7. What does it mean to “observe the oneness of the spirit”?

⁷ Although Jehovah has declared his anointed ones righteous as sons and the other sheep righteous as friends on the basis of Christ’s ransom sacrifice, personal differences will arise as long as any of us are alive on earth in this system of things. (Rom. 5:9; Jas. 2:23) Otherwise there would have been no need for the inspired advice for us to continue “putting up with one another.” How is unity with fellow believers achieved? We need to develop “complete lowliness of mind and mildness.” Moreover, Paul urges that we earnestly endeavor “to observe the oneness of the spirit in the uniting bond of peace.” (Read Ephesians 4:1-3.) Applying this counsel involves yielding to the influence of God’s spirit and allowing it to produce its fruitage in us. That fruitage mends rifts between individuals, in contrast with the works of the flesh, which are always divisive.

 9. How can we examine ourselves as to whether we are “earnestly endeavoring to observe the oneness of the spirit”?

⁹ Thus, each of us needs to ask himself: ‘Just how earnest am I in trying “to observe the oneness of the spirit in the uniting bond of peace”? How do I respond when problems arise? Do I air my grievances before a wide audience, hoping to get support from several friends? Do I expect the elders to intervene in my behalf rather than my making real efforts to restore a peaceful relationship? Do I avoid others so as not to remind them of whatever it is they have against me, perhaps making sure there is sufficient distance between us?’ Would such actions show that we are acting in harmony with Jehovah’s purpose to gather all things together again in the Christ?

10, 11. (a) How important is it to be at peace with our brothers? (b) What actions will engender peace and spiritual prosperity?

¹⁰ Jesus said: “If, then, you are bringing your gift to the altar and you there remember that your brother has something against you, leave your gift there in front of the altar, and go away; first make your peace with your brother, and then, when you have come back, offer up your gift. Be about settling matters quickly.” (Matt. 5:23-25) James wrote that “the fruit of righteousness has its seed sown under peaceful conditions for those who are making peace.” (Jas. 3:17, 18) Thus, we cannot maintain righteous conduct in the absence of peace.

¹¹ To illustrate, it is estimated that in some war-ravaged countries, 35 percent more land could be cultivated if the inhabitants did not have to worry about the presence of land mines. When a mine is detonated, fields are abandoned by farmers, villages are robbed of their livelihood, and cities are deprived of their food. In a similar way, our growth in spiritual matters is hindered if we have personal traits that could disrupt peace with our brothers. But by being quick to forgive and by working for the well-being of others, we engender conditions that result in true prosperity.