What are Correspondence Guidelines?

Correspondence Guidelines is a publication provided to assist elders in the Service Department of Branch Offices to answer correspondence from elders of Jehovah’s Witnesses. The Service Department staff are not required to keep these guidelines confidential and are not permitted to duplicate or photocopy them. In their use of these guidelines, they are to keep in mind that they are replying to an elder or group of elders. Therefore, their responses should not be merely a factual, impersonal quotation of some general guideline. Rather, they should reflect interest in the elder writing and the matter posed. One should try to show understanding of the specific case and of the elder’s thinking as revealed in the inquiry made. At the same time, they are advised not to allow themselves to become emotionally involved when considering the various cases.

Notes: From time to time, pages containing revisions in this publication are sent to the branch offices as replacements.

Instructions in using Correspondence Guidelines

When the query involves a complaint or a point of controversy, often only one side of the issue is presented by the writer. It may be advisable to write to the elders and/or the traveling overseer to get their observations on the situation before replying or to advise the elders to handle the problem. —Proverbs 18:13.

In answering inquiries, make every effort to give Scriptural reasons in your reply instead of simply stating rulings that have been made on certain matters. Be careful to apply scriptures properly.—1 Corinthians 2:13; 2 Timothy 2:15; 3:16, 17; 4:2.

Reason in a kindly way with the inquirer on the Scriptural principles involved. Recognize that it takes time for individuals to progress to maturity. Be careful that your reply does not reflect impatience or have a demanding tone.—Matthew 11:28-30; Romans 14:1; 15:1; Galatians 6:1, 2; 1 Thessalonians 5:14.

Whenever possible, express confidence in the inquirer’s desire to do what is pleasing to Jehovah, not scolding him for failure to see clearly what he should be doing.—2 Thessalonians 3:4, 5.

If the point about which there is a question has been specifically commented on in one of our publications in recent years, your answer should conform to what has been published. It is often helpful to refer the inquirer to the specific publication or publications that deal with the subject. This may make for shorter letters. Avoid being needlessly repetitious. Bear in mind that much of what is published on matters of conduct is to be viewed not as law but rather as mature Christian counsel. So it is not always necessary to think in terms of imposing sanctions if a person does not fully conform to the counsel given. Rather, his lack of understanding or failure to comply may be evidence of his need to progress to maturity, at least on the point in question. Patiently help him to progress instead of threatening him with congregational discipline if he does not at once conform. His course may affect his eligibility for special service privileges, but immaturity in itself does not bar one from being a publisher.

Many matters about which our brothers inquire are simply circumstances concerning which they must make personal decisions. If that is the case, say so. If there are some appropriate scriptures that bear on the issues involved, mention them. Draw the inquirer’s attention to any appropriate Scriptural counsel in Reasoning From the Scriptures or that may be located through the Watch Tower Publications Index, and recommend that he consider it carefully. Encourage him to take a full view of the matter, considering not only the specific situation about which he has inquired but also what his involvement may lead to, including how it may affect his own future, his relationship with Jehovah, and his privileges of service. Urge him to consider the effect of his decision on other people, and express confidence that he does not want to stumble weaker ones. (Romans 14:13, 19; 15:1, 2; 1 Corinthians 10:23, 24, 29, 31-33; Philippians 1:9-11) Point out that simply because something is a matter for personal decision does not mean that it makes no difference what one does; rather, it is a responsibility that the individual must accept.—Galatians 6:5.

In some cases, although a matter is one that must be decided by the individual, it is advantageous to encourage the person to consider his motive, recognizing that Jehovah knows not only what we do but also why we do it. (1 Chronicles 28:9; Proverbs 21:2; Jeremiah 17:10) If he has qualms of conscience about the situation, it is best for him to avoid what troubles him. A mature Christian does not see how close he can come to wrongdoing or worldly conduct; he stays as far away from it as possible. He knows that it is important to maintain a sensitive conscience that is clear before God.—1 Timothy 1:5, 18, 19; 1 Peter 3:16, 21.

In many cases the question raised is one that should be taken up with someone else. For example, a minor should consult his parents, particularly his father. (Ephesians 6:4; Colossians 3:20) A wife ought to consult her husband. (Ephesians 5: 22; Colossians 3:18) In some matters the local elders should be consulted. (Hebrews 13:7, 17) Provide direction according to the need.

When brothers question why adjustments have been made in our understanding of the Scriptures or in congregational procedures, it is important to perceive, to the extent possible, the attitude of the one writing. When such inquiries are presented with respect and sincerity, often we can be of much help. (Jude 22, 23) Commend the writer for seeking clarification and having a sincere desire to understand. If the one inquiring reflects a challenging, disrespectful attitude, it may be advisable first to contact the elders to determine the person’s standing in the congregation and what assistance they have been able to render. In seeking to help him better comprehend the improved understanding, your reply should reflect reasonableness, not having the appearance of a rebuttal, as if you were debating with him. If he still has difficulty accepting what has been published by “the faithful and discreet slave,” encourage him to let the matter rest while waiting upon Jehovah.—Matthew 24:45; 2 Timothy 2:23-25; James. 5:19, 20; The Watchtower 2000 9/1 pp. 12-13.

When a non-Witness presents challenging questions, often it is best to send only a brief reply that includes a brochure or a copy of a published article on the subject. In some cases it may be best not to reply without first having the elders visit him to determine his sincerity and motive. In sending the elders a copy of the person’s letter or a portion thereof, you may decide to ask that they arrange for two qualified brothers to visit him and then provide the branch office with their observations.