LIVING AS CHRISTIANS, Week of April 14 to 20, 2025, Are we privileged for having privileges? Video: James Mantz: Are we privileged for having privileges? Analysis and Answers.

LIVING AS CHRISTIANS, April 14-20, 2025, Are we privileged for having privileges? Video: James Mantz: Are we privileged for having privileges? Analysis and Answers.

Are we privileged for having privileges? (15 mins.) Analysis with the audience.

Play the VIDEO. Then ask:

What idea does the word privilege convey?

The word privilege can be misinterpreted if not used carefully. In society, it is often associated with a higher status, as is the case with the expression privileged class, which suggests people with special rights or greater importance due to their social position or wealth. Something similar can happen within the organization if we are not careful. When someone is given a responsibility, such as serving at Bethel or attending Galaz, it may seem like they are being recognized as superior or special.

In some languages, this risk is even greater. For example, in Japanese the word 'token' was used for years to translate 'privilege', a word that literally means "special right." This made some uncomfortable, as it does not reflect well on the idea that these opportunities are not earned, but rather received through Jehovah's undeserved kindness.

So, more than a right, a privilege is an opportunity to serve with humility, always remembering that the credit belongs to Jehovah, not ours.

ADDITIONAL COMMENTS

The word privilege refers to something that not everyone has, but that some people have the opportunity to enjoy. It is not something that should be considered a right, but rather a favor or blessing that is received. Having privileges implies an extra responsibility, since you have to take advantage of them for the good of others, not just for your own benefit.

Privilege is not always something visible or material; Sometimes it can be an opportunity to help others, such as the chance to serve in a congregation. This type of privilege is valuable because it has a positive impact on the lives of others.

It is also important to remember that having a privilege does not mean being better than others. It is just an opportunity you have to do something meaningful, and as such, it should be used responsibly.

How should those who have responsibilities or privileges in the congregation view themselves?

Those who have responsibilities in the congregation should consider them a blessing from Jehovah, just as Elizabeth did when she received a visit from Mary, according to Luke 1:43.

Instead of feeling entitled or seeking recognition, those who serve should cultivate modesty and view each assignment as a token of Jehovah’s love and a way to demonstrate their loyalty.

The note from the English Study Bible helps us understand that Jesus did not want his disciples to feel useless, but rather not to focus on themselves or seek applause for what they do.

ADDITIONAL COMMENTS

People who have responsibilities or privileges in the congregation should see themselves as servants, not superior to others. They must remember that their role is to serve and help others, not to seek recognition or power. Humility is key, as privilege does not give you the right to be arrogant, but rather to serve with love and dedication.

People with responsibilities should be seen as examples to follow, not only for what they do, but for the attitude with which they do it. If you have humility and act sincerely, you can inspire others to follow your example.

Furthermore, they must recognize that they are not irreplaceable. Having a privilege is a temporary opportunity, and a person must be willing to give it up when necessary, always putting the needs of the congregation above any personal interest.

Why is it more important to serve others than to have a position of responsibility?

Serving is a direct reflection of the example of Jesus, who said that he did not come to be served, but to serve. The review of 1 Timothy 3:1 makes it clear that the important thing is not to desire a position, but to strive to do good work, that is, to serve from the heart.

Much good can be done without having a formal appointment; What is important is the willingness to help. We have examples of servants like Tychicus, Mark and many faithful women, who demonstrated their love for Jehovah by supporting in a practical and constant way, without seeking recognition.

Therefore, more than seeking a position, the faithful Christian seeks opportunities to serve humbly, thus demonstrating that he is a true slave of Jehovah.

ADDITIONAL COMMENTS

It is more important to serve others, because the true purpose of having a responsibility or a position of privilege is to help and care for others. If one focuses only on the power or position one has, one can lose sight of the main objective, which is to contribute to the well-being of the community.

Serving others is a way to show love and humility, while holding a position just for the sake of the position has no value if it is not used for the common good.

Serving others reflects the true spirit of solidarity and love that should exist in any community. A position of responsibility, although important, only has value if it is used to improve the lives of others, not to gain personal recognition.

Genuine service helps build stronger, more authentic relationships. When people see that someone is willing to give without expecting anything in return, it creates an environment of trust and unity, much more than any position of authority.