Brothers having personal disputes may request that el- ders help them settle their differences. Elders should listen carefully to both sides and then offer appropriate Scriptural counsel. No rules or set pattern for giving counsel can be pre- scribed, since circumstances and individuals vary. Counsel may be given either directly or indirectly, but it should be clear and specific enough to be understood by the person or persons needing the counsel. Direct counsel is clearly expressed advice that leaves no question in the mind of the person as to the nature of the problem or as to what is expected of him to correct the matter.
Indirect counsel leaves much to the discernment of the person being counseled.
The facts or circumstances may or may not be specifically stated. Indirect counsel may he given to a group, allowing each one to make personal application. Questions may be effective in helping an individual to analyze his own situation or needs. If he has sinned, your endeavor should be to readjust him so that he will grow spiritually. Be sure the counsel is based solidly on God's Word.