OUR KINGDOM SERVICE

DECEMBER 1978

Vol. 21, No. 12

FOR UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

Qeati kingdom ^PuMisk/tS:

The Service Office here in Brooklyn was happy to see how many of you responded to the invitation extended on the second day of the “Victorious Faith” International Convention to join the ranks of regular pioneers. Pioneer service was encouraged in the talk “Pioneering in the Steps of the Master.” What was the result? In August we received 741 new applications. This is the highest number received in any one month in four years. It was encouraging to note that many of these came from married couples. We hope that many more will be able to increase their service by regular pioneering.

We have also been very busy scheduling pioneers to attend the Pioneer Service School. Twenty-nine classes were held this fall, from September through November. Twenty-six were in English and three in Spanish. With few exceptions, all the traveling overseers’ wives and special pioneers have now attended in the United States.

One of the instructors made this comment: “Several students mentioned having reached a point of discouragement in their assignments, and how they felt a need for some definite encouragement and meaningful assistance.” He then quoted a student’s comment: “The Pioneer School is like an answer to a cry for help.” It was also reported that a 92-year-old pioneer sister, serving where the need is greater, was happy she was able to attend, because it taught her to be a better teacher.

We are confident that all of us will receive benefits, too, from the pioneers who have been through the school.

Your brothers, Brooklyn Branch Office

• ¹ Jehovah loves people. He has shown this in spiritual as well as physical ways. Although we have many things today for our physical enjoyment, we do not want to overlook the fact that Jehovah provided a message of hope and good news as far back as when Adam was in the Garden of Eden. Should it not be the desire of all appreciative creatures to imitate God’s love for people?

HOW GOO SHOWS LOVE

• ² The evidence of God’s love for people is all around us and can be seen in the physical creation itself. With what remarkable care it has been made for the health, pleasure and welfare of man! The greatest manifestation of God’s love for mankind was the gift of his faithful Son, Jesus. (John 3:16) However, where would we be if He had not provided the Bible and a means to get its message to us? The Bible provides answers to our questions on life and gives us hope for the future. We have all this and more because God loves people.

WE CAN IMITATE HIM

• ³ Can the quality of love be imitated by us lowly, imperfect creatures? Yes it can. Paul says: “Therefore, become imitators of

  New Publication to Be Featured in December

  
  

• ¹ In the final talk at the “Victorious Faith” International Convention this past summer, the speaker announced plans to have a campaign in December when the beautiful new publication My Book of Bible Stories would be featured. Now that we have become acquainted with the contents of this new book, what a pleasure it will be to participate in a concerted effort to share this information with others!

• ² With eagerness we have anticipated this time when we can give as many persons as possible an opportunity to obtain this attractive publication with its 116 vivid stories that give the reader an idea of what the Bible is all about. As you talk to people in the territory, offer My Book of Bible Stories first. Although this book contains much that is of interest to old and young alike, you may find that some older persons will say they do not have children or grandchildren. Then it may be better to offer them the New World Translation and a pocket-size book. There may be some individuals who do not have a Bible. They may prefer to obtain the Bible and a

God, as beloved children, and go on walking in love.”—Eph. 5:1, 2.

⁴ Do you work hard speaking about God, unceasingly showing your heartfelt love for people, never allowing yourself to become inactive or even irregular in service? Many persons may yet be found through the preaching of the good news, and taught Jehovah’s way to salvation. Sometimes this means giving a Jittie extra of our time and energy, but the rewards are great.

⁵ The apostle Paul willingly gave of himself in declaring the good news to others though it meant much suffering and self-sacrifice. He said: “I did not hold back from telling you any of the things that were profitable nor from teaching you publicly and from house to house. But I thoroughly bore witness. ... I do not make my soul of any account as dear to me, if only I may finish my course and the ministry that I received of the Lord Jesus, to bear thorough witness to the good news of the undeserved kindness of God.”—Acts 20: 20, 21, 24.

^G Many of our brothers are demonstrating this same zeal and faith today and are receiving many bless-(Continued on page 2, col. 3) copy of My Book of Bible Stories. So adapt yourself to the various situations that may be encountered.

COMMENTS ON “MY BOOK OF BIBLE STORIES”

³ At the time this new book was released, how our hearts were thrilled when we heard the speaker at the international convention say: “Our loving heavenly Father and his Son know the responsibility you parents in the congregation have. They want to help you. Through the faithful and discreet slave this new publication, especially for children, is released: It is entitled ‘My Book of Bible Stories.’ ” Since then the Society has received many expressions of appreciation for this publication. Hearing some of these comments should stimulate our enthusiasm as we use this new book in the field service during December.

⁴ One elder stated: “How thrilling it is that the Society can now produce a book that is so visually appealing for our young ones! This splendid publication, with magnificent color pictures on almost every page, adds a new depth to our (Continued on page 2, col. 3)

YOUR SERVICE MEETINGS

WEEK STARTING DECEMBER 3

7 min: Song 51. Branch Letter and any local announcements.

13 min: "New Publication to Be Featured in December.” Have an elder who is good with young children cover this article with audience, emphasizing December campaign and using some of the comments made by brothers around the country. He should have several young children in the congregation on platform with their books and let them give heartfelt expressions about what they appreciated In the book. He can draw them out with appropriate questions. He should interview various ones in advance so they will know just what to expect.

20 min: “Showing Appreciation for the Congregation Book Study.” Lively discussion between a study conductor, a publisher in whose home a study is being held and one who participates in the study regularly. Discuss the benefits of the book study and what each can do to contribute something of value to the study.

15 min: Discuss talking points from our current Topic for Conversation. When reading Joshua 1:8, to what points in the scripture do you draw the householder's attention? Depending on whether My Book of Bible Stories or the New World Translation is being featured, what would be a good transition from Joshua 1:8 to the offer? If My Book of Bible Stories Is featured, you may wish to turn the householder’s attention to stories 84, 85 and 86, especially at this time of year. Demonstrate how this may be done with different householders. Song 20 and prayer.

WEEK STARTING DECEMBER 10

7 min: Song 23. Local announcements.

15 min: Question-and-answer discussion of article “Try to Be Like Him.” Comment on all scriptures and make appropriate application.

18 min: Talk on Watchtower article "Be of Good Cheer” (March 1, 1978, pp. 3, 4). Apply principles to welcoming new ones and others at congregation. Show how a cheerful spirit can help the brothers and those visiting the congregation. Have demonstration of brother welcoming and conversing cheerfully with one visiting the congregation.

15 min: Where Does the Bible Sav It? (Part 1) Lively discussion of Jehtwah’s Witnesses in the Twentieth Century brochure. Give a brief talk (3 to 4 min.) on “What Do They Believe?” on page 12 and first two paragraphs on page 14, using the scriptures cited as an outline. In considering the chart on page 13 (cover only first half of chart), ask audience questions on as many of the subjects as Is practical in the allotted time. Place emphasis on Where does the Bible say it? and How does the scripture used prove It? Every scripture on each topic need not be considered.

5 min: Song 95 and prayer. .

WEEK STARTING DECEMBER 17

7 min: Song 73. Announcements

18 min: "Be Aglow with the Spirit." Scriptural discussion based on Romans 12:11. Chairman to have audience read scriptures and make application to field activity.

• 1. Romans 12:11: What is relationship between having Jehovah’s spirit and not ‘loitering at your business?’

• 2. 1 Thessalonians 5:19: How might one "put out the fire of the spirit”? What can we do to keep alive the “fire of the spirit”?

• 3. Isaiah 9:6, 7: For what is Jehovah zealous ? How can we show we are zealous for the same thing?

• 4. 1 Kings 18:40: Is our assignment as difficult as was Elijah’s?

• 5. Revelation 3:16: What could happen If one lost his zeal for the truth?

Conclude by showing how zealous activity in Jehovah's service not only gives one greater joy but also serves as a protection.

15 min: Discussion of "Presenting the Good News—As a Youth." Have a brother discuss points in the article with several youths. Have them demonstrate the use of the Introductions in paragraphs 3 and 5.

15 min: Discuss with audience the article "Youths, How Do You View Elders?" To be handled by elder to whom teen-agers freely go. He should talk with a number of these beforehand about this article. He should ask them to be ready to comment freely during this discussion. He can cover questions such as: How do you think the elders can help you? What help can they give you In field service? What adjustments do you think some youths need to make In their viewpoint ?

5 min: Song 106 and prayer.

WEEK STARTING DECEMBER 24

8 min: Song 37. Local announcements.

15 min: "Human Kindness Essential for Happiness.” Talk from February 15, 1978, Watchtower. Emphasize need to show kindness to all persons. Have audience relate local experiences of how kindnesses shown to them assisted them to come to a knowledge of the truth.

17 min: Youths, Be Examples in Faith. (1 Tim. 4:12) This part should provide a review of some highlights from Friday’s "Victorious Faith” International Convention program. An elder along with a group of young people can cover some of the points that especially impressed them. Comments should be realistic, though it would be good to review them beforehand. In addition to the young people’s own expressions, the following are some highlights that may be covered:

(1) God must be kept in life’s activities if their life is to be a happy one. (Eccl. 12:1) (2) Important for young people to determine if their future Is built around Kingdom or worldly Interests. (3) Be determined to avoid misconduct that can ruin future life. (4) Wholesome goals such as privileges in Kingdom service can bring happiness now as well as in the future. Review some points from drama “Youths —What Is Your Goal in Life?”

Younger persons may cover some of the following points: (1) What can be learned at a very young age from their parents? (2 Tim. 3:15, 16) (2) How they have learned to sit quietly at meetings, paying attention to speakers. (Neh. 8:1-3) (3) How they might accompany their mother as she takes part in the school. (4) How they are being trained to witness effectively at school.

Conclude by commending parents for effort they are putting forth to encourage ail youths to be examples In faith.

20 min: Where Does the Bible Say It? (Fart 2) Enthusiastic discussion of Jehovah’s Witnesses in the Twentieth Century brochure. Cover second half of chart on page 13, "What Jehovah's Witnesses Believe." Ask audience questions on as many of the subjects as is practical in the allotted time. As in previous discussion of chart, place emphasis on Where does the Bible say It? and, Haw does the scripture used prove it? Not every scripture on eaeh topic need be considered. Song 31 and prayer.

Try to Be Like Him           (Cont’d)

ings from the hand of Jehovah. In these thrilling days before the climax of this system of things, what a joy it is to receive Jehovah’s abundant love! We should make every effort to try to be like him by giving of ourselves in a full measure to others.

New Publication Featured (Cont’d) teaching. How happy we are that our children, who now learn visually in school by television, can benefit from this splendid visual aid.”

⁵ Some children read the whole book before the convention was over. One youth said: “It is good; it tells about all the Bible stories.” Another youngster commented: “I like it because it breaks things down so I can understand them better. In the Bible you find words you cannot understand. This book puts it in language easy for us to understand.” A parent exclaimed: “The wonderful book My Book of Bible Stories, especially designed for children, has been enjoyed equally as much by myself as by my seven-year-old son!”

⁸ Another sister stated: “I am an old lady, but I want to thank you for My Book of Bible Stories. I appreciate the big print and lovely pictures. This makes it easy to read at night when I am very tired.” This older sister added: “My son who is a printer has expressed his professional admiration for the quality of workmanship it contains.”

⁷ Another of the friends observed: “This book will appeal to the general public because its format will make it a lovely gift.” We do have, as one person observes, “an outstanding spiritual gift from Jehovah.” We pray that Jehovah will bless your efforts in using My Book of Bible Stories to help others to come to appreciate his goodness and purpose.—Ps. 40: 9, 10.

Published monthly by Watchtower Bible and Traet Society of New .York, Inc., 117 Adams St., Brooklyn, N.Y. 11201 Second-class postage paid at Brooklyn, N.Y. Printed in U.S.A.

Youths, How Do You View Elders?

• ¹ There is much good that can be accomplished by Christian youths today. People are immediately impressed when they see youths displaying respect for others, stability in life and good moral character. Even young children bring praise to Jehovah by their fine conduct and sincere expressions about him. (Matt. 21:15, 16) It is indeed praiseworthy when young people overcome the “desires incidental to youth” and follow a course that is an influence for good upon others.—2 Tim. 2:22.

• ² The elders in the congregation have the responsibility to help all, including the youth, to grow in knowledge, faith and stability. (Eph. 4:11-15) Although the primary responsibility for helping youths belongs to the parents, elders, too, can do much to supplement the efforts of the parents. Especially is this helpful in those families where there is no father in the truth. (Jas. 1:27) For elders to accomplish this in the fullest measure, it is vital that there be a good working relationship between them and the youth. This good relationship depends much on how youths view the elders.

• ³ How do you view the elders in your congregation? Do you view ■them as experienced Christians whom you can freely approach with any question or problem? Do you view them as men who can assist you in a practical and reasonable manner? If not, why not? Some youths have implied that they feel older ones, including elders, do not understand them. But have you really sincerely tried to communicate with them? Remember, older ones were at one time teen-agers. They may appear to be narrow in their viewpoint at times, but could this be due to their having already learned the hard way that the course they are counseling against can bring harm? (Heb. 12:7-11; 13: 7, 17) Listening intently to wise counsel from elders is a course of wisdom.—Prov. 4:4, 8, 9.

• ⁴ On the other hand, elders can analyze their way of dealing with the youths in the congregation. Are they proving themselves to be approachable, “mild-tempered” and “lowly”? (Matt. 11:28-30) It is understandable that youths and others tend to be hesitant to approach them if they are otherwise. There could develop an attitude in imperfect men to overlook youths. Even the apostles fell prey to this tendency.—Mark 10:13-16.

• ⁵ It is urgent that youths and (Continued on page 4, col. 3)

  Showing Appreciation for the Congregation Book Study

  
  

  • ¹ Meetings in private homes could well be the oldest and most widely attended of Christian gatherings. In apostolic times groups of Christians met in private homes to discuss God’s Word. (Philem. 2) And today, besides the tens of thousands of congregation book study groups, we find in many of the 46 lands where the work is banned that small groups of our brothers are meeting in private homes for Bible study. This, in fact, is the only kind of meeting possible in many of these lands.

  • ² The congregation book study is usually in a private home. How do you feel about this meeting? Are you taking full advantage of this provision, or do you regard it as less important than the other meetings? Lower attendance at the book study in many congregations would indicate that some feel this way. What about you?

  • ³ Consider some of the following benefits of the book study arrangement of which all of us can take advantage: (1) The groups are smaller, with better opportunities for close fellowship. (2) It is easier for all to comment freely since the material to be covered is not too lengthy and the group is small; also, we can get answers to questions on points not entirely clear from our personal study. (3) It provides a convenient center for organizing field service where this can be arranged during the week. (4) Conductors can get to know you better and are in a good position to assist with personal problems, give training in field service and help you with Scriptural questions.

  • ⁴ With this brief review of the benefits of the book study arrangement, how can we all best show our appreciation for it and in some way contribute toward making it a success?

  • ⁵ Let’s start with you, the publisher. How can you contribute something to the book study where you are assigned? Simply being there on time, or better still, a little early so that you can upbuild the group is a loving thing to do. By advance study of the material you are prepared to incite others to love and fine works by your comments. Showing respect for the home and furniture where the study is held is also very important. What about your dress and conduct as well as that of your children? Do these reflect the fact that you are attending a meeting arranged by Jehovah’s visible organization and where his spirit is present?

  • ⁶ The family in whose home the study is held would want to make

  
  

certain that to the best of their ability conditions favorable for study and concentration prevail. Are ventilation, temperature and lighting conducive to relaxed, comfortable study? (Acts 20:8) Are you prepared and in your seat when the study is about to start instead of occupied in another part of the house? Do you make those attending feel welcome?

’ The book study conductor holds the key position for making the entire arrangement a success and of greatest benefit to all attending. As a conductor, have you thoroughly prepared the material? Have you read the Scripture citations? Do you ask meaningful auxiliary questions? Do you endeavor to have all participate, including the children, and yet not embarrass anyone by putting him on the spot? The conductor should be interested in the spiritual development of all in the group and that they become skillful in “handling the word of the truth aright.” (2 Tim. 2:15) He should endeavor to be well acquainted with all who are assigned to the group and make it a practice to visit them in their homes. Where it is not possible for the book study location also to be a meeting place for field service, the conductor will be sure that arrangements are made for his group to meet for service each week at a time and place convenient for them. The publishers also benefit the most when the conductor makes positive appointments to work in service with each one on a regular basis.

^a Are some groups getting too large for the location? Or is the group so small that it is discouraging to the few who attend regularly? Congregation elders will want to be alert, in such cases, to make whatever adjustments are needed. In some areas it has proven beneficial to rotate the locations for the study if there are additional homes available. In this way a burden is not placed on someone if he has had the study in his home for many years and would be happy for someone else to be the host for a time. It is a real privilege to have one of the book studies in our home and wherever circumstances allow, we should be eager for the opportunity. (Prov. 3:9) At such locations where the householder is pleased to have the study in his home and the location is quite suitable, a change would not be necessary if no other factors dictate that the study be moved.

(Continued on page 4, col. 1)

As a Youth

¹A number of Christian youths have proved themselves quite effective in presenting the good news. Many times older ones will give ear to the Kingdom message presented by a youth because of the deep, positive impression of seeing a young person involved in Christian activity. Other youths tend to listen more readily to our youths. Many of these young people are seeking answers concerning the purpose of life and other religiously related matters.

• ² What can you young people do to take advantage of your favorable situation to give a meaningful Kingdom witness? Many have found it helpful to become adept in using the Bible in the field. This, of course, takes more effort than just presenting the magazines or other literature without a conversation on a Bible text or two. However, it is found that a deeper impression is made on the householders when they note your skill in using the Bible. Also, this use has an enriching effect on you personally.—Heb. 5:14.

• ³ When talking to older persons it helps to have a respectful approach, showing you recognize the benefits of their age. (Lev. 19:32) For example, when introducing the current Topic for Conversation to an older person you could say: “I Congregation Book Study (Cont’d) Some reports have been received that studies are being held in places that are less than adequate for the locality. Does the condition of the room set aside for the study reflect appreciation for having the study in one’s home? Elders will want to remember that the book study is an extension of the local arrangement for congregation meetings and fills an important role in our study and worship.

^s The congregation book study fills a vital need in our spiritual progress. If some of us have failed to see the reasons for the emphasis being placed on this important arrangement, it would be good to take a fresh look at our view toward the book study to which we are assigned. Do we see why we all should have deep appreciation for this loving provision from Jehovah?

TOPIC FOR CONVERSATION

How to make your way successful.—Josh. 1:8.

Meditate and act upon what is written in the Bible. am a student of the Bible. I am concerned about how things are going in the world. I know that you have seen much more change in the world than I have. What do you think the greatest need is if people are going to have success and contentment in life?” Then you might ask them if they feel that following the direction given at Joshua 1:8 would help the situation.

• ⁴ When you meet another youth in your field service, make a real effort to use the Bible. As indicated at our international convention this summer, many youths are showing a sincere interest in religious matters. A young scientist who conducted a revealing survey interviewed 800 schoolchildren and found that 60 percent of the children stated something to this effect: “I often concern myself with the question of God’s existence.” We can take advantage of this interest on the part of young people.

• ⁵ For example, when we meet a youth in our house-to-house work, could we get him involved in a discussion by simply saying: “I would appreciate getting your viewpoint on a matter. Do you think it is more logical to believe that we were created by an intelligent super-being or that we came into existence by chance? [Allow time for an answer.] The Bible shows that God created us and left directions as to how we could make a success in life.” Then discuss the point in Joshua 1:8. You could use My Book of Bible Stories or the New World Translation and Youth book. Many teen-agers have found benefit in the simple summary of the Bible in My Book of Bible Stories. Some have asked for the book simply because a publisher showed a series of pictures with brief comments on them.

• ⁶ In view of the advantages youths have in giving an effective witness to both old and young alike, they should be encouraged to have a full share in Kingdom service. There are benefits for them and benefits for those to whom

they present the good news.

SEPTEMBER SERVICE REPORT

Av    Av Av

Pubs.   Urs’.   R.V. Bi.St.  Mag's.

Sp’l Pios.       689 131.3 40.2 3.8 110.7

Pios.         14,088  83.9 30.9 3.1

Aux. Pios.    17,919  59.8 17.8 1.3

Pubs.       479,820   8.4  3.5  .4

TOTAL 512,516

Newly Dedicated Ones Baptized: 1,122

Announcements

• During January, most congregations will have their public talks from the book Making Your Family Life Happy. Everyone will want to bring his copy of the book to the meeting. ,

• Literature offer for December: My Book of Bible Stories for $2.00, or New World Translation of the Holy Scriptures and any pocket-size book for $1.85. If My Book of Bible Stories and New World Translation of the Holy Scriptures are desired by householder, this combination is available for $3.50. January: Watchtower subscription for one year for $2.00 and a 384- or 416-page book or “Eternal Purpose” book free. (Publishers remit $1.90.) If your congregation does not have enough of the large bound books, you may order “The Nations Shall Know that I Am Jehovah”—How? and Man’s Salvation out of World Distress at Handl, which the Society has in stock.

• Congregations will want to arrange special field service activity for the two worldly holidays that come at this time of year. Care should be taken not to call at the homes earlier than when most people are up.

• The Society now has a limited supply of the following publications in Grade-two English Braille: Unseen Spirits—Do They Help Us Or Do They Harm Us? and Making Your Family Life Happy. You may receive these publications free of charge by writing to the Braille Desk. These sets are not to be stocked by the congregation.

• In December the presiding overseer will audit books for September, October and November or arrange for another capable brother to do so.

• Correction: The book Making Your Family Life Happy is not available in the Finnish language as announceo in the September 1978 Our Kingdom Service.

• After January 1, 1979, congregations may submit orders for the 1978 bound volumes of The Watchtower and Awake! These will be available in English, French, Italian, Portuguese and Spanish. Order Dutch and German after February 15. Volumes are $2.50 each. There are no pioneer rates. PAYMENT SHOULD NOT ACCOMPANY ORDERS. These will be charged to the congregation’s literature account.

How Do You View Elders? (Cont’d) elders maintain the right view of each other. Our youths are a force for good in the congregation. As one parent who is now a regular pioneer stated: “I can say, as a result of the good conduct of my children, and its influence on the family, we have definitely been doing all things ‘for the sake of the good news.’ ” It is vital that youths maintain a balanced view of elders so elders can assist them to be more productive in their lives as Christians.

Schedule for congregation book studies in Unseen Spirits booklet: December 3: Pages 3 to 11¹ December 10: Pages 11 to 22¹ December 17: Pages 22 to 35¹ December 24: Pages 35 to 47¹ December 31: Pages 47 to 62

4

¹

To subheading.