OUR KINGDOM MINISTRY

APRIL 1989

Vol. 32, No. 4 FOR UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

Meetings for Field Service

APRIL 3-9

When offering subscriptions

• 1. What article from The Watchtower will you highlight?

• 2. How will you tie in the subscription offer with Topic for Conversation?

APRIL 10-16 How can an introduction be 1. Simple?

• 2. Conversational?

• 3. Adapted to householder's objection?

APRIL 17-23

How will you respond to the objection

• 1. "You just called last week”?

• 2. “I am already well acquainted with your work”?

• 3. “We have no money"?

APRIL 24-30

In making return visits

• 1. Why call on magazine placements?

• 2. What is our main objective?

• 3. How will you initiate the conversation?

TOPIC FOR CONVERSATION Whom Shall We Worship?

Rev. 14:7—Worship the Creator.

Rev. 18:2a, 4—Heed God’s warning.

• ¹ The strong warning recorded at Revelation 18:4 has taken on added urgency in view of our times. Any doubts as to the true identity of Babylon the Great have been dispelled. Clearly she has been exposed as the world empire of r?iig<on used by Satan to fight against the seed of God’s “woman.”

• ² Remaining within her makes one a sharer in her sins. However ,jnore is required than just abandoning false religion. No one can remain indifferent with regard to true worship and yet expect to receive Jehovah’s blessings. Those fleeing Babylon must study God’s Word, join in proclaiming the good news, and become dedicate^ and baptized servants of God.

• ³ Do all who attended the Memorial on March 22 sense the urgency of getting out of Babylon and becoming wholly dedicated servants of Jehovah? We must help any indecisive ones_to take their stand for Jehovah. (Jas. 1:8; 4:8) Make a special effort to get the hard-hitting April and May issues of The Watchtower into their hands. Hein them to appreciate that since the time left is reduced, there is a pressing need for them to take their stand now.—Matt. 12:30.

  Renew Zeal by Applying Watch tower Suggestions

  
  

• ¹ Christ Jesus is the perfect example of a zealous preacher of the good news. His earnest desire to do his Father’s will and his keen interest in people prompted him to show personal concern for others. His ministry was vibrant, and he got results. The ministry refreshed him. He considered it to be “food" that sustained him. (John 4:34) He imparted words of salvation to others while accomplishing the work that his Father commissioned him to do. This gave meaning and purpose to his life.

• ² The apostles and other first-century followers of Christ Jesus imitated his zeal for the ministry. Even though severely persecuted at times, their zeal could not be dampened. (Acts 5:28-32; 8:1, 4) The same is true today. The good news is being preached in virtually every corner of the earth by individuals who follow the example of Jesus Christ. As Jehovah’s Witnesses, they are ever “zealous for fine works.”—Titus 2:14.

• ³ If we lack zeal, our work becomes perfunctory, and our personal involvement becomes superficial. As a result, we may no longer find joy in

HELP NEW ONES

• ⁴ With the Memorial celebration fresh in our minds, April is a logical time to help new ones to realize that sharing in the field ministry is an excellent means for showing that they rightly esteem Jesus’ sacrifice. Yes, it is a necessary way to demonstrate how much we appreciate what Jehovah and his Son, Jesus, have done for us!

• ⁵ Do you conduct home Bible studies with a view to preparingstJidfinis for the field ministry? They need progressive help and encouragement in order to develop appreciation for this Christian responsibility. Explain to your students the importance of field service, and demonstrate how it is done. You will find the brochure Doing God’s Will helpful in this regard.

MEETING THE REQUIREMENTS

• ⁶ When a Bible student has made., substantial progress(gnj'shows a <le-sire to help fulfill Matthew 24:14, it would be beneficial to review what is stated nn pages 98 and~9yoi the Uur Ministry book. He should be able to qualify as one “handling the word of the truth aright." (2 Tim. 2:1b) DonoUnvite him to accompany you

(Continued on page 2, col. 1)

our service. If we find ourselves in this position, we need to look for ways to renew our zeal and to accept the challenges the field ministry presents. The July 15, 1988, Watchtower article entitled “Pay Constant Attention to Your Teaching” highlighted practical suggestions to help us to strengthen or renew our zeal in Kingdom service.

CHALLENGES WE FACE

⁴ In many parts of the world, there is very little new or rarely-worked territory. In metropolitan areas, it is not uncommon for congregations to work their territory once a month or even once a week. This can present a challenge since many householders already know who we are and oftentimes attempt to stop the conversation before we can make a presentation. Perhaps they complain that ‘a Witness was here just last week.' Many of our neighbors are not at home, or we may find that the people in our territory are apathetic. All these things can be discouraging. But have you applied the suggestions presented in paragraphs 4-7 of the (Continued on page 8, col. 1)

Meetings to Help Us Make Disciples

WEEK STARTING APRIL 3

Song 53 C C T

10 mln: Local announcements and selected Announcements in Our Kingdom Ministry. Highlight key points in “Prepare for the Written Review.” Encourage all to offer current magazines this Saturday, using hard-hitting message against Babylon the Great. Show the striking covers of issues to be offered and make brief comment on contents. Announce group-witnessing arrangements for Sunday.

15 min: “Help Honesthearted Ones Escape From Babylon the Great.” Question-and-answer coverage by service overseer.

20 min: Assist Both New and Inactive Ones. Elder discusses need to assist inactive ones and others needing encouragement. What can the congregation do to help? Highlight need for all to cooperate closely in encouraging inactive ones and in strengthening others. (Heb. 6:1-3) Essential if we are to share in ‘fully accomplishing our ministry.’ (2 Tim. 4:5) Show how assistance can be given through the Congregation Book Study. Checkindex to locate practical suggestions that apply locally.

Song 20 and concluding prayer.

WEEK STARTING APRIL 10

Song 8

8 min: Warm welcome to meeting. Local announcements and accounts report. Comment briefly on current magazines being offered this Saturday.

23 min: “Give Close Attention to Personal Organization.” Elder should cover material in insert by audience discussion. He should ask questions of a practical nature that will draw out how the brothers may use the sugges-

Escape                  (Cont’d)

in the field service for the first time until the elders have authorizea ms participation. If it appears to you that ne meets the Scriptural and organizational requirements, let the presiding overseer know aboul'his progress. It the elders~meet with one of your Bible students in April and they authorize his participation in the held service, teach him how to make the Watchtower subscription offer, and start training him in the house-to-house ministry.—See The Watch-tions to improve their own personal organization. Also, ask for observations on what they are doing to use their time effectively.

14 min: “Using Our Defenses to the Full.” Question-and-answer discussion of material with emphasis on how it is being applied in the local congregation.

Song 136 and concluding prayer.

. WEEK STARTING APRIL 17

Song 30 nk

10 min: Local announcements. Theocratic News. Demonstrate two appropriate brief magazine presentations publishers can use this Saturday.

15 mln: Strengthening Our Faith. Discuss with audience worldwide expansion and experiences from 1989 Yearbook that would particularly strengthen faith of local congregation. See pages 11-13, 42-3, 47, 49, 52-3, 82-3, 121-2, 127-9 as suggestions, though others not featured on Service Meeting for week of January 30 could be used.

20 mln: “Renew Zeal by Applying Watchtower Suggestions.” Question-and-answer discussion. In discussing paragraphs 4-6, review the suggestions made on pages 16-20 of the July 15, 1988, Watchtower. Select and highlight one or two of those mentioned in the Watchtower article that would be most helpful in your local territory. Demonstrate the application of a suggestion given in the magazine.

Song 64 and concluding prayer.

WEEK STARTING APRIL 24

Song 200

10 min: Local announcements. Demonstrate brief presentation of current magazines to be offered this week. Feature articles in each issue that tower of November 15, 1988, pages 16-17, paragraphs 7-10.

⁷ Babylon the Great is headed for absolute destruction! Before that happens, we need to help honest-hearted ones tn escape her ciutcnes and to come into Jehovah’s organization. Millions have already been helped to do this. If it be Jehovah’s will, many more can he helped to make their flight out of the midst of Babylon as he blesses our zealous effort to find and care for the honest-hearted ones in our territory.—Jer. 50:8.

may have the most appeal locally. Encourage sharing in field service this weekend.

20 min: “Presenting the Good News —By Using the Reasoning Book to the Full.” Questions and answers. Demonstrate the introduction featui'ed in paragraph 3 and the suggestion for overcoming the potential conversation stopper mentioned in paragraph 4.

15 min: Local needs. Or talk on “Why Should We Fear God?" based on article in the January 1, 1989, Watchtower, pages 29-30.

Song 193 and concluding prayer.

Preparefor the Written Review

• ¹ Our Kingdom Ministry for December 1988 took note of the new arrangement for written reviews in the Theocratic Ministry School. These reviews will take place three times a year—at the end of April, August, and December. Although a little more individual effort will be required, increased benefits will be reaped by those participating. As the previous article mentioned, a printed review sheet with space for filling in the answers will no longer be provided for written reviews. However, printed questions will be included with the April, August, and December issues of Our Kingdom Ministry. Having these sheets early will give each one the opportunity to research specific information so as to be thoroughly prepared.

• ² When looking up cited information on which the printed questions are based, do not mark or write on the question sheet, since you will use this sheet of questions for taking the written review. Remember that only the Bible is to be referred to during the written review. Your personal notes or other references are not to be used at that time.

• ³ During the time allotted for the written review, you will need a separate sheet of paper for writing down your answers to the questions that call for an expression in your own words. Try to give specific information, and be brief. Since you will have prepared in advance, this should not be too difficult. When the answers are given by the school overseer, you will (.Continued on page 8, col. 3)

© 1989 Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society of Pennsylvania. All rights reserved. Our Kingdom Ministry (USPS 295-360) is published monthly by Watchtower Bible and Tract Society of New York, Inc., and International Bible Students Association, 25 Columbia Heights, Brooklyn, N.Y. 11201. Second-class postage paid at Brooklyn, N.Y.. and at additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Watchtower, 25 Columbia Heights, Brooklyn, N.Y. 11201.                                        ,              -                Printed In U.S.A.

²     ' Ln             W         AmT¹-

Give Close Attention to Personal Organization

• ¹ “If you want a job done, give it to a busy person.” The reasoning behind this saying is that a busy person is usually well organized and can therefore accomplish more. All of us have 24 hours to use each day. Whether we squander that time or we use it wisely often depends on our personal organization.

• ² There is always “plenty to do in the work of the Lord.” (1 Cor. 15:58) We have meetings to attend and the field ministry to share in. But preparation comes before these. In other words, we need to spend time studying so that we can effectively “make disciples” and incite others “to love and fine works,” as we have been commanded to do. (Matt. 28:19; Heb. 10:24) The ordinary things of life, such as secular work, shopping, eating, cleaning, traveling, attending school, and sleeping, all have their place. Some time, too, may be spent in recreation. Fitting everything into its proper place presents a challenge we must meet. How can this be done?

ESTABLISHING PRIORITIES

• ³ Jesus said: “Keep on, then, seeking first the kingdom and his righteousness, and all these other things will be added to you.” (Matt. 6:33) Obviously, Kingdom interests should have the first priority when it comes to the use of our time. If we were to schedule our time the way we budget our money, the hours we set aside for Christian meetings, family Bible study, and such theocratic activities as the field ministry and personal study would not be used to pursue other interests.

• ⁴ Into every schedule must go the necessary things of life. Time is set aside for doing secular work to support oneself and one’s family. Eating and sleeping, as well as giving personal attention to the needs of one’s family, must be included. High on the priority list of elders and ministerial servants is the time they spend preparing for and carrying out theocratic responsibilities. Why not sit down and make such a schedule, and see if there are nonessential items that are higher on your priority list than they should be?

KEEPING A SIMPLE EYE

• ⁵ When Jesus was discussing the activity of his followers, he noted: “If, then, your eye is simple, your whole body will be bright.” (Matt. 6:22) WTrat would be involved in this? Basically it means keeping one’s life uncomplicated. There are many distractions that can steal one’s time. Television is one of these. In some homes, the television set is turned on in the morning and left on all day. A person may sit down to watch a program of short duration. But then he finds that time he had originally planned to use for personal study or with the family slips away as he continues watching other programs. How easy it is to waste an entire evening with nothing worthwhile being accomplished! Many do not know when to turn the TV off. If you have this problem, you may decide it is best not to turn the television on. Hobbies, a form of relaxation for some, may also end up taking away time that was set aside for more important matters.

• ⁶ Engaging in sports activities, attending sports events, or watching them on TV can swallow up precious time. Husbands, wives, and children do well to see that they are not robbed of time they could use to study and associate together. All of us must be careful not to complicate our life with excesses in sports or recreation.

• ⁷ A serious problem can result if we allow secular work to encroach on priority time. Some may find themselves so absorbed in their work or so concerned with the prospects of financial advantages that they no longer have a place in their schedule for meetings, the field ministry, or their family’s spirituality. (Eph. 5: 15,16) It is good to ask ourselves, ‘Who is it that would really take delight in my selling to secular interests time I have already dedicated to the worship of Jehovah God?’

WAYS TO USE TIME EFFECTIVELY

• ⁸ Organizing one’s life for the most effective use of time calls for having spiritual goals and a clear set of values. This is the key to setting daily priorities. Do not procrastinate. If you have set aside time to do a job, use it for that purpose. Set deadlines for yourself. Strive to study certain material in ample time to make ■ use of it in the field ministry or at meetings. Do the same thing regarding everyday tasks around the home.

• ⁹ Practice making use of time that would otherwise be lost. For example, when you must wait for others, use that time well by reading, writing letters, or accomplishing some other essential task. If you find yourself waiting in line, you may be able to strike up a conversation that will lead into giving a witness. Another essential for all is to get sufficient rest and relaxation so as to stay healthy and alert. This will enable you to work more effectively. Illness brought on by a lack of necessary rest or sleep can keep you from giving proper attention to things of high priority in life.

IMPROVING PERSONAL ORGANIZATION

• ¹⁰ In the business world, much time and effort are spent just planning how to accomplish a given task. A good businessman finds it costeffective to organize workers and material before producing a given product. He realizes that if the necessary workers and materials are not available when and where they are needed, much time and money can be lost and he will not realize a profit. We, however, have far more noble motives for organizing ourselves. These include our desire to maintain a fine relationship with Jehovah, be effective in making disciples, and reach our goal of everlasting life. It is necessary, therefore, to make sure that we have available to us the right tools at the right time.

• ¹¹ For instance, we have five congregation meetings each week. The material for these meetings is based on several different publications. Are these publications readily available? Is the Watchtower issue we are studying that week set aside, or is time spent searching for it? And what about other needed publications, such as Our Kingdom Ministry, the songbook, a Bible, and the publication we are studying at the Congregation Book Study? It is good to have a designated place for these items and keep them there when they are not being used. In this way, we can quickly find the appropriate publications when we prepare for either field service or meetings.

• ¹² Elders and ministerial servants especially need to be mindful of their personal organization. With so much to do, both secularly and in the congregation, “the more important things” can sometimes be forgotten or pushed to the side. (Phil. 1:10) Using the suggestion of maintaining a list of priorities can be truly beneficial. Have you tried this? One brother has such a list and reviews it before every meeting. In this way he accomplishes much and can see to it that the necessary work of the congregation is done.

• ¹³ Elders should have a good system for keeping track of congregation correspondence. Paperwork can sometimes be confusing and cumbersome if it is not organized properly. It is good, therefore, to take a few minutes regularly to sort out papers that need to be kept or passed on to someone else and to discard those that can be destroyed. If you have letters in your possession that need to be circulated to other elders, be sure to move them along quickly. Designating a place in your briefcase or perhaps putting correspondence in a separate envelope or folder can help you to keep track of letters and other material needing attention. In this way, important paperwork will not be lost or delayed.

ORGANIZATION—A SLAVE, NOT A MASTER

• ¹⁴ After reviewing your schedule, determine how much organization you need. We do not want to become fanatical perfectionists, overorganizing our personal lives to the point where there is no room for variation. Remember, we are all individuals and we each have a unique set of circumstances. Some of us are single, some married. What may work for one family may not work for another. Personal organization ought to take into consideration our individual and family circumstances. Exercise discernment and be flexible in line with Bible principles that will serve to guide you in having a successful schedule.—See The Watchtower of September 15,1988, pages 28-30; Awake! of December 8, 1987, pages 24-7; and Awake! of December 22, 1965, pages 9-12.

• ¹⁵ In recent years, simplification through following principles of good order has brought about improved efficiency in the operation of Jehovah’s earthly organization. Some may feel they have methods that work better for them personally. They would like the Society to encourage others to use such methods, but often these have been considered and discarded because they are not organizationally practical. In the interests of unity and efficiency, then, it is wise to follow the approved organizational procedures, using ways and methods that are understood and used by others who may be affected by your work.

• ¹⁶ Jehovah is a God of order and peace. (1 Cor. 14:33, 40) He has a set time to accomplish his will and purpose. (Acts 1:7) Through his Word, he has lovingly outlined what should concern us as imperfect humans. By means of direction from Jesus Christ through “the faithful and discreet slave,” Jehovah provides helpful instructions on how to accomplish the most important work being done today. (Matt. 24: 45-47; 28:19, 20; Eccl. 12:13) So by following Scriptural admonition found in the Society’s publications, including the timely reminders set out in this insert, we can become better organized for fully accomplishing our ministry. —2 Tim. 4:5.

THEOCRATIC MINISTRY SCHOOL REVIEW

Closed-book review on material covered in Theocratic Ministry School assignments for the weeks of January 2 to April 17, 1989. Use a separate sheet of paper to write down answers to as many of the questions as you can in the time allotted.

[Note: During the written review, only the Bible may be used to answer any question. References that follow the questions are for your personal research. Page and paragraph numbers may not appear on all references to The Watchtower.]

Answer each of the following statements True or False:

' 1. The third poem of Lamentations stresses Zion’s hope in God’s mercy and the propriety of waiting for salvation from Jehovah, [si p. 131 par. 10] V

2. Jehovah commissioned Ezekiel to serve as a prophet, whether his hearers would heed his prophetic message or not. [si p. 134 par. 9]

- 3. The mark on the forehead refers to having an intelligent comprehension of the truth. (Ezek. 9:4) [w88 9/15 p. 14 par. 18]

4. Ezekiel’s being commanded not to display grief at his wife’s death was to show that the Jews would be so stunned at Jerusalem’s destruction that they would be expressionless. [w88 9/15 p. 21 par. 24]

' 5. Being in the spiritual paradise does not depend upon our own conduct. [w88 9/15 p. 24 pars. 10, 11]

• 6. Though higher critics of the Bible have called into question the historicalness of Daniel’s book, other Scriptural testimony completely routs their assertions. [w88 12/1 p. 11 par. 5]

• 7. Ezekiel’s visionary temple proves that pure worship will survive Gog’s attack. (Ezek. 40-44) [Weekly Bible reading; see w88 9/15 p. 26 par. 17.]

• 8. “Beth-aven” (meaning “House of Hurtfulness”) was used in a derogatory sense for Bethel, which means “House of God.” (Hos. 10:5) [Weekly Bible reading; see w89 3/1.]

S-97    #267    4/89

• 9. “Cows of Bashan” referred to the well-fed spiritual condition of Samaria’s inhabitants. (Amos 4:1) [Weekly Bible reading; see w89 4/1.]

710. The expression “cleanness of teeth” refers to a time of famine, teeth being clean because of there not being anything to eat. (Amos 4:6) [ w89 4/1]

Answer the following questions:

• 11. Who is Gog of Magog? (Ezek. 38:2)

[Weekly Bible reading; see w88 ,9/15 p. 25 par. 14.]         Z/U’

• 12. Who were the three prophets that were outstanding during the critical years from 617 to 607 B.C.E., which culminated in the destruction of Jerusalem? [si p. 133 par. 2]          tyiA- , Q&w*

• 13. What is symbolized by the water that flowed from the visionary temple? (Ezek. 47:1-11) [Weekly Bible reading; a see,w§8 9/15 P- 27 par. 20.] cJtwcwXStwJ'*

• 14. E^ekfb^^7:12^< md^jcates” th^t obedient mankind will enjoy what in the new world? [Weekly Bibla reading; see w88 9/15 p. 27 par. 21.]

• 15. When Daniel interpreted Nebuchadnezzar’s dream, to what conclusion did the king come? (Dan. 2:26, 28, 47) [Weekly Bible reading; see w8812/1 p. l^par. 9.]

• 16. Th^u^h^ ^lF^'ady^><^standirfg^C₎”^U;in what way does Jesus “stand up”? (Dan. 12:1) [Weekly Bible reading; see w87 7/1 p. 19 ,. par. 15.]

• 17. What do die^nCmes ofTlomkr^ children ’ indicate as to how Jehovah would deal with Israel? (Hos. 1:6, 9) [si p. 144 par. 9]          Xl

Provide the word or phrase needed to complete each of the following statements;

• 18. It appears that the prophet preceded the prophets Isaiah and Micah, [si p. 146 par. 3]            ___

• 19. The Bible book of^Z^■’♦^^^xpresses overwhelming grief at the siege, capture, and destruction of Jerusalem by Nebuchadnezzar, [si p. 131 par. 7]

• 20. By means of the riddle in Ezekiel chapter 17, Jehovah illustrated the futility of Jerusalem’s turning to          for

help, [si p. 135 par. 17]

• 21. When interpreting the handwriting on the wall, Daniel set a splendid exam-₁ pie of faith and courage for

[Weekly Bible reading; see w88 12/1

• p. 20 par. 19.]              .

• 28. Those calling on Jehovah’s name “will get away safe” when (they get baptized; they become regular proclaimers of Jehovah’s name; God executes his judgment upon the nations). (Joel 2:32) [Weekly Bible reading; see w89 3/15.]

• 29. Jehovah “felt regret” in that (he changed hjy mind nhout punishing the repentant Assyrians; he was sorry that they had to receive a severe judgment message; he lamented that his creation had turned out to be so wicked). (Jonah 3:10) [Weekly Bible reading; see w89 4/15.]

• 30. Although the Bible mentions Belshazzar as the last king of Babylon, he was actually the coregent of (Nebuchadnezzar; Evil-merodach; Nabonidus). [si p. 140 par. 12]

• 22. In Ezekiel’s final vision, he described the holy city with 12 gates, and the glorious name of that city was_^__. [w88

9/15 p. 27 par. 23]

• 23. “The low plain of Jehoshaphat” symbolizes                 day of Jehovah.”

(Joel 3:2,14) [Weekly Bible reading; see w89 3/15.]

• 24. Daniel went into captivity with the Jews taken captive in the year u'7 p. 139 par. 8]

• 25. An angel explained that the “prince of

Persia’opposed his coming to Daniel but that          helped him. (Dan. 10:13)

[si p. 141 par. 17]

Select the correct answer in each of the following statements:

• 26. In the book of Hosea, the name used interchangeably with “Israel” was (Jgphra-im; Judah; Jacob), [si p. 144 par.~§]

• 27. “The covenant” refers to the (Law covenant; new covenant; Abrahamic covenant). (Dan. 9:27) [Weekly Bible reading; see fcc p. 65 par. 23.]

Match the following scriptures to the statements listed below:

Ezek. 47:13-48:34; Dan. 3:16-18; Dan. 7: 13,14; Hos. 5:1; Hos. 13:14

• 31. The apostate priests and kings of Israel became a trap and a net for the people by enticing them to engage in false worship. [Weekly Bible reading; see w89 3/1.]                   (

• 32. In harmony with this Scriptural precedent, Jehovah’s servants today do not bow before national symbols. [Weekly Bible reading; compare w88 12/1 p. 19 par. 17.]                   ;/b ->$

• 33. Jehovah would not spare the disobedient Israelites by rescuing them at that time from the power of Sheol, for they did not deserve mercy. [Weekly Bible reading; see w89 3/1.]

• 34. In Paradise, God will place people where he chooses. [Weekly Bible reading; see w88 9/15 p. 27 par. 22.]        7.73

• 35. This prophecy points to Jehovah’s anointed King, Jesus Christ. [Weekly Bible reading; see fcc p. 142 pars. 4, 5.]

• ⁶                         *7/ /3>,

Announcemen ts

• Literature offer for April and May: Watchtower subscription for one year for a contribution of $5.00. Awake! subscription may be offered on same basis. Six-month subscriptions and one-year subscriptions to monthly editions are $2.50. June: True Peace and Security—How Can You Find It? for a contribution of $1.00. July and August: One of the following magazine-size brochures for a contribution of 30e: Enjoy Life on Earth Forever!, "Look! I Am Making AU Things New,” The Divine Name That Will Endure Forever, and The Government That Will Bring Paradise. Congregations that have the following books on hand may offer two for $1.00: Choosing the Best Way of Life, Commentary on the Letter of James, God’s "Eternal Purpose" Now Triumphing for Man’s Good, and Is the Bible ReaUy the Word of God? (For obtaining credit, elders should refer to the guidelines in the Society’s letter of December 21, 1988.) Additional copies of Commentary on James may be ordered from the Society. Congregations should not order the other three books mentioned, since they are out of stock.

• District convention badge cards for 1989 in English and Spanish will be consigned and included with April literature shipments. It will not be necessary to order these. Based on the size of each congregation, consignments in lots of 25 will be made. The literature account will be billed at the rate of two cents per card. If additional badge cards are needed by the congregation, these should be ordered on a Literature Order form (S-14).

• Where practical, elders should make arrangements for congregation to share in evening witnessing as daylight hours increase.

• New Publications Available:

Sing Praises to Jehovah (Small size)                —Croatian

True Peace and Security—How Can You Find It?          —Fijian,

Polish, Swahili

Enjoy Life on Earth Forever!

—Maori

Jehovah’s Witnesses—Unitedly Doing God’s Will Worldwide

—Polish

"Look! I Am Making All Things New" (Brochure)    —Niuean

The Government That Will Bring Paradise           —Niuean,

Rarotongan

Watch Tower Publications Index 1986-1988           —English

Tract No. 13        —Ukrainian

Tract No. 15           —Arabic,

Estonian, Ukrainian

Tract No. 16           —Arabic,

Estonian, Ukrainian

• New Cassette Recordings Available: Hosea through Malachi (set of three cassettes; congregation and public: $4.50; pioneers: $3.75)              —English

Daniel (single cassette; congregato Reach Your Children"? It included a demonstration showing a family studying an article from the February 15, 1987, issue of The Watchtower. The parents took into consideration each child and the level of his ability to learn. It was not a mechanical question-and-answer routine, but the parents aimed at reaching the hearts of their children with the truth. You sisters may particularly recall how the mother was most supportive of her husband, indicating submissiveness and thus setting a good example for the children. —Eph. 5:21-24.

CHILDREN—WHAT DOES JEHOVAH EXPECT OF YOU?

• ⁵ Just as your parents are under attack by Satan, so are you. What is your defense? Obedience to Jehovah and to your parents. In the convention talks, fine suggestions were given to help you. Do you recall them? One point you may remember is that you cannot ride into the new world on your parents’ coattails. In other words, you must make the truth your own. Your parents feed and support you. They have been doing so for years. But as you mature, it is expected that you will take on spiritual responsibilities. Jehovah expects you to do what you know is right. (Eccl. 11:9) If you have learned that Jehovah’s way is right, then it is up to you to have the good sense to follow it.

• ⁶ As you grow older, the challenge to remain morally clean becomes more persistent. There is a worldwide epidemic of unclean influence, and you are faced with it every day. Your defense lies in loving what is good and hating what is bad. (Ps. 52:3; 97:10) Associate with those who love Jehovah. Read what is upbuilding. Watch what is wholesome. (Phil. 4:8) If tempted, remember the outcome of the young man in want of heart. (Prov. 7:6-27) Be guided by Jehovah in your thoughts and actions, and you will remain safely on his side.

’ Yes, parents and children alike must remain alert to the dangers that surround all of us. By using our defenses to the full, we can come off victorious in the fight and be privileged to praise Jehovah eternally.

tion and public: $2.00; pioneers:

$1.75)            —German

Joshua (set of two cassettes; congregation and public: $3.00; pioneers: $2.50)         —Italian

Daniel (set of two cassettes; congregation and public: $3.00; pioneers: $2.50)        —Spanish

By Using the Reasoning Book to the Full

• ¹ “How I wish I had my Reasoning book!” Has this thought crossed your mind while endeavoring to respond to a Scriptural question encountered in the field ministry or while witnessing informally at work or school? Those who have become familiar with the features of the Reasoning book and who carry it with them have found that they can count on it for help at the right time. What about you?

• ² Since the Reasoning book was released in 1985, almost every issue of Our Kingdom Ministry has provided excellent suggestions on its use. Can you recall some of the settings in past Service Meeting parts that highlighted the versatility and value of the Reasoning book? There have been demonstrations showing how it may be used by parents to help their family prepare for field service, an elder assisting a youth who may be attracted to the world, and stronger publishers assisting those who are in need of encouragement, (km 6/86 p. 2; km 7/86 p. 2) One article encouraged young ones to use the Reasoning book in preparing spiritually for school, (km 8/87 p. 2) Other articles have given practical suggestions on how to use it in each feature of our field ministry and how to adapt its use to varying circumstances, such as when working territories with high-security buildings.—km 4/86 p. 3; km 12/87 p. 8.

ARE WE USING IT TO THE FULL?

• ³ If we are to use the Reasoning book effectively, we must first become familiar with its contents. Then we must put forth the effort to use its Zeal                      (Cont’d)

above-mentioned Watchtower article?

• ⁵ Millions have already been gathered into the “great crowd” of “other sheep,” and millions more continue to respond to the good news of the Kingdom. (Rev. 7:9; John 10:16) However, presentations that were successful in the past may no longer arouse interest in our territories. We need to be alert to the type, quality, and effectiveness of our presentations and to be ready to make necessary adjustments.

• ⁶ Addressing this subject, The Watchtower gave some interesting recommendations on how to improve our ministry. It suggested ways of giving a thorough witness when we have to deal with apathy, with people in often-worked territory, and with suggestions. Have you tried adapting a suggested introduction to the current Topic for Conversation? If you use the second suggestion listed under “Kingdom” on page 12 of the Reasoning book and make brief reference to Revelation 21:3-5, you could then logically bring up the subject of our current Topic for Conversation, “Whom Shall We Worship?”

• ⁴ By using material from the section on “Conversation Stoppers,” we can be more successful in overcoming initial objections. Why not give thought to how you might respond to a potential conversation stopper. For example, when a person says “I’m not interested,” you could use the fourth suggestion on page 16, refer to Revelation 14:7, and then point out that this scripture awakened you to the need to identify and worship the true God. Try it. Others have had good success using expressions such as these.

• ⁵ Indeed, many are the blessings that can come from using the Reasoning book. If we set aside time to prepare fresh approaches and introductions that will appeal to our particular audience, we will be more enthusiastic about getting out into the field, even in territory that is frequently covered, (km 3/86 p. 4) Why not take the time needed to review some of the past articles that offered suggestions on how to use the Reasoning book effectively?—km 3/87 p. 4; km 10/88 p. 8.

• ⁶ May Jehovah bless your efforts to the full as you seek to open up to others “the magnificent things of God”! (Acts 2:11) Then they may join in saying to Jehovah, as did the psalmist David: “To me how precious your thoughts are!”—Ps. 139:17.

householders that complain. Are we applying these suggestions, adapting our presentations to the needs of the territory? Are we taking advantage of the tools available to us to do this? Following the suggestions offered will help us to become more personally involved in the ministry. As we deliberately incorporate what has been outlined, we are stimulated mentally and become absorbed in the ministry. Thus, our zeal is renewed and intensified.

• ⁷ In view of present world conditions, it is quite evident that the great tribulation is drawing closer. This underscores the urgency of our message and the need to shine as a ‘light to the world.’ (Matt. 5:14, 16) Let us be diligent in applying the suggestions we have received and thus intensify our zeal for the ministry.

THEOCRATIC NEWS

• ♦ Ecuador had a new peak of 13,576 publishers in November, a 10-percent increase over the same month a year ago. Bible studies were up 13 percent, with 26,463 being conducted.

• ♦ France reached a new peak of 105,307 publishers during November. Congregation publishers averaged 12.3 hours during the month.

• ♦ French Guiana, with a peak of 531 publishers, had 1,230 in attendance for their special assembly day series, and 18 were baptized.

• ♦ Guam rejoices in an all-time peak of 323 publishers for November. Their recent circuit assembly program saw a peak attendance of 518 with 9 baptized.

• ♦ Madagascar had a new peak of 3,069 publishers in October for a 10-percent increase.

Schedule for congregation studies in the book Life—How Did It Get Here? By Evolution or by Creation?:

April 3: Pages 239* to 246

April 10: Pages 247 to 251

Schedule for congregation studies in the book Revelation—Its Grand Climax At Handl:

April 17: Pages 6 to 8

April 24: Pages 9 to ll**

• • To or from first subheading.

• • • To or from second subheading.

Review                  (Cont’d)

know if the information you have written down is correct.

• ⁴ Everyone should prepare well for the Theocratic Ministry School each week. Pay close attention during the meeting, and try to pick out key points as information is presented from the platform. The school overseer will make sure that all points to be considered on the next written review are clearly stated.

• ⁵ This new arrangement should give added incentive to everyone to be present and to participate in this feature of the Theocratic MinistrySchool. The added research involved should help establish key points clearly in our minds. With this new arrangement, the objective of the Theocratic Ministry School will be more fully accomplished. This should be reflected in our being better equipped for the work of the ministry.

JANUARY SERVICE REPORT

Av    Av    Av

Pubs. Hrs. Mags. R.V. Bi.St.

Sp’IPios.     267 129.2  78.0 55.1

Pios.      62,110  81.6  34.8 27.7

Aux. Pios.  26,850  58.8  25.0 17.2

Pubs. 689,256   9.5   5.9 3.8 0.5

TOTAL  778,483

Newly Dedicated Ones Baptized: 2,857

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