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Watchtower December 2025 - New Light on Disassociated Individuals
Misleading
Understanding Disassociation in Light of Scripture
3 What about those who decide to write a letter and disassociate themselves as one of Jehovah’s Witnesses? It is crucial to distinguish between disfellowshipped individuals, who are removed from the congregation due to unrepentant wrongdoing, and those who voluntarily disassociate. 1 Corinthians 5:11-13 clearly states, "But now I am writing you not to associate with anyone who claims to be a brother or sister but is sexually immoral or greedy, an idolater or slanderer, a drunkard or swindler. Do not even eat with such people." This counsel specifically targets those within the congregation who persist in serious sin without repentance. However, those who disassociate themselves are no longer identifying as brothers or sisters in the faith. They have made a personal choice to step away, which differs from being removed for moral misconduct. Therefore, the strict shunning applied to unrepentant wrongdoers does not apply directly to them.
4 Respecting religious freedom is a principle upheld throughout the Bible, emphasizing the importance of individual choice in matters of faith. Jesus himself demonstrated this respect when he allowed the rich young ruler to walk away rather than forcing him to follow (Matthew 19:16-23). Additionally, when many disciples chose to leave, Jesus asked the Twelve, "You do not want to leave too, do you?" (John 6:66-70), showing his respect for their freedom to choose. This respect for personal choice is echoed in Galatians 5:13, which states, "You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free." These examples illustrate that Jehovah and his son Jesus values individual freedom of choice in serving him.
5 When someone disassociates, they are no longer considered a part of Jehovah's Witnesses, thus becoming part of the world. Jesus’ teachings provide clear guidance on how to treat those who are not part of Jehovah’s organization. In Matthew 5:44-48, Jesus instructs to "love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you," highlighting that Christian love should extend beyond the community of believers. However, it is important to remember that if a disassociated person becomes an apostate, actively opposing the faith, they should be treated as those who spread false teachings. Jude 1:4 warns of ungodly persons who pervert the grace of Jehovah and deny our only Master and Lord, Jesus Christ. In such cases, maintaining strict separation is necessary to protect the congregation.
Questions for Consideration
3. How does 1 Corinthians 5:11-13 help us understand the distinction between disfellowshipped individuals and those who voluntarily disassociate themselves?
4. What are the biblical principles respecting individual freedom of religion?
5. In what ways should Christians interact with disassociated apostates?
