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Our Kingdom ministry

AUGUST 2009

WEEK STARTING AUGUST 10

Song 78

□ Congregation Bible Study:

Iv chap. 8 1J11-18

□ Theocratic Ministry School:

Bible reading: Numbers 7-9

No. 1: Numbers 9:1-14

No. 2: Do All Parties Please God? (/rchap. 29) No. 3: Ways in Which We Show Loyalty to Jehovah

□ Service Meeting:

Song 47

5 min: Announcements.

10 min: The Offer for August. A presentation that has proved to be effective in local territory may be demonstrated. Also, show how the publication may be used when offering a Bible study.

10 min: Explaining the Kingdom. Talk based on the Ministry School book, page 280, paragraph 1, to page 281, paragraph 2.

10 min: "Special Assembly Day Program for 2010." Question-and-answer discussion.

Song 93

Special Assembly Day Program for 2010

¹ "Make Sure of the More Important Things," "Standing Firm as One Flock," "Keep Bearing Witness to the Truth," and "We Are the Clay—Jehovah Is Our Potter." (Phil. 1:9,10, 27; John 18:37; Isa. 64:8) These are but a few of the many themes discussed at past special assembly days. Are you eager to attend the special assembly day for the 2010 service year? It will develop the theme:

1. (a) What Scriptural special assembly day themes have been developed in recent years? (b) Are there any particular highlights from previous special assembly days that assisted you in your ministry?

for United States of America

"The Time Left Is Reduced," taken from 1 Corinthians 7:29.

• ² Start building enthusiasm for the special assembly day as soon as the date is announced in your congregation. Some parents help their children look forward to the assembly by putting the date on the family calendar, along with a checklist of items needed, and then they count down the days. During your Family Worship evening, you may wish to review notes from previous special assembly days. You can also prepare your heart for this event by reviewing Benefit From Theocratic Ministry School Education, pages 13-16, to help you and your family "pay attention to how you listen."—Luke 8:18.

• ³ Apply What You Learn: A common expression heard after an assembly is, “What a wonderful program!" That is always true, as this is one of many rich provisions from Jehovah. (Prov. 10:22) For the information to bear fruit, you must meditate on it and retain it. (Luke 8:15) Take time on your way home after the assembly to discuss the program as a family or with those in your car group. Discuss one another's goals and points that will help you in your ministry. Doing so will contribute to your benefiting from the information long after the assembly.—Jas. 1:25.

• ⁴ We always feel special when we receive a practical gift that is exactly what we need. Do we not eagerly anticipate what Jehovah has in store for us at our next special assembly day? We can be sure that it will be practical in every way. We can expect to receive from our heavenly Father, Jehovah, just the right gift by way of encouragement and training for carrying on the work he has assigned us to do.—2 Tim. 4:2; Jas. 1:17.

• 2. How may enthusiasm for this assembly be generated?

• 3. How can we fully benefit from what will be presented?

• 4. Why will this assembly be special for us?

km 09 08-E Us Vol. 52, No. 8

WEEK STARTING AUGUST 17

Song 225

• □ Congregation Bible Study:

Iv chap. 81J19-26, boxes on pp. 94, 96

• □ Theocratic Ministry School:

Bible reading: Numbers 10-13

No. 1: Numbers 13:17-33

No. 2: Help to Overcome Our Fears

(/rchap. 30)

No. 3: What Does 1 Peter 3:19, 20 Mean?

(rsp. 163 H4)

□ Service Meeting:

Song 36

5 min: Announcements.

15 min: Preaching From House to House. Audience discussion of Organized book, page 92, paragraph 3, to page 95, paragraph 2. Interview one or two publishers who preach from house to house despite obstacles, such as physical infirmities or shyness. How have their efforts been rewarded?

15 min: "Are You Ready for School?" Question-and-answer discussion. Interview one or two youths who have successfully given a witness at school. What has helped them to do so? Have them relate an experience.

Song 221

Are You Ready for School?

• ¹ Whether it is your first or yet another year for enrollment, you young Christians face new challenges and pressures. But you also have before you fresh opportunities to "bear witness to the truth." (John 18:37) Are you well-prepared and ready to give a witness?

• ² To help you succeed in every aspect of life, you have received much training from Jehovah, from your parents, and from the

• 1. What opportunities await you as you begin your schooling?

• 2. In what ways are you ready for school? faithful and discreet slave. (Prov. 1:8; 6:20; 23:23-25; Eph. 6:1-4; 2 Tim. 3:16, 17) By now you no doubt know what challenges to expect in your school. With godly training and knowledge of the environment you will face, prepare yourself to give a witness. (Prov. 22:3) Give serious consideration to the instruction and helpful Scriptural suggestions found in the two volumes of Young People Ask as well as in related articles published regularly in Awake!

• ³ Your unique territory will allow you to give a witness in many ways. When others observe your exemplary dress and grooming, your conduct and speech, your respectfulness toward your classmates and teachers, and even your grades, and they sense that you have a solid foundation in life, some may ask, "Why are you so different?" (Mal. 3:18; John 15:19) An opportunity may open up for you to give a witness and explain your convictions. (1 Tim. 2:9, 10) Throughout the year, you will likely face challenges such as nationalistic ceremonies and holidays. If asked why you do not participate, will you just say, "It is against my religion; I am one of Jehovah's Witnesses,” or will you take the opportunity to give a witness about your loving Father, Jehovah? Good preparation under Jehovah's direction will make you ready to give a fine witness to teachers, fellow students, and others.—1 Pet. 3:15.

• ⁴ Although you may be a bit apprehensive about going to school, know that you have the support of many that want you to have a successful school year. Furtherjnore, we rejoice with you in the prospects you have to witness to others in your unique territory. Therefore, be courageous and ready for school!

• 3. In what ways will you be able to give a witness?

• 4, Why are you confident that you can have a successful school year?

  a 2009 Christian Congregation of hthoYah’i Witnessos. All rights remrvad. Our Kmjdam Ministry (ISSN 1067-7259) is published monthly by Christian Congregation ol lehovah's WitMtsses, C I. Woody, President, W. H. Nonkos, Secretary Treasurer; 2321 Route 22. fatlenon. NY 12563-2237 Pertodiwls Pottage Paid al Srooklyn, NY, and at add tional mailing office*. POSTMASTER.- Sand address changes to Our Kingdom Minritry, 1000 Red Mills Rdad. Wallkill, NY 12589-3299, Pt in ted tn U.S.A.

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WEEK STARTING AUGUST 24

Song 38

□ Congregation Bible Study:

Iv chap. 9 If 1 -12, box on p. 101

□ Theocratic Ministry School:

Bible reading: Numbers 14-16

No. 1: Numbers 14:26-43

No. 2: What Does It Mean to Love God's

Law? (Ps. 119:97)

No. 3: Where to Find Comfort (/rchap. 31)

□ Service Meeting:

Song 218

5 min: Announcements.

10 min: Prepare to Offer the September 1 Watchtower and September Awake! Briefly review the contents of the magazines. Ask audience what question and scripture they plan to use to introduce the offer. Have one or two presentations demonstrated.

20 min: "Meet the Challenge of Witnessing to Men." Question-and-answer discussion. After discussing paragraph 9, interview an elder. What has helped him to reach out for privileges of service in the congregation? What training has he received and from whom?

Song 204

Meet the Challenge of Witnessing to Men

¹ As the Kingdom work continues to increase in these last days, there is an urgent need for spiritually qualified men to take the lead. (Mark 4:30-32; Acts 20:28; 1 Tim. 3:1 13) Yet, in some places fewer men than women are embracing the Kingdom message. In some cultures, men defer to their wives when it comes to spiritual matters and religious instruction for the children. How can we encourage more men to become con-

1. What urgent need exists in caring for Kingdom interests?

km09 08-E Us scious of their spiritual need and join us in true worship?

• ² Search for Men: When a family head accepts the truth, he often influences others in the family to join him in pure worship. For example, while in prison for their preaching, Paul and Silas witnessed to a jailer. The man and his entire household were baptized. (Acts 16:25-34) As a result of Paul's preaching in Corinth, "Crlspus the presiding officer of the synagogue became a believer in the Lord, and so did all his household." (Acts 18:8) Peter was used by Jehovah to witness to Cornelius, an army officer described as "a devout man and one fearing God." Cornelius, together with his relatives and intimate friends, was baptized.—Acts 10:1-48.

• ³ Witnessing to men "in high station" may have far-reaching effects. (1 Tim. 2:1, 2) For example, Jehovah's angel advised Philip to speak to "a man in power” who was over all the treasure of the queen of the Ethiopians. Philip heard the man "reading aloud the prophet Isaiah" and explained to him the good news about Jesus. This Ethiopian became a disciple and likely spread the good news en route to his homeland. He also may have witnessed to the queen and those in her court, persons who otherwise would have had limited opportunities to hear the good news.—Acts 8:26-39.

• ⁴ Contact More Men: Since men are often at their jobs during the day, could you arrange your schedule to spend more time in the ministry in the evenings, on weekends, or during holidays? Regularly working business territory will give you additional opportunities to witness to men who are seldom at home. Brothers can also make a special effort to witness informally to their male workmates. In the house-to-house ministry, especially in territory that is worked

• 2. How did the efforts of Paul and Peter to witness to men bear good results?

• 3. In imitation of Philip, to whom "in high sta tion" can you give a witness?

• 4. How can we give men more opportunities to hear the good news?

3                 Our Kingdom Ministry, August 2009 frequently, brothers might on occasion ask to speak with the man of the house.

^SA sister who receives a favorable response to the truth from a man should not call back alone. She may take along her husband or another publisher. As the interested person makes progress, it is generally best to turn the call over to a qualified brother.

• ⁶ Choose Topics That Interest Men: The apostle Paul considered his audience and adapted his approach so that he could "gain the most persons.” (1 Cor. 9:19-23) Likewise, we should consider what topics will likely appeal to the men we may meet and prepare accordingly. For instance, men are often concerned about economic challenges, good government, and caring for the safety and security of their family. They may also be interested in the purpose of life, the future of the earth, and why God allows suffering. Our presentation of the Kingdom message will be better received if we manifest such insight in our approach.—Prov. 16:23.

• ⁷ Reach Out to Unbelieving Husbands: While the fine conduct of our Christian sisters often exerts the greatest influence on their unbelieving husbands, members of the congregation can also have a positive effect. (1 Pet. 3:1-4) When an unbelieving mate accompanies his wife to a meeting, the warm welcome he receives from the congregation will be a powerful witness. His presence likely indicates a measure of interest in the truth, and he may be willing to accept a Bible study.

• ⁸ On the other hand, some husbands show little spiritual interest initially but may eventually be willing to discuss the Bible

• 5. How should a sister handle the matter when she receives a favorable response to the Kingdom message from a man?

• 6. How may we imitate the apostle Paul so as to “gain the most persons"?

• 7. How may ail in the congregation have a positive effect on unbelieving husbands who attend a meeting?

• 8. How may brothers reach out to help unbelieving husbands who have demonstrated little interest in the truth?

with a brother they feel comfortable with. Brothers in one congregation made a point when occasionally visiting a religiously divided family to chat with the unbelieving husband about things they knew he was interested in. This eventually led to spiritual discussions, and now he is baptized. In another case, a brother helped a friendly unbelieving husband to build a fence around his house. By demonstrating personal interest in this way, a Bible study was started. (Gal. 6:10; Phil. 2:4) If you are a Christian brother, why not reach out to one or more of these unbelieving husbands?

• ⁹ Train for the Future: Men who respond to the Kingdom message and reach out for privileges in Jehovah's service may come to be among the "gifts in men," Christian elders who use their abilities and strengths in behalf of the congregations of Jehovah’s people. (F.ph. 4:8; Ps. 68:18) Such men shepherd the congregation willingly and eagerly. (1 Pet. 5:2, 3) What a blessing they become to the entire association of brothers!

• ¹⁰ For instance, Saul became "an apostle to the nations," though once a persecutor of Christians. (Rom. 11:13) The disciple Ananias was initially reluctant to preach to Saul because of this. Nevertheless, Ananias followed the Lord's direction and spoke to the man who became the apostle Paul. Over the years, Paul's ministry benefited the thousands who heard him preach as well as the millions who continue to benefit from his inspired letters recorded in God's Word. -Acts 9:3-19; 2 Tim. 3:16, 17.

• ¹¹ May we therefore make whatever adjustments are necessary to meet the challenge of witnessing to men. As we pursue this goal, we are assured of Jehovah's blessing on our diligent efforts to do his will and care well for Kingdom interests.

• 9. What outcome may training of Christian men have?

• 10. How did Ananias' efforts to assist Paul benefit many?

• 11. Why should we make whatever adjustments are necessary to witness to men?

4

WEEK STARTING AUGUST 31

Song 132

□ Congregation Bible Study: /vchap. 9 5J13-21, box on p. 104

□ Theocratic Ministry School:

Bible reading: Numbers 17-21

Theocratic Ministry School Review

□ Service Meeting:

Song 159

5 min: Announcements.

10 min: How to Reason on a Subject and Draw Out Inner Feelings. Audience discussion based on the Ministry School book, page 237, paragraph 3, to page 238, paragraph 5. One or two points from the material may be demonstrated.

20 min: "Meetingsfor Field Service." Question-and-answer discussion.

Song 151

Theocratic Ministry School Review

The following questions will be considered at the Theocratic Ministry School during the week beginning August 31, 2009. The school overseer will conduct a 20-minute review based on material covered in assignments for the weeks of July 6 through August 31, 2009.

• 1. Why was capital punishment prescribed for anyone 'calling down evil' on his parents? (Lev. 20:9) |w04 5/15 p. 24 par. 6]

• 2. Since all male Israelites were required to be present at the Festival of Unfermented Cakes, who harvested the firstfruits of the barley offering? (Lev. 23:5, 11) [w07 7/15 p. 26 par. 3]

• 3. What is foreshadowed by the Jubilee year? (Lev. 25:10, 11) [w04 7/15 pp. 26-27]

• 4. Did "the signs" mentioned at Numbers 2:2 have any religious significance to Israel? |w02 9/15 p. 21 par. 4]

• 5. What spirit do full-time Kingdom proclaimers display today that is similar to that shown by the Naz-irites in ancient Israel? (Num. 6: 3, 5, 6) [w04 8/1 pp. 24-25]

• 6. What principle of the law on Levite retirement can apply to Jehovah's people today? (Num. 8: 25, 26) [w04 8/1 p. 25 par. 1]

• 7. How did the Israelites come to express "selfish longing," and what lesson is there in this for Christians today? (Num. 11:4) [wOl 6/15 pp. 14-15; w95 3/1 p. 15 par. 10]

• 8. Why was only Miriam stricken with leprosy, and what important lesson can be learned from this? (Num. 12:9-11) [w04 8/1 p. 26 par. 2; it-2 p. 415 par. 1]

• 9. What did Joshua and Caleb mean when they referred to the inhabitants of Canaan as "bread"? (Num. 14:9) [w06 10/1 p. 16 par. 5; it-1 pp. 363-364]

• 10. What warning example does Numbers 21:5 provide? Jw99 8/15 pp. 26-27]

Meetings for Field Service

•Jesus set the example of caring for the Kingdom-preaching work in an organized and efficient manner. Likewise today, those responsible for this worldwide Kingdom-preaching campaign are very desirous of seeing this work cared for in like manner. In harmony with this endeavor, congregations worldwide use meetings for field service as one way to organize groups of Kingdom preachers for the field service, - Matt; 24:45-47; 25:21; Luke 10:1-7.

• ² A Fine Arrangement: Meetings for field service are designed to provide encouragement, practical instruction, and direction for those about to go out in the field ministry. The daily text may be briefly discussed when clearly applicable to the field ministry. At times, reminders from Our Kingdom Ministry, the Reasoning book, or perhaps the Ministry School book are called to mind in order to prepare all present for the work that day. A brief demonstration regarding a publication being offered may also be presented. Before the concluding prayer, all should know with whom they will be working in the ministry and where the territory to be worked is located. Shortly after this meeting of no more than 15 minutes, all should be on their way to the territory.

• ³ How Are They Organized? The service overseer, taking the lead, is responsible for the coordination of meetings for field service. Group overseers, or their assistants, are responsible for accompanying their respective field service groups on the weekends. Some overseers or ministerial servants may be able to accompany service

• 1. Why are we concerned about going out in field service in an organized manner?

• 2. What is expected at meetings for field service?

• 3. Who are responsible for the organization of meetings for field service? groups midweek. Group overseers work closely with the service overseer so as to have sufficient territory for their group to work from house to house on the weekends. During the week, the service overseer will supervise the arrangements for those who will take the groups out for field service.

'•Where and When Should These Meetings Be Held? Rather than having the entire congregation meet in one location, it is generally best for these meetings to be held in convenient locations, usually private homes, throughout the territory with the intent of working the congregation's territory effectively. Kingdom Halls may also be used for this purpose. Many congregations use the Kingdom Hall to hold a meeting for service shortly following their Sunday public talk and Watchtower Study. Effort should be made to minimize the amount of travel to the territory. Therefore, arrangements can be reviewed periodically to ensure that the current locations continue to be appropriate for working the territory efficiently and completely.

^s The best time for these meetings to be held and how many times they should be conducted throughout the week depend on the makeup of the territory. The following questions may serve as a guide to determine where and when meetings for field service can best be held.

• ⁶ What territory needs further attention? What is the best time to'w'ork from house to house? Should a time in the evening be scheduled for house-to-house work or to make return visits? All field service arrangements should be placed on the congregation information board. It is the 4-6. (a) What objective do meetings for field service have in relation to the congregation territory? (b) What can be considered to determine the need for meetings for field service?

desire of all Kingdom publishers to cover their assigned territory thoroughly to such a degree that we too may say as did the apostle Paul: "I no longer have untouched territory."—Rom. 15:23.

• ⁷ Conducting Meetings for Field Service: The one assigned to care for this meeting shows deep respect for this theocratic arrangement by preparing well. These meetings should start on time and should be instructive and brief, between 10 and 15 minutes. The conductor should have territory for the group to work before the meeting is started. Although it is not necessary to wait for latecomers after the meeting for field service has ended, leaving a message about where the group will be working can be helpful. All should be on their way to the assigned territory shortly after the meeting has finished. A well-organized and instructive meeting for field service will no doubt provide the necessary direction for all present to carry out their ministry that day.—Prov. 11:14.

• ⁸ Attending Meetings for Field Service: Cooperation is essential. (Heb. 13:17) When possible, the one organizing the group will assist any who need someone to work with. It is good for experienced publishers to be present so as to be helpful in caring for newer and less experienced publishers. Those willing to be assigned to work with someone different, on occasion, may be able to accomplish much good. (Prov. 27:17; Rom. 15:1, 2) All should make a concerted effort to be punctual. Our respect for this theocratic arrangement and consideration for our fellow workers will move us to make the necessary adjustments in this regard.—2 Cor. 6:3, 4; Phil. 2:4.

• 7. What responsibility does the one assigned to take out the field service group have?

• 8. In what ways can those attending meetings for field service cooperate with those taking the lead?

• ⁹ Pioneer Support: Pioneer support at meetings for field service is valuable and encouraging to all. Understandably, pioneers have many responsibilities. Aside from conducting Bible studies and making return visits, their daily schedule may include caring for family responsibilities and secular employment. Thus, pioneers should not feel required to support every meeting for field service organized by the congregation, especially if such are held each day. However, it will likely be possible for pioneers to support at least some meetings for service each week. To some degree, meetings for field service are a training ground, and the spiritual background and experience of the pioneers can be of great assistance to others. Their constant exposure to the field ministry has allowed them to gain experience in the ministry. This can be shared. Their zealous participation in the ministry and at meetings for field service has made them an example to imitate. And their participation at these meetings for service is very much appreciated.

’"As was the case with Jesus and his disciples, a large part of our Kingdompreaching work is accomplished by witnessing from house to house. Meetings for field service are for the purpose of mutual encouragement and effective participation in this work. All publishers of the good news should be supporters of such theocratic arrangements to the extent possible. (Acts 5:42; 20:20) May all- of us give wholehearted support to this endeavor. By so doing, we can be sure of having Jehovah's rich blessing and can make the heart of our Leader, Jesus Christ, rejoice as we preach the good news of God's Kingdom. -Matt. 25:34-40; 28:19, 20.

• 9. In what valuable ways can pioneers support this arrangement?

• 10. Why is it appropriate that all Kingdom publishers give whole-hearted support to this arrangement?

WEEK STARTING SEPTEMBER 7

Song 210

□ Congregation Bible Study:

/vchap. 9 f]22-26, box on p. 109, app.

pp. 218-219

□ Theocratic Ministry School:

Bible reading: Numbers22-25

No. 1: Numbers 22:20-35

No. 2: How Jesus Was Protected (/rchap. 32) No. 3: What Is the Meaning of 1 Peter 4:6? (rs P-163 U5)

□ Service Meeting:

Song 167

5 min: Announcements.

10 min: Answering Questions About the Last Days. Audience discussion based on the Reasoning book, page 241, paragraph 5, to page 243, paragraph 1. Have one suggestion briefly demonstrated.

10 min: Local needs.

10 min: Proven Methods of Searching Out Deserving Ones. Audience discussion of Organized book, page 95, paragraph 3, to page 96, paragraph 4. Have related or demonstrated one or two outstanding local experiences enjoyed doing alternative forms of witnessing.

Song 39

Announcements

■ Literature offer for August: Any 32-pagc brochures that are in stock except How Can Blood Save Your Life?, Jehovah's Witnesses and Education, and Jehovah’s Witnesses—Who Are They? What Do They Believe? September: What Does the Bible Really Teach? Endeavor to start Bible studies on the initial call. Show how householders can benefit from the book by briefly demonstrating a Bible study. October: The Watchtower and Awake! magazines. Where interest is shown, present and discuss the tract Would You Like to Know the Truth? if householders already have the tract, endeavor to start a Bible study. November: What Docs the Bible Really Teach? If householders already have the book, publishers may offer any 192-page book published prior to 1992.

Field Service Highlights__

We are pleased to report that the Memorial attendance in the United States on April 9, 2009, was the highest number ever recorded—2,469,036. This is 1,409,783 more than the average number of publishers for the 2008 service year. These figures reveal that there is "plenty to do in the work of the Lord.”—1 Cor. 15:58.

For the second consecutive month, thecongregations in the Turks and Caicos Islands reported new peaks in hours, magazines, and Bible studies.

What to Say About the Magazines

"Watchtower. August i

“Many think that all good people will go to heaven. Is that what you believe? [Allow for response.] Notice what this says about the earth. [Read Psalm 37:11, 29.] This art! cle shows what Jesus taught about mankind's future here on earth." Highlight the article that begins on page 22.

Awake! August

"Few events in life hurt more than the death of a parent. Do you agree? [Allow for response.] Many have been comforted by Bible verses such as this one. [Read Revelation 21:4.] This article explains how to manage the flood of emotions that occurs, especially for a youth." Feature the article that begins on page 10.

Watchtower. September i

"Some say that if you are faithful to God, he will bless you with riches but that poverty is a sign of God's disapproval. What do you think? [Allow for responsej Interestingly, Jesus was not a rich man. [Read Luke 9:58.] This magazine discusses what kind of blessings servants of God can expect."

Awake! September

"Do you think that young people have more challenges today than in years past? [Allow for response.] Many feel this verse accurately describes our present time. [Read 2 Timothy 3:1.] This magazine outlines some practical Bible principles to help parents and youths to cope."

Tuesday, October 19, 2010 AOL: Towerwatcher710