Question

12-13. What are some situations in which we could inadvertently become guilty of defaming our friends? (See also picture.)Psalm 15:3 also reminds us that Jehovah’s guests do nothing bad to their neighbors and do not defame their friends. What might that involve?We could unintentionally defame someone by spreading negative information. For example: (1) a sister discontinues her full-time service, (2) a married couple no longer serve at Bethel, or (3) a brother is no longer serving as an elder or a ministerial servant. Would it be proper to speculate on the reasons why these adjustments were made and to share that opinion with others? There may well be reasons for the change that we are unaware of. Furthermore, a guest in Jehovah’s tent “does nothing bad to his neighbor, and he does not defame his friends.”

Make a comment, very short and understandable, use the JW Bible

Answer 1

We can inadvertently defame our friends by sharing opinions or speculating about their personal circumstances without knowing all the facts. For example, if a sister steps back from full-time service or a brother leaves an elder role, it's best not to guess the reasons or share those thoughts, as we could spread false information. Psalm 15:3 reminds us that those who dwell with Jehovah do not harm their neighbors or defame their friends, highlighting the importance of speaking respectfully and keeping confidences.