OUR KINGDOM SERVICE

OCTOBER 1981

Vol. 24, No. 10 FOR UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

.1    ’ )      .11-1-        ■ *1           ------

Meetings for Field Service

SEPTEMBER 28-OCTOBER 4 Introductions

• 1. What have you found effective in introducing the Topic for Conversation?

• 2. Why is warmth and friendliness needed in our introductions?

• 3. Why is it good to keep our introductions brief?

OCTOBER 5-11 Presenting the magazines

• 1. What points from the magazines would appeal to you if you were the householder?

• 2. What article in current magazines ties in best with the Topic for Conversation?

OCTOBER 12-18

Keeping house-to-house records

• 1. Why should we keep a record of interested persons?

• 2. What points should we note on our record?

• 3. Why might not-at-homes be recorded separately?

OCTOBER 19-25.

When making return visits why is it good to:

• 1, Remind person of previous discussion?

• 2. Show interesting point in current magazine?

• 3. Ask householder question for next visit?

OCTOBER 26-NOVEMBER 1 Using the Topic for Conversation

• 1. Review Topic.

• 2. How do you draw householder into conversation?

• 3. How do you tie the Topic in with offer?

  Increase Praise Through Magazine Distribution

  
  

• ¹ How happy we are to receive each new issue of The Watchtower and Awake! Through these magazines we are kept up to date on world happenings in the light of Bible prophecy and we are helped to appreciate our privilege of praising Jehovah.—Dan. 12:4; Heb. 13:15.

• ² During this year, Awake! has supplied answers to such questions as “A Better Life—Just a Dream?” “World War III—Can Anybody Stop It?” and “Can Science Redesign Life?” The Watchtower has helped us to value our ministry, to go and make disciples, to appreciate the reality of the Kingdom, to be wise and conduct ourselves as lesser ones and to see how we can be hidden in the day of Jehovah’s anger. Such information motivates us to want to get out and share this/ news with others, helping them also to become praisers of Jehovah.

• ³ At our circuit assemblies held during the spring we had a fine part on the program entitled “Distribute the Timely Message in Our Magazines.” We were reminded that from 1976 to 1979 the circulation of our magazines dropped considerably worldwide, but in 1980 it showed an increase. In the United States the peak of magazine placements was reached in 1976 when over 115,000,000 magazines were placed during the ser-

  Benefiting from Our Service Overseer

  
  

• ¹ Are we not thankful for the “gifts in men” so kindly provided for the congregations of God’s people throughout the earth in these last days? (Eph. 4:8) Among these gifts are the elders appointed by oly spirit to shepherd the congregation of God. One of the elders in each congregation is selected as service overseer. As in the first century, the various “gifts in men” care for different aspects of the work of the congregation. “He gave some as apostles, some as prophets, some as evangelizers, some as shepherds and teachers, with a view to the readjustment [training] of the holy ones, for ministerial work.”—Eph. 4:11, 12.

• ² We can be happy that one of these brothers has been specifically assigned to care for the evangelizing work in the congregation. All dedicated, baptized servants of Jehovah in these last days have been assigned a ministerial work to perform. We are ministers of vice year. Last year 74,000,000 were placed, which is some 40,000,000 magazines under our peak year. What can we as individuals do to have a greater share in distributing magazines?

WHAT TO FEATURE

⁴ During October we will be offering to the public the opportunity to subscribe to either one or both of our magazines. If we think of how much benefit we derive from the magazines, no doubt we will be encouraged to offer the subscriptions. When people have both magazines coming regularly they have opportunities four times a month to read and learn information that is more valuable than any riches the world has to offer. (Prov. 2:4-6; 8:10, 11) Even if they have little or no interest in the Bible they might find Awake! a beneficial and instructive publication. Have you noticed how Awake! often includes a remark to get the reader’s attention turned toward the Bible or encourages the reader to contact Jehovah’s Witnesses? Of course, for those who are interested in the Bible, there is no magazine to compare with The Watchtower, the only magazine in the world devoted to announcing the “good news” of Jehovah’s kingdom. —Mark 13:10.

(Continued on page 8, col. 2)

God under command to preach “this good news of the kingdom.” (Matt. 24:14) So, as in the first century, we have a qualified brother specifically assigned to aid us in the “ministerial work.”

⁸ How does he do this? There are several ways. (1) He keeps all of us conscious of the importance of the preaching and disciple-making work. (2) He is concerned that good leadership in the field is being provided in the various book study groups. (3) He is interested in seeing that each of us is given the personal help we need to improve our effectiveness as ministers. Even as in the first century, these “gifts in men” take a personal interest in each individual, “until we all attain ... to the measure of stature that belongs to the fullness of the Christ; in order that we should no longer be babes.” —Eph. 4:13, 14.

(Continued on page 7, col. 1)

Meetings to Help Us Make Disciples

WEEK STARTING OCTOBER 4

Song 3

7 min: Applicable Announcements from Our Kingdom Service, also local announcements.

18 min: “Increase Praise Through Magazine Distribution.” Question-and-answer discussion. Stress fact that the more times we offer subscriptions the more likelihood there is of obtaining subscriptions. The same is true with placing magazines; they spark interest in the message and on a return visit you may place the subscriptions. Conclude with experiences from distribution of September 22 Awake! on evolution.

15 min: Discuss with audience the following: (1) How can articles about the brotherhood of man in the October 8 Awake! be featured in your presentation? (2) To whom and how do you think it would be appropriate to feature the article on love based on passion (“God’s Word Is Alive”) in the October 15 Watchtower'! (3) Other talking points from current magazines. (4) What article (s) in current magazines do you find most appropriate to tie in with Topic for Conversation? Demonstrate presentation on last point, proceeding from conclusion of current Topic for Conversation.

5 mln: Encourage good support for magazine service this second Saturday of the month. If some in congregation have magazine routes, interview them as to how they got them started and the results. Encourage this activity, pointing out how interested ones can be built up spiritually each time we return to place the magazines. This can lead to fine discussions and to Bible studies.

Song 107 and prayer.

WEEK STARTING OCTOBER 11

Song 21

8 mln: Local announcements and field service arrangements. Accounts report.

15 mln: “Benefiting from Our Service Overseer.” Discuss material with the congregation by questions and answers. Emphasize need for good personal or family schedule for field activity. Good service habits contribute to spirituality. Encourage publishers desiring assistance in service or who cannot get to regular meetings for service to talk to study conductors and the service overseer to see if more help can be given.—2 Cor. 9:6.

15 mln: Talk on 10/8/81 Awake! article “The Real Brotherhood of Man Today." Some audience participation in particularly highlighting scriptures would be good. Emphasize we have found the true religion, God’s organization, and want to help others find it also.

7 min: How Are We Doing? Secretary to review previous month’s service activity. Encourage brothers to have personal service goals toward which to work.

Song 113 and prayer.

WEEK STARTING OCTOBER 18

Song 35

7 mln: Local announcements. Encourage support of magazine service on fourth Saturday of the month. Highlight good talking points from current magazines.

15 mln: Getting Enjoyment from Our Field Activity. Audience discussion on what contributes to enjoyable field service. We view householders as potential sheep. (Matt. 10:13) No need to be discouraged or upset because of opposition. Viewpoints change as in the case of Paul. (Acts 8:3; 9:1-22) Good to remember Proverbs 15:1. But opposition is usually the exception. We do not come to argue but to share good news. It helps to be a good listener. Work toward knowing what is in the mind of householder. Take time to listen. Be friendly even in the face of apathy. Have Topic for Conversation well in mind. We know the “sheep” will listen. (John 10:3) Ask congregation to relate what has given them enjoyment in service.

15 mln: Review of Topic for Conversation with demonstration. Householder can present common objection on which Witness comments kindly, continuing with topic in way to draw householder into discussion. Ask audience if any have other suggestions on handling similar situation. In second demonstration, after householder refuses magazine offer, have Witness then present tract Is Planet Earth Near the Brink! Householder wishes he could know for sure. Witness points to Bible answer in tract, recommends reading it with Bible and offers to call back later to discuss additional points. Explains to chairman that next time he will review tract to stimulate further interest and offer new magazines. Hopes tract will help person to see crisis earth is facing just as Jesus foretold. Review with audience key points from tract. One can be placed with every householder.

8 mln: Arrange interviews with any who are auxiliary pioneering during the month, or interview those taking lead in service during month as to what has been accomplished.

Song 37 and prayer.

WEEK STARTING OCTOBER 25

Song 17

8 min: Local announcements. Discuss Proverbs 1:5. Encourage congregation to listen closely to get mam points for review at close of meeting. As time permits, have publishers who have obtained subscriptions present experiences.

18 mln: “Presenting the Good News—By Returning to Visit New Subscribers.” Consider material by question-and-answer coverage. Have demonstration of publisher calling back on person to make sure he is receiving magazines. Highlight appropriate article in November 1 Watchtower to encourage person to read it. Then give brief demonstration, using this material to show how we help people to study the Bible.

12 min: “Hearing God’s Word Brings Benefits.” Discuss material with audience and ask for expressions from congregation as to use of the cassette recordings by the brothers locally.

7 min: Review highlights of service meeting. Encourage all to have a share in making return visits sometime during the month, whether on subscribers, people who take magazines, or others showing interest. Remind brothers to bring May 15, 1981, Watchtower to service meeting next week. Comment on November literature offer and Topic for Conversation.

Song 44 and prayer.

JULY SERVICE REPORT

Av. Av. Av. Av.

Pubs. Hrs. Mags. R.V. Bl.St.

Sp’l Pios.     441 113.8  87.9 46.9

Pios.       18,499  76.6  55.7 29.5

Aux. Pios.  15,173  60.2  41.7 17.1

Pubs.     531,648   8.6   8.0  3.5

TOTAL 565,761

Newly Dedicated Ones Baptized: 4,576

Schedule for congregation studies in the book God’s Kingdom of a Thousand Years Has Approached: October 4: Pages 316¹ to 323¹ October 11: Pages 323¹ to 330f October 18: Pages 331 to 337¹ October 25: Pages 337¹ to 347¹

Published monthly by Watchtower Bible and Tract Society of New York, Inc., 25 Columbia Heights, Brooklyn, N.Y. 11201 Our Kingdom Service (USPS 295-360) Second-class postage paid at Brooklyn, N.Y. Printed in U.S.A.

THEOCRATIC MINISTRY SCHOOL SCHEDULE FOR 1982

INSTRUCTIONS

During 1982 the following will be the arrangement when conducting the Theocratic Ministry School.

TEXTBOOKS: The New World Translation of the Holy Scriptures, The Watchtower [w], Awake! [a], Bible Topics for Discussion [Ml, and the books “All Scripture Is Inspired of God and Beneficial" [si], Theocratic Ministry School Guidebook [sg] and My Book of Bible Stories (my] will be the basis for assignments.

The school will begin with song and prayer and remarks of welcome, and then proceed as follows:

ASSIGNMENT NO. 1: 15 minutes. This should be handled by an elder If possible, or, when necessary, by a qualified ministerial servant. When based on the Theocratic Ministry School Guidebook, this should be delivered as a 10-minute Instruction talk followed by a five-minute oral review, using the questions provided at the end of each study. Since only part of a study is assigned each week, the brother handling this assignment should be careful to cover only the portion of the material that Is assigned. The objective should be not just to cover the material but to focus attention on the practical value of the Information being discussed. All are encouraged to make careful advance preparation so as to benefit fully from this material.

When based on “All Scripture Is Inspired of God and Beneficial," this assignment should be delivered as a 15-mlnute Instruction talk, with no oral review following. Once again the objective is not just to summarize the material, but rather to focus attention on the practical value of the information, highlighting what will be most helpful to the congregation.

The brother handling Assignment No. 1 should be given private counsel, if necessary.

HIGHLIGHTS FROM BIBLE READING: 6 minutes. This should be handled by the school overseer or another qualified elder assigned by him. This should not be just a summary of the assigned reading. After giving a brief overall view of the assigned chapters, help the audience to appreciate why and how the information Is of value to us. To the extent possible Include the audience In the discussion. The students will then be dismissed to their various classrooms.

TALK NO. 2: 5 minutes. This is a Bible reading of the assigned material to be given by a male student. The reading assignments are usually short enough to permit the student to present brief explanatory information in the opening and concluding remarks, and even at intermediate points. Historical background, prophetic or doctrinal significance and application of principles may be included. All the assigned verses should actually be read. The material may also be presented by a boy reading It to a qualified older brother who may then use questions to draw comments from the boy on the value of the material.

TALK NO. 3: 5 minutes. This talk will be assigned to a female student, Including younger ones, whenever possible. When delivering the talk, the student may be either seated or standing. One assistant will be scheduled by the school overseer, but additional assistants may be used. Settings could Include situations arising at home, in the field service, In the congregation or elsewhere. The one giving the talk may either initiate the (conversation to establish the setting or have her asslstant(s) do so. Not the setting but the material should be given prime consideration.

TALK NO. 4: 5 minutes. Assigned preferably to a male student with some experience. This should be a talk to the entire audience. While giving his talk from notes, the speaker, when he thinks It fitting, may read quotations or ■ pointed excerpts from the assigned material. It will usually be best for the speaker to prepare his talk with the Kingdom Hall audience in mind, so that It will be truly Informative and beneficial to those who actually hear it. However, if the material lends Itself better to another S radical and suitable setting, the speaker may choose to evelop his talk accordingly.

When assigned to a female student, the material should be presented as outlined for Talk No. 3.

COUNSEL AND REMARKS: After each student talk the school overseer will give specific counsel, following the program of progressive counsel outlined on the Speech Counsel slip. In addition, comments on Informative and f(radical points that the students may not have Included n the presentation can help to keep the attention of all focused primarily on the Scriptural information presented. The school overseer should be careful to use no more than two minutes for counsel and remarks after each student talk. It would be advisable for those giving talks to sit toward the front of the hall. This will help to save time, and also It will enable the school overseer to give his counsel directly to each student.

PREPARING TALKS: Where the material makes it possible, talks should follow a well-developed theme. Choose a theme that will allow for the best coverage of the material in the allotted time. Prepare all talks with the points in mind to be considered next on the Speech Counsel slip.

TIMING: No talk should go overtime. Neither should the counsel and remarks of the school overseer. Talks Nos. 2 through 4 should tactfully be stopped when the time Is up. It the school overseer assigns someone to give the "stop signal,” that one should be advised as to the Importance of doing this whenever the time Is up. If a brother handling Assignment No. 1 goes overtime, he should be given private counsel. All should watch their timing carefully. Total program: 45 minutes, not counting song and prayer.

WRITTEN REVIEWS: Periodically, a written review will be given. In preparation, review the assigned material and complete the scheduled Bible reading. Only the Bible may be used during this 25-mlnute review. The balance of the time will be devoted to a discussion of the questions and answers. Each student will check his own paper and. In reading oft all the answers, the school overseer will concentrate on the more difficult questions, helping all to understand the answers clearly. If, for some reason, local circumstances make it necessary, the written review may be held a week later than what is shown on the schedule. This will also be true If the circuit assembly Is scheduled during the week of the written review.

LARGE AND SMALL CONGREGATIONS: Congregations with a school enrollment of 75 or more students may wish to arrange for additional groups of students to deliver the scheduled talks before other counselors. Rotate the students to the various halls. Where it is necessary, sisters may take any student talk, presenting It to someone else, as outlined for Talk No. 3.                  y

ABSENTEES: The entire congregation can show appreciation for this school by being present, when possible, at every weekly session, by preparing their assignments well, and by participating In question sessions. It is hoped that all students will view their assignments conscientiously. If a student is not present when scheduled, a volunteer may take the assignment, making whatever application he feels qualified to make on such short notice. Or, the school overseer may cover the material with appropriate audience participation.

Jan. 17 Bible reading: Mark 1 to 4

Song No. 68 “Sowing Kingdom Seed”

No. 1: si p. 181 111 to p. 186 U33

No. 2: Mark 4:1-20

No. 3: my story 78

No. 4: w80 7/15 pp. 4-6

Jan. 24 Bible reading: Mark 5 to 7

Song No. 95 “Let God Be Found Truel”

No. 1: sg p. 9 UI to p. 11 1112

No. 2: Mark 7:1-23

No. 3: my story 79

No. 4: w80 8/1 pp. 3. 4

Jan. 31 Bible reading: Mark 8 to 10

Song No. 106 "‘Take My Yoke’!”

No. 1: sg p. 12 H13 to p. 13 U20

No. 2: Mark 9:30-50

No. 3: my story 80

No. 4; W80 8/1 pp. 28-30

Feb. 7 Bible reading: Mark 11 to 13

Song No. 40 “Good Cheer amid Earth’s Darkness”

No. 1: sg p. 14 111 to p. 17 U10

No. 2: Mark 12:28-44

No. 3: td 59A “Will We Ever Be Free from World Distress?”

No. 4: g80 1/22 pp. 13-15             I

Feb. 14 Bible reading: Mark 14 to 16

Song No. 21 “ ‘Jehovah, Our Strength and Our Might’ ”

No. 1: sg p. 17 Uli to p. 19 1117

No. 2: Mark 15:1-15, 33-39

No. 3: td 59B “What Is the Significance of World Distress?”

No. 4: g80 2/8 pp. 3, 4

Feb. 21 Bible reading: Luke 1 and 2

Song No. 101 “Our Godly Joy”

No. 1: si p. 186 UI to p. 192 U35

No. 2: Luke 2:1-20

No. 3: td 60B “When People Ask: ‘Why Do You Repeatedly Call at My Door?’ ”

No. 4: g80 2/22 pp. 3, 4

Feb. 28 Written Review. Complete Matthew 25 to

Luke 2

Song No. 25 “This Good News of the Kingdom Let Us Preach!”

Mar. 7 Bible reading: Luke 3 to 5

Song No. 57 “Sing Jehovah’s Praise with Courage!”

No. 1: sg p. 19 UI to p. 21 U9

No. 2: Luke 4:1-21

No. 3: my story 81

No. 4: w80 8/15 pp. 3-5

Mar. 14 Bible reading: Luke 6 to 8

Song No. 31 “Appreciating God’s Reminders”

No. 1: sg p. 21 U10 to p. 24 U20

No. 2: Luke 6:17-36

No. 3: my story 82

No. 4: w80 9/1 pp. 5-7

Mar. 21 Bible reading: Luke 9 to 11

Song No. 118 “Christ Our Exemplar"

No. 1: sg p. 24 UI to p. 26 Uli

No. 2: Luke 10:1-20

No. 3: my story 83

No. 4: W80 9/1 pp. 12, 13

Mar. 28 Bible reading: Luke 12 to 14

Song No. 18 “Daily Walking with Jehovah”

No. 1: sg p. 27 U12 to p. 29 U20

No. 2: Luke 12:13-34

No. 3: my story 84

No. 4: W80 9/15 pp. 5-8

Week of April 4, 1982 Memorial

Apr. 11 Bible reading: Luke 15 to 18

Song No. 108 “Proof of Discipleship”

No. 1: sg p. 29 UI to p. 31 U7

No. 2: Luke 16:1-15

No. 3: td 1A “Why Is Ancestor Worship in Vain?”

No. 4: g80 3/8 pp. 3, 4

Apr. 18 Bible reading: Luke 19 to 21

Song No. 17 “Be Strong in Faith!”

No. 1: sg p. 31 U8 to p. 33 U15

No. 2: Luke 21:12-36

No. 3: td 2B “What Will Be the Christian’s Part in God’s Final War?”

No. 4: g80 3/22 pp. 3, 4

Apr. 25 Written Review. Complete Luke 3 to 21

Song No. 102 “Worshiping on the ‘Mountain of God’s House’ ”

May 2 Bible reading: Luke 22 to 24

Song No. 32 “Let the Light Shine!”

No. 1: sg p. 33 UI to p. 35 U9

No. 2: Luke 22:7-30

No. 3: my story 85

No. 4: w80 11/1 pp. 28-30

May 9 Bible reading: John 1 to 3

Song No. 46 “Hail Jehovah’s Firstborn!”

No. 1: Si p. 192 UI to p. 198 U35

No. 2: John 3:1-21

No. 3: my story 86

No. 4: W80 10/1 pp. 14-17

May 16 Bible reading: John 4 to 6

Song No. Ill “ ‘Rejoice in the Hope Ahead’ ”

No. 1: sg p. 36 1110 to p. 38 S17

No. 2: John 5:25-47

No. 8: my story 87

No. 4: w80 11/1 pp. 8-10

May 23 Bible reading: John 7 to 9

Song No. 67 “Our Possession of Peace”

No. 1: sg p, 39 til to p. 41 fill

No. 2: John 8:31-47

No. 8: my story 88

No. 4: w80 11/1 pp. 11, 12

May 30 Bible reading: John 10 to 12

Song No. 42 “The Prayer of God’s Servant"

No. 1: sg p. 41 J12 to p. 43 1118

No. 2: John 10:1-21

No. 3: my story 89

No. 4: w80 11/1 pp. 22-24

June 6 Bible reading: John 13 to 15

Song No. 53 “The Resurrection Joy”

No. 1: sg p. 44 111 to p. 46 18

No. 2: John 14:1-21

No. 3: td 4F “For Whom Was the Bible Written?”

No. 4: g80 3/22 pp. 10-12

June 13 Bible reading: John 16 to 18

Song No. 6 “ ‘Be Glad, You Nations’ ”

No. 1: sg p. 46 19 to p. 48 1120

No. 2: John 17:6-26

No. 3: td 6A “How Do We Know the Gentile Times Ended in 1914?”

No. 4: g80 5/8 pp. 3, 4

June 20 Bible reading: John 19 to 21

Song No. 20 “The Scriptures—Inspired and Beneficial”

No. 1: sg p. 49 111 to p. 51 118

No. 2: John 21:1-17

No. 3: td 15B “Why Are Some Disfellowshiped from the Christian Congregation?”

No. 4: g80 5/8 pp. 16-19

June 27 Written Review. Complete Luke 22 to

John 21

Song No. 91 "Contending for the Faith”

July 4 Bible reading: Acts 1 to 3

Song No. 61 “God’s Loyal Love”

No. 1: si p. 198 Hl to p. 204 1J40

No. Acts 2:29-47

No. 3: my story 90

No. 4: w81 2/1 pp. 8-10

July 11 Bible reading: Acts 4 to 6

Song No. 79 “Pay Back God's Things to God!”

No. 1: sg p. 51 H9 to p. 53 1118

No. 2: Acts 5:27-42

No. 3: my story 91

No. 4: w80 11/15 pp. 5-7

July 18 Bible reading: Acts 7 to 9

Song No. 33 “Bravely Press On!”

No. 1: sg p. 54 UI to p. 56 H8

No. 2: Acts 8:1-17

No. 3: my story 92

No. 4: w80 12/15 pp. 4-7

July 25 Bible reading: Acts 10 to 12

Song No. 49 “The Divine Pattern of Love”

No. 1: sg p. 56 H9 to p. 58 1116

No. 2: Acts 10:30-48

No. 3: my story 93

No. 4: w81 1/15 pp. 18, 19

Aug. 1 Bible reading: Acts 13 to 15

Song No. 19 “Our Paradise: Present and Future”

No. 1: sg p. 58 UI to p. 61 U12

No. 2: Acts 15:1-21

No. 3: td 17B “How Do We Know that Paradise on Earth Will Be Restored?”

No. 4: g80 5/22 pp. 3, 4

Aug. 8 Bible reading: Acts 16 to 18

Song No. 71 “O Walk with God!”

No. 1: sg p. 61 U13 to p. 63 U18

No. 2: Acts 17:16-31

No. 3: td 20B “To Whom Is a Christian’s First Responsibility?”

No. 4: g80 6/8 pp. 3, 4

Aug. 15 Bible reading: Acts 19 to 21

Song No. 10 “ ‘From House to House’ ”

No. 1: sg p. 63 UI to p. 66 1110

No. 2: Acts 20:17-35

No. 3: td 21C “Why Is Faith Without Works Dead?”

No. 4: g80 6/8 pp. 8-10

Aug. 22 Bible reading: Acts 22 to 25

Song No. 27 “Theocracy’s Increase”

No. 1: sg p. 66 UH to p. 69 U22

No. 2: Acts 22:1-21

No. 3: td 24C "Of What Is Fire a Symbol?”

No. 4: g80 6/22 pp. 3, 4

Aug. 29 Written Review. Complete Acts 1 to 25

Song No. 51 “Preach with Boldness!”

Sept. 5 Bible reading: Acts 26 to 28

Song No. 103 “Preach 'This Good News of the Kingdom’!”

No. 1: sg p. 69 Hl to p. 71 18

No. 2: Acts 28:17-31

No. 3: my story 94

No. 4: w81 3/15 pp. 3, 4

Sept. 12 Bible reading: Romans 1 to 4

Song No. 37 “The Power of Kindness”

No. 1: si p. 204 Hl to p. 208 H25

No. 2: Romans 1:18-32

No. 3: my story 95

No. 4: w81 2/15 pp. 5-7

Sept. 19 Bible reading: Romans 5 to 8

Song No. 85 “Our Christian Unity”

No. 1: sg p. 72 H9 to p. 73 fl!3

No. 2: Romans 5:6-21

No. 3: my story 96

No. 4: w81 3/1 pp. 4-7

Sept. 26 Bible reading: Romans 9 to 12

Song No. 82 “Appreciation of God’s Compassions”

No. 1: sg p. 73 Hl to p. 75 H8

No. 2: Romans 12:1-21

No. 3: my story 97

No. 4: w81 3/1 pp. 28-30

Oct. 3 Bible reading: Romans 13 to 16

Song No. 50 “Jehovah’s Attributes”

No. 1: sg p. 75 H9 to p. 78 H17

No. 2: Romans 13:1-14

No. 3: td 29D “What Are God’s Attributes?”

No. 4: g80 7/8 pp. 3, 4

Oct. 10 Bible reading: 1 Corinthians 1 to 5

Song No. 28 “Give Jehovah the Praise!"

No. 1: si p. 208 Hl to p. 212 H26

No. 2: 1 Corinthians 3:1-23

No. 3: td 31F “Were Jewish Hopes Fulfilled In Jesus the Messiah?”

No. 4: g80 8/8 pp. 3, 4

Oct. 17 Bible reading: 1 Corinthians 6 to 9

Song No. 75 “The Fruit of Self-Control”

No. 1: sg p. 78 Hl to p. 80 H10

No. 2: 1 Corinthians 6:1-20

No. 3: td 34B “Why Do We Need to Be Awake to the Sign of the Last Days?”

No. 4: g80 9/8 pp. 3, 4

Oct. 24 Bible reading: 1 Corinthians 10 to 13

Song No. 45 “Cultivating the Fruit of Love”

No. 1: sg p. 80 HU to p. 84 H24

No. 2: 1 Corinthians 13:1-13

No. 3: td 36D “When Others Say: ‘All Good People Go to Heaven.’”

No. 4: g80 9/8 pp. 16-19

Oct. 31 Written Review. Complete Acts 26 to 1 Corinthians 13

Song No. 15 “Love’s Excelling Way”

Nov. 7 Bible reading: 1 Corinthians 14 to 16

Song No. 78 “We Must Have the Faith!”

No. 1: sg p. 84 Hl to p. 88 H9

No. 2: 1 Corinthians 15:35-58

No. 3: my story 98

No. 4: w81 5/15 pp. 9-12

Nov. 14 Bible reading: 2 Corinthians 1 to 4

Song No. 83 “The Bread from Heaven”

No. 1: si p. 213 Hl to p. 216 H20

No. 2: 2 Corinthians 4:1-18

No. 3: my story 99

No. 4: w81 3/15 pp. 5-7

Nov. 21 Bible reading: 2 Corinthians 5 to 9

Song No. 92 “Keep On Seeking First the Kingdom!”

No. 1: sg p. 88 1110 to p. 90 J15

No. 2: 2 Corinthians 9:1-15

No. 3: my story 100

No. 4: w81 4/1 pp. 3, 4

Nov. 28 Bible reading: 2 Corinthians 10 to 13

Song No. 90 “See Jehovah’s Army!”

No. 1: sg p. 90 Hl to p. 92 H7

No. 2: 2 Corinthians 10:1-18

No. 3: my story 101

No. 4: w81 4/1 pp. 4-7

Dec. 5 Bible reading: Galatians 1 to 3

Song No. 52 “The Fruitage of Goodness”

No. 1: si p. 216 Hl to p. 218 fll8

No. 2: Galatians 3:15-29

No. 3: td 37C “When People Say: ‘I Have My Own Church Literature.’ ”

No. 4: g80 9/22 pp. 3, 4

Dec. 12 Bible reading: Galatians 4 to 6

Song No. 94 “The Fruitage of the Spirit”

No. 1: sg p. 92 H8 to p. 95 1J18

No. 2: Galatians 5:7-26

No. 3: td 43B “Should True Christians Pray for This World?”

No. 4: g80 11/8 pp. 3, 4

Dec. 19 Bible reading: Ephesians 1 to 6

Song No. 73 “Worship Jehovah During Youth!”

No. 1: si p. 219 Hl to p. 221 H19

No. 2: Ephesians 6:1-18

No. 3: td 47F “When People Say: ‘I Have My Own Religion.’ ”

No. 4: g80 11/22 pp. 3, 4

Dec. 26 Written Review. Complete 1 Corinthians 14 to Ephesians 6

Song No. 66 “Now Is the Time!”

Announcements

• Literature offer for October and November: Subscription for either The Watchtower or Awake! or for both. Cost of subscriptions is $3.50 per year for semimonthly magazines, $2.00 for six months semimonthly magazines and $2.00 for monthly magazines per year. (There is no six-month subscription for monthly magazines.) December: Offer the New World Translation with the new book "Let Your Kingdom Come," If available; otherwise offer Bible with any 192-page book.

• The 1961 or 1970 revisions of the New World Translation are still in stock In some congregations In regular or pocket-size for $2.50 and these supplies should be used in the field first. The 1961 and 1970 Deluxe editions will continue to be placed for $5.00. We recommend these Deluxe editions also be offered In the field If your congregation has some In stock. When your stock of these Bibles is used up, you may order the 1981 edition. This will be placed for $3.00 for the regular edition and $6.00 for the Deluxe edition. The 192-page books are now 75c.

• New Publications Available: Happiness—How to Find It —French "Let Your Kingdom Come" —Danish, French, Italian, Norwegian

. . . Service Overseer         (Cont'd)

* How does he care for his responsibilities? First of all, he has very little record keeping to do. Rather, he works with the records that the secretary keeps and this lets him concentrate on helping people. Although he is usually assigned as a book study conductor and spends most of his time with that particular group, he keeps close watch on the overall evangelizing work of the congregation. Whenever he observes a problem involving field activity, in any part of the congregation or in some particular feature of the ministry, he will bring it to the attention of the body of elders with whom he works. He keeps abreast of all organized field service arrangements established within the book study groups and is interested in how well they are supported. He is also a teacher and so his enthusiastic handling of service meeting parts dealing with field service, from time to time, helps to keep all in the congregation readjusted.

⁵ Once each month he will leave his own group and work with one of the other book study groups for that week. During this time his assistant will care for his group so he can give his full attention to all the needs of the group being visited. He will work with as many in that group as he can during the week. This is a fine time to get his help if we are having any particular problem with service. He is there to help, for he appreciates that all of us are ministers like himself. A special feature of his visit will be at the book study held during that week. It will be

• ¹ What benefits can be gained from listening to a reading of God’s Word? The apostle Paul said that “faith follows the thing heard.” (Rom. 10:17) Thus, hearing the Bible read can result in a stronger faith. Hearers who have such faith often become “doers of the word.” (Jas. 1:22-25) And hearers who become “doers of the word” or who “observe the things” heard from the Bible, are assured of happiness.—Rev. 1:3.

• ² With this in mind, we are pleased to report that thousands of persons are now taking advantage of the Bible readings recently made available on cassette recordings by the Watchtower Society. As has already been announced, the entire Christian Greek Scriptures are now available on cassette recordings. Over two million cassettes of Bible readings have already been produced in English alone. Other recordings are in Spanish, Dutch, Danish, Finnish, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Portugese, Thai and Ukrainian. Additionally, Kingdom Melodies No. 1 has been enthusiastically received. To date more than 300,000 copies have been produced. No record of cassette placements is kept by the congregation or reported to the Society.

⁸ We have heard from many telling us about using these tapes in an interesting variety of ways. An appreciative blind brother was elated because, as he said, “Now I do not have to wait for visitors to read the Bible for me.” (Cassettes for the blind are produced with Braille labels.) A parent explained that he obtained a cassette player for his youngsters who were anxious to get a stereo. In a short time, listening to the Bible reading became a regular pastime and they shortened to 45 minutes to allow for the service overseer to give an encouraging talk. This Scriptural talk will be designed to help us to improve in our evangelizing work.

⁸ There will be no formal meeting held between the service overseer and the regular study conductor. However, the service overseer should make inquiry as to the organized service arrangements in effect. He will be interested in knowing how well the arrangements are working and, of course, the conductor will welcome any suggestions he may offer.

’In large congregations with many book study groups, it will mean that each group may only be visited once or twice a year. even began to memorize their favorite passages! Other parents tell us they have encouraged their children to follow the reading in their own Bibles and this has improved their reading ability, pronunciation and understanding of the text. Many tell us that they play the Bible recordings in their cars where they must spend considerable time each day. Others say these tapes are an effective supplement in teaching interested ones who are studying the Bible. One brother gratefully observed: “I have found that my retention of the Scriptures has greatly increased.”

* The Kingdom Melodies tapes feature many familiar Kingdom songs, rearranged for personal listening and enjoyment Many of us are familiar with the words of the songs. “As the melodies are played, one sister explained, “I hear the words in my mini What a fine way to keep Jehovah in my thoughts while enjoying music!” Appreciating that the words convey the beautiful Kingdom message, some have been moved to memorize them to heighten their enjoyment of the music and refresh their minds of the reassuring Kingdom hope.

⁵ Living in a wicked world controlled by Satan the Devil and his demons, we are constantly bombarded with propaganda designed to destroy our faith by filling our minds with wrong ideas ana desires. How fine it is that Jehovah has made abundant provisions through his Word and organization to help keep our minds filled with his thoughts! May all of us keep on inclining our ears whenever we have opportunity to listen as God’s Word is read.

Even where there are only a few book study groups, the visits of the service overseer may be months apart. This means we will each want to get the greatest benefit from his visit by giving good support to the field service and the book study that week. By sharing in service with him, by commenting at the study and by giving close attention as he speaks to the group, we will all be showing Jehovah and his Son that we fully appreciate their providing us with overseers to take the lead. Then the purpose of providing such “gifts in men” will be realized as Ephesians 4:15 states: “But speaking the truth, let us by love grow up in all things into him who is the head, Christ.”

By Returning to Visit New Subscribers

J Do you view new subscribers tp The Watchtower and Awake! as potential disciples? Experience teaches us that new subscribers may readily respond to an offer to study the Bible with them. (Matt. 28:19, 20) Many have become disciples after first subscribing to the magazines. But the interest had to be developed and cultivated by regular Bible discussions. These individuals are now in a fine position to aid many more. Your initial call can pave the way for return visits to build faith in the Bible. How can you accomplish that? What will you say?

• ² On the initial visit why not try to lay the groundwork for a future call? Often it is helpful to raise a thought-provoking question and state that when you return you would like to take just a few minutes to demonstrate how the magazines help to provide the Bible answer. Jot down on your personal record not only what you discussed but also the householder’s response. Make a notation of any information about the individual’s viewpoint or circumstance that will aid you when you return. If possible, arrange for an appointment to return and then be sure to keep it. Do not wait too long before returning.

• ³ To assure that such return visits result in fine home Bible studies, it is necessary to give careful advance thought to what you will say. This need not take a lot of time. To do this you will need to check your house-to-house record, review the article you highlighted and locate the paragraph in the article or a text cited therein that answers the question you raised. You may also like to select an appropriate point or two from a related subject in Bible Topics for Discussion, such as “Kingdom” or “Last Days.” Help the householder to see how the material contained in the magazines along with the Bible can build faith in God and his sure promises of a new earth.—Rom. 10:11.

• ⁴ Perhaps you are somewhat hesitant about making return visits,

TOPIC FOR CONVERSATION Blessings of "New Earth."

2 Pet. 3:13—A promise from God. Rev. 21:1a, 3, 4—What it will mean.       . never having done this before. In addition to trying the above suggestion, you may also simply encourage the person to read the magazines. Some publishers have obtained good results by taking just a few minutes at the door to read a preselected paragraph or two. In this way they whet the individual’s appetite to learn more. Others will explain the stated purpose of The Watchtower—“Announcing Jehovah’s Kingdom”—by using texts such as Psalm 83:18, Isaiah 9:6, 7 or Daniel 2:44. Before concluding your call you may wish to review with the householder the new points learned. This will illustrate how much can be learned from such regular, brief Bible discussions. It only takes a few minutes to call back on new subscribers but in that way you can keep their spiritual interests alive.

• ⁵ When it seems appropriate, focus their attention on one of the books or booklets that can be used for a regular, home Bible study. Depending on the interest shown, this may be done either on the very first call or after several visits. Whatever you choose to do, usually the best results will come when you have carefully planned your call.—2 Cor. 2:17.

• ⁶ More and more persons are subscribing for the magazines and reading them regularly. Plan now to cultivate the interest you find. Set aside a specific day or time to return, if that is possible. If you feel timid about doing this, seek the assistance of other experienced publishers. Make it your determination to call back on all new subscribers and help them to continue partaking of life-sustaining spiritual truth.—Rev. 22:17; Rom. 10:13-15.___________________

Increase Praise . . .           (Cont’d)

^s Subjects that have wide appeal are considered in a brief and interesting way. The October 1 Watchtower discusses whether we can believe the Bible today. In the October 15 issue there is an illustrated article under the heading “God’s Word Is Alive.” This too is something that can be featured in field service, as it is eye-catching and is explained in simple language for all to understand. The October 8 and 22 Awake! issues feature fine material on the brotherhood of man and how we can survive the sinking of this system of things.

WAYS TO PLACE MAGAZINES

• ⁶ There are various ways in which we can engage in magazine distribution. We want to offer the subscriptions as we go from door to door and when we make return visits on people who do not already subscribe. We may offer them in our informal witnessing too. Where the subscription _ is refused we may say something like this: “Although you do not wish to subscribe at this time, I believe you would enjoy this issue we discussed. We are leaving it with this companion magazine on just a 30-cent contribution. If you do decide to subscribe in the future you can let me or another one of Jehovah’s Witnesses know, or you may write the publishers.” Many magazines are placed in this way.

• ⁷ Oftentimes when we go from door to door, especially in city territory, we find difficulty in getting householders to open the door. When the householder says, “I am sorry, I cannot open the door now,” or “I am busy right now,” we can still ask through the door, “May I leave The Watchtower and Awake! with you on a 30-cent contribution?” It is surprising how many householders will ask you to wait a minute and then come out and take the magazines. Sometimes they will even keep the door open so that you may carry on a Bible-based conversation with them. Also it is good to make the offer of the two magazines when householders say* in a halfhearted way, “I’m not interested.” Many times this is said just to cut the conversation short, but when the magazines are offered they are accepted. And, of course, once the magazines are in the home, we hope others, too, will read them, appreciate the fine information contained therein and thus be helped to praise Jehovah.

• ⁸ Magazines can be placed in store-to-store work by using a brief, pointed presentation. The most effective way to do street work is to approach people who are standing, or walking slowly. Have in mind the particular article that you feel is appropriate to highlight and ask if the person would like to read it. Magazine routes are also a fine way of increasing magazine distribution.

• ⁹ The psalmist invites us: “Praise Jah, you people, for it is good to make melody to our God; for it is pleasant—praise is fitting.” (Ps. 147:1) Yes, it is certainly fitting to praise Jehovah, and we can increase praise to Jehovah by distributing The Watchtower and Awake!

8

¹

To or from subheading.

t Include last paragraph on page.