Our Kingdom Ministry

January 2005                      For United States of America km-E Us 1/05 Vol. 48, No. 1

’Pursuing a life of godly devotion requires strenuous effort. (1 Tim. 4:7-10) In our own strength, we would soon grow weary and stumble in trying to follow such a course. (Isa. 40:29-31) One way we can draw strength from Jehovah is by being “nourished with the words of the faith.” —1 Tim. 4:6.

• ² Rich Spiritual Food: Through his Word and through “the faithful and discreet slave,” Jehovah provides rich spiritual food. (Matt. 24:45) Are we doing war part to benefit from it? Do we read the Bible each day? Do we have set times for personal study and meditation? (Ps. 1: 2, 3) Such a healthy spiritual diet invigorates us and protects us from the weakening effects of Satan’s world. (1 John 5:19) If we fill our mind with wholesome things and apply them in our lives, Jehovah will be with us.—Phil. 4:8, 9.

• ³ Jehovah also strengthens us by means of congregation meetings. (Heb. 10:24, 25) The spiritual instruction and wholesome association found at these gatherings fortify us to stand firm in the face of trials. (1 Pet. 5:9,10) One Christian youth said: “I go to school all day long, and it tears me down. But the meetings are like an oasis in the desert, where I am refreshed to make it through the next school day.” How we are blessed for the effort we put forth to attend meetings!

• ⁴ Proclaiming the Truth: Preaching to others was like food to Jesus. It energized him. (John 4:32-34) Likewise, when we talk to others about the marvelous promises of God, we feel rejuvenated. Being busy in the ministry also keeps our heart and mind focused on the Kingdom and the blessings soon to come. That truly refreshes us. —Matt. 11:28-30.

• ⁵ How privileged we are to benefit from the rich spiritual nourishment that Jehovah is providing for his people today! May we continue crying out joyfully to his praise.—Isa. 65:13,14.

  Conducting Progressive Bible Studies

  Part 5: Determining How Much Material to Cover

  
  

• ¹ When teaching, Jesus took into consideration his disciples’ limitations, speaking to them “as far as they were able to listen.” (Mark 4:33; John 16: 12) In a similar way, teachers of God’s Word today need to gauge the pace at which they cover material on a Bible study. The amount of material that can be considered will depend on the ability and the circumstances of both the teacher and the student.

• ² Build Solid Faith: Some students may require two or three sessions to grasp what other students can easily take in during one session. We do not want to sacrifice the student’s having a clear understanding for the sake of speed. Every student needs a solid basis for his newfound faith in God’s Word.—Prov. 4:7; Rom. 12:2.

• ³ As you conduct the study week by week, spend whatever time is necessary to help the student understand and accept what he is learning from God’s Word. Avoid a hurried pace that detracts from the richness of the truths being taught. Allow sufficient time to focus on the main points and to consider key scriptures that provide the basis for the teachings.—2 Tim. 3:16, 17.

• ⁴ Keep the Study Moving: While we want to avoid rushing through the study, we also want to avoid becoming sidetracked. If a student is inclined to speak at length about personal matters, we may need to arrange to discuss these after the study. —Eccl. 3:1.

⁶ On the other hand, our own enthusiasm for the truth can make it a challenge not to talk excessively during the study. (Ps. 145:6, 7) An occasional side point or experience can enrich a study, but we would not want these to become so numerous or lengthy that they hinder the student from acquiring an accurate knowledge of basic Bible teachings.

⁶ By covering a reasonable amount of material at each study session, we help Bible students to “walk in the light of Jehovah.”—Isa. 2:5.

Week Starting January 10

Song 223

10 min: Local announcements. Selected Announcements from Our Kingdom Ministry. Use the suggestions on page 8 (if appropriate for your territory) to demonstrate how to present the January 15 Watchtower and the January 22 Awake! Other realistic presentations may be used. In one presentation demonstrate how to offer the magazines to a non-Witness relative.

15 min: “Nourished With the Words of the Faith.”* Read and discuss the cited scriptures as time permits.

20 min: “Try a Flexible Approach.” Audience discussion of page 6 of the insert. Demonstrate two examples of how this approach could be used with the literature offer for the month. In each demonstration, have the publisher read one scripture that addresses a concern mentioned by the householder.

Song 143 and concluding prayer.

Week Starting January 17

Song 34

10 min: Local announcements.

15 min: Youths—Are You Making Spiritual Advancement? A talk by an elder based on the April 1, 2003, Watchtower, pages 8-10. Mention some realistic, attainable goals, and encourage youths to set specific spiritual goals for themselves.

20 min: “Conducting Progressive Bible Studies—Part 5.”* Include a demonstration of an experienced teacher discussing with a newer publisher how to avoid the pitfalls mentioned in paragraphs 4-5.

Song 78 and concluding prayer.

Week Starting January 24

Song 163

10 min: Local announcements. Accounts report. Briefly review the box “Video Programs on DVD.”

10 min: Question Box. A talk.

25 min: “How to Use Sample Presentations.”* Use the questions that are provided. Mention that pages 3-5 of this month’s insert contain presentations for publications that we will be featuring. Save the insert for use throughout the year. Following the consideration of the article, discuss how we can offer Draw Close to Jehovah during February. Demonstrate two presentations. They may be based on the sample presentations on page 3 or on other presentations that would be effective in the local territory.

Song 200 and concluding prayer.

Week Starting January 31

Song 157

10 min: Local announcements. Remind publishers to turn in field service reports for January. Using the suggestions on page 8 (if appropriate for your territory), demonstrate how to present either the February 1 Watchtower or the February 8 Awake! Other realistic presentations may be used.

15 min: Local needs.

20 min: Are You Examining the Scriptures Daily? Talk and audience discussion based on the foreword of Examining the Scriptures Daily—2005. Discuss the need for all to take a few minutes each day to consider the scripture text and comments. Arrange in advance for one or two to comment on their routine for considering the text and how they have benefited. Conclude with a brief discussion of the yeartext for 2005. Song 184 and concluding prayer.

Week Starting February 7

Song 97

10 min: Local announcements.

15 min: Help New Ones Learn to Love God and Neighbor. A talk based on the July 1, 2004, Watchtower, page 16, paragraphs 7-9. Highlight how each member of the congregation has a part in helping new ones become disciples of Christ.

20 min: Jehovah Does Not Hold Back Anything Good. (Ps. 84: 11) Interview a few brothers and sisters who have remained faithful through trials. What difficulties have they faced? What has helped them to cope? What joys and blessings have they experienced?

Song 104 and concluding prayer.

* Limit introductory comments to less than a minute, and follow with a question-and-answer discussion.

October Service Report

Av. Av. Av. Ay.

Number of:               Hrs. Mags. R.V. Bi.St.

Sp'IPios.       225 97.0 78.2 41.4

Pios      95,760 68.3 40.0 20.6

Aux. Pios.   44,163 49.9 32.6 12.3

Pubs    853,328  9.9  7.8  3.5

TOTAL    993,476        Baptized: 2,680

We are happy to report a new peak in regular pioneers! The total of 95,760 regular pioneers reporting is an increase of 1,210 over the previous peak of 94,550 in October 2003.

© 2005 Christian Congregation of Jehovah’s Witnesses. All rights reserved. Our Kingdom Ministry (ISSN 1067-7259) is published monthly by Christian Congregation of Jehovah's Witnesses; W. L. Van De Wall, President; W. H. Nonkes, Secretary-Treasurer; 2821 Route 22, Patterson, NY 12563-2237. Periodicals Postage Paid at Brooklyn, NY, and at additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Our Kingdom Ministry, 1000 Red Mills Road, Wallkill, NY 12589-3299.                         Printed in U.S.A.

Suggested Field Service Presentations

Use the following suggestions to help you prepare presentations that feature the literature offer for the month.

Draw Close to Jehovah

“Many people who believe in God would like to feel closer to him. Did you know that God invites us to draw close to him? [Read James 4:8.] This publication is designed to help people use their own Bible to draw close to God.” Read paragraph 1 on page 16.

“Today injustice abounds. It is just as described here. [Read Ecclesiastes 8:9b.] Many wonder if God even cares. [Read the first two sentences of paragraph 4 on page 119.] This chapter explains why God has permitted injustice for a time.”

Is There a Creator Who Cares About You?

“Where can we find the best advice on how to solve our most perplexing problems? [Allow for response. Then read Matthew 7:28, 29.] That describes how people responded to Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount. Note what others have said. [Feature comments on page 152.] This chapter discusses the life and teachings of Jesus.”

“Have you ever wondered: ‘If there is a God, will he ever act to remove suffering and injustice in the world?’ [Allow for response. Then read Revelation 21: 3, 4.] This book explains what God will do to eliminate suffering and remove its source.” Show chapter 10.

Keep on the Watch!

“Many people are concerned about the serious problems and shocking events that are common today. [Cite an example known locally.] Did you know that such things are part of a global sign that shows that God’s government is soon to take control of earth’s affairs? [Allow for response. Then read an appropriate scripture text, such as Matthew 24:3, 7, 8; Luke 21:7,10,11; or 2 Timothy 3:1-5.] This brochure discusses why it is especially urgent to be alert to the significance of these events now.”

“Many today are distressed by shocking events or by severe personal loss. Some wonder why God does not intervene to prevent such things. The Bible assures us that God will soon act to relieve mankind’s suffering. [Read Revelation 14:6, 7.] Notice what God’s judgment will mean for mankind. [Read 2 Peter 3: 10, 13.] This brochure provides more information on this important subject.”

Knowledge That Leads to Everlasting Life

“If you were invited to live in beautiful surroundings like these, would you accept the invitation? [Show the picture on pages 4-5, and allow for response.] Notice what God’s Word says is the key to enjoying this kind of life forever. [Read John 17:3.] This book will help you gain the knowledge that leads to everlasting life.” Arrange to discuss the first five paragraphs of chapter 1 on the next visit.

Open to the picture on pages 188-9, and using the words in the caption, ask the householder: “Do you hope to live in Paradise, when the knowledge of God fills the earth? [Allow for response. Then read Isaiah 11:9.] This book will help you to learn what the Bible says about Paradise and how we can be a part of it.” Arrange to discuss paragraphs 11-16 of chapter 1 on the next visit.

Learn From the Great Teacher

“Do you think that the world would be a better place if people lived by this saying? [Read Matthew 7:12a. Then allow for response.] This book contains many lessons from the greatest teacher who ever lived.” Highlight the pictures and captions in chapter 17.

“Most parents today try to instill wholesome values in their children. Do you feel that this is important? [Allow for response. Then read Proverbs 22:6.] Notice that parents are encouraged to start training their children from an early age. This book is designed to help them to do that.” Highlight the pictures and captions in chapter 15 or 18.

“Often parents are amazed at the questions their children ask. Some of those questions can be hard to answer, isn’t that so? [Allow for response. Then read Ephesians 6:4.] This book can help parents answer questions for their children today.” Highlight a few of the pictures and captions in chapters 11 and 12 or 34 to 36.

Life—How Did it Get Here ? By Evolution or by Creation ?

“All of us are concerned with the crime and violence in our area. Do you feel that anyone has a real solution to the problem? [Allow for response.] God has a solution.” Turn to page 196; read and comment on Proverbs 2:21, 22 in paragraph 19. Show the title of chapter 16, and offer the book.

Open to page 6, and say: “Many people think that our beautiful earth and life upon it resulted from an accident. What do you consider to be a reasonable explanation as to how all of this came about? [Allow for response.] Mountains of evidence confirm the Bible’s account of a Creator who is very powerful and who loves us very much. He is the true God, and his name is Jehovah.” Read Psalm 83: 18, and briefly explain how it is his purpose to transform the entire earth into a paradise.

Mankind’s Search for God

“With so many different religions today, have you ever wondered how we can determine which one is approved by God?” After a response, open to page 377. Highlight point number 7, and ask if the householder agrees that the true religion should unite all races of mankind. Look up one of the cited scriptures, and as time permits, discuss some of the other points on the list. If there is genuine interest, offer the book. When leaving, you could ask, “How should true religion affect a person’s conduct?” Arrange for a return visit to answer the question.

If a person identifies himself as a member of a major religious group, you might say: “It is interesting to meet people of various religions. Mankind’s search for God has taken many different directions. [If appropriate, read Acts 17: 26, 27.] Often, people follow the religion of their parents. [Read paragraph 12 on page 8.] Learning more about other religions is enlightening and educational. This book explains the origin, practices, and teachings of the major religions of the world.” Show an example of what the book contains about the person’s religion, as found on the following pages: Sikhism (100-101); Hinduism (116-17); Buddhism (141); Taoism (164-6); Confucianism (177); Shintoism (190-5); Judaism (220-1); and Islam (289).

Revelation—Its Grand Climax At Hand!

“You may have heard about [mention a news item]. When lives are tragically cut short, many wonder what comfort can be offered to the families of the victims. What do you think?” Allow for response. Then open to page 299, and show the resurrection scene that is illustrated. Continue by saying: “Many are surprised to learn that both righteous and unrighteous people will be brought back to life in Paradise on earth. [Read Acts 24:15 as quoted in paragraph 9 on page 297, and then give the explanation found in paragraph 10.] This book discusses many other interesting details about God’s purpose for the future.”

The Bible—God’s Word or Man’s?

“We live at a time when almost everyone is faced with serious problems. Many turn to all sorts of counselors for guidance. Some look to psychics for help. Where do you think we can find sound counsel that will really work for us? [Allow for response.] The Bible states an important fact that all of us need to appreciate. [Read 2 Timothy 3:16. Then open to page 187, and read paragraph 9.] This book will help you to appreciate how following what the Bible says always works out for the best.”

The Greatest Man Who Ever Lived

“During this season many people are thinking about Jesus. However, because so many bad things are happening all over the world, some may wonder if Jesus really cares about us. How do you feel about that?” Allow for a reply. Turn to chapter 24, and discuss briefly why Jesus came to earth. Then read John 15:13, emphasizing Jesus’ heartfelt love for others.

“When someone mentions Jesus Christ, many people think of him either as a baby or as a suffering man about to die. Their concept of Jesus involves only his birth and his death. The marvelous things he said and did during his lifetime often go unnoticed. What he accomplished affects every person who has ever lived on this earth. That’s why it’s vital that we learn as much as we can about the wonderful things he did in our behalf.” Read John 17:3. Turn to the first page of the introduction, and read the fourth paragraph.

What Does God Require of Us?

“Do you think that God meant for us to live surrounded by troubles such as those we are faced with today? [Allow for response. Then read Matthew 6:10.] Have you given thought to just what the Kingdom of God really is?” Turn to lesson 6, and read the questions that are posed at the beginning of the lesson. Begin a discussion of the lesson, or arrange to do so on the next visit.

“Despite the advances of modern society, sickness and death continue to cause much suffering and sorrow for mankind. Do you know what Jesus will do for the sick, the elderly, and even the dead?” Allow for response. If the person wants to know the answer, open to lesson 5, and read the questions for paragraphs 5-6. Discuss the paragraphs, or arrange to do so on the next visit.

Worship the Only True God

“Where do you think we can turn for help to deal with the pressures of life? [Allow for response. Then read Romans 15:4.] Notice that the inspired Scriptures provide us with instruction, comfort, and hope, which can strengthen us to endure difficulties. This book offers helpful suggestions on how we can get the most benefit from reading the Bible.” Highlight the four points outlined on page 30.

“Since the days when Jesus walked the earth, many people have been praying for God’s Kingdom to come. Have you ever wondered what the coming of that Kingdom will mean for mankind? [Allow for response. Then read Daniel 2:44.] This book explains what God’s Kingdom is, what it will accomplish, and how we can benefit from its righteous rule.” Feature the illustration on pages 92-3.

Try a Flexible Approach

Sincere interest in people will move us to try to discern their needs and show them how the Kingdom will provide the complete solution to the problems they face. (Phil. 2:4) A flexible approach that many publishers And effective is to invite the householder to comment on illustrations of Paradise scenes in our publications, such as those listed in the righthand column of this page. You might do this using one of the following introductions:

■ “Do you think we will ever see the human family enjoying the kind of conditions pictured here?”

■ “All of us would like our children to be able to enjoy the kind of world pictured here. What do you think it would take to bring this about?”

■ “This is an illustration of what the earth will look like when God’s will takes place on earth as it is in heaven. Do you notice anything that is different from life today?”

■ “Would you like to live under the conditions pictured here? [Allow for response.] Do you think this will happen in our lifetime?”

Listen carefully to the person’s response, and kindly draw him out with an additional question or two. If some respond that they would not want to live under the conditions pictured or that they do not believe that such a thing is possible, do not quickly conclude that they have no interest. Tactfully inquire why they feel the way they do. Their comments may reveal a deep concern over the seemingly unsolvable problems facing mankind.—Ezek. 9:4.

As you discern the householder’s concerns, adapt your presentation accordingly. Highlight the aspect of the Kingdom message that most directly addresses his needs. Share one or two scriptures that touch on the matter that concerns him. (See suggestions in the right-hand column.) Let him see for himself what God’s Word says. If he shows interest, offer the publication and arrange to call again. Continue to build on your initial conversation.

Examples of Paradise Scenes

Creation book: pages 237,243,251 Teacherbook: pages 251-4

Knowledge book: pages 4-5,188-9

Require brochure: pages 11,13

True Peace book: page 98

Worship God book: pages 92-3

Matters That Concern People

Corruption, injustice

Isaiah 9:6,7;

2 Peter 3:13

Crime, violence

Psalm 37:10,11;

Proverbs 2:21,22

Death, mourning

Isaiah 25:8;

Revelation 21:3,4

Depression

Psalm 34:8;

Isaiah 65:17-19

Food shortages, malnutrition

Psalm 72:16;

Isaiah 25:6

Housing, economic problems

Isaiah 65:21,22

Ineffective government

Psalm 146:3,4;

Daniel 2:44

Mistreatment of animals

Proverbs 12:10

Moral breakdown

2 Timothy 3:1-5

Poverty, oppression

Psalm 72:12-14;

Ecclesiastes 8:9

Prejudice, inequality

Isaiah 11:3-5;

Acts 10:34,35

Ruining of the earth

Revelation 11:18

Sickness, disability

Isaiah 33:24; 35:5,6

War, terrorism

Psalm 46:8,9;

Micah 4:3,4

Announcements

■ Literature offer for January: Any book published prior to 1990 that the congregation may have in stock. If you do not have any of these in stock, please check if nearby congregations have a surplus of older publications on hand that you can use. Congregations that do not have older books may offer Worship the Only True God. February: Draw Close to Jehovah. If this publication is not available, you may use the Creation book (large or small size) or the Revelation Climax book as an alternative offer. March: Keep on the Watch! Where genuine interest is shown, offer the Knowledge book, making a special effort to start Bible studies. April: The Watchtower and Awake! magazines. When making return visits on interested people, including those who attended the Memorial or other theocratic events but who are not actively associated with the congregation, concentrate on placing the Worship God book. The objective should be to start a home Bible study, especially with individuals who have already studied the Knowledge book and the Require brochure. ■ Starting in February, and no later than March 6, the new public talk for circuit overseers will be “Act Wisely in a Senseless World.”

■ Congregations should make appropriate arrangements to observe the Memorial this year on Thursday, March 24, after sundown. Although the talk may start earlier, the passing of the emblems should not begin until after sundown. Check with local sources to determine when sundown occurs in your area. It is desirable for each congregation to hold its own Memorial observance. However, this may not always be possible. Where a number of congregations normally use the same Kingdom Hall, perhaps one or more congregations can obtain the use of another facility for that evening. Where possible, we would suggest a minimum of 40 minutes between the programs so that all may benefit fully from the occasion. Consideration should also be given to traffic conditions and parking, including the dropping off and picking up of passengers. The body of elders should decide what arrangements would be best locally.

• ■ A Service Meeting discussion of the video David—He Trusted in God will be outlined in the March issue of Our Kingdom Ministry. This video is available only on the DVD entitled Noah Walked With God—David Trusted in God. You can choose from eight languages on this disc—English, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Portuguese (Brazilian), Russian, and Spanish. Copies of the DVD may be requested through the congregation with the next literature request.

Video Programs on DVD

The DVD entitled Transfusion Alternatives—Documentary Series contains three video programs. Transfusion-Alternative Strategies—Simple, Safe, Effective was designed for doctors and medical students and thus includes more medical scenes than the other two programs. Transfusion-Alternative Health Care—Meeting Patient Needs and Rights was designed especially for medical journalists, health officials, social workers, and the judiciary. It considers how to care for patients’ medical needs while also recognizing their legal rights. No Blood—Medicine Meets the Challenge was designed primarily for the general public. The DVD contains the English videos with additional sound tracks in French, German, Italian, Japanese, Portuguese (Brazilian), Russian, and Spanish. Please feel free to share these programs with your doctor, Bible students, non-Witness mate, relatives, teachers, workmates, and schoolmates.

Question Box

• ■ What is the best way to make contributions for the benefit of needy brothers in other lands?

At times, we hear about brothers in another land who have come into material need because of persecution, disaster, or other difficult circumstances. Some brothers have been moved to send funds directly to the branch offices in such lands, requesting that the money be used to help a certain individual, a particular congregation, or a designated building project.—2 Cor. 8:1-4.

While such loving concern for fellow believers is commendable, often there are needs that are more urgent than those that the contributor has in mind. In some cases, the designated need has already been cared for. Of course, we can be confident that when contributions are sent to the local branch office for the worldwide work, the Kingdom Hall Fund, or disaster relief, those donated funds will be used as directed by the contributor.

The brothers in all the branches have been thoroughly trained to respond quickly to unanticipated needs. In all cases, the branch keeps the Governing Body informed regarding the matter. If additional assistance is needed, the Governing Body may Invite nearby branches to help or funds may be sent directly from headquarters.—2 Cor. 8: 14, 15.

Therefore, all contributions intended for the worldwide work, building projects in other lands, or disaster relief should be sent to the branch office in the land in which you live, either through the congregation or directly. In this way, “the faithful and discreet slave,” through the organizational arrangements set in place by the Governing Body, cares for the needs of the worldwide brotherhood in an orderly manner.—Matt. 24:4547; 1 Cor. 14:33, 40.

How to Use Sample Presentations

• ¹ Sample presentations for offering our magazines and other publications appear regularly in Our Kingdom Ministry. When sharing in the ministry, we need not repeat these suggested presentations exactly as written. They are provided to give us an outline of what we might say. We will usually be more effective if we put the presentations in our own words. Expressing ourselves in a natural manner helps to put the householder at ease and reflects sincerity and conviction.—2 Cor. 2:17; 1 Thess. 1:5.

• ² Tailor Your Presentation: Our presentation of the good news is greatly affected by local customs. Can you exchange greetings with the householder and then weave your presentation into the conversation, or do people in your territory expect you to get right to the point? That varies from place to place and sometimes even from person to person. Discernment is also required in the use of questions. Questions that are appropriate in some places may make people feel uncomfortable in others. Hence, we must use good judgment and adapt our presentations according to what is acceptable locally.

• ³ In addition, we need to take into account the background and thinking of the people in our territory when preparing for field service. For example, you would likely discuss

• 1. How should we view sample presentations that are provided?

• 2. Why do we need to consider local customs when preparing presentations?

• 3. Why consider the background and thinking of those we speak to? Matthew 6:9, 10 with a devout Catholic differently from the way you would with a person who was unfamiliar with the “Our Father” prayer. With a little forethought, we can often tailor our presentations to make them more appealing to the people we meet in the ministry.—1 Cor. 9:20-23.

• ⁴ Even when we plan to use a sample presentation more or less as written, there is still no substitute for good preparation. We should carefully read the article or chapter that we plan to feature and look for points that may stir interest. Then incorporate these into our presentation. Only by being familiar with the fine information in our publications can we offer them with enthusiasm.

• ⁵ Other Approaches: Are we limited to using only the approaches outlined in the sample presentations? No. If you are more comfortable with another approach or a different scripture, use it. Especially with the magazines, be alert to opportunities to feature secondary articles that may be of special interest in your territory. When field service presentations are to be demonstrated at the Service Meeting, arrangements may be made to demonstrate whatever approach works in the local territory. In this way all may be helped to present the good news effectively.

• 4. Why is good preparation essential?

• 5. Why might we prepare a different presentation, and how can we do so?

™Watchtower Jan. 15

Announcing Jehovah'S Kingdom

“All of us desire a better life for ourselves and our children, but many feel powerless to achieve it. Do you think we can control our future? [Allow for response.] This magazine shows from the Bible that we are not powerless but that our future depends on the choices we make now.” Read Deuteronomy 30:19.

Awake! Jan. 22

“When we face health problems, all of us appreciate a doctor who considers our feelings. But do you think that many patients stop to consider their doctor’s feelings? [Allow for response.] This magazine examines the challenges doctors face and what the future holds for the practice of medicine.” Read Isaiah 33:24.

"Watchtower Feb. i

Announcing Jehovah'S Kingdom

“Is it not disturbing that so many people today are the victims of oppression and violence? [Cite a current example known locally, and allow for response.] This magazine discusses how God views human life. It also explains how he will rescue us from the suffering that exists today.” Read Psalm 72:12-14.

Awake! Feb. 8

“One of the biggest challenges we face today is coping with stress. Wouldn’t you agree? [Allow for response.] The Bible accurately foretold that this would be the case. [Read 2 Timothy 3:1.] This magazine provides practical suggestions that can help you and your family to cope with stress.”

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