Our Kingdom Ministry

• ¹ Never before have so many young people participated in preaching the good news of the Kingdom! Tens of thousands are embracing the counsel at Ecclesiastes 12:1: “Remember, now. your Grand Creator in the days of your young manhood." What moves these young ones to have a regular share in the ministry, and why do so many of them engage in the pioneer service?

• ² No doubt many are imitating the conductor the outstanding young man Timothy. His mother and grandmother gave him the benefit of a spiritual education from infancy and encouraged him to pursue spiritual goals. (2 Tim. 3:14,15) Thus, when the opportunity arose for increased privileges of service, he was qualified and ready. —Acts 16:1-3.

• ³ How can more young ones be encouraged to pursue spiritual goals? What kind of foundation must be laid? How can parents build in their children appreciation for the truth and help them set long-term goals for themselves?

  Daily Spiritual Food

  —Essential for a Christian Family

  
  

¹ “Man must live, not on bread alon^, but on every utterance coming forth through Jehovah's mouth.” (Matt. 4:4) How true those words are! Even as we need physical food every day. so we daily need to take in spiritual food. To assist us in regularly feeding onTlod's Word, the Society has published the booklet Examining the Scriptures Daily. As a Christian family, are you setting aside time each day to consider the day's text?

- Parents Must Set the Example: With a busy routine, it is easy to put off a consideration of the text, thinking that it can be done at another time. But jf parents are conscious of their family’s spiritual need, they will find time, yes, make time, each daylo do so when the family is together. (Matt. 5:3) They will take the initiative by not only reading the daily text with their children but also highlighting points in the Watch

⁴ Lay a Scriptural Foundation: Parents must make certain that what they are teaching their children is from Jehovah so that it can make their children “wise for salvation.” (2 Tim. 3:15) Strive diligently to cultivate in them a deep love for God’s Word, the Bible. This requires a regular, meaningful Bible study tailored to their needs, along with regular meeting attendance. For youths to have strong faith that will motivate them to pursue spiritual goals, they must have their own personal study program and develop their own relationship with Jehovah. —1 Thess. 5:21; Heb. 11:1.

• ⁵ Christian youths will more readily pursue spiritual interests if their parents and other mature ones in the congregation set a fine example and radiate “the joy of Jehovah.” (Neh. 8:10) By manifesting joy, all of us can help young ones appreciate that the requirements of true Christianity are not burdensome—1 John 5:3.

• ⁶ Many young ones have been greatly influenced by pioneers, missionaries, tower comments and discussing what practical application can be made of the information and counsel. True, it may take effort and. practice to get into the habit. but the benefits are worth it. (Compare Acts 17:11, 12.) So. parents, work hard to set a fine example!

• ³ Find a Convenient Time: When is the best time for the whole family to comeTogeEKer for the text discussion, not letting it become a hit-or-miss affair? There is an advantage in starting the day with consideration of’a Bible text At Bethel and missionary homes around the world, the day begins with morning worship, which includes a brief discussion of the day’s text. This helps the brothers get their day off to a good start, daily reflecting on Jehovah’s reminders.—Ps. 1:1,2; Phil. 4:8.

• ⁴ Christian families can likewise benefit from morning Bible discussions. and traveling overseers who worked with them in the field service or who shared a word of encouragement with them. Parents can assist by inviting exemplary full-time workers to their homes for a meal or at other times for Christian fellowship. Jesus Christ provided the finest example of giving balanced attention to younger ones. —Mark 10:13-16.

• ⁷ Setting Goals: With proper parental guidance, children often set spiritual goals for themselves early in life. Once young ones have decided what worthy spiritual goal they wish to achieve, whether pioneer service, serving where the need is greater, Bethel or missionary service, and so forth, parents and other mature ones can warmly encourage them to keep working toward their goal, providing practical suggestions to spur them on.

• ⁸ Each congregation is like a family. So each of us should be interested in helping young ones to continue walking in the truth and making spiritual advancement. We can do this by confirming our love for them and encouraging them to pursue spiritual goals.

Children can be helped to deal with threats to their spirituality that they experience in school. If for a time it is not possible for the entire family to sit down for a discussion of the day’s text, parents could think about alternative arrangements so that this important spiritual nourishment is not missed. For example, when a father must go to work before the children get up in the morning, perhaps the mother can devote some time to discussing the text with the children. On the other hand, some families arrange to discuss the text in the evening because they are together then. Each family can work out a schedule that best suits its circumstances.

⁵ Daily spiritual nourishment is essential for a Christian family. Give priority to considering the daily text. (Phil. 1:10) Discussing a Bible text each day will help us hold fast to Jehovah’s righteous principles and laws. Cooperation on the part of each family member will make this arrangement most beneficial for all.

Week Starting May 4

Song 72

min: Local announcements and selected Announcements from Our Kingdom Ministry. Encourage publishers to be out in service this weekend.

"^20 min: "Offering The Watchtower in May.” Question-and-answer coverage

' of article. Include a discussion of the purpose of The Watchtower as expressed at the top of page 2 of each issue. Additional presentations may be suggested, based on the magazines to be used in field service this week. Publishers should discern genuine interest before offering the subscription. Initial interest may be cultivated by calling back a few times with new issues of the .magazine.

₇  5 min: “Opening Remarks Can Make

a Difference.” Discuss article with audience. Have they tried some of the introductions suggested in recent issues of Our Kingdom Ministry, most of which have been taken from the Reasoning book? Which introductions have they found most effective in the local territory? When do publishers prepare and practice their introductions for field service? Have two or three brief demonstrations of introductions that have been effective locally.

Song 32 and concluding prayer.

Week Starting May 11

pSong 9

' 5 min: Local announcements.

| 20 min: “Make Effective Return Visits.” Discuss with audience key points in article, perhaps including a brief recent experience where a return visit resulted in stimulating further interest. Use final six to eight minutes to

demonstrate how a Congregation Book Study conductor helps two or three publishers prepare to call back on interested persons recently found in local territory. If at all possible, use actual return visits that the publishers will later make.                £?

20 min: “1992 ’Light Bearers' District Convention”—Part 1. Audience discussion of paragraphs 1-14. Publishers may want to discuss appropriate points with their Bible students who will be attending the convention.

Song 65 and concluding prayer.

Week Starting May 18

Song 202   yy7q

10 min: Local announcements, eluding accounts report and donation acknowledgments. Commend congregation for financial support of local congregation as well as Society’s worldwide work. Outline special field service arrangements for May 25, where appropriate. Z /

20 min: “Encourage the Pursuit of Spiritual Goals.” Audience discussion to be handled by an elder. After considering paragraph 6, interview exemplary publisher who as a youth responded to encouragement to reach out for spiritual goals. How was he or she encouraged? When considering paragraph 7, point out practical benefits that will accrue to both parents and youths from reviewing chapters 22. 38, and 39 of the Young People Ask book. Zy ' 15 min: “1992 ’Light Bearers^zDistrict Convention"—Part 2. Audience discussion of paragraphs 15-23 and a brief review of “District Convention Reminders" as time permits. Include appropriate reminders based on information in The Watchtower of June 15, 1989, pages 10-20. Encourage family groups to review points in these articles before attending the convention. Song 213 and concluding prayer.

Week Starting May 25

Song 220

10 min: Local announcements and Theocratic News. Experiences from subscription campaign (these should be lined up in advance with help of brother who handles subscriptions in congregation).

15 min: Protect Yourself From Apos- A tasy. Discussion between an elder and a publisher seated at a table. Publisher expIainsThat he met someone in service who has been reading apostate literature. Publisher tells elder he feels householder was sincere in questions he raised. Publisher refused householder’s offer of apostate publication but would like to try to answer householder’s questions. Elder commends publisher for his good attitude and actions. Rather than discuss what apostates have written or said, it is wise to concentrate on Scriptural viewpoint of matters as set forth in Reasoning book. Elder invites publisher to open his Reasoning book, and together they review pages 34-7. Discussion should be warm and encouraging as they consider definition of apostasy, each bold subhead, and selected key texts as time permits. Conclude discussion with positive comments on all the upbuilding and encouraging material we have available for study. Share upbuilding message with householder. If he is sincere, he will see difference between the positive approach of truth and the negative, critical approach of apostates. By our rejecting apostate thinking and material, we display our loyalty to Jehovah and to his visible organization.

20 min: “Daily Spiritual Food—Essen-y tial for a Christian Family.” Question-' and-answer discussion of material.

Song 108 and concluding prayer.

CONGREGATION BOOK STUDY

Schedule for congregation studies in the book Revelation—Its Grand Climax At Hand!

Theocratic News

Congo: We are glad to report that the work of Jehovah’s Witnesses was legally recognized in the People’s Republic of the Congo during November 1991.

Peru: The total number of 39,104 publishers in December represents a 12-percent increase over the same month a year ago. Outstanding is the fact that the 8,842 pioneers make up 23 percent of the total number of publishers.

1992 “Light Bearers” District Convention

• ¹ Jesus said his followers would be “the light of the world." (Matt. 5:14) In contrast, the world’s spiritual and moral darkness grows greater with each passing day. (Isa. 60:2; Rom. 1:21) Our responsibility as light bearers takes on greater meaning as we approach the end of this system. Recognizing the vital role we play, it is with eager anticipation that we look forward to attending the 1992 “Light Bearers” District Convention. The first of this series begins on Friday, June 5.

• ² A Three-Day Convention: This year we have planned a total of 153 conventions in the United States. Besides English, the entire program will be presented in Chinese, French, Greek, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Portuguese, Spanish, and Tagalog, with some sessions in Vietnamese. Please refer to pages 30 and 31 of the February 15,1992, Watchtower for a complete listing. At 16 locations there will be sign-language interpreting. The program will begin at 10:20 a.m. Friday and conclude with song and prayer at approximately 4:15 p.m. Sunday. Doors will open at 7:30 a.m., and no one will be allowed to enter before that time unless assigned to work. All of Jehovah’s people will want to be in attendance for the entire program. Have you made a personal decision to be there for all three days? Be sure to pray for Jehovah’s blessing on your efforts.

• ³ From the opening talk Friday morning until the concluding comments Sunday afternoon, the entire program should have our rapt attention. Stirring information will be developed and presented in talks, demonstrations, interviews, and a drama. Plan to be in your seat well before the program starts on Friday. Usually, on the first day more time is needed to park, locate seats, and so forth. So give yourself plenty of time. By taking in all the sessions and remaining for the closing song and prayer, we gain the full benefit of the program and show our appreciation for our privilege of serving as light bearers.

• ⁴ Let Your Ear Become Attentive: The psalmist proclaimed: “To your reminders I keep showing myself attentive. How I do love your law! All day long it is my concern.” (Ps. 119:95b, 97) On every occasion that we gather to be instructed by Jehovah, there is a need to pay attention and listen not only with our ears but also with our heart. The need for this is more acute, though, when attending large gatherings such as a district convention. There is much for the eyes to see and the ears to hear. What a personal loss it would be if we invested time and finances to attend the convention only to return home with little recollection of the finer points on how we can improve as light bearers! We must do our best to counteract any distractions if we are to benefit fully from the program. How can we ensure that the information will be deeply embedded in our heart and mind at the conclusion of the convention program?

• ⁵ Listening is an art that must be cultivated and practiced. The word “listen” means “to hear with thoughtful attention.” Consider these few suggestions: (1) Put forth every effort to arrive at the convention site well rested each morning. This will take planning and family cooperation. If you are exhausted from lack of sleep or hungry because of not eating breakfast, or if your nerves are frayed because of having to rush, you will get little from the program. (2) Create anticipation with regard to how the theme will be developed. Some weeks prior to the convention, as part of your family study, why not have each member comment on what it means to him to be a light bearer. While at the convention, preview each part for that day before the program begins. (3) Dress appropriately, and refrain from eating and drinking during the sessions. A few have been observed in the auditorium or stadium seating areas eating or drinking during the program. This is disrespectful, distracts others, and displays a lack of self-control—See The Watchtower of November 15, 1991, pages 8-18.

• ⁶ We want to give special attention to the matter of note-taking. If done properly, it will help you to follow the speakers more carefully and retain what you hear. Since we think four times faster than we speak, the best way to prevent mental wanderlust is to take notes. As one writer observed, “To listen to a talk is often harder than to give one.” You may recall that early Christians were known to take pieces of broken pottery to meetings and note scriptures on them in ink. Thankfully, we can do very well with a medium-size notebook and a pen or a pencil. To be skillful in note-taking means writing down just enough to capture the main idea but not so much that we are constantly writing. This would defeat our

OUR KINGDOM MINISTRY, MAY 1992

purpose and result in missing vital points covered by the speaker. Write down key words, and use abbreviations. Your notes will serve you most effectively if you review them that evening and then again prior to the congregation discussion of the program highlights on the Service Meeting.

• ⁷ Heartfelt Song and Prayer: Singing praises to Jehovah and reverently approaching him in prayer are integral parts of our worship. (2 Chron. 30:21,27) These are important features of the convention in which all of us can participate. During the three days of our “Light Bearers” District Convention, we will sing 18 songs of praise to Jehovah and be united in eight prayers to our heavenly Father. These are truly priceless privileges. Jehovah is giving us more than 12 hours of spiritual education and training. During the few minutes allotted for song and prayer, we are thanking Jehovah for his generous gifts and praising him. Since it is as a congregated throng that we come before Jehovah in prayer, would we want him to view us as selfish and ungrateful individuals because we failed to join in song and prayer simply because of poor planning? Again, literature supplies this year should be plentiful at each convention, so those who appropriately stay in their seat until the session is concluded will not miss out. Similarly, no one should leave before a session is over in order to line up for food ahead of others.—Matt. 7:12; Rom. 12:10; Phil. 2: 1-4.

• ⁸ Do All Things for God’s Glory: Each year we are given kindly reminders about the importance of good manners and proper conduct at the convention. The majority are to be commended for conscientiously heeding these reminders. As this system draws to a close, we are increasingly forced into the company of people at work and at school whose conduct is as foretold at 2 Timothy 3:1-5. This association can have an adverse influence on us if we do not keep our guard up. Never do we want to give cause for anyone ‘to speak against us as evildoers.’ (1 Pet. 2:12) This requires that we give more than the usual attention to our Christian personality. All should be watchful of their conduct at the convention and elsewhere in public, such as at motels and restaurants. Elders are interested in all their brothers. (Phil. 2:4) They should be helpful and commend others for their fine conduct. Elders should also feel free to give loving counsel if it becomes necessary, even though they are not personally acquainted with the brother or sister. Any serious problems noted should be reported to the Administration Office at the convention.

• ⁵ What do we need to keep in mind? Motel personnel must be treated with dignity and respect. The Rooming Department has worked hard to secure rooms far below the normal cost. If we are overly demanding or leave the room in an unsightly condition, the motel management may not agree to have Jehovah’s Witnesses for future conventions. Some of us still need to be reminded of this. It only takes a few to spoil the reputation of the majority.

• ¹⁰ Regarding the matter of tipping for services rendered, this was covered in the insert published with the May 1991 Our Kingdom Ministry. Please review some of the main points.

• ¹¹ The new personality mentioned at Ephesians 4:24 is likened to a garment that one puts on after putting away the old personality. This change in personality should be reflected in our literal garments as well. Some brothers and sisters, particularly the younger ones, have been observed dressing very casually, even immodestly at times. Others take off their shoes and prop their feet on the back of the seat in front of them or walk around in stocking feet. Do we deport ourselves like this at the Kingdom Hall? Also, some baptismal candidates have worn T-shirts with worldly slogans and logos or imprinted with advertising for various products. Elders who review the questions with those preparing for baptism should make sure that those to be baptized understand what would be considered proper dress for the occasion.—See The Watchtower of June 1, 1985, page 30, and April 15,1973, pages 254-5.

• ¹² Recording Devices: Although video cameras are permitted, we urge those who use them to be considerate of others, selective in what they tape, and respectful of those who may not wish to be photographed while eating, listening to the program, or during prayers. Anyone videotaping or using cassette recorders should avoid distracting the audience or causing a disturbance. There is no objection to recording some of the program from your seat. But during the sessions, it would be inappropriate for anyone to be wandering around in the aisles and in front of the audience, taping the program. If necessary, attendants should speak to any who fail to show brotherly love in this regard. Please remember that no cameras or recording devices are to be connected to the electrical or sound systems at the convention, nor should any equipment be placed in aisles or in traffic areas.

• ¹³ For Parents: We would like to emphasize again the importance of parents’ supervising their children at all times, whether inside the convention grounds or at the motel. (Prov. 29:15b; Luke 2:48) While the program is in progress, be sure that your children are paying attention and taking notes. During intermission there are opportunities to visit with friends from other congregations.

• ¹⁴ To illustrate the importance of knowing where your children are at all times, a taxi driver in one convention city reported to a brother that he picked up two young girls at the convention center. They were evidently planning to be away for the entire afternoon and told the driver that their mother would not miss them until 5:00 p.m. This taxi driver was worried about their welfare, but what about their mother? What a tragedy it would have been had some calamity befallen them, not to mention the reproach on God’s name and people!

• ¹⁵ Your Full Cooperation Is Appreciated: How important is it that each one of us cooperate with the Society’s direction regarding attending the convention where our congregation is assigned? Careful planning by the Society and responsible brothers in each convention city goes into the preparation for each convention. It involves having adequate seating, food, literature, and so forth. If enough brothers attend conventions where they are not assigned, difficulties can result. Likely, few would have circumstances requiring their going to another convention. Other convention sites may appear more attractive for various reasons, but if a large percentage of brothers went to the location of their choice, the results would be very disruptive.

• ¹⁶ Your cooperation is requested in the matter of saving seats. Please keep in mind that SEATS MAY BE SAVED ONLY FOR YOUR IMMEDIATE FAMILY MEMBERS AND ANY WHO MAY BE TRAVELING WITH YOU IN YOUR CAR. Special sections for elderly and disabled ones will be available at all conventions. We ask that everyone please observe the signs carefully and follow the directions of the attendants. Some older brothers have had to look for seats in less accessible areas because younger ones filled the seats in the section for the elderly. Please be considerate of the elderly. We regret that it is not possible to accommodate requests for separate areas or rooms for those with problems such as allergies.

• ¹⁷ It is suggested that you keep to a minimum any personal items brought to the convention. If an item does not fit under your seat, it may be better to leave it at home. Large coolers are not allowed in the aisles for safety reasons, and if they are put on the seat next to you, someone may be deprived of a seat.

• ¹⁸ Literature and Food Service: All literature and food items will be distributed under the simplified arrangement in effect the last few years. What fine provisions these are, making the work lighter and much faster for the benefit of everyone! No doubt such generosity on the part of God’s organization will move us with gratitude to express our appreciation in practical ways.—Prov. 11:25.

• ^,9 Sufficient food is ordered to care for the anticipated attendance at each convention. If each person, including young ones, takes only what is needed for each meal, all should be satisfied. Please see that you take only enough food for the immediate use of yourself and your family. Keep in mind that food is not to be taken away from the convention site for later use elsewhere. The only exception to this would be if there is extra food remaining in the evening that is served out of the food stands at the close of each day or as surplus at the end of the convention Sunday evening.

• ²⁰ It has been observed that unopened containers of food have been deposited in the trash barrels by those who took more than necessary. Unused food items cannot be returned to the food stands. It is better to take a modest amount first and then go back later if you still wish to have something additional after all others are served. The convention is pleased to make it as convenient as possible to care for basic food needs—See The Watchtower of November 15,1991, page 11, paragraphs 13 and 14.

• ²¹ Please observe that there will be separate containers for trash and for empty soda cans. To help expedite recycling, please completely empty your soda cans before disposing of them in the proper receptacle.

• ²² Jehovah’s people appreciate being able to meet together in fine facilities in order to benefit from the spiritual program prepared. We also appreciate the many services and conveniences provided at such ¹ gatherings. With much care and at considerable expense to the Society, arrangements are made for adequate seating, installation of expensive sound systems, operation of an efficient Food Service

Department, and a number of other services that make attending the convention enjoyable and spiritually refreshing.

• ²³ Attend the “Light Bearers” District Convention: By attending the “Light Bearers” District Convention, we will be thrilled to hear why being light bearers is a great honor and privilege. We will be reminded that it is also a serious responsibility. By paying more than the usual attention to the things heard at the convention, we will improve in both our skill and our appreciation of our role as light bearers. Make your plans now to be on hand for all sessions, from the opening song on Friday to the concluding prayer on Sunday afternoon.

District Convention Reminders

Rooming: Your cooperation in using only the listing of accommodations provided by the convention is very much appreciated. If you are planning to stay overnight in the convention city and have not already confirmed a reservation, please do so immediately. If you find it necessary to cancel your reservation, you should write or phone the motel directly, doing so as far in advance as possible so that the room can be made available to someone else.

Congregation secretaries should be sure that Special Needs Room Request forms are promptly forwarded to the appropriate convention address. If you must cancel an accommodation made through the special needs arrangement, you should immediately notify both the landlord or motel and the convention Rooming Department so that the room can be reassigned.

Baby Strollers: In many locations baby strollers may not be used in places of public assembly. Fire regulations prohibit parking them in corridors and aisles or between rows of seats. Since large crowds may cause congested conditions, baby strollers are potentially dangerous not only to the baby but also to any who may stumble over them. So please do not bring them to the convention site. However, infant or car seats are permissible, since these can be secured in seats next to the parents. Your cooperation in this matter will be appreciated.

Baptism: Baptismal candidates should be in their seats in the designated section before the program begins on Saturday morning. A modest bathing suit and a towel should be brought by each one who plans to be baptized. After the baptism talk and prayer by the speaker, the session chairman will give brief instructions to baptismal candidates and then call for a song. After the last verse, the attendants will direct the baptismal candidates to the immersion site or to vehicles that will take them there. Since baptism in symbol of one’s dedication is an intimate and personal matter between the individual and Jehovah, there is no provision for so-called partner baptisms in which two or more baptismal candidates embrace or hold hands while being baptized.

Volunteer Service: Volunteer help is needed for the smooth operation of a district convention. Even if you may be able to work for only a part of the convention, your services will be appreciated. If you can assist, please report to the Volunteer Service Department when you arrive at the convention. Children under 16 years of age can also contribute to the success of the convention, but they are required to work with a parent or other responsible adult.

Badge Cards: Please tvear the specially designed badge card at the convention and while traveling to and from the convention site. This often makes it possible for us to give a fine witness while traveling. Being identified as a convention delegate by a clearly inscribed badge card will facilitate the operation of the simplified food service arrangement. Badge cards should be obtained through your congregation, as they will not be available at the conventions.

Words of Caution: Regardless of where you park, you should lock your vehicle at all times and never leave anything visible inside. Keep your belongings locked inside the trunk if possible. Also, guard against thieves and pickpockets, who are attracted by large gatherings. This includes not leaving anything of value unattended on seats at the convention. There have even been a few reports of unscrupulous individuals attempting to lure young children away from the convention area. Please be careful.

It has been reported that some motels provide easy access to television movies with immoral content or even of a pornographic nature. This highlights the need to avoid unsupervised TV watching by children at these places of lodging.

Some brothers and interested persons have called the management of the convention facility seeking information about starting times for the sessions and related matters. Please do not do this. If the information you need cannot be found in The Watchtower or Our Kingdom Ministry, you should write to the convention address found on the back of the Special Needs Room Request forms on file with each congregation secretary.

Announcements

■ Literature offer for Mays The Watchtower. When genuine interest is found, subscriptions may be obtained for one year or six months. There is no arrangement for subscriptions to quarterly editions of the magazines. Multiyear subscriptions will not be accepted. June: Mankind's Search for God. July: Any of the following brochures: Enjoy Life on Earth Forever!, “Look! I Am Making All Things New," Should You Believe in the Trinity?, The Divine Name That Will Endure Forever, or The Government That Will Bring Paradise. August: You Can Live Forever in Paradise on Earth. NOTE: Congregations that have not yet requested the above-mentioned campaign items should do so on their next monthly Literature Request Form (S(d)-14).

■ It is important that groups of 30 or more persons planning to visit the Society's facilities first correspond by mail with the Central Tour Desk at 124 Columbia Heights, Brooklyn, NY 11201. This includes those groups that will be visiting Brooklyn Bethel, Watchtower Farms, the Watchtower Educational Center project site in Patterson, and the Jersey City Assembly Hall. Please provide information on the number coming and the date and time for each location. The Society will provide a description of the tours that are available as well as a map giving directions to each location. ANY PUBUSHER NEEDING ACCOMMODATIONS MAY OBTAIN LODGING INFORMATION THROUGH THE CONGREGATION ELDERS.

■ All will benefit more fully from the timely drama at the “Light Bearers" District Convention by reading the inspired historical account recorded at 2 Kings 22:1-23:23 and 2 Chronicles 34:1-35:19 before attending the convention.

■ The address for the Palm Beach Jai-Alai, where the West Palm Beach, Florida, convention will be held is 1415 45 St., rather than 415 45 St, as given in the February 15.1992, Watchtower.

■ New Publications Available: Assyrian: Enjoy Life on Earth Forever! Bengali: The Government That Will Bring Paradise. Cambodian:

. Life in a Peaceful New World (Tract No. 15); “Look! I Am Making All Things New” (Brochure). Cebuano: “All Scripture Is Inspired of God and Beneficial.” Chi tonga: You Can Live Forever in Paradise on Earth (Small size). Czech: New World Translation of the Holy Scriptures (Deluxe; DLbil2; available with black or maroon leather cover); You Can Live Forever in Paradise on Earth (Small size). Dutch: Spirits of the Dead —Can They Help You or Harm You? Do They Really Exist? Hebrew: Jehovah’s Witnesses and the Question of Blood. Indonesian: Spirits of the Dead—Can They Help You or Harm You? Do They Really Exist?; The Greatest Man Who Ever Lived. Papia-mento: The Divine Name That Will Endure Forever. Polish: Reasoning From the Scriptures; What Hope for Dead Loved Ones? (Tract No. 16). Serbian: Is This Life All There Is? Sinhalese: Our Problems—Who Will Help Us Solve Them? (for Hindus). Slovak: New World Translation of the Holy Scriptures (Deluxe; DLbil2; available with black or maroon leather cover). Swahili: Jehovah’s Witnesses in the Twentieth Century. Tshilu-ba: You Can Live Forever in Paradise on Earth (Small size). Urdu: How to Find the Road to Paradise (for Muslims); The Government That Will Bring Paradise.

■ New Audiocassettes Available: Arabic: My Book of Bible Stories (set of four audiocassettes in an album). Dutch: Jehovah’s Judgment Against Law-Defying People (Drama; single audiocassette); Preserving Life in Time of Famine (Drama; single audiocassette). French: Album of Hebrew Scriptures—Volume 3 (Proverbs to Malachi; set of 18 audiocassettes in an album); Jehovah’s Judgment Against Law-Defying People (Drama; single audiocassette). Spanish: Album of Hebrew Scriptures—Volume 2 (The First of Samuel to Psalms; set of 24 audiocassettes in an album).

• ¹ Have you been using some of the introductions suggested in the Reasoning book or those appearing in recent issues of Our Kingdom Ministry? Many publishers are reporting greater success in their house-to-house ministry by using these opening remarks word-for-word as they appear in print. Others have found that by taking just a little more time in preparation for the field ministry, they have been able to formulate opening remarks in their own words but based on the wording of the printed suggestions.

• ² One thing is certain, and that is if you have your opening remarks well in mind before approaching someone with the Kingdom message, you will feel more comfortable and be more confident. Your expressions will reflect your sincere desire to share the good news. Your being • well prepared makes your ministry more enjoyable because you will get better results. Of greatest Importance is that we make our sacrifice of service the best we can offer—Heb. 13:15; 1 Pet. 2:5.

• ³ So take time to prepare. Consider the type of people you are likely to meet in your local territory. What are their worries and concerns? What current events are affecting their lives? After reflecting on the answers to these questions, look over the opening remarks suggested on pages 9-15 of the Reasoning book or select one or more of the opening remarks from Our Kingdom Ministry. Feel free to modify or adjust the exact wording so that you feel comfortable with it. The next step would be to get other publishers to go over your opening remarks with you in a practice session. Perhaps this will encourage the others to improve their opening remarks also. At any rate, you will certainly be encouraging one another and be building one another up in fine works.

• ⁴ The time and effort you spend in preparing your field presentations will be rewarded. You may be blessed to have a more effective share in the exciting ingathering work now under way.

  Offering The Watchtowerin May

  
  

  • ¹ The purpose of The Watchtower is concisely stated in each issue at the top of page 2. What can we do in harmony with that declared purpose in order to help as many people as possible? During May, we will make a special effort to encourage all who show interest in the Kingdom message to read The Watchtower regularly.

  • ² We can say to someone who says he is a Christian:

  ■ “We are asking our neighbors a question and would appreciate your comment on it. Since Jesus taught us to pray for God’s Kingdom to come and for His will to be done on earth as it is in heaven, do you "think^-~ffiat God’s will really is going to oedone here on earth?” Allow for a reply, and then turn to Isaiah 55:10,11 and invite the householder to note how all promises of God will be fulfilled.—rs, p. 12, second introduction under “Kingdom.”

  • ³ If the householder shows interest, you might continue by saying:

  ■ "One of the purposes of the Watch

  
  

  tower magazine is to call attention to the fulfillment of Bible prophecy. Notice this article." Then direct attention to the first article in the May 1 issue of The Watchtower, “1914—The Year That Shocked the World” and say: “You might be wondering, ‘Why be interested in 1914?' Notice what paragraph 2 says about 1914 and The Watchtower? Then read that paragraph.

  • ⁴ You should be able to tell from the householder’s reaction or from what he says if he is interested in what you have pointed out. If he is, then you could offer the latest copies of the magazines. If hiels familiar with our literature and displays a real appreciation for it, perhaps saying, “I always read your magazines,” you might explain how he can receive The Watchtower regularly as a subscription.____

  • ⁵ IT you want to have a longer discussion, the same presentation could be expanded to include the text at Revelation 21:3-5, as pointed out in the Reasoning book.

  In this case, after reading Isaiah 55:10,11, you could say:

  
  

  ■ “A wonderful prophecy concerning God’s will for the earth will soon be fulfilled. It will affect your life and mine. Just listen to what is wntten at Revelation 2T5-5.” Then you could read the verses and discuss the blessings that will come under God's Kingdom rule. Point out how The Watchtower announces God’s Kingdom government.

  You might say:

  ■ “The May 1 issue features the article 'Who Will Escape the “Time^ot Distress.”?’ It will h_elp you to see hoy you can live in the righteous new world undeFGod’s Kingdom that we read about in Revelation 21.”

  • Use The Watchtower as a SteppingStone to a Bible Study: Our goal is to ’help others learn the truth so that they ” too catrbecome fellow workers of Jehovah and share in announcing Jehovah’s Kingdom. So then, when we find people who are interested, we want to make note and call back soon.

  ⁷ As we share the truth with others with the aid of The Watchtower, may we always seek Jehovah’s direction on our work so that we can find and feed sheeplike ones—John 21:15-17.

  
  

  Make Effective Return Visits

  
  

• ¹ Making return visits is an important part of our service as "God's fellow workers." (1 Cor. 3:6-9) There is no need to be apprehensive about the householder’s reaction, since we are calling on someone who has already manifested interest in the truth. Good preparation on our part will reflect a sincere personal interest in the one being called on as we discuss an appealing Bible subject.

• ² Be specific: ask tactful questions.

From your notes on the initial call, you might ask:

• ■ “Have you given further thought to God’s promises to rule over the earth in righteousness?”

Another question might be:

• ■ "Do you feel that your prayer for God’s Kingdom to come is more meaningful since our Bible discussion last week?”

A friendly facial expression and tone of voice go a long way in demonstrating our sincere interest when asking such questions.

• ⁵ Do Not Be in a Hurry; Listen toWhat the Householder Says. If we listen to what the householder says and give serious thought before replying, our genuine interest in him as an individual will be obvious. Based on what he says, you can offer a Scriptural thought related to your first visit. Be prepared to teach the householder something each time you call. If an unexpected subject is raised, use the opportunity to take out your Reasoning book to find the needed information.

• ⁴ If you placed the May 1, 1992, “Watchtower, ” you could say:

■ “Last time, we talked about the year 1914. The war that began in that year brought about changes in many governments. Since then many changes continue to be made. But have any or all of these changes really satisfied the needs of the people, or can they guarantee permanent peace? [Allow for comment.] Notice how Jesus taught his followers to pray for a government that could really solve the big problems we face today. [Read Matthew 6: 9,10.] What do you think God's Kingdom will accomplish? [Allow for comment.] The Bible’s explanation is also very interesting.” Then read Daniel 2:44. You may want to use the illustration on pages 12 and 13 of the Live Forever book to show the kind of conditions to expect under God’s Kingdom.

• ⁵ If you placed the May 8, 1992, “Awake!,” you could say:

■ “When I visited you the last time, we spoke about people who have left their home country in order to escape injustice and suffering. Do you think God really cares about what humans must endure at the hands of their fellowman?" Depending on the response, you could share with the person Ecclesiastes 4:1 or Psalm 72:12-14. Then you could turn to page 15 of the "Look!" brochure and read or summarize the three paragraphs on that page, asking the questions for each paragraph.

• ⁶ Let us continue to demonstrate personal interest and have in mind appealing Bible subjects to discuss so that our return visits are successful.

© 1992 Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society ol Pennsylvania. All rights reserved. Our Kingdom Ministry (USPS 295-360) is published monthly by Watchtower Bible and Tract Society ot 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.

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