DECEMBER 22-28

What usually helps: ■

• 1. To make you feel more relaxed and informal when greeting the householder?

• 2. To have the householder respond in the same way?

DECEMBER 29-JANUARY 4 What are:

• 1. Some good talking points in the latest “Watchtower"?

• 2. Some good reasons why the householder should subscribe?

1981 Memorial Observance

The Memorial celebration for 1981 will take place after sundown, Sunday. April 19. That will be a day when all should be especially Interested in getting out Into the field service and Inviting new ones to assemble with us for that special occasion. Wherever possible, we recommend that each congregation arrange to have the Memorial celebration In its own Kingdom Hall (Continued on page 8. col. 3)

• ¹ Each member of the congregation can derive great personal benefit from the congregation book study arrangement. In some respects, it provides benefits that do not directly come through some other provision of the congregation. Why is that so?

• ² It is because the congregation book study arrangement not only provides a careful and detailed study of Bible subjects, but also incorporates personal assistance and shepherding benefits, along with counsel, encouragement and direction for carrying out our individual responsibilities in the Kingdom-preaching work.

BENEFITS OF THE BOOK STUDY

• ³ Basically, the book study arrangement provides a means for everyone in the congregation to take in vital Bible knowledge. The conductor is himself a student of God’s Word. He is qualified to help each one not only to increase in Bible knowledge, but also to apply it in a practical way.

• ⁴ With regard to our individual effort in connection with the study, the principle set forth by Jesus as recorded at Acts 20:35 applies, namely: “There is more happiness in giving than there is in receiving.” Thorough individual preparation and a willingness to share in the group discussion make for a lively study that brings great benefit to everyone attending.

• ⁵ The book study arrangement is also a means by which Jehovah carries out his promise to render needed personal assistance to all of his spiritual flock. (Isa. 40: 10, 11) The brother assigned as conductor is usually an elder. As a shepherd he is particularly concerned with ‘knowing the appearance of the flock.’ (Prov. 27: 23) As he becomes better acquainted with you, he can give attention to your spiritual needs. His efforts may contribute toward building up your spiritual strength.

• ⁸ Finally, the book study arrangement plays a vital role in advancing the Kingdom-preaching (Continued on page 2, col. 3)

Meetings to Help Us Make Disciples

WEEK STARTING NOVEMBER 30

10 mln: Song 29 and local announcements.

22 min: “Presenting the Good News —With the Happiness Book.’’ Discuss article with congregation and demonstrate variety or presentations as suggested in article or others that would be effective in local territory. Demonstrate using current Topic for Conversation highlighting presentation of Bible. Also demonstration featuring Happiness book. Call particular attention to three major sections of book that will aid publishers In making presentation to persons with differing points of view and varying interests. Consider suggestions from publishers as time permits.

23 min: Teaching with the Happiness Book. Animated talk with practical demonstrations. Placements should open the way for return visits and Rroductive discussions, leading into ome Bible studies. Distinctive features of the book are designed for this purpose. Also the book provides encouragement and help toward personal application of what is learned.

First, the vivid Illustrations are valuable teaching aids. How could these be used? (Demonstrate starting Bible discussion on return visit using one or more of the illustrations.) Discussion of information is encouraged at the beginning of each chapter with the expression “POINT FOR DISCUSSION” that Introduces questions at the bottom of the page. Using fewer questions, each of which Involves a number of paragraphs, attention Is focused on major points rather than mere details. Those answering will be encouraged to express thoughts In their own words rather than just repeating words found In the paragraphs. (Demonstrate, using first chapter.)

Another helpful feature of the book is that it directly Introduces suggestions to the student. (Demonstrate this feature as It could be used In conducting a home Bible study. See pages 25, 50, 102, 130, and others.)

Get comments from audience as to how some of them may have already used the book In conducting studies or otherwise In Held service:

5 mln: Song 97 and prayer.

WEEK STARTING DECEMBER 7

7 min: Song 51. Accounts report.

15 min: Question-and-answer discussion of the article "Keep On Speaking God’s Word with Boldness.”

18 min: Talk by an elder on the article "Are We Making the Best Use of Magazines?” On paragraph 4 get comments from the audience on each of the five points and what they are doing personally or could do. (It may be some will nave good experiences to offer showing how they have carried out one or more of the five points mentioned.)

12 min: Prepare locally, or elder may give talk on article "Security Now and Forever” in Watchtower of September 1, 1980, pp. 5-7.

8 mln: Local announcements. Encourage audience to read the article "Meeting the Challenge of Inflation,” In the Insert before next week’s service meeting. Song 4 and prayer.

WEEK STARTING DECEMBER 14

10 mln: Song 70 and Announcements. Discuss any plans locally for increased activity during the holiday period. Invite comments on the question: How can you respond when Individuals offer a holiday greeting? Remind audience to bring the Organization book to. the meeting next week.

12 mln: Talk by elder on article "The Importance of the Congregation Book Study.” Emphasize spiritual benefits, urging wholehearted support. Let some tell how they have benefited over the years. Offer suggestions that may assist more to attend. Briefly point out highlights of the ka book soon to be studied.

10 min: Discuss "Question Box.”

23 min: Question-and-answer discussion of Insert from paragraphs 1 through 19. Consider pertinent scriptures cited as time permits. No need to read paragraphs.

5 mln: Song 57 and prayer.

WEEK STARTING DECEMBER 21

8 min: Song 48 and local announcements.

10 min: Prepare locally or discuss article “Do You Find Entertaining What God Hates?”, August 1, 1980, Watchtower, pp. 28-30.

15 mln: The Importance of the Christian Congregation. Scriptural discussion. Source material: Aid book, pp. 371, 372, subheading “Organization of the Christian Congregation.” Also, Organization book, pp. 8-11. (1) How did the apostles ana older men serve In the first century? (Acts 15:1, 2, 28, 30, 31) (2) From when did the “faithful and discreet slave” start operating? (Luke 12:42-44) (3) Who constitute the “faithful and discreet slave” today? (4) What Is the Scriptural basis for the functions of the governing body today? (Acts 16:4, 5) (5) From where are members of the governing body chosen? (6) How are elders and ministerial servants appointed today? (1 Tim. 3:1-13: Titus 1:5-9) (7) Is Jehovah using more than one organization today? (Eph. 4:4, 5) (8) Is he using individuals apart from his organization? (Eph. 3:10) (9) How can we show appreciation for the organization today?

22 min: Question-and-answer consideration of Insert, paragraphs 20 through 36. Following discussion of material in paragraphs 31-35, qualified brother should read each of these paragraphs.

5 min: Song 65 and prayer.

WEEK STARTING DECEMBER 28

10 mln: Song 38 and local announcements. Mention coming series of talks on the Happiness book.

20 mln: Elder talks with group of young people of varying ages using chapter 16 of the Youth book. They express their views about their need for recreation and entertainment frankly but avoid critical remarks about their parents or elders. Elder is sympathetic; recalls struggles he experienced himself during nls teenage years. Reminds them of the need to be guided by Bible principles rather than personal desires.—Prov. 16:25; 2 Tim. 2:22.

Elder asks some questions, inviting the group to express themselves extemporaneously: (1) Is It wrong to participate In sports? What makes some entertainment harmful? (2) What does the Bible say about “bodily training”? When Is It beneficial? What pitfalls must be avoided? Why is it wise to keep balanced? (3) How can movies and television sometimes serve a useful purpose? When do they become a snare? How could you be influenced toward wrong conduct? (4) In such matters, what does It mean to be “selective”? What are some forms of recreation that can be refreshing without being detrimental? What always should be our chief objective In life? (For additional suggestions, see January 22, 1979, Awake!, pp. 3-12.)

Invite audience to tell about field service arrangements that have benefited them individually or as a family. 10 min: Discuss “Questions from Readers” from August 15, 1980, Watchtower, pp. 30, 31.

20 mln: Discuss Importance of The Watchtower. It contains vital spiritual food for dedicated ones as well as timely Information for newly Interested ones and others. Consider points to use in featuring latest issue to people In field service on the coming weekend. Point out that it is only by offering the subscription that we will get subscriptions. where people do not subscribe, try to place the latest issue of The Watchtower and Awake! Take written note of anyone who obtains magazines and plan to return In two weeks with new Issues, In this way starting a magazine route for regular delivery of the magazines. Include In consideration how to fill out subscription slips. Encourage all to share In service on first Sunday of January. Song 40 and prayer.

Congregation Meetings . . . (Cant’d) work in the congregation’s assigned territory. Arrangements are made for all to have a full share in this sacred service. As one who takes the lead in the field, the conductor aids the group as a whole and encourages each individual to share regularly in the work.

⁷ Cooperating in all these arrangements results in a book study group that is closely knit together. And by doing all things out of love for one another the brothers display the identifying mark of true disciples of Jesus.—John 13: 35.

BE DETERMINED TO ATTEND

⁸ Many of us still vividly recall the delightful experience, in 1974, of studying through the book God’s Kingdom of a Thousand Years Has Approached. Although the book was published seven years ago, the value of the information it contains has not diminished.

⁹ The hundreds of thousands of persons who have come into the truth since this outstanding book was published will especially be strengthened by this information. Indeed, all of us should grow in faith and have our hope strengthened by attending the congregation book study during the year ahead. Why not resolve not to miss a single study, beginning with the week of January 4, 1981.

Published monthly by Watchtower Bible and Tract Society of New York, Inc., 117 Adams St, Brooklyn, N.Y. 11201 Our Kingdom Service (USPS 295*360) Second-class postage paid at Brooklyn, N.Y. Printed in U.S.A.

MEETING THE CHALLENGE OF INFLATION

Fulfilling our commission to preach "this good news of the kingdom" despite the economic crisis

• ¹ When the disciples were sent out in the first century to preach the electrifying message, “The kingdom of the heavens has drawn near,” they were given some specific instructions concerning financial support of their work. “Do not procure gold or silver or copper for your girdle purses,” Jesus said, “or a food pouch for the trip, or two undergarments, or sandals or a staff.” (Matt. 10:7-10) Their undistracted attention was to focus on spiritual matters, the giving of a thorough witness concerning God’s kingdom. If they put Kingdom interests first in their lives, their material needs would be provided. “The worker is worthy of'his wages.”—Matt. 6:32, 33; Luke 10: 4, 7.

• ² In modern times it has been the same with Jehovah’s people, as the history of the last 100 years shows. Rather than soliciting funds or sponsoring money-making schemes for the building of great cathedrals and ornate palaces for a clergy class, Jehovah’s people have put the emphasis on comforting depressed mankind with the glorious message of God’s kingdom by Christ Jesus—the only ,hope of the world. (Matt. 12:21) This Scriptural viewpoint of priorities was clearly set out in the second issue (August 1879) of the Society’s official publication. There it was stated: “ ‘Zion’s Watch Tower’ has, we believe, Jehovah for its backer, and while this is the case it will never beg nor petition men for support. When He who says: ‘All the gold and silver of the mountains are mine,’ fails to provide necessary funds, we will understand it to be time to suspend the publication.”

• ³ This policy has served well as our guideline ever since. “Seats Free—No Collections” has always been the slogan wherever we have held our meetings, and Jehovah has added his blessing. In modern times, as in. the first century, our preaching work has been supported in large measure by unsolicited and wholly voluntary contributions. (Rom. 15:26; 2 Cor. 9:13) In this respect Brother Russell himself took the lead. He closed out his partnership with his father and spent his personal fortune of a quartermillion dollars in the Kingdom work. Many other faithful ones with similar devotion to Jehovah followed this example.

PUBLICITY OF THE KINGDOM BY FEINTED PAGE

* Early Christians were not content just with telling others the “good news” by word of mouth. They set about to duplicate copies of the Scriptures and to distribute them far and wide. More than just making copies of conventional scrolls, those early Christians are credited with producing the Scriptures in codex form, books, if you please, with individual pages for easy reading as opposed to the older and more cumbersome scrolls. Yes, in a figurative sense ‘Christianity went to press’ back there in the first century.

• ⁵ So, too, in the 1800’s, when the Kingdompreaching work got started, it was not surprising that the brothers began distributing great quantities of the “good news” in printed form. Millions of copies of The Object and Manner of the Lord’s Return and other tracts were widely distributed. By 1884 over a million copies of Food for Thinking Christians had been placed with the people, free of charge. The first volume (356 pages) of the “Millennial Dawn” series (later known as Studies in the Scriptures') was published in 1886. After that, during the next 40 years, six million copies of these volumes were put out in a number of languages.

• ⁶ As the work increased it became necessary to obtain larger quarters in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania (in 1889). This building was known as the “Bible House” and it served as the Society’s headquarters for the next 20 years.

• ⁷ An important feature of the work back there, and one that contributed to the expansion of the Kingdom preaching, was sending out a large number of colporteurs and evangelists with financial support. These are known today as “pioneers.” Then in 1897 the “pilgrim” work began. Those traveling representatives visited the ever-growing number of congregations on a regular basis in order to build up and strengthen their brothers spiritually. Today the same work is accomplished by the nearly three thousand circuit and district overseers; supported, in part, by the Society.

• ⁸ Around the turn of the century foreign branches began to be established in Great Britain, Germany, Australia, and so forth. It seemed advisable With this overseas expansion of the work to move the headquarters of the Society to a seaport city. So in 1909 property was purchased in Brooklyn, New York, and the headquarters were moved there from Pittsburgh.

• ⁹ A history-making venture in sound/motion pictures got underway in 1912. From January 1914 halls were packed out and crowds were turned away as the completed “Photo-Drama of Creation” began to be shown without charge throughout the world in a number of languages.

  OUR KINGDOM SERVICE, DECEMBER 1980

  
  

• ¹⁰ Several months after it begin showing, World War I broke out in Europe on July 28, 1914. What would this mean for the work of Jehovah’s people? For 40 years the Kingdom message had been preached at a tremendous expense in time and money on the part of Jehovah’s dedicated people. Around 10,000,000 books and booklets and many millions of tracts had ■ been distributed. So the question was, Would this work now wind down and come to an end? The answer was ‘No.’ In fact, the following year, in 1915, during a question-and-answer session in Vancouver,' Canada, Brother Russell said: “There is a gre.at work to be done, and it will take thousands of brethren and millions in money to do it. Where these will come from I don’t know—the Lord knows his own business.”

• ¹¹ How prophetic his words proved to be—‘a great work yet to be done that will take thousands of brothers and millions of dollars’!.AndJiow true , his words, “the Lord knows his own business”! For the Lord Jehovah did provide both the thousands of brothers and the dollars—in his due time, of course.                  •

• ¹² But first, World War I would need to run its course. And in its course fanatical opposition against Jehovah’s people was generated. (Rev. 12:12-14) This resulted in an almost complete halt in the Kingdom-preaching work when the Society’s officers were imprisoned on false charges in a federal penitentiary in 1918.—Matt. 24:9-12.

REVIVAL OF THE WORK AFTER WORLD WAR I

• ¹³ Following the liberation and exoneration of the imprisoned officers of the Society in 1919, the preaching work was quickly resumed. .Again, the financial policies that had served Jehovah’s people so well as guidelines for more than 40 years were adopted. The attitude was: ‘Since Jehovah is the backer, he will supply the funds for what he wishes to be done now.’

• ¹⁴ Up until then the Society had only small job presses of its own. The magazines and books were produced by outside printers. Now it seemed to be Jehovah’s will that a rotary magazine press be obtained so that we ourselves could do the printing of The.Watch Tower. With the purchase of that first rotary press, a companion magazine of The Watch Tower, the Golden Age (known today as Awake!), started publication. The first issue was dated October 1, 1919. After the transfer of the factory to 18 Concord Street, Brooklyn, on March 1, 1922, a second rotary press, a M.A.N. press for printing bound books, was •purchased. In the years that followed, with the ever-greater cry for more books and booklets, the Society bought many, many more rotary presses. This in turn meant the building of bigger printing plants. Also larger housing

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facilities had to be constructed to accommodate the enlarged Bethel families as more manpower was needed to keep up with the increased demand from the field for literature.

• ¹⁵ Looking back, the unfolding of the slogan ‘Advertise! Advertise! Advertise! the King and the Kingdom,’ at the 1922 Cedar Point, Ohio, convention appears to have been the signal for the Kingdom-preaching work to gain added momentum. Soon the regular house-to-house work by congregation publishers was more fully organized.

• ¹⁶ About the same time the radio began to be used quite extensively to broadcast the Kingdom message. In 1927 Jehovah’s people arranged with the National Broadcasting Company for a chain of 53 stations to broadcast a lecture entitled “Freedom for the Peoples.” That was the largest single hookup up to that time. This expense was covered, as the many other expenses of the Society, by voluntary contributions on the part of dedicated Witnesses. The next year another history-making event took place when Jehovah’s people hooked up 107 radio stations for a single broadcast independent of any radio network. That lecture was entitled “Ruler for the People,”

• ¹⁷ At this 'time the pioneer work was encouraged and literature provided at a low cost to enable them to be full-time ministers. Are we not glad that now more than 125,000 are in this field?

• ¹⁸ Another milestone in the expansion of the proclamation of the “good news” occurred in 1937 with the start of the special pioneer service. These brothers and sisters are given assistance with a small allowance. Beginning with a few hundred, the ranks of special pioneers have grown until today there are more than 14,000 throughout the world. (Ps. 110:3; Heb. 13:15) The support of these special pioneers is borne by the Society. But when the results of their faithful efforts and self-sacrificing devotion are taken in,to account, when the lives of thousands of people whom they are able to help toward dedication are weighed, it is worth every penny of the contributed dollars that has to be spent to keep these special pioneer ministers in the field!

• ¹⁹ It was in the midst of World War II, in 1943, when Jehovah put it into the minds of his servants to open up the Watchtower Bible School of Gilead. Since then more than 5,800 missionaries have been trained and sent out to the ends of the earth. These missionary ministers entered many lands where there were few, or even no, Witnesses. Now there are many thousands of our brothers and sisters in those places. These faithful missionaries have had a very large part in gathering together a “great crowd” of more than 2,000,000 persons, speaking some 170 languages and living in more than

  200 countries around the world. Here is evf-dence indeed that,Jehovah has blessed the contributions given by our brothers. By this means, the Society has been able to support these faithful brothers and sisters.

  WHERE DOES THE MONEY COME FROM?

  • ²⁰ This is a question often asked by people of this materialistic world. It is no secret. Some of the printing and shipping costs are covered by the contributions received for the literature placed in the field. But monies from this source nowhere near cover the Society’s expenses in this inflationary age. These expenses are not just those involving presses and literature materials (paper, ink, cover stocks, shipping costs, and so forth) but they also include the allowances of ’ the special pioneers, missionaries, members of Bethel families and circuit and district overseers. Also high costs are • involved as new facilities, new equipment and improved technology are required to continue the expansion of Jehovah’s work. Were it not for the additional voluntary > contributions made by Jehovah’s devoted Witnesses and other individuals it would be impossible to finance the forward movement of this mighty witness throughout the earth in these “last days.”—Matt. 24:14.

  • ²¹ We are reminded of a time in the past when God’s devoted servants built in the wilderness the tabernacle around which the worship of Jehovah was centered. Jehovah’s people only had to be alerted to the need and they voluntarily contributed more than enough gold, silver, cop-/ per, precious stones and other valuables so that the project could be completed. There was no coercion, no raffles, no bingo games, no bazaars or other money-raising schemes employed. Rather, as the record at Exodus chapter 35 shows, the compelling force of' Jehovah’s spirit acted on the dedicated minds and hearts of the people. The invitation was extended: “Let every willing- -hearted one bring it as Jehovah’s contribution.” (Vs. 5) What was the response? The account tells us: “Then they came, everyone whose heart impelled him, and they brought, everyone whose spirit incited him, Jehovah’s contribution for the work of the tent of meeting and for all its service and for the holy garments.” (Vs. 21) “Every man and woman whose hearts incited them to bring something for all the work that Jehovah had commanded to make by means of Moses did so." —Vs. 29.                               *            .

  • ²² Some 475 years later Jehovah put it in David’s heart to build a magnificent temple to Jehovah’s praise atop Mount Moriah. Again the invitation was given: “Who is there volunteering to fill his hand today with a gift for Jehovah?” In reply, “the people gave way to rejoicing over their making voluntary offerings, for it was with a complete heart that they made voluntary offerings to Jehovah.” The gold alone that was contributed by David himself and by the people'would amount

  
  

at today’s Inflated prices to something over $7,000,000,0001—1 Chron. 29:5-9.

• ²³ In giving such voluntary support, did the contributors take credit to themselxfes? Far from, it! Note David’s praiseworthy attitude. He said: “Who am I and who are my people, that we should retain power to make voluntary offerings like this? For everything is from you [Jehovah], and out of your own hand we have given to you. . . . O Jehovah our God, all this abundance that we have prepared to build for you a house for your holy name, from your hand it is, and to you it all belongs. And I well know, O my God, that you are an examiner of the heart, ... I, for my part, in the uprightness of my heart have voluntarily offered all these things, and now your people who are on hand here I have enjoyed seeing make offerings voluntarily to you.” —1 Chron. 29:14-17.

INFLATION—ECONOMIC PLAGUE ON THE WORLD

• ²⁴ What is the economic situation as we enter the year 1981? Within a short period of time prices of all types of commodities have skyrocketed far beyond the gloomiest predictions of astute economists. The price of gold soared from' a mere $35 a few years ago to as much as $800 an ounce. In the U.S.A, gasoline has gone from around 30 cents a gallon to $1.30, while in some countries it is $2, $3 or more a gallon. Air fares have doubled and quadrupled. A ride on the New York subway costs 12 times what it did 32 years ago, and soon may go higher.

• ²⁶ This galloping inflation has affected practically everything that is needed in a material way to preach this good news of the Kingdom. A case in point: Paper that cost $35 a ton before World War II is now nearly $500 a ton. Postal charges for magazines, and shipping costs for books, are soaring higher and higher. Why, in many countries around the world the Society now runs its own trucking service to the congregations in order to keep magazine costs down within the reach of all classes of persons who so much need the Kingdom literature.

• ²⁶ With this inflation, there must be some increase in allowances to assist the special pioneers and missionaries in their assignments. Similarly the allowances given to the thousands of members of the Bethel families around the world have been increased several times over the past 30 years to help them keep decently equipped and to care for their transportation to meetings and service.

HOW DOES INFLATION AFFECT OUR WORK?

• ²⁷ How do we keep the preaching of the “good news” going to all nations? Where does the money come from in order to cover these rising costs of printing and distribution? Well, Jehovah has multiplied the number of his Witnesses many times over during the past 40 years, and with their increased inflationary wages many of them, in turn, increase their unsolicited and voluntary

contributions. Jehovah’s people today have the same loving devotion and dedication to his worship and service that they had when the tabernacle in the wilderness and the temple on Mount Moriah were built. To be sure, not all are able to contribute the same amount, nor is there a tithing system in effect Rather, as among first-century Christians, their contributions are “according to what a person has, not according to what a person does not have.” Yes, “if the readiness is there first, it is especially acceptable” in proportion to how Jehovah blesses each one. —2 Cor. 8:12.

• ²⁸ Because of this Bible principle we find that much of the financial support of the worldwide witness work has come from the brothers in the more affluent nations of the world. Yet, for the most part, the greatest increases in publishers are not in the financially prosperous nations but, rather, among the underprivileged peoples who have little material means.—1 Cor. 1:26-29.

• ²⁹ Not surprisingly, it has become increasingly difficult to cover the increased cost of paper and shipping and other enormous inflationary costs just from voluntary contributions. Hence, the brothers as well as the public need to contribute more toward the cost of the literature. It is no longer possible to place our bound books on the contributions Of former times. It has become necessary to increase these rates to offset to some extent the decreased purchasing power of money.

• ³⁰ Other economic measures have also been taken by the Society in an effort to combat inflation. As much as we dislike using paper and other materials of lower quality, this has been necessary to some extent under the circumstances. Also the Society has recently purchased offset presses, which cut down on the percentage of waste paper due to their more efficient design. By converting to computerized phototypesetting we will also be able to cut both platemaking and manpower costs. These projects have been expensive initially, but in the long run they should prove economically sound investments.

• ³¹ Some branch homes and factories around the world are overcrowded and badly in need of being enlarged. Some building programs have gone ahead, but it has been necessary to postpone others because of soaring construction costs in the past few years. Similarly, money has not been available from the Society for building Kingdom Halls as previously, but it is hoped this will be only temporary.

WILL INFLATION STOP THE WITNESS WORK?

• ³² Should the long-standing financial policy of the Society be changed or abandoned in order to cope with the world’s economic crisis? We think not. We believe the policy is as sound today as when it was first published more than 100 years ago, namely: “When He who says: ‘All the gold and silver of the mountains are mine,’ fails to provide necessary funds, we will understand it to be time to suspend the publication” of our books and magazines. We are absolutely convinced that this is not the work of any man or group of men. Rather, it is Jehovah’s work under the direction of his beloved Son, the Lord Jesus Christ.

• ³³ Inflation may call for adjustments but it will not hinder Jehovah’s work, so long as it is His will that “this good news of the kingdom” be preached. On the other hand, by viewing the short supply of money as a challenge, we are attempting to be realistic and to use practical wisdom in tackling the problem. (Prov. 3:21-23) We believe the Lord’s people should likewise view the problems of inflation that they are facing in their individual lives. They should not be unduly anxious as worldlings are who say, ‘What are we going to eat? Or what are we going to wear? Or where are we going to live?’ Never will Jehovah’s people have to beg for bread, if they seek first God’s kingdom and his righteousness. (Ps. 37:25; Matt. 6:31-34; Luke 21:28) At the same time they should be frugal with their money. They should see where they can cut down spending on unimportant things, avoiding always the spirit of the materialistic world, in order to have money for the necessities of life as well as for things pertaining to the Kingdom and a furthering of its interests.

• ³⁴ As economic conditions continue to worsen around the earth, Jehovah’s people worldwide are indeed to be commended for their generosity and for their support of the Kingdom work, both by their loans and by their contributions. They contribute not only for the building and upkeep of their local Kingdom Halls (and in some areas their circuit assembly halls) but also'for the construction of new branch buildings and the purchase of new printing presses and other equipment. More than that, they often contribute toward relief work when disasters such as earthquakes and hurricanes strike our brothers in various parts of the world. A recent example of generosity in behalf of distressed brothers was the assistance given in providing for and resettling some 3,000 brothers who came from Cuba to the U.S.A.                •

• ³⁶ Though some contributions are very small, like the needy widow’s “two small coins of very little value,” yet in Jehovah’s eyes they are of great value. They add up like many drops in the proverbial bucket to fill it to overflowing to Jehovah’s praise.—Luke 21:1-4.

• ³⁸ As economic conditions in the world continue to worsen in these “last days” we look to Jehovah for continued guidance and direction of the witness work yet to be accomplished. May He continue to supply all the funds necessary and may He give his faithful servants the wisdom from above in their discreet expenditure of the same. May this be to the praise and glory of Jehovah the God who can more than superabundantly supply all that i!s needed for completing his witness work within the allotted time!—Eph. 3:20, 21.

  Are We Making the Best Use of Magazines?

  
  

'We must acknowledge the tremendous good accomplished by our magazines over the years. All of us have benefited in a multitude of ways from the information presented in The Watchtower and Awake! The widespread recognition given them confirms their impact on the public. Not long ago a letter was received from a professor of sociology commenting on an article in Awake! that he found particularly interesting. He said: “It was the most scholarly analysis of the ‘disco’ movement that I had read.” A medical doctor commented: “While waiting in a hospital lobby, I got impressed with your magazine Awake! and decided to have it every month on a membership basis.”

• ² You may have noticed, however, that in recent years there has been some decline in the number of copies of the magazines printed and distributed. Is this decline because the articles are less informative, less spiritually upbuilding? Has the format become less appealing? Has the capacity for production been reduced? We must agree that the value, appeal and availability of the magazines have all increased. Why, then, the decline?

• ³ Though we continue to use the magazines, it is clear that less is being done in distributing them to the public. Some may feel they are designed specifically for Jehovah’s people and have only limited value to the public. The response shown over the years confirms that people from all

Keep on Speaking . . . (Cont’d) (2) we know that we are doing a work that Jehovah wants to have done and we have the backing of his spirit; and (3) genuine love moves us to show our devotion to Jehovah and to extend help to our fellowman in this way.

• ⁶ Because of the apathetic attitude of people today, sometimes we meet up with indifference in preaching from house to house and also informally. What should we do? We should continue to boldly preach the good news. We may be tempted to hold back when we encounter indifference, but by doing so, we would not be following the example of Jesus and the apostles to speak God’s word boldly.

• ⁷ In Noah’s day, there was indifference and ridicule. We are told to expect similar attitudes today. Noah had a reputation as “a preacher of righteousness.” walks of life regard them as a genuine source of comfort. Neglect of public distribution may rob people of their only means to hear the Kingdom message. Appreciating *their value to ourselves and others, we have good reason to search out ways to increase distribution locally.

• ⁴ Do the following questions give you some ideas on now to increase the distribution of the magazines to those with hearing ears? (1) Do you have a regular order for a sufficient quantity of each issue? (2) Are you magazine conscious, alert to offer them regularly? (3) Could you start a magazine route? (4) Could you plan to use some service time just for magazine distribution? (5) Have you tried using the article “Have You Ever Wondered . . . ?” in Awake! as a means to stimulate interest?

• ⁵ There may be other ways that you can increase distribution in your local territory. Much depends on our, personal appreciation of the contents of the magazines. Are you reading the magazines regularly and getting the benefit you should from them? One can hardly be stimulated to share the magazines with others if he knows nothing about what they contain. Surely the current cost of 10c per copy is very reasonable and with each of us making more of an effort, the distribution of the fine information in The Watchtower and Awake! can be made available to the people in our territory. May Jehovah bless the effort that we put forth.

(2 Pet. 2:5) We need to speak God’s word with boldness. By doing so, we demonstrate our faithfulness to God and love for neighbor.

• ⁸ During December we are presenting the New World Translation and the new book released at our “Divine Love” District Convention entitled “Happiness—How to Find It.” By preparing well we can boldly declare God’s name and kingdom to people in our territories.                    Z

• ⁹ As we get deeper into the time of the end, our determination should be to continue telling out the good news and sounding the divine warning. Jesus started and finished the work Jehovah gave him to do. (John 17:4) May we be like him, the apostles and first-century Christians and ‘keep on speaking God’s word with boldness’!—Acts 4:29.

Announcements

• Literature offer for December: New World Translation and book Happiness —How to Find It for $3.10. January: Watchtower subscription for $2.50. February: One 192-page book. Feature any you have In stock locally other than the Happiness or Truth books.

• Congregation accounts should be audited on December 1, or as soon as possible thereafter, by the presiding overseer or someone ne appoints.

• In preparing the agenda for the regularly scheduled elders’ meeting during December, elders should discuss the book study arrangement: Are studies located in the most suitable homes? Are the groups too large or too small? Are the best qualified brothers being used as conductors? What can be done to build up attendance? Can service activities be better organized ? —See or book, pages 100, 10L

• The Society now has a supply of Bible cassettes of The Good News According to Matthew and The Good News According to Mark in English with Braille labels for use by the blind. Each set is $3. We also nave available Kingdom Melodies-I with Braille labels. Each tape Is $2. These tapes may be obtained by writing to the Society’s BRAILLE DESK. Your remittance should accompany the order. Cassettes should not be stocked.

• Bound volumes of The Watchtower and Awake! for 1980. Publishers and pioneers! Please order your volumes through your congregation. Congregations should now begin collecting requests for these volumes. Then on January 1, 1981, or as soon as possible thereafter, send this order to the Society using the regular Literature Grder form. Order only the number of volumes for which you have requests. The volumes will be available in English, French, Italian, Portuguese and Spanish at $3.00 a copy. Order Dutch and German after February 15. There Is no pioneer rate. Payment should not accompany the congregation order sent to the Society. (See Cost List, paragraph 21.)

• The Society Is pleased to announce that the first phase in moving Its offices io the newly renovated office building at 25 Columbia Heights in Brooklyn took place in October and November, 1980. Please note that the Society’s new official business address will be 25 Columbia Heights, Brooklyn, NY 11201. All correspondence In connection with congregation matters such as literature orders, reports, Kingdom Halls and other service and business matters should be sent to this address. (Preprinted envelopes with the 117 Adams Street address may be used until the supply Is depleted.) The business telephone number at this address Is (212) 625-3600 (858-1240 has been discontinued) and will be in service weekdays from 8:00 a.m. until 11:55 a m., from 1:00 p.m. until 5:00 p.m. and on Saturdays from 8:00 a.m. to 11:55 a.m. Please use this number for all congregation matters.

Mall intended for the Bethel residence will continue to go to 124 Columbia Heights, Brooklyn, NY 11201. The Bethel residence telephone number will remain (212) 625-1240. Telephone calls will continue to be received at this number every day from 8:00 a.m. until 9:00 p.m.

TOPIC FOR CONVERSATION

Why the Bible Was Written. —1 Cor. 10:11; 2 Tim. 3:15.

• 1. Sounds a warning.

• 2. Makes wise for salvation.

  PRESENTING THE GOOD NEWS ___

  
  

With the “Happiness" Book

• ¹ Happiness—How to Find It —what an interesting subject to discuss with people we meet in field service during the month of December! And what a marvelous book to offer along with the New World Translation of the Holy Scriptures'.

• ² By now most of you probably have read the new book we received at the “Divine Love” District Conventions last summer. It may be that you already have in mind a number of talking points in the book. Also, your own personal interest in this new book very likely has moved you to offer it to friends, relatives and especially to interested persons who, were unable to attend the convention and get their own personal copies there.

• ³ The book is designed to appeal to persons of many different interests and backgrounds. This should be obvious from the very title of the book, Happiness—How to Find It. Who doesn’t want to be happy? How many people are desperately in search of happiness today and yet find that it eludes them at every turn?

• ⁴ Just a brief examination of the contents of the book shows that there is something in it for everyone. It should appeal to those who have no particular religious background as well as those who profess a firm. belief in God. By becoming familiar with the various chapters in the book, you should be able readily to select one with appeal for whatever type of person you meet.

⁶ Chapters one through four should prove to be most helpful in presenting the book to persons who are not religiously inclined. These chapters appeal to reason and avoid being dogmatic. Even persons who are generally apathetic about spiritual matters may be intrigued by the content of these first four chapters.

• ⁶ Chapters five through 10 show how practical the Bible can be in resolving problems of daily life, with such interest-arousing titles as ‘‘Money Problems—What Help?”, “Sex—Which Advice Really Works?” and “Better Health and Longer Life—How?” Then chapters 11 through 20 deal with fundamental teachings of the Bible, but often from a fresh standpoint that most readers should find stimulating.

OFFERING THE BIBLE AND "HAPPINESS" BOOK

• ⁷ During December we will be offering the New World Translation of the Holy Scriptures along with the» Happiness book on the contribution of $3.10. If you wish to feature the Bible as you call on people in their homes, the current Topic for Conversation will lend itself well to making the presentation.

• ⁸ If you should wish to feature the Happiness book, after introducing"-yourself you may wish to say something like this: “Everyone alive really wants to be happy. But genuine happiness is so difficult to find. Why do you think that is so?” (Allow householder to comment.) Then proceed: “There have been quite a number of serious studies made in recent times researching the subject. Some of these studies and their conclusions are commented upon in this book and are presented along with parallel comments from the Bible showing how to find true happiness.” Then you might choose to refer to an appropriate point in the book.

• ⁹ Or 3 direct presentation can be made by briefly stating: “You may have heard at some time or other the expression, ‘Happiness is where you find it.’ But I am sure you will agree with me that such reasoning doesn’t really help too much when we all find so much unhappiness in the world today.” (Allow householder to comment.) “The Bible promises happiness to those who make the effort to apply its righteous principles in their lives. You know, quite a number of modern researchers and professionals in the field of human relations are in full agreement with what the Bible counseled long ago. For example, . . .” (Cite point previously selected that you think may appeal to the householder, such as pages 58-61 or 65 and 66.)

• ¹⁰ Become familiar with the Happiness book. Use interesting talking points to help others find happiness in coming to know Jehovah.

I

SEPTEMBER SERVICE REPORT

Av.     Av.    Av.

Pubs.  Hrs.    Mags.  R.V. Bi.St.

Sp’l Pios.      560 126.2  83.7 44.7

Pios.        17,897  85.8  54.4 30.0

Aux. Pios. 28,126  58.4  33.2 15.3

Pubs.     516,517   8.7   6.8  3.3

TOTAL    563,100

Newly Dedicated Ones Baptized: 1,948

Question ($ox

Is It proper to study or associate with dlsfellowshiped persons?'

When Individuals get together to study the Bible they do so for the purpose of learning more about true worship and Its blessings. Their coming together also Involves a mutual interchange of encouragement for the purpose of Inciting one another to “love and fine works. (Rom. 1:11, 12; Heb. 10:24, 25) This constitutes part of our effort to “work what is good toward all, but especially toward those related to us in the faith.” (Gal. 6:10) An Invitation to another to study God’s Word is actually an invitation to “let us exalt his name together.”—Ps. 34:3.

There are rules to govern the conduct of members of “God s household” that must be observed by all. (1 Tim. 3:15) The disfellowshlplng of an Individual actually constitutes his expulsion from the "brotherhood,” and members of the congregation are directed to “quit mixing in company with anyone called a brother" who is a deliberate wrongdoer. (1 Cor. 5:11) Further, Paul asked: “For what fellowship do righteousness and lawlessness have? . . . what portion does a faithful person have with an unbeliever?” (2 Cor. 6:14, 15) So, in view of this counsel, it would not be appropriate to conduct a Bible study with a dlsfellowshiped person, nor to associate with him. (See or book, pp. 171-174.)

What steps can a dlsfellowshiped person take toward possible reinstatement? Such a person seeking help may attend meetings open to the public. If he gives evidence of a genuine desire to pursue a right course, the elders may feel It would be justifiable to talk to him privately, giving exhortation from God’s Word In a corrective manner, which might move him to abandon his wrong course. This would not be conducted in the form of a Bible study; rather, it would be a matter of simply offering admonition directed toward his spiritual readjustment.—See’ August 1,  1974, Watchtower, pp.

468-470.

1981 Memorial Observance (Cant’d) rather than meeting jointly with one or more other congregations. Separate meetings provide better opportunity for new ones to meet the local brothers. including the elders and ministerial servants. In turn, they can be given better attention by the congregation. We know, of course, that there are some situations where inadequate facilities or other problems make it necessary to arrange things differently.

It is also good to arrange for a qualified elder to give the Memorial talk. Instead of the elders simply taking turns giving this talk from year to year, we feel the importance of the occasion dictates that one of the more capable speakers, anointed if available, be used and he should put extra effort into his preparation so that the discourse will be clearly understandable and motivating. We believe that this will contribute much toward achieving the maximum In spiritual benefits for all assembling for this special observance. ■

Schedule for congregation studies in the book Choosing the Best Way of Life: ,

December 7: Pages 161¹ to 169¹ December 14: Pages 169¹ to 176 December 21: Pages 177 to 185 December 28: Pages 186 to 192

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¹

To or from subheading.