovah's people different?
3. Jehovah God, who created all things, gave humans the ability to communicate with each other. (Rev. 4:11) Man has devised many unique ways of doing so, but ultimately, we all must answer to Jehovah for how we use our words. What a powerful incentive to think before speaking! (Matt. 12:37) Consider an illustration: on some Internet sites, individuals choose to post various comments. As a safeguard to prevent abusive or obscene speech, moderators--individuals evidently capable of recognizing inappropriate speech or conduct--monitor the comments so as to make sure those who avail themselves of the web site feel safe and protected. In a similar way, Jehovah has proven to be the Great Moderator in our behalf. How so? Let us see.
3. From whom did we receive the gift of speech, and how are we safeguarded by Him? Give an illustration.
By Protecting Our Speech
4. Jehovah is the sterling example of clean, upbuilding speech. As the Inventor of all forms of communication, he reserves the right to tell us what speech is and is not appropriate. Do we trust him to do so? We should! (Prov. 3:5, 6) Jesus, who perfectly reflected his Father in speech and conduct, noticed the need for his disciples to guard their speech. On more than one occasion, Jesus' disciples argued amongst themselves about who was the greatest among them. Calmly, Jesus behaved as a moderator, preventing their speech from escalating into a serious problem that might later threaten the Christian congregation. He corrected them, reminding them of the need for humility. (Luke 22:24-26) Unfortunately, due to imperfection, similar problems with proper speech led to tensions between Paul and Barnabas. Despite having great privileges of service, they engaged in an argument that led to their separation for a time. (Acts 15:36-39) Just imagine what powerful works they might have done had they remained united on their journey to strengthen the congregations!
4. How did Jesus imitate Jehovah in moderating his disciples' words, yet how did one dispute affect Paul and Barnabas in their service? Explain.
5. Today, the Governing Body does not engage in angry disputes, as did Paul and Barnabas. Although imperfect like those two spiritual men, the anointed members of the Governing Body live up to their appointment as the primary representatives of the "faithful and discreet slave" class. In preparing new spiritual food to be published for Jehovah's people, loving, patient, Bible-based discussions are held. Jehovah's spirit guides these chosen men, and the result is that God's channel of communication brings forth many spiritual gems--a banquet of many upbuilding things to discuss. (Matt. 24:45-47) Reading these divinely provided Bible-study aids will help you to allow Jehovah to moderate your speech so that you can display the "tongue of the taught ones" in all aspects of your life.--Isa. 50:4.
5. How does the "faithful and discreet slave" class show that they guard their tongue, and how do you benefit?
6. However, even amongst Jehovah's people, there may be some who, like Korah in ancient times, engage in "rebellious talk", perhaps criticizing the body of elders or even speaking against the "faithful slave". (Jude 11) Diotrephes of old was an example of one who deviated from the way of the truth. Evidently, his pride caused him to not only reject the instruction of the apostle John, but even led him to try to throw those out of the congregation who wanted to listen! (3 John 9, 10) Thankfully, Jehovah's organization today has been well-equipped to defeat any scheme of Satan that may crop up amongst God's people. Some have felt that, because Jehovah's purpose has not unfolded in the way that they expected, that perhaps the "faithful slave" has failed to live up to its responsibility to Christ's belongings. They have even gone so far as to reason that Jehovah's people as a whole have gone astray, that it is we who are the apostates! Their abusive speech reflects that they have ignored Jehovah's warnings: "And you people will certainly say: 'The way of Jehovah is not adjusted right.'...Is not [Jehovah's] way adjusted right? Are not the ways of you people not adjusted right?" (Ezek. 18:25) Thankfully, the loyalty of congregation elders prevents the abusive speech of apostates from "spreading like gangrene," cutting off any who seek to reject Jehovah's channel of communication. In this way, Jehovah's moderation protects us from unrighteousness.--2 Tim. 2:17-19.
6. How have some failed to guard their speech, and what is the end result for them?