Our Kingdom Ministry

Keep a Positive Attitude

Vol. 37, No. 8

the doors with the message or God’s Kingdom is a witness.—Ezek. 2:4,5.

¹ How thrilled we are to read about the marvelous increases taking place in many lands! Yet, we realize that in some areas Kingdom publishers often enour zeal for the work of making disciples?

ditions, we” should not let negative . thoughts dominate our outlook. Jesus set the perfect example for us. Relatlve-j ly few people accepted what he taught. •'"Many stumbled over his teaching. He recognized the Importance of doing God’s will, and he did not give up.

—John 4:34; 13:17; Heb. 12:2.

teaching on the basis of Jesus'name, they remained faithful to their commission to preach, and the harvest kept

7:14) Hence, we have cause to rejoice if only one person in our territory lehds a hearing ear. Remember, too, that even those who oppose must be given an enjoy regular fellowship with certain ones, we would not want to limit warm greetings and upbuilding conversation to just a few. We should “widen out,” putting forth an effort to get to know all our brothers and sisters well. (2 Cor. 6:11-13) That would obviously include getting to know them by name.

⁴ Brothers who conduct congregation meetings should try to get to know the names of all who attend. Calling on each one by nam4 from the platform makes them feel that their comments are appreciated, and at the same time, it helps others to know their names. Of course, there will always be some newer ones or visitors in the audience, making it difficult for anyone to know every name. Nevertheless, a continuing sincere effort is encouraging to others and reflects a genuine personal interest. —Rom. 1:11,12.

⁵ Take the Initiative to Get Well Acquainted: Traveling overseers are usually able to get well acquainted with a large number of brothers and sisters. How do they do it? In three principal in our outlook. The prosperity of the worldwide work and the increasing evidence of the nearness of the great tribulation should motivate all of us to do our utmost in serving with godly devotion. (2 Pet. 3:11, 14) Zealous activity during August would be a fine way to show our appreciation for what we have learned We also want newly associated ones to display a positive attitude toward using what they are being taught. If some of our Bible students have progressed to them started.

⁵ Whether serving as publishers or as pioneers, all of us are helped if we keep in mincf that what Jehovah asks of us is not burdensome. (1 John 5:3) He prom-isestosustalnus.(Heb. 13:5b, 6) In spite ¹ of public indifference, apathy, or resistance, we must be positive and keepjai ■> preaching because it is God’s will that we do so.—1 Tim. 2:3,4.                / ways: (1) They regularly work with them in the field service; (2) as their circumstances permit, they accept invi- _■> tations to visit them in their homes; \ and (3) they take the initiative to greet both adults and children at the meet- ''' ings.

⁶ Can you see ways to widen out in your associations and get to know your brothers better? We can certainly Invite others to accompany us in the field service. Going from house to house, making return visits, going on Bible studies, or doing street witnessing with magazines are all excellent ways to get well acquainted. It is also good to Invite others to visit your home, perhaps sharing a meal or light refreshments occasionally. Taking the initiative to approach new ones or those who tend to be shy not only does much to upbuild them spiritually but also brings rich rewards.—Acts 20:35; 1 Thess. 5:11.

’ Paul knew his brothers well. His making personal reference to many of them by name in his letters was proof of his unselfish interest in them and his genuine love for them. (1 Thess. 2:17;

2 Tim. 4:19, 20) Our efforts to know our brothers well will mean blessings for all of us.

Week Starting August 1

Song 159

15 min: Local announcements and pertinent Announcements from Our Kingdom Ministry. Demonstrate talking points in current magazines that can be highlighted in field service this weekend.

15 min: “Keep a Positive Attitude.” Questions and answers. Briefly interview pioneer or longtime publisher who will relate how it has been possible to keep a positive attitude in spite of apathy or resistance in the territory.

15 min: “Brochures—Valuable Tools for the Ministry." Discuss with audience. Arrange for two well-prepared demonstrations of the suggested presentations, include mention of a contribution toward the worldwide work. Display some of the brochures that will be featured during August. Remind audience to pick up copies for use in service this week.

Song 142 and concluding prayer.

Week Starting August 8

Song 216

10 min: Local announcements.

15 min: “Know Your Brothers Well.” Questions and answers. Invite audience to relate brief experiences showing how they were able to get better acquainted

CONGREGATION BOOK STUDY

Schedule for congregation studies in the book Happiness—How to Find It.

Pages 112-120

Pages 121-130

Pages 131-139

Pages 140-150

Pages 151-160

Ma y Service report

MEMORIAL REPORT 1994      1993 Difference

Attendance: 1 994.485 1.975.255 +19.230(1.0%) Partakers 3.535     3.591      -56(1.6%)

with others by applying the suggestions in paragraph 6.

20 min: Doing More Informal Witnessing. Group of three or four publishers discuss how to expand their share in this activity. Using the October 15,1987, Watchtower, pages 22-7, they review what others have done, and they talk about how they plan to do more of this type of work. Chairman encourages audience to consider how they can share in this feature of service.

Song 182 and concluding prayer.

Week Starting August 15

Song 166

5 min: Local announcements, including accounts report and donation acknowledgments.

15 min: “Cultivating Interest on Return Visits.” Discuss with audience. Include two 3-minute demonstrations showing how the presentations can be used to make return visits. Encourage efforts to start Bible studies.

25 min: “Keep Walking Progressively in an Orderly Routine." Questions and answers.

Song 96 and concluding prayer.

Week Starting August 22

Song 218

15 min: Local announcements and “New Special Assembly Day Program." If known, announce date of next special assembly day. and encourage all to make plans to attend.

15 min: How Can I Get Close to God? Demonstration of family study. Parents discuss material in chapter 39 of Young People Ask book with teenage children. Cover subheading “Publicly Declaring Your Friendship With God,” pages 315-18. The children complain about feeling embarrassed when going from door to door and describe the meetings as repetitious and too frequent. Parents reason with them in a kindly way, pointing out Scriptural principles that show these activities are essential if they are to maintain a good relationship with Jehovah.

15 min: Local needs. Or give a talk on the article “Intensely Occupied With the Good News" in the July 1,1991, Watchtower, pages 28-30.

Song 184 and concluding prayer.

Week Starting August 29

Song 199

13 min: Local announcements. Outline special field service arrangements for September 5. Interview one or two publishers who were able to auxiliary pioneer or otherwise expand their activity during the summer months. Relate some of the joys experienced.

15 min: “Can You Rejoin the Ranks?” Discuss with audience. Include any local experiences showing how someone has been able to reenter the pioneer service or how a household has cooperated to help a family member take advantage of this privilege.

17 min: Offer the Live Forever Book During September. Encourage enthusiastic efforts to place this book and start studies during September. It was released in 1982 and has since been used as primary tool for conducting Bible studies. Copies released at district conventions had this message: “This new study book contains just what is needed to help many others to share the same hope that we do.... It contains all the important Bible truths that new ones need to understand in order to dedicate their lives to Jehovah and to serve him acceptably.” Results shown in increase in publishers from 2,652,323 in 1983 to 4,709,889 in 1993. Invite individuals to relate how they learned the truth by studying this book or how they helped others by studying it with them. As time permits, point out other features of the book that can be highlighted when offering it, and give a reminder to mention the privilege that householders have of making a small donation to the worldwide work.

Song 161 and concluding prayer.

New Special Assembly Day Program

Keep Walking Progressively in an Orderly Routine

• ¹ The apostle Paul had a special affection for the congregation in Philippi, which he was instrumental in forming. He was grateful for their kind material provisions and spoke of them as a gooff example. —2 Cor. 8:1-6.

• ² Paul’s letter to the Philippians was prompted by deep love. The Insight book, Volume. 2, page 631, reports; “Throughout the letter he encourages the Philippian congregation to continue in their fine course—seeking greater discernment and getting a sure grip on the Word of life, a stronger faith, and hope in the prize to come.” They responded warmly, cementing a bond of love between them and the apostle. Paul’s words take on special meaning for us today, giving us good reason to reflect carefully on his admonition, particularly what is stated at Philippians 3:15-17.

• ³ A Mature Mental Attitude Is Essential: At Philippians 3:15, Paul wrote as a man with years of experience. He acknowledged the Philippians’ spiritual advancement, appealing to them as mature Christians with a right mental attitude. As long as their mental attitude reflected the humility and appreciation demonstrated by Jesus, they would continue to be “blameless and innocent, children of God without a blemish .... keeping a tight grip on the word of life.” (PhiL 2:15, 16) When we read Paul’s words, we should feel that he is talking to us. Thus we earnestly desire to have the same mental attitude that Jesus had and to display humble appreciation for our privileges. We continually appeal to Jehovah in prayer, asking for help in this and in other matters. —Phil. 4:6,7.

• ⁴ As Philippians 3:16 indicates, all of us should endeavor to make progress. The word “progress” means “moving forward, making advancement.” People who are progressive are “interested in ne\y ideas, findings, or opportunities.” Paul wanted the Philippians to understand that Christianity is never stagnant and those who profess it must keep moving forward. Their progressive spirit would be demonstrated by a willingness to examine themselves, to acknowledge their weaknesses, and to reach out for opportunities to do more or to improve the quality of what they were doing. Today Jehovah’s earthly organization keeps moving forward progressively, ever expanding its scope of activity and its understanding of God’s Word. Each one of us must keep pace with it, taking advantage of all its provisions and sharing fully in its work.

• ⁵ Progress Requires an Orderly Routine: Paul continued by urging his brothers to “go on walking orderly in this same routine.” (Phil. 3:16) Being orderly requires us to put persons or things in their proper places in relation to one another and to be well behaved. The Christians in Philippi kept themselves in their proper place, staying close to Jehovah’s organization and to one another. Their lives were governed by the law of love. (John 15:17; PhiL 2:1,2) Paul urged them to “behave in a manner worthy of the good news.” (PhiL 1:27) The need for orderliness and fine behavior is just as important for Christians today.

• ⁶ A routine is a habitual performance of an established procedure. It is thus closely related to a customary way of doing things. Having a routine can work to our advantage because we do not have to pause and deliberate when making decisions about our next step—we have already established a set pattern that we follow by force of habit.

• ⁷ An orderly theocratic routine consists of habits and customs that are wholesome, beneficial, godly —with the objective of building ourselves up spiritually, helping others, and, if possible, doing more in Jehovah’s service. Success in achieving these goals requires establishing and maintaining a routine that includes personal study, regular attendance atmegt-ings, and participation in the preaching work.

• ⁸ Essentials Included in an Orderly Routine: One essential is “accurate knowledge and full discernment.” (Phil. 1:9) Personal study deepens our faith, strengthens our appreciation for the truth, and motivates us toward fine works. However, some have found it difficult to be consistent in their study habits. One of the principal reasons given is a lack of time.

• ⁹ The benefits of reading the Bible daily cannot be overemphasized. Its instruction is “beneficial” in every way. (2 Tim. 3:16,17) How can we find time for Bible study in our daily routine? Some have found that they can get up a few minutes earlier each morning, when their mind is alert. Others find that they do better when reading a few minutes before retiring at night. Wives who are at home during the day may be able to set aside a little time in the afternoons before others get home from work or school. In addition to regular Bible reading, some have included reading of the Proclaimers book in their weekly study routine.

• ¹⁰ When we establish new habits, there is a real possibility that they will conflict with our former habits. In the past we may have been inclined to allow nonessential activities to consume available time. Breaking away from that pattern is not easy. No one is going to dictate our study habits; nor are we required to make an accounting of what we do in this regard. The consistency of our study habits depends largely on our appreciation of “the more important things” and our willingness to buy out “the opport unetime” to benefit from them.—Phil. 1:10; Eph. 5:16.

• ¹¹ Christian meetings play a vital role in our spiritual progress, providing necessary instruction and encouragement. Hence, attending meetings is another essential part of our orderly routine. Paul emphasized the importance of this. It is npt.an option determined by preference—Heb. 10:24,25.

• ¹² How can orderliness be displayed when we plan our weekly schedule of activity? Some arrange for specific times to care for personal pursuits and then try to squeeze the meetings into any available openings, but it should be the other way around. Our weekly meetings should be given priority, with other activities plarmed around them.

• ¹³ Regular meeting attendance requires good planning and family cooperation. On weekdays most of us have a busy schedule of activity that often leaves us pressed for time. This means that, if possible, the evening meal must be scheduled early enough for the family to have sufficient time to eat, get ready, and arrive at the meeting before it begins. To that end family members can cooperate in various ways.

• ¹⁴ Regular field service is indispensable if we are to keep walking progressively in an orderly routine. All of us clearly recognize our weighty responsibility to preach the Kingdom message. That is what makes us Jehovah’s Witnesses. (Isa. 43:10) Since it is the most urgent and beneficial work being performed today, there is no way that we can properly view it as ,an incidental part of our routine. Paul admonished: “Let us always offer to God a sacrifice of praise, that is, the fruit of lips which make public declaration to his name?,—Heb. 13:15.

• ¹⁸ Whenwe plan our activity for each week, specific times should be set aside for field service. Likely the congregation has meetings for service arranged several times each week, and it is simply a matter of deciding which ones we can support. It would be good to reach out for a share in each feature of service, such as doing house-to-house work with magazines and other literature, making return visits, and conducting Bible studies. We may even .plan, ahead to do.informal witnessing by carrying literature and being alert to opportunities to start conversations. Since we usually go out with others, we need to inquire about their schedule so that we can make arrangements that will be mutually convenient.

• ¹⁶ Our routine of preaching should be maintained despite indifference in the territory. We know in advance that only a few will respond favorably. (Matt. 13:15; 24:9) Ezekiel was commissioned to preach to people who were ‘rebellious, insolent, and hardhearted.’ Jehovah promised to help Ezekiel by making his "forehead exactly as hard as their foreheads,” that is, “like a diamond, harder than flint.” (Ezek. 2:3, 4; 3:7-9) A regular routine for service therefore requires perseverance.

• ¹⁷ Good Examples to Imitate: Most of us do better in field service when there is someone to take the lead. Paul and his companions set a good example, and he urged others to imitate him. (Phil. 3:17) His routine included all the elements needed to keep himself spiritually strong.

• ¹⁸ Today, too, we are blessed with fine examples. At Hebrews 13:7, Paul urged: “Remember those who are taking the lead among you,... and as you contemplate how their conduct turns out imitate their faith.” Of course, Christ is our Exemplar, but we can imitate the faith exercised by those taking the lead. Like Paul, the elders must be conscious of the need to be good examples to others. While their personal circumstances may vary, each one should be able to show that he is maintaining an orderly routine in keeping Kingdom interests first. Even with secular and family obligations, elders should have well-established habits in personal study, meeting attendance, and taking the lead in the field service. By elders’ giving evidence that they are ‘presiding over their households in a fine maimer,’ all in the congregation will be encouraged to keep walking in an orderly routine.—1 Tim. 3:4,5.

• ¹⁹ Goals for the New Service Year: The beginning of a new service year is a fitting time to reflect on our personal routine. What does a review of our activity for the past year show? Were we able to maintain, or possiblylmprove, our level of activity? We may have been more thorough in oufpersbnal study. We may have attended meetings with better regularity or may have increased our field service by enrolling as auxiliary pioneers. Perhaps we are able to point to specific acts of Christian kindness we have performed in behalf of others in our congregation or family. If so, we can rejoice that we have walked in a way that pleases God, and we have good reason to “keep on doing it more fully.”—1 Thess. 4:1.

• ²⁰ What if our routine was somewhat inconsistent or sporadic? How were we affected spiritually? Was our progress hindered for some reason? Improvement begins with a request for Jehovah’s help. (Phil. 4:6,13) Discuss your needs with the rest of the family, requesting their help in adjusting aspects of your routine. If you have problems, ask the elders for assistance. If we make an earnest effort and respond to Jehovah’s direction, we can be sure that we will avoid “being either inactive or unfruitful.”—2 Pet. 1: 5-8.

• ²¹ Walking in an orderly routine leads to blessings that make your efforts worthwhile. As you determine to walk progressively in an orderly routine, “do not loiter at your business. Be aglow with the spirit. Slave for Jehovah.” (Rom. 12:11)—For a more detailed treatment of this subject, see The Watchtower A of May 1,1985, pages 13-17.

THEOCRATIC MINISTRY SCHOOL REVIEW

Closed-book review on material covered in Theocratic Ministry School assignments for the weeks of May 2 to August 22,1994. 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.]

rjients True or False:

• 1. The word “Se’lah,” which occurs 71 times in the book of Psalms, need not be pronounced when reading, [si p. 101 par. 5]

• 2. According to Psalm 15:4, if a Christian learns that something he has promised is unscriptural, he should still do it. [Weekly Bible reading; see __   w89 9/15 pp. 28-9.]

' 3. The book of Job proves that God is not the cause of mankind’s suffering, sickness, and death, [si p. 100 par. 42] / 4. Jesus’ life course proved that Adam could have maintained perfect integrity if he had wanted to and that there was no fault in God’s creative work. [uw p. 52 par. 11]

5. The slave described at Luke 19:20-24, who received one mina and kept it laid away in a cloth, was guilty of a sin of omission, [gt chap. 100]

■ 6. By hard work and total devotion to God, a genuine Christian can earn the right to everlasting life, [uw p. 36

„ par. 13]

' 7. First Corinthians 2:9 refers to the future earthly Paradise, [uw p. 26 par. 12 (3); see w85 9/15 p. 30.]

• 8. We cannot afford to treat disloyal conduct as unimportant, even though it is common in the world, [uw p. 53 par. 13]

• 9. Psalm 49:15 is an expression of faith in the resurrection hope. [Weekly Bible reading; see w89 3/1 p. 22 par. 13.]

in worldly conduct comes from another person who professes to be serving Jehovah, [uw p. 43 par. 11]

Answer the following questions:

11. What is a psalm? [si p. 101 par. 2] ²‘^z‘' 12. What wonderful assurance 'cToes " Psalm 27:10 give us? [Weekly Bible reading; s^e^92 3/15_jg_i_22 par. 17.]

• 13. Psalm ^10:13 reveals' what mistaken viewpoint that unrepentant wrongdoers have? [Weekly Bible reading; see w9111/1 p. 6.]

• 14. According to Exodus 9:15, 16, what was accomplished by Jehovah’s way of dealing with Pharaoh? [uw p. 57 pars. 6, 7] J**?-

• 15. Cite two viewpoints from ’’xtffnch we might beneficially analyze what we read in the Bible, [uw p. 27]       /S?

• 16. What does the command to “kiss the ~ son” mean, as set forth in Psalm 2:12? . [Weekly Bible reading; see w86 8/15 ’ p. 20.]

• 17. What kind of freedom was Jesus discussing at John 8:32? [uw p. 40 par. 6] v                            mjo

• 18. Who is pictured by “the woman” at. Genesis 3:15? [uw p. 30 p§r 3]^J

• 19. Why could David say 16^ Jehovah 'aV Psalm 51:4, “Against you, you alone, I have sinned,” when he knew that his sinful acts were offenses against fellow humans? [Weekly Bible reading;. see w93 3/15 p. 11 par. 13.]

• 20. What was “the disgusting thing that causes desolation” in the first century, and what is it today? (Matt. 24:15) [gt chap. Ill]

U A/

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

• 21. At Job 40:15, “Behemoth” evidently refers to the          , and at Job

41:1, “Leviathan” aptly fits the _t'          . [Weekly Bible reading;

see it-1 p. 280 and it-2 p. 240.]

• 22. The actual voice of Jehovah was heard when Jesus was_J*£___, at

the time of the          , and on Ni

san 10, 33 C.E., when he prayed to his Father at the —in Jerusalem. [gtchap. 104]

• 23. The Pharisees would strain a from their wine because it is ceremonially unclean, yet they would disregard justice, mercy, and faithfulness, which would be comparable to swallowing a          , also

a ceremonially unclean animal, [gt chap. 109]

• 24. Since Satan used a lie in order to lead our first parents pto sin, Jesus labeled him as the             [uw p. 53

par. 13 (1)] A/ri-

• 25. Jesus is God’s          Son because

he is the only one created by Jehovah alone, [uw p. 29 par. 1]

Select the correct answer in each of the following statements:

• 26. Job saw God, as recorded at Job 42:5, in that he~(had a vision of God in the windstorm; saw an angel appear before him; came to know Jehovah more intimately). [Weekly Bible reading; see w88 8/15 p. 12 par. 11.]

• 27. The woman that Jesus referred to at Matthew 26:13 was (Mary, the sister of Lazarus; Mary, the wife of Clopas; Mary Magdalene}. [<?i chap. 101]

• 28. The foundations that are torn down, as recorded at Psalm 11:3, refer to (the temple foundations at Jerusalem; Jesus Christ as the Foundation Cornerstone; the foundations on which society rests, such as justice, law, and order). [Weekly Bible reading; see w8^8/15 p. 20.]

• 29. Jesus called the apostles (Peter and Andrew; Philip and Bartholomew; James and John) the “Sons of Thunder” because oFtheir fiery disposition, [grt chap. 98]

• 30. The great issue that Satan raised when he challenged God’s right to rule and His way of ruling actually involved (human rights; the question of who was the most powerful; God’s universal sovereignty), [tzw p. 46 par. 1]

Match the following scriptures to the statements listed below:

Gen. 3:1-5; Ps. 24:1; Acts 8:32-38;

Heb. 10:26, 27; 1 Pet. 4:3, 4

• 31. Recognizing that man and the earth are God’s creations and that every- * thing belongs to Jehovah should help us to be humble and obedient, [uw p. 39 par. 4]

• 32. We should be very careful to avoid Ji getting into the habit of doing any-y-thing that we know is displeasing to Jehovah, [uw p. 33 par. 8 (3) and 8(4)]

• 33. Accurate knowledge of the Bible and -appreciation for its message move , sheeplike people to get baptized, [uw ' p. 32 par. 7]

• 34. Even though you may work with un- , believers or go to school with them, you show that you do not choose them as associates by avoiding all unnecessary association with them, [uw p. 44 par. 13]

• 35. It is vital that we avoid worldly thinking that influences people to believe that they are being deprived if they cannot set their own standards in life, [ww p. 46 par. 1]

Announcements

■ Literature to be used during August: Any of the following 32-page brochures may be used: Does God Really Care About Us?, Enjoy Life on Earth Forever!, “Look! I Am Making AU Things New," Should You Believe in the Trinity?, The Divine Name That Will Endure Forever, The Government That Will Bring Paradise, and What Is the Purpose of Life —How Can You Find It? September: You Can Live Forever in Paradise on Earth. October: The Watchtower and Awake! magazines. Subscriptions may be offered on return visits. November: New World Translation of the Holy Scriptures with the book The Bible —God’s Word or Man's? 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). Please request extra magazines needed for October distribution.

■ Congregations should begin requesting the 1995 Calendar of Jehovah’s Witnesses with their September literature request. The calendars will be available in Chinese, Croatian, Czech, Danish, Dutch, English, Finnish, French, German, Greek, Hungarian. Italian, Japanese, Korean, Norwegian, Polish, Portuguese, Romanian, Russian, Serbian, Spanish, Swedish, and Ukrainian.

■ From August 29 to September 1, the Society will be taking an inventory of all literature on hand in Brooklyn Bethel. Because of this inventory, no congregation literature requests will be processed for shipment or for pickup during those days.

■ An adequate supply of forms for use during the 1995 service year is being sent to each congregation. These forms should not be wasted. They should be used only for their intended purpose.

■ Everyone associated with a congregation should send all new and renewal subscriptions for The Watchtower and Awake!, including their personal subscriptions, through the congregation.

■ The Society does not fill individual publishers’ requests for literature. Those desiring a given item may advise the literature servant, who will promptly include it in the congregation monthly request for literature. The presiding overseer should arrange for an announcement each month before the congregation monthly request for literature is sent to the Society so that all interested in obtaining personal literature items may advise the brother handling literature.

■ Each congregation will receive three Literature Inventory forms (S(d)-18).

The congregation secretary should meet with the literature servant early in August and set a date for taking inventory of the congregation’s stock of literature at the end of the month. An actual count must be made of all literature In stock, and the totals are to be entered on the Literature Inventory form. The total number of magazines on hand can be obtained from the magazine servant. Please mail the original to the Society no later than September 6. Keep a carbon copy for your files. The third copy may be used as a work sheet. The inventory should be supervised by the secretary, and the completed form should be checked by the presiding overseer. The secretary and the presiding overseer will sign the form.

■ Publishers who plan to begin regular pioneer service September 1, 1994, should apply without delay.

■ The congregation secretary will compile the service reports for entry on the Congregation Analysis Report form (S-10). He will also carefully instruct any elder or ministerial servant who may be helping to compile the report. This will ensure an accurate tabulation of the information needed from the Congregation’s Publisher Record cards (S-21). The Congregation Analysis Report form (S-10) should be filled out accurately and neatly and be carefully checked by the service committee.

• ¹ During the last five years, thousands of regular pioneers found it necessary to leave the pioneer ranks. Were you one of them? If so, no doubt you had reason to relinquish this privilege. Perhaps it was something unexpected and beyond your control. Does that reason still exist? If health, financial problems, or family obligations made It necessary for you to stop, have your circumstances improved? Could you make some reasonable adjustments that would permit you to enjoy the blessings of regular pioneering again? Have you thought about reapplying?

• ² As you know, good organization and careful scheduling are required if you are to succeed as a pioneer. While there Is usually not a lot of time for recreation, a pioneer’s brief periods of relaxation often prove to be more satisfying and rewarding. (Prov. 19: 17; Acts 20:35) By keeping busy in the service, you are protected from the Influence of the self-seeking, take-it-easy way of life pursued by the world. Jehovah has promised that he will make you spiritually rich if you are self-sacrificing and put Kingdom interests first. You are sure to experience genuine joy and contentment by being wholehearted in Jehovah’s service. —Prov. 10:22; Col. 3:23,24.

• ³ Should the full-time ministry be viewed as a privilege open only to a special few? No. In view of our dedication vow, every Christian should give serious consideration to full-time service unless circumstances make it impossible.—Mark 12:30.

• ⁴ If your health and Scriptural responsibilities clearly do not allow you to pioneer at present, you can be assured that Jehovah knows and understands. He will reward you for your faithfulness in what your circumstances permit. (1 Cor. 4:2; 2 Cor. 8:12) If, though, it now seems favorable for you to pioneer again, why not approach the presiding overseer and request an application?

• ⁵ Can Your Family Help? You may have left the ranks because you needed to care for family obligations. Is it possible that other family members are now in a position to give assistance that would enable you to reenter the pioneer work? For some, with just a little help in caring for certain responsibilities, pioneering can once again be attainable.

¹¹ Good cooperation and a little extra effort on the part of other family members might make this possible. Help might take the form of assistance with finances or transportation, as well as regular appointments to work together in service. Likely there are other ways they can assist. If circumstances do not permit you to take up this privilege of service again, perhaps such assistance can be given to another family member who can do so.

¹ Why not discuss this matter as a family? The prospects may be good if you make it a united project. If another pioneer can be added to the ranks, the whole household can rightly feel that they are having a share. Such a generous spirit will not only add to the Kingdom witness in the territory but will also draw the family closer together spiritually—Luke 6:38; Phil. 2:2-4.

Brochures

• ¹ A skilled craftsman usually carries an assortment of tools, each designed for a specific task. As Kingdom pro-claimers, we have a large assortment of brochures to help us skillfully meet the spiritual needs of the people to whom we preach. (Prov. 22:29) At one door you may meet someone who is depressed. At another the householder longs for honest government, while someone else wonders if there is any purpose in living. How can we use our brochures to help these people?

• ² When offering the brochure “Does God Really Care About Us?,” you might say something like this:

■ “Some people who observe the suffering and injustice in the world tend to blame it all on God. They reason that since God is almighty, he would put an end to our suffering if he really cared for us. How do you feel about that? [Allow for response.] Psalm 72:12-14 shows that God does indeed care about us. Suffering and injustice are not his fault. He has promised that wrongdoers will soon be removed. This brochure. Does God Really Care About Us?, shows what he will do and how we can benefit." You may be able to continue the discussion with comments on page 27, paragraph 22.

• ³ If you are using the “Purpose of Life” brochure, you might want to begin this way:

■ “Sooner or later, nearly everyone wonders about the purpose of life. Is it merely to live 70 or 80 years and then go to the grave? Or is there more to life? What do you think? [Allow for response. ] Here at Psalm 37:29, we see God’s beautiful purpose for man and the earth.” After reading the scripture, turn to the illustration on page 31. and comment further about what it will be like to live in Paradise.

'The “Look!” brochure could be introduced by displaying the entire cover illustration and asking:

■ “What do you think it would take to make the earth look like this? [Allow for comment.] Everyone in this picture has a home and enjoyable work. There is peace and plenty to eat, and the earth is without pollution. Hard as they may try, human governments find it is impossible for them to bring about such a world. However, the Bible assures us that God will ‘make all things new.’ [Turn to page 30, and read Revelation 21:3, 4.] This brochure can help you learn what you need to do to live in that new world.” If sufficient Interest is shown, turn to page 3, and demonstrate how we conduct a Bible study.

• ⁵ You might use this approach with the “Life on Earth” brochure:

■ “Many people think they will have to go to heaven in order to enjoy everlasting life, but what would you think of living on earth forever? [Allow for a response.] The Bible assures us that eternal life is possible, and it tells us how we can reach that goal." Read John 17:3. Then show the householder illustration 49 and ask: “How would you like to live in a world like this?” Offer the brochure, and arrange for a return visit.

• ⁶ The brochures feature timely subjects, answer people’s questions, and give comfort. Using these tools skillfully, we can help sincere ones to “come to an accurate knowledge of truth." —1 Tim. 2:4.

  Cultivating Interest on Return Visits

  
  

• ¹ The ministry has rightly been likened to farming, and making return visits has been compared to cultivating and watering. (Matt. 13:23; Luke 10:2; 2 Cor. 9:10) As “God’s fellow workers," we have an obligation to help any newly sprouted seed to grow to maturity and become fruitful. (1 Cor. 3:6,9) How can we best accomplish this?

• ² Be prompt in making return visits on all who show interest. Review your house-to-house records, and decide whom to visit and what to discuss. Generally your subject for discussion will be determined by what was discussed on the initial visit. Be flexible, having in mind other Scriptural thoughts that may be introduced. It is always good to use the Bible, recognizing its power to reach the heart.—Heb. 4:12.

• ³ If you left the brochure “Does God Really Care A bout Us?, ” you might begin by saying something like this:

■ “Many sincere people believe that

God is going to destroy the earth, while others fear that man will do that himself. What do you think? [Allow for response.] The Bible tells us that instead of destroying the earth, God will’ cleanse it of unrighteousness, making it a place of peace and security." Direct attention to page 22, and read Proverbs 2:21, 22, which is quoted there. If interest is manifest, explain the home Bible study arrangement or offer the latest magazines, and make an appointment to return and discuss more about God's promised ndw world.

• ⁴ If you placed the “Look!” brochure, you might say:

■ “On my previous visit, we read in the Bible about God’s promise to make the earth a paradise, like the one illustrated on the cover of the brochure I left with you. We can enjoy this blessing by learning more about God’s will and how it affects us.” Read John 17:3, and then turn to paragraphs 52 and 53 on page 27. Briefly discuss why there is a need to take in accurate knowledge of God’s Word.

• ⁵ When following up a placement of the “Purpose of Life” brochure with a person who is religiously inclined, you may find it appropriate to say:

■ “Very likely you've repeated the Lord’s Prayer many' times. What thought comes to your mind when you ask for God's Kingdom to come?" Following the householder’s response, refer to paragraphs 8 and 9 on page 26, and then read Daniel 2:44. Perhaps you could continue the conversation by explaining that the coming of God’s Kingdom will mean an end to wickedness and suffering. Point out that if we are righteous in God’s eyes, we can enjoy everlasting life in Paradise on this earth.’

• ⁶ Remember that a return visit can be made on anyone who was willing to listen, whether literature was placed or not. Try to set aside some time every week for making return visits. Jehovah will bless your diligent effort to cultivate the interest you find. May it bear fruitage to his praise.—John 15:8.

© 1994 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. NY 11201-2483. Second-class postage paid at Brooklyn. N.Y.. and at additional mailing offices POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Watchtower. 25 Columbia Heights. Brooklyn, NY 11201-2483.            Printed in U.SA

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¹ Our special assembly day program starting in September will feature the theme “Keep Bearing Witness to the Truth." The entire program will focus on the example Jesus left us and how he took advantage of every opportunity to share the truth with others. It will emphasize our responsibility as disciples of Christ to imitate him in bearing witness to the truth.—1 Cor. 11:1.

² The role the congregation plays in promoting the truth will be considered. Making good use of our magazines and other publications will also be stressed.

’The principal talk by the visiting speaker is entitled “Bearing Witness to the Truth—What It Accomplishes." (John 8:32) This special assembly day program will surely deepen our appreciation for the truth and help all of us to remain steadfast and “firmly set in the truth.”—2 Pet. 1:12; 1 Cor. 15:58.

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