OUR KINGDOM MINISTRY

• ¹ The ministry of the good news is an honored privilege that Jehovah has extended to us. (Rom. 15:16; 1 Tim. 1:12) Is that the way you view it? Nei-tfier the passage of time nor the ridicule of others should be allowed to diminish its importance in our eyes. Bearing God’s name is an honor given only to a few. How can we make our appreciation for this privilege grow?

• ² Preaching the Kingdom message does not bring us the world’s favor. Many view our work with apathy or indifference. Others ridicule and oppose it. Such opposition can come from workmates, neighbors, or even family members. In their eyes we may appear to be misguided and foolish. (John 15; 19; 1 Cor. 1:18, 21; 2 Tim. 3:125 Their discouraging comments are designed to dampen our zeal and cause us to slow down or to relinquish our honored privilege. Negative views are promoted by Satan, who "has blinded the minds of the unbelievers, that the illumination of the glorious good news

. . . might not shine through." (2 Cor. 4:4) How do you react?

• ³ It is important to keep in mind that our preaching about the Kingdom is the most important work any of us could be doing today. We have a lifesaving message that is available through no other means. (Rom. 10: 13-15) Having God's approval, not that of man, is what counts. The world’s negative view of our preaching activity does not deter us from boldly declaring the good news.—Acts 4:29.

’ Jesus highly esteemed his privilege to do his Father’s will. JJ^hn 4:34) He devoted himself exclusively to the ministry and did not allow either distractions or opposers to slow him down. Preaching the Kingdom message always took first place in his life. (Luke 4:43) We are commanded to im-itatnnSTXafnple. (1 Pet. 2:21) In doing so, we serve as “God’s fellow workers.” (1 Cor. 3:9) Are we taking full advantage of this privilege? Do we seek occasions to share the good news with others both formally and informally? •[ As Witnesses of Jehovah, we should always be ready to “make public declaration to his name.”—Heb. 13:15.

• ⁵ Our share in the ministry is largely determined by our attitude. Do we deeply appreciate all that Jehovah has done for us? Have we developed in our hearts a love for Jehovah that motivates us to do all we can in his service? Meditating on the blessings we now enjoy as well as what Jehovah has promised for the future helps us to abound in love for our Creator. Such love motivates us to action—persistence and regularity in the Kingdompreaching work to the extent our circumstances allow. Our zeal will give evidence of our love for Jehovah and our neighbor.—Mark 12:30, 31.

• ⁶ We show how highly we value something by what we do with it and say about it. Do we truly value our privilege to preach about the Kingdom? Do we glorify our ministry? Are we determined to persevere in this vital work in spite of opposition? If we highly esteem this wonderful privilege, we will surely be zealous and wholehearted.—2 Cor. 4:1, 7.

  The Word of the Kingdom —Getting the Sense of It

  
  

• ¹ In his illustration of the sower, Jesus said that the seed falling on “the fine soil" pictured “the one hearing the word and getting the sense of it.” (Matt. 13:23) After hearing about the Kingdom, have we got “the sense of it”? How much does it influence our lives? Have we put Kingdom interests in first place, thus revealing that we did get the sense of the message?

• ² A correct understanding of the Kingdom message requires personal study. We need to take time to meditate on the spiritual food provided. Hasty reading of The Watchtower is like gulping down a tasty and nutritious meal. Do you take time to give the spiritual food thorough consideration? To gain the most benefit, there must be an incentive and a healthy spiritual appetite. If these are lacking, other activities can minimize the benefits of personal study or consume the time we need for it. Sticking to a good study schedule is not easy. While it takes a careful balancing of priorities, the spiritual riches to be gained are priceless.—Prov. 3: 13-18; Col: 1:27.

• ³ Examining the Scriptures helps us each day to entertain positive, upbuilding thoughts about the Kingdom. Those Who are “conscious of their spiritual need” plan to take a few minutes every day to read the text and comments. (Matt. 5:3) Many texts explain various facets of the Kingdom. For example, on November 22, 1994, the text featured was Matthew 13:4. The comment considered the Kingdom hope and reminded us of the dangers of unwholesome association with relatives and neighbors. The fact that at Bethel homes around the world, there is a 15-minute discussion of the daily text each workday morning emphasizes the benefits and the seriousness of considering the day’s text together. Does your family include a similar consideration in your daily routine?

• ⁴ As you grow in appreciation for the Kingdom, there will be a greater incentive to share the Kingdom message with others. The Watchtower and Awake! provide what might be likened to mental fuel that feeds our minds with fresh, up-to-date information. They help us to maintain a keen awareness of how much the world needs God's Kingdom. They help us to be spiritual persons, who “have the mind of Christ." (1 Cor. 2:15, 16) All of this can strengthen our hope and increase our zeal to share the Kingdom hope with others. —1 Pet. 3:15.

• ⁵ It is vital that we personally get the sense of the Kingdom message. The Kingdom is the means that God will use to uphold his sovereignty, end wickedness, and bring a new world—a paradise. Jesus commanded us to put it first in our lives. We must be sheeplike subjects to live under its rule. (Matt. 6:10, 33) Make the most of your opportunity to enjoy its blessings.

  Service Meetings for February

  
  

Week Starting February 6

Song 73

io min: Local announcements. Selected Announcements from Our Kingdom Ministry. Demonstrate how articles in the latest magazines can be featured in the door-to-door work.

17 min: “Preaching—An Honored Privilege." Questions and answers. Make additional comments based on the July 15,1990, Watchtower, page 19, paragraphs 13-16.

18 min: “Effectively Introducing the Live Forever Book.” Review main points with audience, including comments in School Guidebook, pages 46-7, paragraphs 9-12. Discuss what kind of introduction might be effective in your territory. Have one or two presentations demonstrated.

Song 82 and concluding prayer.

• ¹ The modem history of Jehovah's Witnesses is accurately described in the words of Proverbs 4:18: “The path of the righteous ones is like the bright light that is getting lighter and lighter until the day is firmly established.”

• ² In line with this, the Christian congregation continues to receive timely clarification of and updated information on Bible teachings. (Matt. 24:45-47) Likely you can relate examples of this that you have noted since you began to associate with Jehovah's Witnesses. Congregation meetings, including public talks, help us to keep abreast of the increasing light of truth.

• ³ Revised Outlines: Recently, the Society has updated a number of public talk outlines. Fresh material has been incorporated into them, and Important points have been clarified. If the congregation is to receive the full benefit of this updated information, brothers who give public talks should use only the very latest outlines.

¹ With a view to getting the most out of public talks, give some thought to the titles of the talks to be given. Before you attend the Public Meeting, try to recall the latest information from theocratic sources on the subject. Then, while lis

Week Starting February 13

Song 103  7 _{? A} <

5 min: Local announcements. Accounts report. Mention Society acknowledgments of donations that may have been received. ,*-?■*<. ■'*' r'// 10 min: Local needs. Or a talk on the article “Why Talk About God?" in the September 22,1994. Awake!, pages 13-15. 15 min: “The Word of the Kingdom —Getting the Sense of It." Questions and answers. Have two or three individuals relate how and when they arrange to do their personal study or review the daily text. .

15 min: “Show Consideration for Others—Part 2." Talk and discussion to be handled by an elder. Point out any problems that have been observed locally, and give appropriate admonition.

Song 109 and concluding prayer.

tening, anticipate the development of this information. Take note of any fresh ways of presenting these truths for future use. This ensures that you will derive the greatest benefit from the revised public talks.

• ⁵ Public Talks Should Inform and Also Motivate Listeners: When Jesus spoke, he reached the hearts of his listeners. At the conclusion of Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount, the most famous public talk ever given, as Matthew 7:28 reports: “The effect was that the crowds were astounded at his way of teaching."

• ⁶ Having Jesus’ example in mind, bodies of elders should use discretion in approving new public speakers, assigning only those brothers who are fine teachers, who will adhere closely to the Society’s outlines, and who are able to hold the attention of the audience. Brothers who are assigned the privilege of giving public talks should continually strive to improve their speaking ability, accepting any counsel and suggestions received from the elders.

’ As foretold at Isaiah 65:13,14, the spiritual prosperity of God’s people continues to become more evident. The arrangement for public talks is one of the many ways that we are “taught by Jehovah."—Isa. 54:13.

Week Starting February 20

Song 134

12 min: Local announcements. Point out current magazine articles that are appropriate for local territory. Demonstrate presentations. / <

15 min: “1995 District Convention Simplification.” Insert. Talk on paragraphs 1-8, to be handled by presiding overseer. Stress positive benefits of adjustment to no food service.

18 min: “Follow Up Interest You Found." Discuss with audience. Relate comments expressing appreciation for receiving the live Forever book. (See the May 15,1986, Watchtower, page 32, and the March 1,1987, Watchtower, page 32.) Have one or two brief demonstrations showing how suggested presentations can be used. Encourage all to try to start studies with interested ones.

Song 147 and concluding prayer.

Week Starting February 27

Song 184

10 min: Local announcements. Discuss “Benefiting From Revised Public Talks.”

20 min: “1995 District Convention Simplification.” Insert. Questions and answers on paragraphs 9-19, to be handled by congregation secretary. Call attention to box of reminders at conclusion. Stress using ingenuity to bring only necessary food and related items to convention.            .

15 min: Offering the Revelation Climax book during March. Encourage everyone to be enthusiastic about offering it. Review the reasons for its publication, as explained in the book on page 8. Relate expressions of appreciation for the book. (See the March 15, 1989, Watchtower, page 32, and the April 15, 1989, Watchtower, page 32.) Review and briefly demonstrate presentation that begins with the question. “Have you ever heard of the four horsemen of the Apocalypse?" (See the March 1994 Our Kingdom Ministry, page 4.) Remind all to pick up copies for use in service this weekend.

Song 207 and concluding prayer.

1995 District Convention Simplification

• ¹ How thrilling it is to be present at spiritual feasts, whether at congregation meetings, circuit assemblies, special assembly days, or district conventions! Why? Fellowship with God-fearing persons is refreshing, and the spiritual matters presented on such occasions remind us of the more important things.

• ² Increasing thousands have been drawn to such spiritual gatherings in recent years. Between the years 1985 and 1994, the number of congregations worldwide increased over 50 percent, from 49,716 to 75,573. As Jehovah speeds up the ingathering work, the number of district conventions and circuit assemblies increases accordingly. (Isa. 60:22) Even the increase in the number of conventions held just in the United States branch territory, from 113 in 1985 to 168 in 1994, is a reflection of this tremendous growth in the number of congregations. The resulting work involved in arranging for and handling these conventions has been escalating. Since we assemble to benefit from the spiritual program prepared for these feasts, it is wise to simplify as far as is practical in caring for the physical arrangements.

• ³ Further Steps to Be Taken: We look to Jehovah for his blessing as we move forward progressively. We are happy to see that he has given his people the needed spirit of wisdom and understanding. We must agree that through the faithful slave class, Jesus Christ has directed matters efficiently for the outworking of Jehovah’s purpose in a marvel- ' ous way. (Matt. 24:45-47; Col. 1:9, 10) An announcement in the December Our Kingdom Ministry stated: “Beginning with the 1995 district conventions and the September 1995 circuit assemblies and special assembly days, there will be no food served. Each one is to bring his own food and drink.” Circuit assemblies and special assembly days will continue with their present simplified food service arrangements through August 1995.

There has been a positive response to this announcement. You may be interested in knowing how this change will be of benefit. Perhaps the following review of adjustments that have been made in recent years will prove to be a good reminder of the benefits we have already received by simplifying the work at conventions.

• ⁴ Previous Adjustments to Simplify: Prior to the implementation of standardized and simplified district convention arrangements, such as food service, volunteer service, and rooming, much work was required on the part of thousands of local brothers and sisters in preconvention work. In view of the pressures and demands made on our brothers by daily living and the continued growth of the organization, adjustments to simplify the work were indeed necessary. Additionally, as a result of simplifying our food service operation in the United States in 1978, over 70,000 brothers and sisters who used to work hard during the sessions to provide us with food were able to listen to the program. In 1987 further simplification procedures were implemented with regard to food service at conventions and during the following service year at Assembly Halls. Later, food items were made available at conventions and assemblies at no charge to those attending. What fine adjustments these were, making the work lighter and allowing more attention to be given to the spiritual aspects of the convention, with the workers being able to listen and enjoy more of the program. (Deut. 31:12) Those faithful ones among us with many years of loyal service well remember these advancements and have expressed appreciation for the direction received. But what work could further be eliminated to make it possible for even more to benefit fully from the spiritual program?

• ³ Anticipated Changes: During the years that a simplified menu was prepared and served, it was seen that relatively “few

things” were truly “needed.” (Compare Luke 10:38-42.) However, multiplying such few things times the number attending still represented a great volume of supplies and work, as well as added expensive equipment. Then, too, a very large number of volunteers were needed to organize and support the arrangements. Food storage and distribution centers had to be provided. Additionally, some municipal health departments have been extreme in their requirements for serving food, and this has been a burden to the brothers in charge. The Society’s refrigerated trailers have had to be loaded with consignments of food, transported many miles, and unloaded. All of this has involved liabilities of great concern to the Society. The trailers have also required maintenance, storage, and routing that involve work, time, and expense. With further simplification, there will be no need to have refrigerated trailers for convention use or tractors to move these trailers. Furthermore, many brothers will be relieved of the large task of maintaining this equipment.

• ⁶ The willing service of those who have served as volunteers in these related areas has been of inestimable value and very much appreciated. However, with this further simplification, those thousands serving in the field doing maintenance and driving trucks as well as purchasing, preparing, expediting, and serving the food will be able to use their time in other necessary Kingdom pursuits, including enjoying fellowship at the conventions more fully. Those volunteers who used to serve in Food Service will now be able to assist in other departments, such as Attendants and Cleaning. This will lighten the load for everyone and will not require that many work late at night, early in the morning, or during the sessions, as was the case with a number in Food Service.

• ⁷ Supporting the Arrangements: The Society appreciates very much the fine support you brothers and sisters have given “with a complete heart” over the years to the convention arrangements, including food service. (1 Chron. 29:9) This has helped in many ways. It has made it possible to rent good buildings and care for the convention expenses. It has also enabled those attending to remain at the convention site during the short noon break so as to obtain food conveniently, be refreshed, and then be present for the spiritual program. And no doubt the generosity and support that has been shown by the brothers and sisters in contributing for these provisions will continue. It has been an expression of their appreciation in a practical way.—Prov. 11:25; Luke 16:9.

• ⁸ Caring for Your Food Needs: With these further adjustments, however, it will be necessary for individuals and family groups to provide just for themselves what is needed in the way of material sustenance during our noon break. We highly esteem the fine benefits of the spiritual program. To let physical food assume undue importance would be unwise. It is vital that each one “make sure of the more important things” in this regard. (Phil. 1:9, 10a) Recent large conventions of Jehovah’s people in Poland, Russia, and Ukraine, as well as in other places, have been held with fine success without food service arrangements. Additionally, some circuits in this country have held their assemblies and special assembly day programs without food service because of local circumstances. In each case the delegates brought their own food for lunch. We will find that if we bring just a light noon snack, it will contribute to our having an alert mental state, enabling us to derive full benefit from the afternoon program. In harmony with this, everyone should bring food that is simple and nourishing. For example, when Jesus fed the crowds, he provided just two items, bread and fish. (Matt. 14:16-20; see also Luke 10:42a.) To that end, we are pleased to offer some suggestions as to what might be appropriate and practical in view of the shortened noon break and the type of facilities we use.

• ⁹ Since there will no longer be food service arrangements at the convention, with good planning those attending will be able to enjoy breakfast with their family either at home or at a local eating place. By getting sufficient rest the night before, you should be able to rise early enough to obtain what is necessary for morning nourishment and arrive at the convention in plenty of time to enjoy fellowship with other delegates. Another benefit of the new arrangement is that the doors to the facilities will not need to be staffed and opened as early as when food service volunteers were admitted along with their families. The doors to the buildings will open at 8:00 a.m. for all delegates, with the exception of those few with specific work assignments that make it necessary for them to enter earlier. As previously, there will be no need for any to rush to the convention site looking for seats, for there has been adequate seating planned for the estimated crowd.

• ¹⁰ The noon break will be somewhat shorter than at previous conventions. However, it will still provide an opportunity to take in some light nourishment, as well as time for. some association with others. Our brothers and sisters who live in the convention city or nearby and who daily return home in the evening will readily be able to prepare a small amount of food for each member of the family to bring for the day’s noon break. This would be much the same as the lunch youths take to school, perhaps a sandwich and a piece of fruit, a cookie, and something to drink. Many people take similar lunches to their secular jobs.

• ¹¹ This will no doubt present more of a challenge for those attending from localities outside the convention city, as some advance planning for their noon food items will be necessary. Perhaps such items as napkins and disposable paper cups for those traveling in your group could be brought from home. Some may find that a light snack of some fresh fruit or vegetables would be enough to satisfy their needs, and this could be brought from home as well. Other food needs for each day’s noon break may be obtained at a grocery store in the convention city. Of course, we realize that refrigeration of an extended menu will not be possible for those staying in hotels.

• ¹² As a reminder, please DO NOT COOK IN hotel ROOMS unless they have a kitchenette for that purpose. It is dangerous and illegal to do so and can damage room furnishings with stains and grease. It produces odors that are hard to remove from the room for days. All of this makes it difficult for the hotel to rent the room again without the expense and work of cleaning and deodorizing it. That is why it may be wise to consider purchasing nonperishable items, such as nuts, dried fruit, and crackers, or you may choose to bring along baked items, such as bread, rolls, or muffins. If a lunch item, such as a sandwich, is desired, perhaps the food store you locate may have a delicatessen section where these items are prepared. Purchasing this type of item already made would eliminate food preparation in hotel rooms or vehicles.

• ¹³ Inasmuch as the convention site actually becomes a large Kingdom Hall during the convention, it is also wise to avoid developing a picnic atmosphere during the noon break. And just as we do not eat during meetings at the Kingdom Hall, neither would we be eating or drinking during convention sessions. Large family-size picnic coolers will not be permitted in the facility where the convention is held. They could create hazards and cannot be left in aisles or placed on seats. Perhaps reusable tote bags or disposable paper sacks would be better suited to the light snack items that will be needed for our noon break. If necessary, a small cooler that can be placed under, not on, a seat might be used.

• ¹⁴ Caution also needs to be exercised with regard to the types of drink containers we choose to bring to the convention site. Hot drinks may be brought in thermoses. Glass containers of any kind can prove to be a hazard. Many facilities even prohibit their use. We request, therefore, that NO GLASS containers be brought on the premises. If your selected cold beverage cannot be purchased in a plastic or aluminum container, it would be best to pour it into another type of small nonbreakable container that would fit under your seat.

• ¹⁵ Additional Benefits: Truly we can see the wisdom of such adjusted arrangements. All will be able to give full attention to the receiving of spiritual benefits—the real purpose of our assembling. These benefits are provided in the association we enjoy as well as the program itself. So instead of leaving the facility at the noon break to seek food, how beneficial it will prove to be to bring something with us. This will make it possible to enjoy the fellowship of our brothers and sisters and will prevent us from missing any of the afternoon program.

• ¹⁶ Being spiritually refreshed following the afternoon program, some might enjoy continuing Christian fellowship and conversation about the good things learned while taking in a more substantial meal with family and friends in local eating establishments. Others may just pick up something in a grocery store or a delicatessen. Those who are able to return to their own home may choose to have an evening meal there, much as they do other days that they spend in secular work or field service.

• ¹⁷ We truly enjoy the spiritual banquet at these assemblies and conventions, where we receive new publications, fine teaching, and practical counsel. These blessings are what everyone remembers, along with the joy of being with God’s assembled people. Proverbs 10:22 says: “The blessing of Jehovah —that is what makes rich, and he adds no pain with it.” This is because as Jehovah’s people, we do not attend conventions with material wants and comforts in view. We assemble with the positive desire to gain the greatest benefit possible in a spiritual way, and Jehovah richly rewards us for the spirit we show.—1 Tim. 6:6-8; Heb. 11:6.

• ¹⁸ These occasions for encouragement also remind us of the progress of the spiritual harvest. (John 4:35,36) The opening words of Isaiah chapter 54 call upon Jehovah’s wifelike organization to prepare for joyous increases. Further growth, expansion, and renewed strength are in the offing as Isaiah prophesied: “Make the place of your tent more spacious. And let them stretch out the tent cloths of your grand tabernacle. Do not hold back. Lengthen out your tent cords, and make those tent pins of yours strong. For to the right and to the left you will break forth.” Fulfillment of this exciting prophecy has resulted in the phenomenal expansion of true worship that we now see.—Isa. 54:1-4.

• ¹⁹ It truly does appear to be the course of good judgment to implement this further simplified convention arrangement so that with less distraction all will be able to enjoy the spiritual program that has been prepared. We trust that this also will have Jehovah’s blessing, since it will allow for more efficient handling of further growth. By focusing on what is needed, we will be able to enjoy our planned days of happy fellowship and spiritual good things. It is our sincere prayer that Jehovah will bless all our efforts as we continue to convene and be fed at his table.—Compare Deuteronomy 16:14,15.

Benefits of No Food Service Arrangements

• ■ Less work before, during, and after program, allowing for more fellowship

• ■ No food service equipment to maintain

• ■ More people able to give full attention to spiritual program

• ■ More volunteers available to assist other departments

• ■ More time available for other theocratic pursuits

Suggested Items to Bring for Noon Break

• ■ Light, simple, and nourishing lunch items

• ■ Dried fruits, nuts, baked items, fresh fruit

• ■ Small-size coolers if necessary

• ■ Soft drinks, fruit juices, or bottled water in nonbreakable containers

Do NOT Bring Into Convention Facility

• ■ Alcoholic beverages

• ■ Glass containers

• ■ Large family-size picnic coolers

ANNOUNCEMENTS

• ■ Literature to be used during February: You Can Live Forever in Paradise on Earth. Placements of this book should be followed up with return visits, and efforts should be made to start Bible studies. March: Revelation—Its Grand Climax Al Hand! April and May: The Watchtower and Awake! magazines. For territory that is covered frequently, any brochure (except the School brochure) may be used. Where Interest is found on return visits, subscriptions may be offered. NOTE: Congregations that have not yet requested the above-mentioned campaign items should do so on their next monthly Literature Request Form (S-14).

• ■ The secretary and the service overseer should review the activity of all regular pioneers. If any are having difficulty meeting the hour requirement, the el-

CONGREGATION BOOK STUDY

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

ders should arrange for assistance to be given. For suggestions, review Society’s letters (S-201) of October 1, 1993, and October 1, 1992. Also, see paragraphs 12-20 of the August 1986 Our Kingdom Ministry Insert.

• ■ The Memorial celebration will be held on Friday, April 14,1995. Although the talk may start earlier, please remember that the passing of the Memorial bread and wine should not begin until after sundown. Check with local sources to determine when sundown occurs in your area. No meetings other than those for field service are to be held on that date. If your congregation normally has meetings on Friday, you may want to switch those to another day of the week if the Kingdom Hall is available.

• ■ At the conclusion of congregation meetings as well as circuit assembly and special assembly day programs on April 23, 1995, an announcement will be made concerning a special work to get under way with the widespread distribution of a four-page tract containing a timely message. Publishers will be encouraged to give special attention to honesthearted ones who seriously reflect on the perplexing problems facing them and who seek reliable guidance. Every publisher, including new ones who will start out in field service during March, April, and May. will want to participate fully and give support to this special campaign.

• ■ In response to many requests from publishers and Interested ones, the Society has prepared a magazine-size brochure entitled Planned Giving to Benefit Kingdom Service Worldwide. Those planning to make a special gift now or leave a bequest at death to the Society may find this Information helpful, especially if they wish to accomplish some family goal or estate-planning objective while using tax benefits to minimize the cost of the gift or bequest. A copy of the brochure may be obtained by writing or calling Watch Tower Society, Planned Giving Desk, 100 Watchtower Drive, Patterson, NY 12563-9204, telephone (914) 878-7000.

• ■ Publishers who wish to serve as auxiliary pioneers in March, April, and May should make their plans now and turn in their application early. This will help the elders to make necessary field service arrangements and have sufficient literature on hand.

• ■ On Saturday, May 13, 1995, the Society’s facilities in Brooklyn, Wallkill, and Patterson, New York, will be closed for spring cleaning. Therefore, there will be no arrangements for tours or for congregations to pick up literature on that day. ■ New Braille Publications Available: Grade-two English: Examining the Scriptures Daily—1995 (four volumes); Theocratic Ministry School Schedule for 1995 (one volume).

Mark requests for Braille publications ATTENTION: BRAILLE DESK. Include name and address of the person who will use the Braille material.

• ¹ As far as reasonably possible, we want to maintain a good relationship with people who live in our community. This requires that we show consideration and respect for their rights and feelings.

• ² Jehovah’s Witnesses are known for good manners. Our standards of decorum in the neighborhood, at school, and in the workplace, as well as at our assemblies, have been the subject of many favorable comments. —See the June 15,1989, Watchtower, page 20.

• ³ Fine conduct, of course, includes many things, such as honesty, diligence, and good morals. It also includes being respectful of residents who live in the area around our Kingdom Hall. Our godly conduct in other respects may be ignored if we fail to be considerate of our neighbors. Paul urged us to “behave in a manner worthy of the good news.”—Phil. 1:27.

• ⁴ From time to time, complaints have been made by residents living near certain Kingdom Halls because of what they feel is a lack of consideration shown by those attending the meetings. Brothers and sisters should avoid congregating on the sidewalk in front of the Kingdom Hall and carrying on animated conversations that can be heard in nearby homes. Children should not be allowed to run in and out of the Kingdom Hall. Thoughtlessly slamming car doors or blowing horns can disturb the neighborhood. Conduct of this type reflects unfavorably on the congregation. Also, it is important that we observe all traffic regulations when driving in the area—Rom. 13:1,2,5.

• ^s Cars should not be parked on private property or in places where they obstruct traffic or block driveways.

Parking lots maintained by nearby business establishments for their customers should not be used unless permission is given. Where three or four congregations use the same Kingdom Hall, meetings are scheduled virtually every day of the week, and this requires close cooperation between bodies of elders.—See The Watchtower, October 1,1988, page 17, paragraph 13.

“The Bible urges us to “do all things for God’s glory," and that includes showing consideration for outsiders. (1 Cor. 10:31-33) If we ‘keep an eye on the personal interests of others,’ we will not thoughtlessly intrude on their property. (Phil. 2:4) We will also avoid interfering with business activities of local merchants.

’ Showing consideration for others —both inside and outside the congregation—is an outward expression of what we feel in our hearts. What we do and say should demonstrate that we ‘love our neighbors as ourselves.’—Matt. 7:12; 22:39.

• ¹ Jesus was masterful in his use of introductions. He knew what to say to stimulate interest. On one occasion he initiated a conversation with a Samaritan woman by simply asking her for a drink of water. This immediately captured her attention because 'Jews had no dealings with Samaritans.’ The ensuing conversation eventually helped her and many others to become believers. (John 4:7-9, 41) We can learn from his example.

• ² When preparing to offer the Live Forever book, ask yourself, ‘What are the immediate concerns of people in our territory? What will appeal to a teenager, an older person, a husband, or a wife?’ You could prepare more than one introduction and plan to use the one that seems most fitting for the situation.

• ³ Since the deterioration of family life concerns many, you might say:

■ "Daily pressures of life have put great strains on families today. Where can they find assistance? [Allow for response.] The Bible can be a real help to us. [Read 2 Timothy 3:16. 17.] The Scriptures offer beneficial guidelines that can help families survive. Note what is stated in paragraph 3 on page 238 of this publication, You Can Live Forever in Paradise on Earth." Read paragraph 3, and make offer.

⁴ If you are using a local neivs item, you might say:

■ “Did you hear the news report about [mention item of local concern]? What did you think about that? [Allow for response.] It makes you wonder what this world is coming to, doesn’t it? The Bible foretold such things as evidence that we are living in the last days.” Then consider information in the Live Forever book, pages 150-3.

• ⁵ Many are concerned about the growing crime problem. You could use the first introduction under the heading “Crime/

Safety” on page 10 of the “Reasoning” book:

■ “We are talking with folks about the matter of personal safety. There’s a lot of crime around us, and it affects our lives. What do you think it would take for people like you and me to feel safe on the streets at night?” You might read Psalm 37:10, 11 and point out blessings that God’s Kingdom will bring, using pages 156-8 of the Live Forever book.

• ⁶ If you prefer a simpler approach, you might use an introduction similar to that found at the top of page 12 in the "Reasoning" book:

■ “We are encouraging our neighbors to consider the grand future that the Bible holds out to us. [Read Revelation 21:3, 4.] Does this sound good to you? [Allow for response.] Chapter 19 of this publication highlights other blessings obedient mankind will experience under God’s Kingdom." If there is interest, offer the Live Forever book.

• ⁷ Preparing an effective introduction can help you to reach those hungering for righteousness.—Matt. 5:6.

  Follow Up Interest You Found

  
  

• ³ If you discussed deteriorating world conditions on your initial call, you might follow that up by saying:

■ “I’m sure you will agree that big changes are needed if we’re ever going to live in peace. The Bible shows that Satan is the primary cause of our problems. Many wonder why God has permitted him to continue for so long. What do you think?” Allow for response. Turn to page 20. paragraphs 14 and 15, in the Live Forever book, and explain why Satan has not yet been destroyed. Then read Romans 16:20, which shows what we can expect in the near future.

• ⁴ If you talked about the blessings that ivill be realized under Kingdom rule, on your return visit, you could say:

■ “God’s Kingdom will bring wonderful blessings to the earth and mankind. These blessings are well illustrated here on pages 12 and 13. What do you see that appeals to you? [Allow for response.] Think what it would be like to live in a world like this.” Read paragraph 12. If there is interest, ask the question on paragraph 13, and discuss the answer. Point out that this chapter answers more questions about Kingdom blessings and that you will be pleased to discuss them on your next visit.

• ⁵ You might be able to start a study by saying:

■ “Many people have found answers to their Bible questions with the use of this book.” Turn to the table of contents, and ask: “Which subject here interests you the most?” Allow for a response, turn to the chapter that caught their interest, and read the first paragraph. Explain how the questions at the bottom of each page highlight the main points in each paragraph. Illustrate by discussing one or two more paragraphs, and then make arrangements to call again.

• ⁶ Following up interest in the Live Forever book demonstrates our desire to accomplish our ministry fully. (2 Tim. 4:5) We may be able to help our hearers to reach out for everlasting life.—John 17:3.

© 1995 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 11201-24 83. Second-class postage paid at Brooklyn. NY. and at additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Watchtower. 25 Columbia Heights. Brooklyn NY 11201-2483                   Printed in U.S A

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When working from house to house, we are usually limited in the amount of time we are able to spend with an interested person. In most cases the real teaching work is done when we make return visits and conduct Bible studies. (Matt. 28:19, 20) In order to teach effectively on the return visit, we need to review what we discussed on the first call and then prepare for further discussion.

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If you talked about insta

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bility of the family arrange

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ment, you might use material in chapter 29 of the “Live Forever”

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book. You could say:

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■ “Previously we talked about the wisdom of following Bible counsel in order to have a happy family life. What do you feel is the key to unifying families today?" Allow for response. Refer to paragraph 27 on page 247, and read Colossians 3:12-14. Make further comments showing how genuine love can hold families together. Explain how a systematic study of the Live Forever book can help solve problems.