Our Kingdom Ministry

April 1996                         For United States of America                         Vol. 39, No. 4

• ¹ An extraordinary privilege has been extended to us. It is that of being witnesses of Jehovah. We are part of the worldwide organization of evangelizers being used by Jehovah to accomplish the greatest Kingdomproclamation work ever undertaken! (Mark 13:10) In view of the urgency of our times, are we sharing in this work to the fullest extent possible?

• ² We do not know how many will eventuallyTespOhil to our preaching. Jehovah assures us that it will be “a great crowd," all of whom are identified by their “rendering him sacred service day and night.” (Rev. 7:9,15) The over five miUien Witnesses who are already busy in God’s service are not-staply interested llsteners, nor are they Just meeting attenders. They are workers who proclaim the good news worldwide!

• ³ Every day, there are opportunities to praise Jehovah, either in field service or informally. Think of the grand witness that could be given if each one of us took the initiative to share the truth with Just one person each day. Our appreciation for Jehovah should move us to speak about him with enthusiasm. —Ps. 92:1,2.

' Help Others to Render Sacred Service: Jehovah continues to bless us with Increase. (Hag. 2:7) During the past service year in the United States. an average of 568.480 home Bible studies were conducted each month. Our goal in studying with these people is to help them become Jesus' disciples. (Matt. 28:19,20) Many of them have already made fine progress by regularly attending the meeUngs. They have started speaking to their acquaintances “about the magnificent things of God” that they have learned. (Acts 2: 11) Canthey now be invited to participate in the public ministry?

• ⁵ During April we should make a special effort to invite new ones who qualify, to Join us in the field service. Has your student, expressed-a desire.tn do this? If so, does he meettheScriptural requirements? (See Our Ministry book, pages 97-9.) When the student desires to share in the field service, discuss his prospects with the presiding overseer, who will arrange for two elders to examine the matter. Ifthe student qualifies to be accepted’ as an unbaptized publisher, invite him to joirnyou in the field. Service overseers and book study conductors should especially be aware of assisting those who might qualify to begin publishing in April.

• Parents might consider whether their children qualify to become unbaptized publishers. (Ps. 148:12, 13) If your child desires to express himself in Kingdom service and he is of good conduct, you may approach'one of the eiders on the service committee to discuss the situation. After meeting with you and the child, two elders will de-termjpe whether he             be

counted as a publisher. There is special cause for rejoicing when children join us in praising God!

⁷ Only Jehovah is worthy of our sacred service. (Luke 4:8) May each of us use our wonderful privilege to praise him “very much.”—Ps. 109:30; 113:3.

Times Have Changed

• ¹ The Bible tells us that “the scene of this world Is changing." (1 Cor. 7:31) How true that is today! Even in our lifetime, we have seen drastic changes in the thinking and conduct of people on every level of human society. If we are to be successful in reaching them with the Kingdom message, our approach must keep up with the changing times. We want to present the good news in such a way that it interests people and reaches their hearts.

• ² Years ago, in many lands the witness work was different because, for the most part, people lived more tranquil lives, and they felt secure. Religion held a sacred place in their lives. The Bible was highly regarded. In those days witnessing often involved refuting arguments on doctrinal issues. Today, people’s lives are in turmoil. Religion is ridiculed. Few have faith in the Bible. And for many, the theory of evolution has destroyed faith in God.

• ³ One traveling overseer observed: “Now. it seems, there are so many problems and difficulties in people’s lives that we have to teach them how to live.” The immediate concerns of people naturally revolve around themselves, their families, and their anxieties. These are the things that they talk about most when they get together. We need to keep that in mind in our witnessing work.

• ⁴ God’s Kingdom Is the Only Sure Hope for the Future: Most people have little confidence in human government. They feel that there is no prospect for seeing a better world in their lifetime. False religion has failed to give them any basis for hope. That is why the greatest need of mankind is to hear the good news about God’s Kingdom. Show how it will ultimately provide the solutions to all of the problems confronting mankind.

• ³ The Bible Is the Only Reliable Source of Guidance: Today's masses have been misguided by leaders who rely upon human wisdom and worldly philosophies. People have yet to realize that “it does not belong to man who is walking even to direct his step." (Jer. 10:23) The most valuable lesson they can learn is that they must ‘trust in Jehovah with all their heart and not lean upon their own understanding.' (Prov. 3:5) While the times have changed, the Bible has not. Hence, in our ministry we should always feature God’s Word, teaching others to appreciate its inspired, divine guidance. (2 Tim. 3:16, 17) To fulfill that purpose, we must keep the importance of the Bible before the people by referring to it in our presentations, using it to answer their questions, and advocating the need to study it and apply its practical wisdom.

’ Even with today’s changing times, our objectives in the ministry remain the same. We are to preach the good news of the Kingdom, build confidence in God’s Word, and help others see the need to study the Bible with us. What we say must be relevant to the current needs of those to whom we witness. By doing this, we may become sharers of the good news with others and thus gain the most persons.—1 Cor. 9:19,23.

Week Starting April 1

Song 132

10 min: Local announcements. Selected Announcements from Our Kingdom Ministry. If applicable to the congregation, consider “Will You Be Working Unassigned Territory?" Mention any outstanding reports about your Memorial observance.

20 min: “Be 'Zealous for Fine Works’ During April!” Question-and-answer coverage of paragraphs 1-10 by the service overseer. Explain (1) what is planned locally for expanded field service activity during April, (2) how all can be assisted to participate, and (3) how new and younger ones can be included.

15 min: “Search Out Those Who Are Rightly Disposed.' Tleview suggested presentations, and then have two demonstrations showing how they can be used. As .time permits, relate some of the suggestions for offering magazines, found in the September 1995 Our Kingdom Ministry, page 5. Include a reminder to mention that we accept contributions to advance the worldwide work.

Song 20 and concluding prayer.

Week Starting April 8

Song 72

15 min: Local announcements. Accounts report; mention donation acknowledgments received from the Society. Discuss practical ways we can help new ones who attended the Memorial to make further spiritual progress. Review April 1,1991, Watchtower, pages 9-12.

15 min: “Render Sacred Service Day and Night." Questions and answers. Read paragraphs 5 and 6.

15 min: “Be ‘Zealous for Fine Works’ During April!” Question-and-answer coverage of paragraphs 11-15. Encourage all to analyze their personal circumstances and search out ways to increase their support for the field ministry.

Song 113 and concluding prayer.

Week Starting April 15

Song 133

10 min: Local announcements. Remind audience about the special public talk on April 21, entitled “Remaining Blameless Amid a Crooked Generation." Encourage putting forth an extra effort to assist everyone to attend.

15 min: “Times Have Changed." Questions and answers. Emphasize presenting the Kingdom message in a way that meets the most pressing needs of the people. Suggest some family and social issues that are on the minds of many people, as noted in the January 1,1994, Watchtower, pages 22-3.

20 min: “Faith Follows the Thing Heard." Discuss how magazine placements can be used to cultivate interest that can lead to Bible studies in the Knowledge book. Have two or three presentations demonstrated.

Song 204 and concluding prayer.

Week Starting April 22

Song 6

15 min: Local announcements. Review highlights of special talk given this past weekend. Discuss how this admonition should motivate interested ones to take a firm stand for true worship. Also, call attention to “Go On Increasing in Accurate Knowledge,” and emphasize importance of attending Congregation Book Study regularly.

12 mln: Question Box. A talk by an elder. Explain why brothers conducting the meetings should avoid undue familiarity by calling on individuals, using only their first names.

18 min: Discussion between elder and ministerial servant of article entitled “Godly Families of the Past—A Pattern for Our Day,” found on pages 20-3 of the September 15, 1995, issue of The Watchtower. Make practical application to benefit families locally.

Song 143 and concluding prayer.

Week Starting April 29

Song 144

12 min: Local announcements. Some describe Jehovah’s Witnesses as a “sect" or “cult,” misleading others about our activities and objectives. Using the Reasoning book, page 202, briefly explain how to refute this charge.

15 min: Giving Even Coverage to Our Territory. Talk by service overseer. Scattered or distant areas may rarely be worked. Some may purposely avoid working in localities where people are affluent or strongly religious.-Business territories may be neglected. Some publishers may regularly request territories they personally prefer rather than those currently needing coverage. Encourage all to cooperate with efforts to cover unworked territories. The summer months usually provide a good opportunity to work distant rural areas; perhaps car groups can be organized. Make sure the territory is thoroughly covered, including not-at-homes, before it is returned. Offer other practical suggestions showing how all can assist in giving the best coverage to your territory.

18 min: Offer The Watchtower and Awake! During May. Feature individual copies. In territory that is covered frequently, offer any appropriate brochure. Keep a record of all placements, with the goal of establishing a magazine route. Where there is sustained interest, subscriptions may be offered. Emphasize the far-reaching benefits of magazine distribution as one of the most effective means of getting the Kingdom message to the public. Make sure we have a supply when we go in service; offer them at every opportunity. Personal arrangements for a weekly Magazine Day are a good way to increase placements. Store-to-store work and street witnessing with magazines are also productive. Follow up interest with return visits that are designed to start studies, using the Knowledge book. Have one or two brief demonstrations offering the current issues, perhaps using presentations found in the September 1995 Our Kingdom Ministry, page 3, paragraphs 3-5; read paragraph 6. Song 195 and concluding prayer.

‘Go On Increasing in Accurate Knowledge’

Accurate knowledge of God leads to everlasting life. (John 17:3) We should be doing all we can to increase in accurate knowledge about Jehovah. (Col. 1:9, 10) Starting on April 29, we will study the book Knowledge That Leads to Everlasting Life at the Congregation Book Study. Not only will our own understanding of God’s Word be enhanced but we will also be better equipped to teach it to others. You and your family will be blessed if you prepare in advance, attend and participate each week, and use that information in the ministry.

Congregation book Study

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

	From:	To:
April 1:	p. 305,111	p. 308,1112
April 8:	p. 309,1113	p. 311,1123
April 15:	p. 312,1124	p. 315, H 5
April 22:	p. 316,16	p. 319,910

Schedule for congregation studies in the book Knowledge That Leads to Everlasting Life.

April 29: Chapter 1

¹ Last spring an unprecedented witness was given when millions of copies of Kingdom News No. 34 were distributed worldwide. Congregation publishers and pioneers alike zealously shared in this stimulating work. Were you among them? If you were, no doubt you thoroughly enjoyedhaving a part in that remarkable campaign. Now you may be wondering, What ‘fine

¹ work’ is in store for us this year?—Titus 2:14.

• ² During April and early May, we will have the pleasure of distributing a special edition of the Awake! magazine, the April 22, 1996, issue, featuring “When Wars Will Be No More.” Since this subject will appeal to a great many householders, we will endeavor to give the magazine the widest possible distribution. In view of the importance of the information it contains, this issue of Awake! should be featured during April and into May, until supplies are exhausted.

Our Goal—Participation by All Publishers: It would truly be encouraging if every publisher in this country could have a share in the preaching work during April. With the Memorial of Christ’s death fresh in mind, we will surely want to show our appreciation for God’s goodness by offering a direct “sacrifice of praise” '^imtlieJeldininistry^-Heb. 13:15.         ■ <     ‘

• ⁴ A diligent effort should be made to discern the • needs of every member of the congregation so that all can have a zealous share in the ministry during April. (Rom. 15:1) Book study conductors should be fully aware of the circumstances of those'in their groups and offer practical help when necessary. Does anyone need transportation? Who can provide it? Are some timid or self-conscious? Can more experienced publishers work along with them? What about shut-ins or those who are ill? Could they engage in telephone witnessing, in letter writing, or in some other productive activity?

• ⁵ Some who liavfe become inactive have been receiving regular spiritual encouragement, and they may be motivated to engage in the preaching work once again. The campaign with the special Awake! will provide them with an excellent opportunity to become reactivated.

• ⁶ Train Young Ones to Take Part: Many children of Jehovah’s Witnesses have accompanied their parents from house to house for years, although they are not yet serving as unbaptized publishers. Is now the time for them to get started? Are they moved from the heart and ready to have a meaningful share in the house-to-house work? Family heads-should use time during the family Bible study tojhelp their qualified children prepare a presentation tailored to each one’s age and abilffy? Older ones can choose a thought-provoking question With which to arouse the

Works” During April!

interest of the householder and thef{point out th/au'-swer in the magazine. Younger children can give an effective witness in just a few words. For exanjple, they can encourage the householder to “read a special magazine that is being offered worldwide tills month." As part of your family’s preparation, be sure to include suggestions for overcoming common objections. You will find a number of good ideas in the Reasoning book. At mealtimes and on other appropriate occasions, encourage family members to relate the experiences they have had in field service.

• ⁷ Qualified Bible Students Take Up the Work Jesus Did: Jesus did not confine his teaching to giving instruction on doctrinal matters. He accompanied his students in the ministry and taught them how to preach. (Luke 8:1; 10:1-11) What is the situation today? More than half a million Bible studies are being conducted in the United States. No doubt, with appropriate encouragement many of these students could take the next step in their training and qualify to serve as unbaptized publishers in April. ~ _t .. ,_A..j ■>/-

• ⁸ If you are conducting a Bible study, consider these questions: Is the student making progress, consistent with his age and ability? Has he begufTto share his faith Informally with others? Is he putting on “the new personality”? (Col. 3:10) Does he meet the quaUficg-tions for unbaptized publishers, outlined on pages 97 through 99 of the Our Ministry book? If you believe Tie is qualified, why not discuss the matter with him? Some students need little more than a direct invitation to share in the work. Of course, if the student is willing, it will first be necessary for the presiding overseer to arrange in the usual way for a discussion with two of the elders. On the other hand, something may ^holding the student back. Perhaps one of the elders

¹ '^l' could accompany you on the Bible study and draw the student out as to his feelings toward the truth. After listening to what the student has to say, the elder may be able to provide practical suggestions, along with Scriptural help.

• ⁹ ‘Buy Out the Time’ to Auxiliary Pioneer: Each year during the Memorial season, gratitude for the ransom moves thousands to ‘buy out’ the time to be auxiliary pioneers. (Eph. 5:15-17) Although some sacrifices are needed, the rewards are great. A commendable number of youths take advantage of a break from school to auxiliary pioneer. Adults who work full-time use evenings and weekends to full advantage in this same activity. Thus, entire families have been known to auxiliary pioneer together! In some congregations most of the elders and ministerial servants and their wives have enrolled as auxiDary pioneers. Stimulated by their zealous example, others have followed suit, so

that a large percentage of the congregation serve as auxiliary pioneers in April.

• ¹⁰ Whether you are able to auxiliary pioneer or not, look for ways to increase your service in the field during April. Set a personal goal for yourself, one that will require some effort to reach but that is attainable. Your desire to “spend and be completely spent” in Je-. hovah’s service, according to your personal circum-\stances, will have his blessing?»2 Cor. 12:15.

• ¹¹ Meetings for Field Service: Meetings for field service should be arranged every dav of the Awake! campaign, at a time that will allow for an early start in the ministry. Provision should also be made for evening witnessing. Most publishers will be engaging in field service on weekends, so congregations should schedule meetings for field service on Saturdays, both mofnfng and afternoon. for the duration of the special Awake! distribution.

• ¹² Those who conduct meetings for field service should see to it that there is plenty of territory on hand. Territory that has not been worked recently should be covered first. However, unassigned territory that is cared for by the Society should not be worked without the Society’s permission. Are you holding one or more personal territories that have not beeiLCUv-ered recently? If you will need help in working them during the campaign, speak to the service overseer or to the brother caring for the territory and they will be happy to arrange for you to have some assistance.

• ¹³ How Many Magazines Will You Place?That question is for each individual to answer. In determining how many magazines you can place during the campaign, consider the type.of territory you will be working, your age, your health, the time you can devote to the work, and other factors. Note, however, the reminder that was given in the January 1,1994, issue of The Watchtower^"As a suggestion, publishers may have a goal bfsayTO magazines per month, depending, on their circumstances; pioneers might strive for 90.”) Would a similar goal be realistic in your case?

• ¹⁴ Elders—Careful Planning Is Needed: Insure that, impossible, all of the congregation’s territory.will be worked with the special issue of AugiteCareful attention should be given to working any business territo^ ry assigned to the congregation. Those who work it should be weh prepared and neatly dressed An elaborate presentation is not necessary When approaching'' a businessman, you can say that you do not often meet businesspeople at home, so you are calling at his place _ of business to present an article that will surely be of interest to him. Then you can briefly share a specific/ point in the magazine. Street witnessing with magazines should also be properly organized within the congregation’s territory. The most effective way to engage in street work is to take the initiativa.and approach passersby, rather than to wait for them to approach you. Since you will be in the public eye, you should be conscious of having a dignified appearance. There may be other places in your territory that could be worked during the campaign, such as airports, hospitals, parking lots, parks, and rest homes. The body of elders should determine what appropriate arrangements can be made for witnessing in these areas of your congregation’s territory.

• ¹⁵ Jehovah is a tireless worker. (John 5:17) He created the heavens and the earth as well as the plants and the animals; but he continued to work until he had created his crowning achievement on earth—man. The fact that we have life is a direct result of God’s willingness to work. As “Imitators of God,” we should be moved by our loye for-him to be “zealous for fine works." (Eph. 5:1; Titus 2:14) Since Jehovah is worthy of receiving our very best effort and since the desire to obtain results is characteristic of one who is zealous, we should be interested in performing quality work in the ministry. Of course, Jehovah appreciates any sacrifice we make for him, and our work is never in vain. (1 Cor. 15: 58) So, with grateful hearts, let us apply ourselves to zealous activity during April, confident of Jehovah’s approval and blessing and of rich success!

JEW

■ New Publications Available:

Does God Really Care About Us?

—Laotian Enjoy Life on Earth Forever! —Slovak Good News—To Make You Happy

—Vietnamese Happiness—How to Find It —Persian How to Start and Continue Bible Discussions                 —Samoan

Jehovah’s Witnesses—Unitedly Doing God’s Will Worldwide —Bulgarian. Czech

Knowledge That Leads to Everlasting Life —Amharic, Gujarati, Lingala, Tshiluba

Life—How Did It Get Here? By Evolution or by Creation? (Large size)

—Albanian

Life in a Peaceful New World (Tract

No. 15)           —Haitian Creole

“Look! I Am Making All Things New"

—Assyrian

Questions Young People Ask—Answers

Thal Work            —Gujarati

Sing Praises to Jehovah (Large size)

—Tamil

The Divine Name That Will Endure Forever                —Amharic

The Greatest Man Who Ever Lived

—Punjabi

What Hope for Dead Loved Ones? (Tract No. 16) —Haitian Creole

When Someone You Love Dies

—Amharic, Persian

Will This World Survive? (Tract No. 19)

—Macedonian

• ■ New Audiocassettes Available:

Doing What Is Right in Jehovah's Eyes (Drama, single cassette) —Dutch, French

• ■ New Videocassettes Available:

Jehovah’s Witnesses—The Organization Behind the Name —Albanian. Thai

The Bible—Mankind’s Oldest Modem Book          —Italian. Japanese

THEOCRATIC MINISTRY SCHOOL REVIEW

Closed-book review on material covered in Theocratic Ministry School assignments for the weeks of January 1 to April 22, 1996. Use a separate sheet of paper to write down answers to as many of the questions as you can in the time allotted.

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

Answer each of the following statements True or False:

• 1. The purpose of the Kingdom Ministry School is to prepare men for ordination. U’v p. 231 par. 3]

• 2. Since King Ahaz was zealous for true worship, it was not difficult for his son Hezekiah to serve Jehovah, [ii-1 p. 61

„ par. 13]

' 3. Although the Mosaic Law passed away, the Bible does not give any indication that the Ten Commandments were included in what came to an end. [rs p. 348

, par- 2]

• 4. The position we take on blood transfusions is based on our superior medical knowledge, [jv p. 186 par. 2]

■ 5. The covenant mentioned at Jeremiah 31: 31, 33 refers to the covenant for a Kingdom that Jesus makes with his anointed followers, [si p. 129 par. 38]

• 6. The book of Lamentations is composed of five lyric poems, four of which are , acrostic, [si p. 130 par. 6]

• 7. Following his resurrection Jesus made various appearances—but only in the presence of his disciples, [rs p. 334 par. 2]

• 8. True Christians enter into God’s rest by exercising faith in the sacrifice of Christ and by desisting from works in which they try to justify themselves. (Heb. 4:10) [rs p. 350 par. 1]

’ 9. The parenthetical statement at Revelation 20:5, about “the rest of the dead” coming to life, refers to the earthly resurrection of other sheep, [rs p. 338

_ par. 2-p. 339 par. 2]

• 10. Jehovah’s Witnesses see unmistakable evidence that the organization to which

S-97   #288a   4/96

they belong is not of men but of God and that God’s own Son, Jesus Christ, is directing it. D'v p. 235 par. 5]

Answer the following questions:

• 11. What was meant when The Watchtower of June 1, 1938, referred to_z. “The Society”? [jv p. 219 par. 2]

• 12. Why did Jehovah’s Witnesses in Germany refuse to say: “HeilJ^jtyeyp [71? p. 196 par. 1] tsrsy              '

• 13. What do we learn about Jehovah’s^ qualities by reading the book of Lam-^ entations? (Lam. 3:22, 23, 32) [si p. 132^ pars. 13,15]

• 14. What term is repeatedly used in reference to both Ezekiel and Jesus Christ? [si p. 133 par. 2]

• 15. Why is it reasonable to believe that those < who are resurrected to life on earth will be judged on the basis of their future actions? (Rom. 6:7) [rs p. 338 par. 1]

• 16. How did Paul, Timothy, and Titus£ strengthen the congregations they^ served, thus setting an example for travy eling overseers today? [jv p. 222 par. 1] &

• 17. Why can we rightly state that the events associated with Christ’s presence take place over a period of years? (Matt... 24: 37-39) [rs p. 341 par. 1] ty y 7/amL

• 18. What belief engendered by the translation of Romans 13:1 in the King James Version led the Bible Students into/ not always maintaining strict neutrality back in 1918? [jv p. 191 pars. 3,4]

  19.

  
  

Before the Treaty of Versailles was signed in June 1919, what did the Federal Council of the Churches of Christ in America proclaim? [jv p. 192_par. 3]

• 20. Why are Christians not under obligation to keep a weekly Sabbath day? (Rom. 10:4) [rs p. 345 pars. 2,3] fail r//w

Provide the word(s) or phrase needect to complete each of the following statements:

• 21. Ebed-melech prefigured the > who will be preserved

cause they befriended and assisted the

/          _of Christ’s brothers. [Weekly

Bible reading; see w82 10/1 p. 27 par. 11.] 22. The death of Jesus Christ is commemorated each year            , but it was

not until /? 3X that members of the great crowd were specifically invited to be present at the Memorial. [jv p. 242 par. 2, p. 243 par. 1]

• 23. The events recounted at Jeremiah 52: 5-11 took place in & ^r ~)_____B.C.E.

[Weekly Bible reading; see w88 4/1 p. 14

• • par. 18.]

• 24. When Revelation 1:7 states that following Christ’s return “every eye will see him,” reference is made, not to/d^^r^, sight, but to mental              p. 343

• 25. Following his resurrection Jesu$ did not always appear in the same          ,

perhaps to reinforce in the disciples’ minds the fact that he was then a fygxzwf , gnd so he was not immediately 1 r^uij.f^even by his close associates, [rs p. 334 par. 5]

Select the correct answer in each of the following statements:

• 26. The failure of David’s son (Absalom; Am-_ non; Amon) to control his sexual desires TedTiim to violate his half sister Tamar. [it-1 p. 96 par. 3]

• 27. An important step in establishing a congregation structure in harmony with the apostolic pattern took place in (1879; 1886; 1895) when Brother Russell wrote about the need for (colportedrs; elders; servants to the brethren) to be selected in every company (congregation) to take oversight of the flock, [jv p. 206 par. 2]

• 28. Moral restraint did not pass away with the end of the Mosaic Law, which included the Ten Commandments, because under the Christian arrangement, (each community would develop its own set of moral standards; men should be guided only by their conscience; many of the moral standards of the Ten'Command-ments were restated in the Christian GreeKSerip lures), [vs p. 349 pai. 1]—'

• 29. Jehovah “fooled” Jeremiah in that He (tricked him into preaching a message of condemnation; used him to accomplish what he could not have done in his~~ owristrength; did not bring about thede-structionThat Jeremiah had prophesied). (Jer. 20:7) [Weekly Bible reading; see w89 5/1 p. 31.]

• 30. On April 23,1900, the first branch office of the Watch Tower Society was established in (Australia; England; Germany). [jv p. 210 par. 3]

Match the following scriptures to the statements listed below:

Josh. 7:24, 25; Jer. 23:33; 32:9, 10; 1 Tim.

3:2, 3, 8; Heb. 10:23-25

• 31. Even when circumstances make it very difficult, Jehovah’s Witnesses endeavor to attend their meetings regularly, [jv p. 236 par. 1]         &   1°

• 32. Disobeying Jehovah and deliberately covering over serious wrongdoing can bring about far-reaching and disastrous consequences, [it-1 p. 41 par. 2]        7 -‘

• 33. Immoderate use of alcoholic beverages can disqualify a brother from enjoying privileges in the congregation, jjv p. 182 par. 3] I            ; 1—

• 34. The weighty prophetic message from God’s Word is heavy with doom, announcing Christendom’s imminent destruction. [Weekly Bible reading; see w94 3/1 p. 12 pars. 18,20.] i

• 35. When entering into business dealings with fellow worshipers of Jehovah, a written agreement can prevent misunderstandings that could arise at a later time. [Weekly Bible reading; see w95 5/1 p. 30.]              31,.   , ₀

Announcements

■ Literature offer for April and May: Individual copies of both The Watchtower and Awake! For territory that is covered frequently, any appropriate brochure may also be used. Where interest is found on return visits, subscriptions may be offered. June: Knowledge That Leads to Everlasting Life. July and August: Any Of the following 32-page brochures: Does God Really Care About Us?, Enjoy Life on Earth Forever!, “Look! I Am Making All Things New,” Should You Believe in the Trinity?, The Government That Will Bring Paradise, What Is the Purpose of Life—How Can You Find It?, and When Someone You Love Dies. Where appropriate, brochures such as Our Problems—Who Will Help Us Solve Them?, Spirits of the Dead—Can They Help You or Harm You? Do They Really Exist?, and Will There Ever Be a World Without War? may be offered.

■ Where practical, as daylight hours increase, elders should make arrangements for the congregation to spend more time in evening witnessing.

■ Beginning in April, district convention badge cards for 1996 in Chinese, English. French. Greek. Italian. Japanese, Korean, Polish, Portuguese, Spanish, and Vietnamese will automatically be included with literature shipments. It will not be necessary to request these. Based on the size of each congregation, cards will be shipped in lots of 25. If additional badge cards are needed by the congregation, these should be requested on a Literature Request Form (S-14). It Is necessary to request plastic badge card holders for any in the congregation who desire them.

■ An adjustment is being made in the procedure for replacing Pioneer Service Identification cards. From now on, replacement cards for pioneers who move, change their name, lose their card, or request a change of assignment will be supplied by the Society. Any blank cards the secretary may have on file should be disposed of. Name changes and reassignments will be handled in the normal manner, with the secretary noting the appropriate information on the back of the Congregation Report (S-l) for the month. Thereafter, the Society will forward to the congregation the new cards for the pioneers. These will generally come with the monthly statement. Any changes should be forwarded to the Society promptly so that our files can be kept accurate and current. Also, when a pioneer discontinues such service or is deleted, a copy of the S-206 form should be filled out and submitted to the Society without delay.

■ All inquiries relative to dates and locations of district conventions in other lands should be directed to the respective branch offices. Addresses of branch offices around the world are found on the last page of the Yearbook. ■ Braille editions of The Watchtower are now available in Korean and Portuguese.

Will You Be Working Unassigned Territory?

As outlined in the Society's letter of January 1, 1996, groups of publishers have been invited to assist in covering unassigned territory again this year. If you are part of a group specifically assigned by the Society to work in such territory, the following Information will be helpful to you in making your plans: Rather than use booklets and brochures as the main offer, you may use the books You Can Live Forever in Paradise on Earth, Life—How Did It Get Here? By Evolution or by Creation?, The Greatest Man Who Ever Lived, or United in Worship of the Only True God. If you do not have a supply of these books available, submit an order right away so that you will have what you need for working unassigned territory.

JANUARY SERVICE REPORT
		Av.	Av	Av.	Av.
Number of:		Hrs	Mags	R.V.	Bi.St.
Sp l Pios.	180 120.4		74.8	53.1	5.4
Pios	75,040	75.5	36.4	24.9	2.4
Aux. Pios	17,675	56.9	28.6	16.0	1.4
Pubs.	812,271	9.0	5.6	3.6	0.4
TOTAL	905,166		Baptized: 2,194

Question box

■ What is the proper use of the terms “brother” and “sister”?

When used in a literal sense, the terms “brother” and “sister" refer to individuals who have the same parents. This natural relationship usually creates a warm attachment, and the closeness these individuals experience is further enhanced by social, environmental, and emotional ties.

Jesus taught his disciples to address Jehovah in prayer as “Our Father." The use of that expression implies that as Christians, we are all part of a close family circle where we eqjoy a rich spiritual relationship. This was further emphasized by Jesus when he told his followers that “all you are brothers."—Matt. 6:9:23:8.

Because of our close spiritual ties within God’s household, we address one another as “Brother" and “Sister,” particularly at congregation meetings. During these spiritual occasions, the one presiding over the meeting recognizes baptized individuals by using the expression “brother" or “sister” followed by the last name of the person being addressed.

What if an unbaptized person wishes to participate in the meetings? When a person has been associated with Jehovah’s people for some time and is approaching dedication, considering himself to be one of Jehovah’s Witnesses, there would be no objection to prefacing the last name with “Brother" or "Sister.” This would especially be true if the individual has become an unbaptized publisher.

On the other hand, interested persons who have only recently begun to attend our meetings have not yet taken the steps that would identity them as part of God’s household. These individuals would not be addressed as “Brother" or “Sister,” since the spiritual relationship of God’s family does not exist in their case. So during the meetings, we would address them more formally, using an appropriate title such as “Mr." with their last name.

Using the expressions “brother" and "sister” at our congregation meetings indicates a bond that Is far closer and more precious than any Indicated by the use of first names. It reminds us of the very blessed relationship we enjoy as a spiritual family under the one Father. Jehovah God. We are also reminded of the deep love and affection we have for one another—Eph. 2:19; 1 Pet. 3:8.

¹ One purpose of the preaching work is to find those who are “rightly disposed for everlasting life.” (Acts 13:48) Distribution of the Watchtower and Awake! magazines has proved to be an excellent way to accomplish this, as our Journals make people aware of the Kingdom hope. We will be featuring the magazines during April. Hopefully, where interest is found, we can start new Bible studies in the book Knowledge That Leads to Everlasting Life. Here are some suggestions that might work for you:

- When using the April 1 “Watchtower,” you might feature “Praise the King of Eternity!,” which focuses on last year’s district convention public discourse, and say:

■ “Many people we talk to have faith in God. Others find it difficult to believe in him. How do you feel? [Allow for response.] We are surrounded by tangible evidence proving that there must be a God. [Read Psalm 104:24.] When we see a camera or a computer, we readily acknowledge that it must have been produced by an intelligent designer. Would it be reasonable to say that far more complex things, such as the earth and we humans, originated by chance?” Use a paragraph from the article to show a sound reason for believing in God. If interest is shown, offer the magazines.

³ The April 15 “Watchtower” features the article “Why True W^zor-ship Receives God’s Blessing.” Beforepresenting it, you could ask:

■ “With the hundreds of religions existing in the world, do you think they could all be acceptable to God? [Allow for comment.] Jesus foretold that despite the claims of many religious persons, those not doing God’s will would be rejected. [Read Matthew 7:21-23.] It is important that we identify the true religion taught by Jesus.” Turn to the heading “What Fruitage Must True Religion Produce?.” beginning on page 16. and discuss one example to illustrate the point.

¹ When featuring the main topic in the April 22 “Awake!," “When Wars Will Be No More,” you might consider saying:

■ “In this century there have been hundreds of wars, including two world wars.

Yet virtually all world leaders say they want peace. Everybody I know says the same thing. If everyone wants peace, why can’t they achieve it? [Allow for response.] What do you feel is needed for us to see real peace on earth?” After householder’s response, turn to pages 8 and 9 and read such texts as Psalm 46:8,9. Using the pictures and scriptures quoted, show how God’s Kingdom will bring worldwide peace that will last forever. Then ask if the householder wishes to read the magazine, and arrange to return.

• ⁵ If you find many who say they are busy, you might try this:

■ “We are interested in helping people who live busy lives and who find little time to reflect on the spiritual side of life. Our journals, The Watchtower and Awake!, are designed to provide concise information about important issues that affect you and your family. I’d like to leave these copies for you to read.”

• ⁶ Be sure to give those who accept the magazines an opportunity to contribute toward our worldwide work. They will certainly benefit from reading The Watchtower and Awake!, which bring "good news of something better.”—Isa. 52:7.

  “Faith Follows the Thing Heard”

  
  

• ¹ When we find someone who is “rightly disposed for everlasting life,” it is necessary to strengthen that person’s faith in what he has heard. (Acts 13:48; Rom. 10:17) To that end, we should follow up magazine placements by returning to bring the latest issues and to converse more. Where there is genuine interest, subscriptions may be offered. However, have in mind the goal of starting a study in the book Knowledge That Leads to Everlasting Life. Here are some suggestions that might be helpful:

• ² When making a return visit where you discussed the article “Praise the King of Eternity!,” you could begin this way:

■ “When we last talked, we reviewed some of the overwhelming evidence that proves there is an almighty God. However, just being aware of his existence is not enough. We need to know his name. By what name do you call God? [Allow for response.] Millions of people simply call him ‘Lord’ or ’God,’ which are impersonal titles. In addition, he wants us to know him by his name. [Read Psalm 83:18.] The Bible tells us much more about Jehovah God, as is explained in this book." Show the picture on page 29 of the Knowledge book, and read the caption. After you discuss the first three paragraphs in chapter 3, you will have started a study!

• ³ For those with whom you considered the article “Why Worldly Religion WillEnd,” you may want to follow up the interest by saying:

■ “After reading the article, you may have been impressed with the fact that we cannot view all religions in the same way. Both true religion and false religions exist. This raises the logical question, Whose worship does God accept? The answer was provided by Jesus, and it is highlighted in this book.” Turn to chapter 5 in the Knowledge book, and read paragraph 4, including John 4:23, 24. Then ask, “Would you be willing to accept a free home Bible study?" If the response is positive, turn to chapter 1 and start the study.

* If interest was shown in the April 22 “Awake!,” when you return you might try this approach to start a study in the “Knowledge” book:

■ “You may recall we had a conversation about our prospects for eventually seeing a world without war. It’s hard to imagine what that would really be like. Here’s one artist's conception of it. [Show the picture on pages 188-9 in the Knowledge book.] Wouldn’t it be a pleasure to be able to enjoy these surroundings? [Turn to pages 4-5, show the picture, and read the box.) The title of this book is similar to Jesus’ words found at John 17:3. [Read.] If I may, I’d like to demonstrate how this book can be used with your Bible to find that lifesaving knowledge.” If the householder is willing, start the study in the first chapter.

• ⁵ If you contacted a person who was busy when you initially called, you might say this when you return: ■ “I visited you recently and left copies of the Watchtower and Awake! magazines. These journals build respect for the Bible and its moral guidance. Because I feel it is essential for everyone to understand God’s Word, I came back to show you something that will help you to do that.” Show the Knowledge book, and point to contents on page 3. Ask which chapter looks the most interesting, turn to it, and start the study.

• ⁶ Our joy will be great if we are able to ‘open to others the door to faith’ leading to everlasting life.—Acts 14:27; John 17:3.

© 1996 Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society of Pennsylvania All rights reserved. Our Kingdom Ministry (ISSN 1067-7259) is published monthly by Watchtower Bible and Tract Society ot New York. Inc., and International Bible Students Association. 25 Columbia Heights. Brooklyn. NY 11201-2483. Second-class postage paid at Brooklyn. NY and at additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Our Kingdom Ministry, c/o Watchtower, 25 Columbia Heights. Brooklyn. NY 11201-2483.              Printed in U.S.A.

8