I know many JW’s who, before becoming witnesses were involved in drug abuse, drunkenness and other degraded ways of life. Others were caught up in commercial ventures and were full of tension and anxiety because of the instability of the economy and their quest for financial security. Why did they become witnesses? Because someone cared enough about his neighbour to preach the truth of God’s word to him.
Paul stresses the obligation of the parents before God: “And you, fathers, do not be irritating your children, but go on bringing them up in the discipline and authoritative advice of Jehovah.” (Eph. 6:4) Note that parents are accountable before God to bring their children up, not only in the authoritative advice of Jehovah, but also in the discipline of Jehovah. It is in this matter of discipline that parents sometimes are lax. Though showing loving care and attention, though teaching them God’s Word, parents may fail to enforce Jehovah’s laws. Since parents will render an account for the way they bring up their children, the question arises: What is Jehovah’s discipline?