Obedience, Submission and Loyalty 

Next: Trust

The Watchtower magazine, July 1, 1943, page 205

The Lord through his “faithful and wise servant” now states to us “Let us cover our territory four times  in six months.” That becomes our organization instructions and has the same binding force on us that his statement to the Logos had when he said, ”Let us make man in our image.” It is our duty to accept this additional instruction and obey it.

The Watchtower magazine, February 1, 1952, page 79

We must show our understanding in these matters, appreciating our relationship to the visible theocratic organization, remembering the fate of those like Korah and Achan and Saul and Uzziah and others  [they were all ‘executed by God’] who forgot the theocratic order.

The Watchtower magazine, May 1, 1957, page 280

SUBJECTION IN A PRACTICAL WAY – No, Paul urges “be reasonable,” that is, try to understand the theocratic way of doing things and get in harmony with it. There are some things that happen in the organization that we may not understand. The servants may take a course of action that we think is wrong. Now the unreasonable attitude would be to criticize. We may not, and most generally do not, know all the facts in the matter; but the unreasonable person will not consider that for a moment. He will immediately conclude that the course is all wrong just because he does not understand it. Well, few of us understand the facts of nuclear physics either, do we? But the hydrogen bomb certainly proves that the conclusions of its makers are real and substantial. So would we not be foolish to invite an explosion of a hydrogen bomb in our own back yard just because we do not understand it? Yet an unreasonable, disrespectful attitude within God’s family can be just as disastrous as setting off a hydrogen bomb.

Is it really as serious as that? Think for a moment. Consider what happened to Saul for disobedience. His neglect in discharging his theocratic assignment to vindicate Jehovah’s word and name brought him a just sentence at the hands of Jehovah’s representative, Samuel. (1 Sam. 15:1-3, 11, 22, 23) Ignoring counsel from headquarters or from the servants in the local congregation is negligence and a sign of disrespect for theocratic authorities. We may take the position that some instructions do not apply to us and may make some mental reservations as to the advisability of carrying them out, even though we might recognize that the suggestions embody sound Scriptural principles. In this way we give only partial support to the organization and the commission to preach “this good news of the kingdom.” We may assume that these instructions are only incidentals, that the important thing is ‘bringing the ark of Jehovah up into Jerusalem.’ David learned to his sorrow (and to Uzza’s death) that singing praise to Jehovah and good intentions are not enough to bring the full reward of Jehovah’s blessing. True worship must be performed according to the ordinance of Jehovah, and what might seem like minor details are important if they issue through the channel of God’s organization.—1 Chron. 13:6-10; 15:11-15.

Respect for Jehovah’s organization means to trust our proved, faithful brothers.

The Watchtower magazine, June 15, 1957, page 375

Overseers of Jehovah’s People – When the one appointed as congregation servant, or any of the other servants or Bible study conductors…And now that servant has been appointed by the holy spirit to aid us in our ministry and to call to our mind the good counsel contained in the Bible to attend congregation meetings and there make public declaration of our hope. We should respond with the same readiness as we would to the voice of God. It is his means of dealing with us now…

Surely none would question the authority of the angel Gabriel when he spoke as a servant of God. Obedience and respect shown to that theocratic representative would demonstrate obedience and respect for the One he represented, Jehovah God. Earthly overseers represent Jehovah in their assignments just as much as heavenly ones do.

The Watchtower magazine, August 15, 1962, page 489

Children, Do You Obey Jehovah? (full article)

The Watchtower magazine, June 1, 1963, page 339

This respect should be not only for the organization itself but also for those whom Jehovah has placed in positions of responsibility within the organizational structure. We should trust our proved, faithful brothers and appreciate the hard work they are doing, for truly they are responsible for our souls.

The Watchtower magazine, August 1, 1967, page 467

Unlike David, any brother who democratically arranges for a petition or openly complains against an appointed servant is showing a lamentable lack of trust and faith in Jehovah’s ability to oversee His organization. In effect, such a brother is saying that, since God is not handling the matter speedily enough, he will need to take action instead. What a shortsighted and immature way of viewing things! Jehovah does not always do things the way we think they should be done, but we can rest assured that they will be done properly and at the right time. So the thing to do is to wait upon Jehovah, keep busy in service, lovingly help our brothers, and encourage respect for the theocratic arrangement of things. Any other hasty action would undermine respect for theocratic authority and would cause much spiritual damage to the congregation.

The Watchtower magazine, October 1, 1967, pages 591 and 594

Therefore, in submitting to Jehovah’s visible theocratic organization, we must be in full and complete agreement with every feature of its apostolic procedure and requirements…

But not until 1938 did the final change to strictly theocratic order take place. In that year, through the columns of The Watchtower, it was revealed from the Scriptures that the power of appointment of servants in congregations rightfully rests with the governing body of the “faithful and discreet slave” as directed by Jesus Christ from Jehovah’s temple. This important step in the restoration of theocratic order assured Jehovah’s “sheep” that they would not again be separated into independent “flocks” by unscrupulous “shepherds.”

The Watchtower magazine, March 15, 1971, page 174

A TEST OF LOYALTY – In three ways particularly their submissiveness was tested: first, as to their reliance on the doctrine of God’s Word as revealed through his channel of communication; secondly, as regards their willingness to share in the preaching of this good news of the Messianic kingdom, which must be done before Jehovah’s purpose in this “time of the end” would be concluded; and, thirdly, as regards their complete loyalty to his earthly organization.

The Watchtower magazine, May 1, 1972, page 273

Now is the time to begin molding our thinking with respect to authority for the new order. There is no reason to believe that Jehovah will change his way of deal ing with men. He will no doubt use his representatives to administer the operation of earthly activities. Do you find it difficult to accept the authority of these representatives in a spiritual way now? Then how will you react if directed by them at that time to care for some mundane responsibility such as collecting the garbage?… Our view of  authority is really a reflection of our understanding, our appreciation of Jehovah’s purpose in all its connected parts. When a person lacks understanding, then he becomes “like a horse or mule understanding, whose spiritedness is to be curbed even by bridle or halter.” (Ps. 32:9) Rather than be curbed at Armageddon or later, it is wise to develop and display understanding with respect to authority so we will be the kind of persons Jehovah wants in his new order of righteousness.

The Watchtower magazine, August 1, 1972, page 462

Cooperating Fully with God’s Appointed Ones (full article)

The Watchtower magazine, March 1, 1973, page 141

A Free People—but Obedient (full article)

The Watchtower magazine, August 15, 1962, page 489

Children, Do You Obey Jehovah (full article)

The Watchtower magazine, July 1, 1974, page 413

If we object to something done by the body of elders or criticize the way some matter is handled, we are being disloyal to Jehovah’s organization…This course of action actually may involve resisting the holy spirit, because the holy spirit is responsible for the appointments of older men in the congregation. (Acts 20:28) Why, then, should we criticize one of the brothers for handling the Kingdom interests in a way that the holy spirit seems to direct him?

The Watchtower magazine, September 1, 1975, page 529

No, but we must overlook faults and imperfections and, rather, look at an elder’s love for Jehovah and zeal for His service, learning to respect all the elders and cooperating with all of them in the congregation. Paul emphasizes this point in Hebrews 13:17, where he says: “Be obedient to those who are taking the lead among you and be submissive.

Survival into a New Earth (1984), page 137

The elders do not claim to be inspired. But, as the Scriptures show, God uses them to take the lead, and obedience to them demonstrates respect for the arrangement that Jehovah is using to prepare his servants for survival into his New Order.​

Revelation – Its Grand Climax at Hand (1988), page 50

“All the congregations” must come to know that Jesus searches “the kidneys,” the deepest emotions, and the ‘heart,’ the innermost person, including the underlying motives. To this end, he uses trusted stars, or elders, in handling certain problems, such as any Jezebel influence that appears. (Revelation 1:20) After these elders have fully examined a matter of this kind and judgment has been rendered, it is not for individuals to probe into the whys and wherefores of the action taken. All should humbly accept the elders’ disposal of matters and continue to be supportive of these congregation stars. Loyalty to Jehovah and his organizational arrangements will be rewarded.

The Watchtower magazine, March 15, 1988, page 18

Another test of our loyalty to our brothers arises when those whom Jehovah is using to take the lead err in judgment. Now and then, such mistakes have been used by some as an excuse to take umbrage and disassociate themselves from Jehovah’s visible organization. But is their course of action justified? By no means!

Why are such persons not justified in leaving God’s organization? Because his Word assures us: “Abundant peace belongs to those loving [Jehovah’s] law, and for them there is no stumbling block.” (Psalm 119:165) Moreover, we are commanded to “have intense love for one another, because love covers a multitude of sins.

The Watchtower magazine, September 15, 1989, page 21 (full article)

Why Obey Them?- Since Christian undershepherds have been provided by the Great Shepherd, Jehovah God, how do you think he wants us to view them? Surely, God expects us to follow the Bible-based direction received through loving overseers under the supervision of the Governing Body of Jehovah’s Witnesses.

The Watchtower magazine, December 15, 1989, page 24

Be Submissive – To render acceptable sacrifices, we must cooperate fully with God’s organization…We should respect the appointed elders who take the lead in the congregation, so that they do not have to sigh with distress over our lack of cooperation…

How appropriate that we be submissive to those taking the lead!…By submitting to wise and loving oversight, we show respect for the Supreme Overseer, Jehovah God, and his Deputy Overseer, Jesus Christ.

The Watchtower magazine, October 1, 1990, page 30

Do You Follow Instructions? – We should follow the instructions that the Head of the Christian congregation, Jesus Christ, gives through “the faithful and discreet slave,” the appointed channel of God’s organization here on earth. (Matthew 24:45-47; Ephesians 5:23) In order to have peace and unity in the congregation, all its members must act in harmony with the guidance given. For instance, those taking the lead in teaching the congregation and in helping other people need to stick to the directions they receive from Jehovah’s organization. This will contribute to the effectiveness of their work. The instructions may be on how to share in the preaching activity, how to deal with problems in the congregation, how to give counsel and encouragement, how to comfort afflicted ones, and so forth…

The Governing Body sends out instructions that the elders should follow carefully and faithfully. They should adapt and apply the instructions to local circumstances. We must keep in mind that the one who directs the Christian congregation is Jesus Christ. He discerns perfectly the needs of all the congregations around the world, and he provides the needed encouragement and assistance. Therefore, elders should not hesitate to apply any directions they receive from God’s theocratic organization.

The Watchtower magazine, January 15, 1993, page 30

Being Jehovah’s servants, we do not idolatrously insist on our own way but joyfully do the divine will, accepting direction from “the faithful and discreet slave” and cooperating fully with Jehovah’s organization.

The Watchtower magazine, February 1, 1993, page 16

Subjection to God’s Organization –  Jehovah God has not left it entirely up to us to decide individually how we are to apply Bible principles to our lives…

The facts show that today “the faithful and discreet slave” is associated with Jehovah’s Witnesses and represented by the Governing Body of these Witnesses. That body, in turn, appoints overseers in various capacities—such as elders and traveling representatives—to direct the work on a local level. Godly subjection requires each dedicated Witness to be in subjection to these overseers…

Godly subjection is often a matter of accepting discipline from those serving as overseers. If we do not always give ourselves the necessary discipline, we may need to be counseled and disciplined by those having the experience and authority to do so, such as our congregation elders. To accept such discipline is the course of wisdom.

The Watchtower magazine, July 1, 1994, page 22

With regard to the respect we owe to those in authority within the Christian congregation, an interesting comparison can be made with the submission we owe the secular authorities. When a person violates a human law that God approves, the punishment meted out by “those ruling” is, in fact, an indirect expression of God’s wrath “upon the one practicing what is bad.” (Romans 13:3, 4) If Jehovah is angry when a person breaks human laws and lacks proper respect for worldly authorities, how much more must he be displeased if a dedicated Christian flouts Bible principles and shows disrespect for fellow Christians who are in authority!

Rather than incur God’s displeasure by adopting a rebellious or independent attitude, we will follow Paul’s counsel to Christians in Philippi: “Consequently, my beloved ones, in the way that you have always obeyed, not during my presence only, but now much more readily during my absence, keep working out your own salvation with fear and trembling; for God is the one that, for the sake of his good pleasure, is acting within you in order for you both to will and to act. Keep doing all things free from murmurings and arguments, that you may come to be blameless and innocent, children of God without a blemish in among a crooked and twisted generation, among whom you are shining as illuminators in the world.” (Philippians 2:12-15) Unlike the present crooked and twisted generation that has brought upon itself an authority crisis, Jehovah’s people readily submit to authority.

The Watchtower magazine, March 15, 1996, page 15

Meeting the Challenge of Loyalty (full article)

The Watchtower magazine, January 1, 1997, page 27

They realize that the elders are consulted on many intimate matters and have to handle sensitive situations.

The Watchtower magazine, August 1, 1997, page 8

Serving Loyally With Jehovah’s Organization (full article)

The Watchtower magazine, June 1, 1999, page 16

‘Be Obedient and Be Submissive’ (full section)

The Watchtower magazine, March 1, 2001, page 21

Such congregations are a protection even now, a place where Christians find safety among their brothers, under the loving care of the elders. (Isaiah 32:1, 2; Hebrews 10:24, 25) This is especially true in view of the nearness of the end of this system of things when survival will depend on obedience.

The Watchtower magazine, June 15, 2001, pages 20 and 26

True, the Christian congregation is made up of imperfect humans. Those who serve as elders make mistakes that at times may affect us personally. Nevertheless, Jehovah is using such men as shepherds of his flock. (1 Peter 5:1, 2) Spiritually-minded men and women recognize that this is one means by which Jehovah directs his people. Therefore, as Christians, we avoid a critical, complaining spirit and show respect for God’s theocratic arrangements. By being obedient to those taking the lead among us, we show that we see the One who is invisible…

Brother Lösch concluded by saying: “In order to remain spiritually protected, we must remain under the wings of Jehovah. This means that we must not develop a spirit of independence. Let us always stay close to Jehovah and his motherlike organization, not separating ourselves from their direction and loving counsel.”

The Watchtower magazine, March 15, 2002, page 16 (full section)

The Scriptures contain examples that teach us the value of obedience and submission. Referring to those who spoke abusively of the appointed men in the congregation, the disciple Jude pointed to three warning examples, saying: “Too bad for them, because they have gone in the path of Cain, and have rushed into the erroneous course of Balaam for reward, and have perished in the rebellious talk of Korah!” (Jude 11) Cain ignored Jehovah’s loving counsel and willfully pursued a course of murderous hatred. (Genesis 4:4-8) Despite receiving repeated divine warnings, Balaam tried to curse God’s people for a financial reward. (Numbers 22:5-28, 32-34; Deuteronomy 23:5) Korah had his own fine responsibility in Israel, but it was not enough for him. He fomented rebellion against God’s servant Moses, the meekest man on earth. (Numbers 12:3; 16:1-3, 32, 33) Calamity befell Cain, Balaam, and Korah. How vividly these examples teach us to listen to the counsel of those whom Jehovah uses in positions of responsibility and to respect them!

Who would not want to benefit from the grand arrangement of oversight that our Leader has instituted in the Christian congregation? The prophet Isaiah foretold its blessings, saying: “Look! A king will reign for righteousness itself; and as respects princes, they will rule as princes for justice itself. And each one must prove to be like a hiding place from the wind and a place of concealment from the rainstorm, like streams of water in a waterless country, like the shadow of a heavy crag in an exhausted land.” (Isaiah 32:1, 2) Each one of the elders is to be such “a place” of protection and safety. Even if submitting to authority is difficult for us, let us prayerfully apply ourselves to being obedient and submissive to the divinely constituted authority within the congregation.

The Watchtower magazine, September 1, 2004, page 17

What does Jesus, the Fine Shepherd, tell us to do? He teaches us to make disciples and to trust “the faithful and discreet slave.” (Matthew 24:45; 28:18-20) Obeying his voice means our eternal life.

The Watchtower magazine, April 1, 2007, pages 28 and 30 (full article)

What, though, if we are not convinced that in a certain case the elders’ direction is the best way of doing things? That is where submission comes into play. It is easy to obey when everything is clear and we agree, but we will show that we are truly submissive if we yield even when we do not personally understand the direction provided. Peter, who later became an apostle, showed this kind of submission…

In these and many other ways, we demonstrate our submission to the men whom Jehovah and his Son have appointed to care for the flock.

At times, an elder may not do things as directed by the faithful slave class and its Governing Body. If he continues acting this way, he will have to render an account to Jehovah, “the shepherd and overseer of [our] souls.” (1 Peter 2:25) But any failure or mistakes on the part of certain elders would not justify an insubordinate attitude on our part. Jehovah does not bless disobedience and rebellion.

The Watchtower magazine, January 15, 2008, page 26

In a symbolic way, Christians with an earthly hope today walk behind the anointed slave class and its Governing Body, following their leadership. As “unpaid laborers,” the other sheep willingly and wholeheartedly expend their strength and their resources in support of the worldwide preaching work that Christ assigned to his anointed followers on earth.—Acts 1:8; Rev. 12:17.

As they lend their support to their anointed brothers, members of the great crowd are being trained as the foundation of the new human society that will exist after Armageddon. That foundation must be solid and stable, and its members must be willing and able to carry out the direction of the Master. Each Christian is being given the opportunity to demonstrate that he can be used by the King, Christ Jesus. By exercising faith and displaying loyalty now, he shows that he will respond well when the King gives him directions in the new world.

The other sheep companions of the congregation of anointed Christians prove their faith in various ways. First, they support the anointed in proclaiming the good news of God’s Kingdom. (Matt. 24:14; 28:19, 20) Second, they willingly submit themselves to the direction provided by the Governing Body.

The Watchtower magazine, June 15, 2008, page 21

Spiritual food from the faithful and discreet slave class is disseminated to local congregations by appointed elders. The Bible admonishes us: “Be obedient to those who are taking the lead among you and be submissive, for they are keeping watch over your souls as those who will render an account; that they may do this with joy and not with sighing, for this would be damaging to you.” (Heb. 13:17) Does this mean that congregation elders are infallible? Of course not! God sees their imperfections more clearly than any human can. Still, he expects us to be submissive. Cooperating with the elders, even though they are imperfect, gives evidence that we accept Jehovah’s authority

The Watchtower magazine, November 15, 2009, page 14

One way to find our place in the congregation and give evidence that we treasure it is to cooperate fully with “the faithful and discreet slave” and its representative Governing Body… “The spirit that now operates in the sons of disobedience” is so widespread that it is like the air we breathe. (Eph. 2:2) That spirit can cause us to think that we do not need guidance from Jehovah’s organization. Surely we do not want to be like Diotrephes, who would not ‘receive anything from the apostle John with respect.’ (3 John 9, 10) We need to guard against developing a spirit of independence. By word or action, may we never challenge the channel of communication that Jehovah is using today. (Num. 16:1-3) On the contrary, we should cherish our privilege to cooperate with the slave class. And should we not strive to be obedient and submissive to those taking the lead in our local congregation?

The Watchtower magazine, April 15, 2011, page 4

How, then, do we react when we receive divine direction? Do we try to apply it “right afterward”? Or do we continue doing things just as we have been accustomed to doing them? Are we familiar with up-to-date directions, such as those regarding conducting home Bible studies, preaching to foreign-speaking people, regularly sharing in family worship, cooperating with Hospital Liaison Committees, and conducting ourselves properly at conventions? We also show our appreciation for God’s guidance by accepting counsel. When faced with far-reaching decisions, we do not trust in our own wisdom but look to Jehovah and his organization for guidance. And just as a child seeks his parents’ protection when a storm rages, we seek protection in Jehovah’s organization when, like a thunderstorm, the problems of this world strike us.

Of course, those taking the lead in the earthly part of God’s organization are not perfect—but neither was Moses. Even so, the pillar provided constant evidence of his divine appointment and of God’s approval. Note, too, that it was not for each Israelite to determine when to start moving. Instead, the people acted “at the order of Jehovah by means of Moses.” (Num. 9:23) Thus Moses, God’s channel of direction, likely gave the signal to move.

Today, Jehovah’s steward class gives a clear signal whenever it is time to make a move. How does the steward do that? By means of articles in The Watchtower and Our Kingdom Ministry, new publications, and talks at assemblies and conventions. Instructions are also conveyed to the congregations through traveling overseers or through letters or training sessions attended by brothers having congregation responsibilities.

Do you clearly discern the evidence of divine guidance? Jehovah uses his organization to guide us, his people, through “the wilderness” during these last days of Satan’s wicked world.

The Watchtower magazine, October 15, 2012, page 13

Elders may make mistakes that affect us personally. If that happens, how inappropriate it would be for any member of the congregation to react according to the world’s spirit, vehemently demanding “justice” or that “something be done about this brother”! Jehovah may choose to overlook certain minor failings. Can we not do the same?

The Watchtower magazine, April 15, 2013, page 30

Do we encourage our children to respect these faithful men and to look to them for Scriptural advice?

The Watchtower magazine, November 15, 2013, page 14

Loyally support those taking the lead. As a loving Shepherd, Jehovah guides and protects us. He has appointed his Son as the Chief Shepherd of the flock. (1 Pet. 5:4) Elders in more than 100,000 congregations shepherd God’s sheep on a personal level. (Acts 20:28) When we loyally support those appointed to take the lead, we express our appreciation to Jehovah and Jesus for all that they have done for us.

Keep Yourselves in God’s Love (2014), page 48

In the Christian congregation today, there is a similar need for organization. That is why a field service group has an overseer, a congregation has elders, a group of congregations has a circuit overseer, and a country has a Country Committee or a Branch Committee…

This organizational arrangement calls for each of us to be obedient and submissive…Some obey when they agree with the direction coming from those taking the lead but refuse to submit when they disagree with the direction or cannot see the reason for it. Keep in mind, though, that being submissive can include the idea that we obey even when we are not inclined to do so. Each of us, then, does well to ask himself, ‘Am I obedient and submissive to those taking the lead over me?’…

Of course, there is yet another form of damage that results when a person refuses to submit to theocratic order. It hurts his spirituality if he is too proud to submit, putting distance between him and his heavenly Father. (Psalm 138:6) Let us all, then, be determined to remain obedient and submissive.

The Watchtower magazine, November 2016, page 16

However, Jesus has appointed the ‘faithful slave’ to be the only channel for dispensing spiritual food… Each one of us does well to ask himself, ‘Am I loyal to the channel that Jesus is using today?’

The Watchtower magazine, April 2017, page 27

If a brother who sins against you continues to serve as an elder or even receives additional privileges, will you rejoice with him? Your willingness to forgive may well reflect Jehovah’s view of justice.

Next: Trust