Our kingdom ministry

APRIL 2010

WEEK STARTING APRIL 12

Song 16

Q Congregation Bible Study:

cf chap. 3 fl1-9

Q Theocratic Ministry School:

Bible reading: 1 Samuel 19-22

No.1:1 Samuel 21:1-9

No. 2: How Should We Feel About Things ThatJehovah Hates? (Prov. 6:16-19)

No. 3: What Principles Should Guide Us in Connection With Celebrations? (rs p. 178 V3—p. 179 fl2)

Q Service Meeting:

Song 9

5 min: Announcements.

10 min: Reach the Heart by Encouraging Listeners to Think. Talk based on the Ministry School book, from page 58, paragraph 3, to the end of subheading that begins on page 59.

20 min: “Be Persuasive in Your Teaching.” Question-and-answer discussion. After paragraph 4, have a pioneer demonstrate how to start a Bible study with the Bible Teach book incorporating the suggestions discussed in the article.

Song 10

Be Persuasive in Your Teaching

¹ Effective ministers, like the apostle Paul, appreciate that “handling the word of the truth aright” involves more than simply quoting from the Holy Scriptures. (2 Tim. 2:15) When using God’s Word, how may we use “persuasion” in our teach-ing?—Acts 28:23.

• 1. What does effective use of God’s Word in the ministry often involve?

• ² Let God’s Word Speak: First, direct attention to the Bible in a way that engenders respect for the godly wisdom it contains. Our confidence in God’s Word may motivate our listener to pay careful attention to the reading of a scripture. (Heb. 4:12) We could simply say: “I have found it beneficial to get God’s thoughts on this matter. Notice what his Word states.” Whenever possible, let God’s Word speak by reading from it directly.

• ³ Second, explain the scripture used. Many people find it difficult to understand a verse the first time that it is read. An explanation is usually needed to establish its relevance. (Luke 24:26, 27) Isolate the key expressions. A question may help confirm that the point is clearly understood. —Prov. 20:5; Acts 8:30.

• ⁴ Reason on Scriptures: Third, endeavor to reach the mind and heart. Help the householder to see how the verse applies to him personally. Reasoning on the Scriptures can persuade a person to change his thinking. (Acts 17:2-4; 19:8) For example, after reading Psalm 83:18 we could reason on how learning someone’s name is fundamental in developing a personal relationship. Then, perhaps ask, “Do you feel that knowing God’s name will make your prayers more meaningful?” Connecting the scripture to the householder’s personal life in this manner demonstrates its practical value. Such persuasive teaching from God’s Word draws honesthearted ones to worship the true and living God, Jehovah.—Jer. 10:10.

• 2. How can we heighten appreciation for God’s Word?

• 3. After reading a scripture, what can be done to help our listener comprehend its meaning?

• 4. What last step is necessary to be persuasive in our teaching?

WEEK STARTING APRIL 19

Song 6

Q Congregation Bible Study:

cf chap. 3 V10-19

Q Theocratic Ministry School:

Bible reading: 1 Samuel 23-25

No.1:1 Samuel 23:1-12

No. 2: What Should We Know About Easter and New Year’s Celebrations?

(rs p.179 fl3-p. 180 fl2)

No. 3: Why Generosity Is Rewarding (Prov.11:25)

Q Service Meeting:

Song 127

5 min: Announcements.

15 min: “What Do Others Learn From Watching You?” Question-and-answer discussion.

15 min: Question Box. Audience discussion. Read and discuss the cited scriptures.

Song 43

What Do Others Learn From Watching You?

¹ Jesus said: “Get under my yoke with me and learn from me.” (Matt. 11:29, ftn.) Clearly, he taught others by setting a good example, not just by his words. Think of what the disciples learned from watching Jesus. He was gentle, kind, and loving.

• 1. What did Jesus’ disciples learn from watching him?

(Matt. 8:1-3; Mark 6:30-34) He was genuinely humble. (John 13:2-5) As they accompanied Jesus in the ministry, the disciples saw that he was a tireless worker who was effective in teaching the truth to others. (Luke 8:1; 21:37, 38) How are others affected by observing us in the ministry?

² Householders: Our modest dress, good manners, and sincere personal interest in people can have a powerful effect on householders. (2 Cor. 6:3; Phil. 1:27) They notice that we make frequent use of the Bible. Others are impressed that we listen respectfully when they speak. Never underestimate how setting a good example in these areas can draw people to the Kingdom message.

³ Our Brothers: Think, too, of the positive effect we can have on our brothers. Our zeal for the ministry is contagious. As iron sharpens iron, our well-prepared presentation impels others to hone their evangelizing skills. (Prov. 27:17) Our diligence in keeping an accurate record of those who show interest and then returning promptly helps motivate others to do the same. We

• 2. How does our fine demeanor in the ministry leave a good impression on householders?

• 3. What positive effect can we have on our brothers?

  © 2010 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; C. I. Woody, 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.

  
  

will have a wholesome influence on fellow workers by fully accomplishing our ministry.—2 Tim. 4:5.

• ⁴ Why not periodically analyze what you do and say and how

• 4. Why should we periodically analyze our example?

you affect others by means of your example? Our good example will please Jehovah and enable us to echo the sentiments of the apostle Paul when he declared: “Become imitators of me, even as I am of Christ.”—1 Cor. 11:1.

QUESTION BOX

■ Should Jehovah’s Witnesses circulate recordings or transcripts of talks?

We are strengthened and encouraged by Bible discourses. (Acts 15:32) Therefore, it is natural to want to share such encouraging information with those who were not present. With the advent of various recording devices, a talk can be recorded and distributed to others at a moment’s notice. Some have maintained a collection of recorded talks, including talks that were given many years ago, and with good motive they lend these talks or reproduce them for friends. Others have created Web sites and posted talks there for anyone to download.

Understandably, there is no objection if we record talks for personal use or for members of our family. In addition, elders may arrange for talks to be recorded for infirm members of the congregation who are unable to attend the meetings. However, there are good reasons for us not to circulate transcripts or recordings of talks.

Because talks are often delivered with local needs in mind, we could easily misconstrue points from a circulated recording, since we would not be aware of the setting in which the talk was given. In addition, it would be difficult for us to verify who gave the talk and when, so that we can have confidence that the information presented is up-to-date and accurate. (Luke 1:1-4) Further, circulating transcripts or recordings of talks might tempt some to give or accept undue attention and honor. —1 Cor. 3:5-7.

The faithful and discreet slave works hard to provide spiritual food in the right “measure” and at “the proper time.” (Luke 12: 42) This includes the arrangement for talks to be given at local congregations of Jehovah’s Witnesses and audio recordings that can be downloaded from the official jw.org Web site. We can be confident that the faithful and discreet slave and its Governing Body will provide what we need in order to be made firm in the faith.—Acts 16:4, 5.

WEEK STARTING APRIL 26

Song 82

Q Congregation Bible Study:

cf chap. 3 ^20-24, box on p. 34

Q Theocratic Ministry School:

Bible reading: 1 Samuel 26-31 Theocratic Ministry School Review

Q Service Meeting:

Song 135

5 min: Announcements.

5 min: Prepareto Offer The Watchtower and Awake! for May. Begin by having a pioneer demonstrate how he will present The Watchtower or Awake! Briefly ask the audience which articles, questions, and scriptures they intend to use.

25 min: “District Conventions—A Time for Joyful Worship.” Question-and-answer discussion. As time permits, discuss pertinent reminders from “District Convention Reminders,” on pages 6-7.

Song 104

Theocratic Ministry School Review

The following questions will be considered at the Theocratic Ministry School during the week beginning April 26, 2010. The school overseer will conduct a 20-minute review based on material covered in assignments for the weeks of March 1 through April 26, 2010.

• 1. What did Naomi mean by the expression “it is Jehovah that has humiliated me and the Almighty that has caused me calamity”? (Ruth 1:21) [w05 3/1 p. 27 par. 1]

• 2. What qualities made Ruth “an excellent woman”? (Ruth 3:11) [w05 3/1p. 28par. 6]

• 3. How did Elkanah’s words “am I not better to you than ten sons” strengthen his wife? (1 Sam. 1:8) [w90 3/15 p. 27 pars. 5-6]

• 4. What made Israel’s request for a king improper? (1 Sam. 8:5) [w05 9/15 p. 20 par. 17; it-2 p. 163 par. 1]

• 5. How did Samuel, having “grown old and gray,” prove himself exemplary in praying in behalf of others, and what does this highlight? (1 Sam. 12:2, 23) [w07 6/1 p. 29 pars. 14-15]

• 6. Why did Saul show the Kenites special consideration? (1 Sam. 15:6) [w05 3/15 p. 22 par. 10]

• 7. What prompted Saul’s question to David, “Whose son are you, boy?” (1 Sam. 17:58) [w07 8/1 p. 31 pars. 3, 5]

• 8. What can we learn from David’s handling of a serious problem in Gath? (1 Sam. 21:12, 13) [w05 3/15 p. 24 par. 4]

• 9. How were Jonathan’s love and humility manifested when it was necessary to support and encourage his friend David? (1 Sam. 23:17) [lv p. 28 par. 10, ftn.]

• 10. What lesson do we learn from Saul’s encounter with the witch of En-dor? (1 Sam. 28:8-19) [w05 3/15 p. 24 par. 7]

District Conventions

—A Time for Joyful Worship

¹ Joseph, Mary, their children, and others regularly went up to Jerusalem to attend the annual festivals. On these occasions, they and other worshippers would leave behind their daily cares and focus on the more important spiritual aspects of their life. The festivals afforded time to reflect on and talk about Jehovah’s goodness and to consider his Law. Our upcoming district conventions will give us similar opportunities for joyful worship of Jehovah.

• ² Preparation Needed: Traveling from Nazareth required that Jesus’ family walk about 120 miles round-trip. Though we do not know how many siblings Jesus had, we can imagine the planning and effort required of Joseph and Mary. Have you made the necessary preparations to attend all three days of the upcoming district convention? This may require taking vacation from work or speaking to your employer or your child’s teacher about having time off. Have you made a hotel reservation if this is needed? Could you take the initiative to help someone in the congregation with special needs to attend the convention?—1 John 3:17, 18.

• ³ Upbuilding Fellowship: What an opportunity the Jewish festivals provided for upbuilding association with fellow worshippers! Jesus’ family no doubt looked forward to being reunited with longtime friends. They also enjoyed opportunities to make new friends among the throngs of Jews and proselytes who would be present or traveling to and from Jerusalem.

• ⁴ One reason the faithful and discreet slave

• 1. How were Israel’s festivals similar to our modern district conventions?

• 2. What should we do to prepare for the upcoming district convention?

• 3. How did Israel’s festivals provide opportunities for upbuilding association?

• 4. How may we demonstrate that we do not take for granted our united Christian brotherhood?

arranges for us to come together to hear talks at district conventions instead of presenting the same information in printed form is so that we can encourage one another. (Heb. 10: 24, 25) Therefore, make plans to arrive at the convention early each day to enjoy fellowship with others before the session chairman introduces a musical interlude, signaling that it is time to be seated. Instead of leaving the facility at noon to obtain food, we are encouraged to bring a light lunch and remain at the convention so that we can meet and talk with those around us. Our united Christian brotherhood is a gift from Jehovah that we should never take for grant-ed.—Mic. 2:12.

• ⁵ A Time to Learn: From a young age, Jesus took advantage of the festivals to learn about his heavenly Father. (Luke 2:41-49) What will help us and our families to benefit fully from the parts that will be presented? During the sessions, remain seated and avoid talking needlessly. Do not allow your cell phone, pager, or other similar devices to disturb you or others. Focus your eyes on the speaker, and take brief notes. Sit together as a family to make sure that your children are also listening. In the evening take some time to discuss together the points that you enjoyed.

• ⁶ Dress and Grooming: Foreign merchants traveling on the road could easily recognize Jesus’ family and other Jewish worshippers who were traveling to and from the festivals because of the fringed edges on their garments and the blue string above the fringe. (Num. 15:37-41) Though Christians do not wear distinctive garb, we are known for dressing modestly and being neat and clean. We should give particular attention to our appearance when traveling to and from the convention and while in the convention city. Even if we change clothes after the program, we should maintain a dignified appearance and wear our convention

• 5. What will help us to benefit fully from the program?

• 6. What should we keep in mind regarding our dress and grooming? badge. In this way we will stand out from non-Witnesses and make a good impression on observers.

• ⁷ Volunteers Needed: Many workers are needed in order for the convention to run smoothly. Could you volunteer to assist? (Ps. 110:3) The work done at conventions is part of our sacred service and gives a fine witness. The manager of one convention facility was so impressed by the volunteers who cleaned the building that he wrote this: “I want to thank you for the most amazing event that I have ever experienced. I have always heard that Jehovah’s Witnesses were special people with a long-standing reputation in our industry of always leaving a facility cleaner than they found it. You and your organization made this facility a better place for the community and did it with the most gracious group of people with which we have ever had the pleasure of being acquainted.”

• ⁸ Opportunities to Witness: Many in the convention city will notice well-dressed, clean-cut visitors wearing convention badges, and this may arouse their curiosity, providing opportunities for us to tell them about the convention. One four-year-old brought his copy of a newly released publication to a restaurant after the program and showed it to the waitress. This opened the way for the boy’s parents to invite the woman to the convention.

• ⁹ The ancient festivals were joyful occasions that spiritually-minded Jews looked forward to. (Deut. 16:15) Jesus’ family was happy to make any sacrifices to attend and benefit fully. We have similar appreciation for our district conventions, viewing them as a gift from our loving heavenly Father. (Jas. 1:17) Now is the time to prepare for this annual opportunity for joyful worship of Jehovah!

• 7. Why should we consider volunteering to work at the convention?

• 8. What opportunities for witnessing will there be in the convention city?

• 9. How may we imitate the appreciation of Jesus’ family for Jehovah’s spiritual provisions?

District Convention Reminders

■ Program Times: The program will begin at 9:20 a.m. all three days. The doors will open at 8:00 a.m. When the introductory music is announced, all of us should be at our seats so that the program can begin in a dignified manner. The program will conclude at 4:55 p.m. on Friday and Saturday and at 3:40 p.m. on Sunday.

■ Parking: At all convention sites where we control the parking, the spaces will be available to attendees at no charge on a first-come, first-served basis. Only persons who have a state-approved disabled license plate or placard will be allowed to park in the area reserved for the disabled. Since parking is usually limited, carpooling should be done to the extent possible.

■ Seat Saving: Seats may be saved only for those traveling with you in the same vehicle or living with you in the same home, as well as those with whom you are currently conducting a Bible study.—1 Cor. 13:5.

■ Noon Meal: Please bring a lunch rather than leave the convention site to obtain a meal during the noon break. A small cooler that can be placed under a seat may be used. Large family-size picnic coolers and glass containers are not permitted in the convention facility.

■ Donations: We can show our appreciation for the convention arrangements by making voluntary contributions to the worldwide work at our Kingdom Hall or at the convention. Any checks contributed at the convention should be made payable to “Christian Congregation of Jehovah’s Witnesses.”

■ Accidents and Emergencies: If a medical emergency arises at the convention site, please contact a nearby attendant, who will immediately notify First Aid so that our qualified first-aid personnel on-site can assess the seriousness of the situation and render assistance. If it is necessary, our first-aid personnel will call 911. This will prevent emergency-response services from receiving many cell-phone calls over minor matters.

• ■ Footwear: Each year a number of injuries occur that are related to footwear. It is best to choose modest, well-fitting shoes that will allow one to walk safely on stairs, gratings, and so forth.

• ■ Hearing Impaired: The program will be broadcast in the auditorium on an FM radio frequency. To receive it, you will need to bring a small battery-operated FM receiver with earphones.

• ■ Recording: Recording devices should not be connected to the facility’s electric or sound system and may be used only in a way that does not disturb others.

• ■ Baby Strollers and Lawn Chairs: Baby strollers and lawn chairs should not be brought to the convention site. However, child-safety seats that can be secured in a seat next to the parents are acceptable.

• ■ Fragrances: Most conventions take place in enclosed areas with mechanical ventilation. Therefore, it would be loving on our part to limit the use of strong fragrances, colognes, and perfumes that may cause reactions in persons with respiratory or related problems.^ Cor. 10:24.

• ■ Follow-Up Forms: A Please Follow Up (S-43) form should be used to provide information regarding any interest from informal witnessing during the convention. Publishers should bring one or two follow-up forms to the convention. Completed forms may be submitted to the Book Room or given to your congregation secretary on your return.—See the November 2009 Our Kingdom Ministry, p. 4.

• ■ Restaurants: Honor Jehovah’s name by your fine conduct at restaurants. It is customary to leave a 15 to 20 percent tip.

• ■ Hotels: (1) Please do not reserve more rooms than you will actually use, and do not have more people stay in your room than what is allowed. (2) If you must cancel your reservation, notify the hotel immediately. (3) Take a luggage cart only when you are ready to use it, and return it immediately so that others may use it. (4) Do not cook in rooms where cooking is not permitted. (5) Leave a tip for the housekeeper each day. (6) Do not abuse any complimentary breakfast, coffee, or ice provisions that are made available for guests to use while they are at the hotel. (7) Display the fruitage of the spirit in dealing with the hotel staff at all times. They are caring for a large number of guests and appreciate our kindness, patience, and reasonableness. (8) The room rate shown on the Recommended Lodging List is the full price per day, excluding tax. If you are overcharged or billed for things you did not request or use, refuse these charges and inform the Rooming Department at the convention as soon as possible. (9) If a problem arises with your hotel room, inform the Rooming Department while at the convention so they can assist you.

• ■ Volunteer Service: The happiness we gain from attending the convention will be even greater if we volunteer to assist with the necessary work involved. (Acts 20:35) Any who wish to do so should report to the Volunteer Service Department at the convention. Children under 16 years of age can also make a fine contribution by working under the direction of a parent or guardian or other adult approved by one of them.

WEEK STARTING MAY 3

Song 4

Q Congregation Bible Study:

cf chap. 4 ^1-10

Q Theocratic Ministry School:

Bible reading: 2 Samuel 1-3

No.1: 2 Samuel 2:12-23

No. 2: Did Jesus Use God’s Name in His Ministry?

No. 3: What Underlies Holidays in Memory of the “Spirits of the Dead”? (rs p. 180 fl3-p. 181 W

Q Service Meeting:

Song 31

5 min: Announcements.

10 min: If the Householder Says, ‘You Don’t Believe in Jesus.’Audience discussion based on the Reasoning book, page 219.

10 min: Local needs.

10 min: Enjoy the Blessings of Group Witnessing. Audience discussion of Organized book, page 108, paragraphs 1-3. Invite service overseer to outline the schedule and locations for meetings for service. Invite audience to comment on the benefits they have received from supporting this arrangement and working with other publishers assigned to their field service group.

Song 100

Announcements

■ Literature offer for April and May: 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 associating with the congregation, concentrate on placing What Does the Bible Really Teach? The objective is to start a Bible study. June: What Does the Bible Really Teach? If householders already have the book, publishers may offer Draw Close to Jehovah, Knowledge That Leads to Everlasting Life, Worship the Only True God, or any other field service publication that the congregation has in stock. July: Any 32-page 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? Congregations that have a supply of What Does God Require of Us? should feature this brochure.

■ During the weeks of the district convention, circuit assembly, and special assembly day, the congregation will not have the Congregation Bible Study, the Theocratic Ministry School, and the Service Meeting. This being the case, we encourage all to consider the material for these three meetings on a personal basis, such as during your Family Worship evening.

■ The special talk for the 2010 Memorial season will be entitled “Real Peace and Security—When?”

Field Service Highlights

There was a new peak of 128,050 regular pioneers in the United States in December 2009. Bermuda also had a new peak of 73 regular pioneers in the same month. It is a joy to see the increase of 8,953 regular pioneers in the United States branch territory between December 2008 and December2009.

What to Say About the Magazines

>41567 April 1

Announcing Jehovah’s Kingdom       ■

WATCHTO6ER May 1

Announcing Jehovah’s Kingdom

“Some writings claim that Jesus did not die like the Bible says but say that he married and fathered children. Have you heard that? [Allow for response.] It’s vital to know the truth. [Read John 17:3.] This article gives reasons to trust what the Bible says about Jesus.” Feature the article that begins on page 26.

!wa#e! April

Read Psalm 37:9-11. Then ask: “What do you think the world will be like when this is fulfilled? [Allow for response.] This article refers to this encouraging prophecy and explains why we see so much evil in the world today.” Feature the article that begins on page 20.

“Have you ever wondered why God allows suffering? [Allow for response.] Notice how one Bible writer expressed the question that many people have asked. [Read Psalm 10:1.] This magazine examines what the Bible says about why God allows suffering and what he is doing to relieve it.”

!wa#e! May

“Many would like to stop smoking but find it very difficult to do so. Do you know anyone who would like to quit? [Allow for response.] Some have found it helpful to enlist the support of friends and family. [Read Ecclesiastes 4:12a.] This magazine outlines some practical suggestions to help a person stop smoking.”

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