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(2) In any case, where in the Holy Scriptures does it convey "older men" as having or demonstrating a spiritual right and/or authority to refuse all admonition and/or criticism for any reason? The apostle Peter was criticised by the apostle Paul, and benefited from it. In this case Peter was "separating himself in fear of those of the circumcised class" (the Jews). Paul spoke to Ce'phas before them all. (Gal 2:11-17). He did not whisper privately in their ears. Peter and others were demonstrating division among God's people. Paul said to Peter: "We who are Jews by nature, and not sinners from the nations". This was a criticism of their conduct. They were corrected, with no mitigation of the seriousness of their sin by indulging it at the expense of others. To do this would also have been a "stopping up of the Kingdom of God before men", as they had been, by their actions, promoting satan's kingdom of this world by withdrawing from others and causing divisions.

Jesus is the "Chief Agent and Perfector of our faith". (Heb 12:2). And this perfecting is done through the congregation of God's heavenly "woman". Are you who claim to be of the "other sheep" now perfect, and to such an extent as to be above criticism? I think not.

The "adjusting down" (Greek T.) of the holy ones into work of service conveyed in Ephesians 4:12 is contrary in meaning to the adjusting of oneself up above others into positions of authority, as is the case in congregations of JWs. Ephesians 4:13 teaches a "oneness in the faith and in the accurate knowledge of the Son of God", and is in respect of God's anointed sons, for they are the congregation through whom such accurate knowledge is revealed.

As to the foregoing, the question for JWs to consider is: Where does this teaching of yours make a showing in God's Word?

Here is the true principal meaning of overseeing a congregation of God's people: "The greatest among you must be your servant. For whoever exalts himself will be humbled; and whoever humbles himself will be exalted". (Matt 23:12. NEB).

(1) In what way does the Greek Translation of 1 Timothy 5:1,2 help us to learn the
correct context of its meaning?

(2) Why did Paul choose to admonish Peter and others publicly in a critical way?

Note: The Oxford Dictionary defines the word 'Critical' as: Censorious, fault finding.

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