OUR KINGDOM MINISTRY

AUGUST 1990

Vol. 33. No. 8

FOR UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

Meetings for Field Service

AUGUST 6-12

How will you introduce the brochure

• 1. Enjoy Life on Earth Forever!?

• 2. The Government That Will Bring Paradise?

• 3. The Divine Name That Will En-. dure Forever?

AUGUST 13-19

How can you

• 1. Start a Bible study on the initial call? (rs, p. 12)

• 2. Adapt the study material especially for the student?

AUGUST 20-26

Following up interest

• 1. What should a return visit accomplish?

• 2. How do you prepare for a return visit?

• 3. Why have a specific thought to present?

AUGUST 27-SEPTEMBER 2 How will you

• 1. Initiate an informal witness?

• 2. Start conversations with brochures?

• 3. Feature the Creation book?

TOPIC FOR CONVERSATION

Why Wickedness Will End Soon. Ps. 92:7—When wickedness abounds, God will act.

Ps. 145:20—God protects those loving him.

• ¹ Jehovah is a God of fine works, and he is zealous in getting them accomplished. Everything he does is for the good of those serving him. Jesus set a fine example in imitating his Father’s zeal’. On one occasion, zeal for Jehovah’s house motivated him to rid the temple of those who were turning it into a house of merchandise. (John 2:14-17) We too must demonstrate zeal in our service tcT Jehovah God if we want to be identified as a people “zealous for fine works.”—Titus 2:14.

• ² The fine works of Christians benefit others. The most beneficial thing we can do for another person is to help him to know and serve Jehovah. (John 17:3) We extend such help through our zealous Kingdompreaching and disciple-making work.

• ³ What is zeal? Zeal is ardor. Christian zeal stems from an earnest de-sire to do what is right and ..proper. The Greek word for “zeal" means “to boil.” As ministers ot God',“we should express this quality as we spread the Kingdom message. Are we zealous in the ministry? Are we doing all we.can to help others learn about Jehovah’s purposes?

  Why You Should Want to Conduct a Bible Study

  
  

• ¹ One of the most rewarding experi-ences for a ChristiarTis to be usecbby Jehovahto-help someone else become a disciple of Christ. (Matt. 28:19, 20; 1 Cor. 3:6,9) For those we help in this way, it can mean everlasting life.

• ² A very close relationship develops between the teacher and the one being taught. The spiritual growth of the student is indeed a source of great joy. (1 Thess. 2:11,19,20) Therefore, it should be the goal of each Christian to conduct at feast one home Bible study with someone outside of his own household. Of course, it is the responsibility of each family head to conduct a meaningful, regular Bible study with his own family. In those households where the father is not a believer, the Christian mother wijj need to. make appropriate arrangements for studying the Bible with the children.

PRAY FOR STUDIES

• ³ Since we are so far along in this time of the end, all should put forth efforts to conduct effective Bible studigs. Regular prayer to Jehovah in this regard demonstrates our sincere desire to conduct a Bible study. It shows that we see the life-and-death issue involved. (Ezek. 33:7-9, 14-16) We may be assured of Jehovah’s

SHOW ZEAL IN OFFERING THE BROCHURES

¹ During the month of August, we will again have the privilege of offering any of the 32-page brochures except School and Jehovah’s Witnesses. We may offer Enjoy Life on Earth Forever.', “Look! I Am Making All Things New," Should You Believe in the Trinity?, The Divine Name That Will Endure Forever, or The Government That Will Bring Paradise. Prepare to offer whichever brochure seems to be most appropriateTor the territory as well as the. perspn_that you meet at the door.

⁵ To be zealous in spreading the Kingdom message, we need to be_well prepared. Are we familiar with~Tfie current Topic for Conversation? How can we tie in the Topic for Conversation with the brochure we are offering? What specific points in the brochures could we mention? If we take the time to become familiar with the five brochures and build up in our own minds enthusiasm for them, we will be equipped to present them with zeal to those in our territory.

(Continued on page 2, col.l)

blessing on our conscientious efforts. —1 John 5:14,15.

⁴ To become effective in making disciples, we must prepare well. It is also very helpful to observe others who arc proficient in conducting Bible studies. In coming.inonths, we will pass along suggestions from traveling overseers and others who have been successful in making disciples. A series of articles will highlight some practical ideas on how to start and conduct productive Bible studies.

FUTURE ARTICLES

⁵ What are some of these ideas that will be considered in future issues of Our Kingdom Ministry? We will discuss hqw.various publishers and pioneers have started Bible studies and what teaching methods they have used to get to the hearts of their students. We wilTaTso share suggestions on building appreciation" for Jehovah’s organizatiqn and cultivating a desire .to. share in the field service. There will also be suggestions on how to make your own family Bible study more meaningful so that your children will develop a close personal relationship with Jehovah.

(Continued on page 8, col. 1)

Meetings to Help Us Make Disciples

WEEK STARTING AUGUST 6

Song 30

12 min: Local announcements and selected Announcements from Our Kingdom Ministry. Read Question Box and comment briefly on importance of proper dress, grooming, and decorum when representing Jehovah’s organization. Encourage magazine witnessing for this Saturday.

18 min: “Be Zealous in Spreading the Kingdom Message.” Question-and-answer consideration. After discussing paragraph 6, demonstrate how to offer brochures as suggested in paragraph. Use Topic for Conversation. Highlight need to be zealous in the field service.

15 min: “Using the School to Improve Field Ministry.” School overseer discusses with the audience Study 19 in the Theocratic Ministry School Guidebook. Highlight ways in which the school contributes to our progress in the field ministry. Encourage those enrolled in the school to make settings and talks practical for use in the local territory.

Song 31 and concluding prayer.

WEEK STARTING AUGUST 13

Song 211

10 min: Local announcements and accounts report. Read acknowledgments from the Society for contributions made to the Society’s worldwide work and to the Society Kingdom Hall Fund. Commend the

Be Zealous               (Cont’d)

SUGGESTIONS FOR OFFERING BROCHURES

⁶ After introducing yourself, you might say: “Have you ever wondered whether God is concerned about the wickedness in the world today? [Allow for response. ] The Bible explains that soon wicked ones will be annihilated. [Read Psalm 92:7.] Since this is the case, to WlTOhi dan we turn for true guidance and protection? [Read Psalm 145:20.] So our only means of salvatiOTFTS—through a relationship with our Creator, Jehovah God. We need to consider the blessings that he promises for all obedient mankind." Then you can turn to picture 49 in the Life on Earth brochure and read the caption, highlighting the blessings illustrated. Or turn to page .22. in the Government brochure, and discuss the blessings explained there. Some brothers for such contributions and for support of local congregation. Encourage all to have a part in weekend field service activity. Z) n ^;

18 min: “Keep Bearing ^ruit With Endurance.” Talk based on the August Our Kingdom Ministry insert. Make local application of the material, encouraging all to view their personal circumstances from Jehovah’s viewpoint, r-

17 min: “Why You Should Want to Conduct a Bible Study.” Question-and-answer consideration. Briefly interview a publisher or pioneer who has assisted someone to the point of dedication and baptism. Ask what kind of relationship developed between him or her and the student(s) and what benefits were received by conducting studies.

Song 133 and concluding prayer.

WEEK STARTING AUGUST 20

Song 29 / 'y

10min: Local'announcements.Theocratic News. Highlight main points in “Become Holy in All Your Conduct.” Also, encourage participation in weekend field activity, j

20 min: “Are Your Children Ready to Return to School?” Question-and-answer consideration witTFaudience. Have paragraphs and scriptures read. If there are any local experiences that illustrate points made, these can be presented as time permits.

15 fniff: Local needs or talk on “‘Stand Firm’—Do Not Stumble” in may wish to use paragraphs 49 aruL50 in the “Losie!” brochure to explain what God’s Kingdom will do for mankind.

⁷ Since these are critical times, the message we bear is urgent. There is a need for us to be zealousin spreading the Kingdom message, encouraging others to become acquainted with God and his Word. By zealously spreading this life-giving knowledge, we give evidence of our godly devotion and our love for Jehovah. Ask yourself: ‘Am I zealous for fine works? Can my support of The preaching activity bedescribed as ardent and whole-souled?' Our answers WtlTtell us much about the quality of our zeal. The more we share in spreading the Kingdom message, the greater our zeal will be. Others will see that we truly are a people zealous for fine works.

April 15, 1990, Watchtower, pages 26-8.

Song 191 and concluding prayer.

WEEK STARTING AUGUST 27

Song 92

7 mln: Local announcements. Dis- fl cuss May service report for the United States and any positive aspects of congregation’s report for that month. Mention importance of turning in field service reports promptly. Announce field service arrangements for Monday, September 3.

23 min: “Presenting the Good News T —By Making Opportunities to Give an Informal Witness.” Question-and-answer coverage. After considering paragraph "3, ask audience for suggestions on other occasions that might be open to giving an informal witness. Point out how new school year affords youths the opportunity to speak about the truth. Following paragraph 6, briefly interview one or two publishers who have had success in informal witnessing. Ask: ‘On what occasions do they preach? Why do they find this avenue of preaching effective? How have they personally benefited?’ Encourage all to make it a goal to share good news every day. Conclude by emphasizing the need to show deep concern for people.

15 min: Feature the Creation bookj^ in September. Talk_\vitb_deniQlistra-tion. Discuss talking points from book that can be featured when offering the Creation book in September. Perhaps material in chapters 16 and 17 on “Why Would God Permit Suffering?” and “Can You Trust the Bible?” would appeal to householder. Have qualified publisher demonstrate offer, using scriptures such as Hebrews'3:4 and Revelation 4:11 to refute evolution theory and build faith in God as man’s Maker. Material in the Reasoning book under the heading “Creation” can be used as time permits. Announce congregation’s field service arrangements, and invite all to share.

Song 129 and concluding prayer.

Schedule for congregation studies in the brochure Should You Believe in the Trinity f (See Our Kingdom Ministry insert for June 1990.):

August 6: Eighth Week

August 13: Ninth Week

August 20: Tenth Week

August 27: Eleventh Week

© 1990 Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society of Pennsylvania. All rights reserved. Our Kingdom Ministry (USPS 295-360) is published monthly by Watchtower Bible and Tract Society ol New York, Inc., and International Bible Students Association, 25 Columbia Heights, Brooklyn, N.Y. 11201. Second-class postage paid at Brooklyn, N.Y., and at additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Watchtower, 25 Columbia Heights, Brooklyn, N.Y. 11201.                                                                          Printed In U.S.A

Keep Bearing Fruit With Endurance

• ¹ When writing to the congregation in Colossae, less than 30 years after the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ, the apostle Paul could say that the truth of the good news was bearing fruit and increasing in all the world. (Col. 1:5, 6) On a much grander scale today, Jehovah’s Witnesses have literally reached “the most distant part of the earth” with the good news of the Kingdom. (Acts 1:8; John 14:12) During the 1989 service year, there was a 5.6-percent increase in the average number of Kingdom publishers worldwide, and we reached a new peak of 3,787,188 publishers in 212 countries!

• ² In countries where preaching about God’s Kingdom is banned and reports are incomplete, an even greater increase of 7.6 percent was reported! Despite the many problems that exist in those lands, the publishers continue to “bear fruit with endurance.” (Luke 8:15) In some places the pressures have lessened, but difficult conditions continue unchanged in other countries.

• ³ In countries where there is greater freedom to carry on Kingdom-preaching activities, we face different problems. Much apathy and indifference is encountered, especially where there is material prosperity. Jehovah’s servants must be on guard not to adopt such attitudes. We do not want material interests, pleasures, recreation, and other distractions to encroach on our theocratic activities. Otherwise we could become indifferent and fail to appreciate the need to keep bearing fruit with endurance.—Luke 21:34-36.

ENDURANCE AND EXERTION NEEDED

• ⁴ Endurance is a requirement whether we face opposition to the good news or have relative freedom to carry out our Christian responsibilities. In some lands, our brothers have been working under adverse conditions for decades. Their endurance under such adversity has worked out an approved condition, and they are now reaping rich blessings. (Rom. 5:3-5; Gal. 6:9) Whatever difficulties we may encounter, we want to keep on enduring. The Kingdom witness must be given, and all of us must continue to demonstrate our integrity. By endurance on our part, we will secure our soul, or life.—Mark 13:10; Luke 21:19.

• ⁵ We can demonstrate that we do not take spiritual things for granted by exerting ourselves vigorously in Jehovah’s service, not tiring out in the preaching work. In some land's where transportation is more difficult, where material necessities are lacking, and where there are economic problems, there is no letup in preaching the good news. In a few such countries, congregation publishers regularly average 14 to 17 hours in field service each month. Their pioneer ranks are steadily increasing too. It makes those of us who have many material conveniences stop and think. Can we increase our regular share^- in the~all-important Kingdom-preaching and disciplemaking work?

CAN WE DO MORE?

• ⁶ Spending more time in field service may require adjusting our schedules slightly. If we have been spending an hour in the field ministry on Sunday, could we perhaps lengthen that time by spending another hour making return visits or conducting a Bible study? Or if we conduct a Bible study, could we include an hour or so of house-to-house service or make a few return visits before the study? On Saturday after spending two hours in magazine activity, perhaps we could deliver magazines on a magazine route we have developed or try to make a few return visits. Those who live in an urban area may find it convenient to spend some time in street witnessing. In these or other ways, we may be able to increase our participation in the field service. Good results should increase proportionately.

• ⁷ More time in the field service making return visits would no doubt result in more Bible studies being conducted. In time this will mean more people coming into the truth and helping us to accomplish the Kingdom-preaching work.—Matt. 28:19, 20.

PRAYER ESSENTIAL

• ⁸ If we are to keep bearing fruit with endurance, we must seek Jehovah’s blessing and yield to the direction of his spirit. We must make our ministry a matter of prayer to Jehovah. When praying to Jehovah about our field activity, we are reminded that we are his fellow workers. (1 Cor. 3:9) With Jehovah’s help, we can endure in our ministry even when we do not see immediate results. In some areas, increase has come only after many years of faithful endurance on the part of Kingdom proclaimers. As we look to the future, it is necessary always to seek divine guidance and help in order not to give up but to accomplish our ministry fully. (2 Tim. 4:5) There is still much fruitage being produced in the Kingdom-preaching and disciple-making work.

• ⁹ Jesus stressed the need for us always to pray> (Luke 18:1) Paul exhorted\ “Pray incessantly.7 (1 Thess. 5:17) There are urgent reasons for us to persevere in prayer now. Many responsibilities are involved in caring for the growing flock year by year. We want to help others to bear fruit with endurance. Attention must be given to the various needs of individual publishers and of the organization as a whole. Seeing the need for donations to support the work and to make continued publication of Bible-based literature possible, we want to pray that Jehovah will keep on motivating God-fearing people to be generous in this regard.—2 Cor. 9:8-11.          ■

• ^{1( 1} As portions of the worldwide field open up for theocratic development to a greater extent than ever before, the Scriptural exhortation at Colos-sians 4:2 becomes more meaningful: “Be persevering in prayer, remaining awake'un it with thanksgiving.’’ Our prayers should be in behalf of our brothers everywhere that they continue to bear fruit, helping other sheeplike ones found in territories where witnessing has been more difficult in the past.

MANIFEST THANKFULNESS

• ¹¹ How thankful we are for the abundant spiritual provisions we so much enjoy! We want to thank Jehovah for these, and we also pray for his continued blessing on the work of the faithful slave and its Governing Body. Their humble, untiring efforts in our behalf and in behalfof sheeplike ones around the world are very much appreciated.

• ¹² In sowing Kingdom seed, a tremendous amount of literature has been placed. (Matt.TK: 3-8, 18-23) Yet, there is a continuing demand for Bibles and Bible literature in the field. The world report indicates that a great deal of cultivating and watering in the form of return visits and home Bible studies has been done. As we continue to do our part in these important features of our ministry, we thank Jehovah for his continued blessing that makes things grow. Indeed, we pray for that blessing.—1 Cor. 3:6, 7.

OTHER NEEDS

• ¹³ Because of being in the world though no part of it, Christians will continue to face tests and trials, and these will yet intensify in these last days. Some now are enduring persecution or other difficulties. Others must carry on their Christian activities in war-torn lands. Our brothers have experienced disasters such as earthquakes, typhoons, and hurricanes. When this happens, we should pray for our brothers in such locations. (Compare Acts 12:5; 2 Corinthians 1:11.) Sometimes it becomes necessary to approach or write to jefficials in high stations about bans on our work, persecution of our brothers, or other matters affecting Kingdom interests. Under such circumstances, we do what we can personally, and we offer prayer concerning these individuals that they may be favorably disposed toward our fellow servants.—1 Tim. 2:1, 2.

• ¹⁴ There are many pressures brought upon families living in Satan’s wicked world. (2 Cor. 4:4) Married couples may be confronted with serious problems. They should be encouraged to pray,for divine guidance, and we also may pray in their behalf. (1 Cor. 7:5; 1 Pet. 3:7) Family heads should appreciate that Jehovah will listen to their sincere prayers for direction in presiding well over their households. (Judg. 13:8; Phil. 4:6, 7) Young as well as old are faced with trying situations. This may be at school, on the secular job, when traveling, or in other circumstances. Prayer helps us to resist the spirit of this wicked world and to keep bearing fruit as we continue doing what is pleasing in God’s sight.—Matt. 6:13; Eph. 6:13-18; 1 John 3:22.

• ¹⁵ Jehovah is the great Hearer of prayer. (Ps. 65:2) At all times we need to cast our anxieties upon him. (Ps. 55:22) We have opportunities to show our concern by means of prayer for all the Kingdom interests and for the welfare of our brothers everywhere. When reflecting on the work of those taking the lead in the congregation and those directing the worldwide expansion program, when dealing with those who_are spiritually sick^or when caring for other problems small or great, all of us should keep such matters before Jehovah in prayer. (1 Thess. 5:25; Jas. 5: 14-16) Yes, our anxieties should be cast upon Jehovah with full confidence that no matter what it is we ask in harmony with his will, he will hear us. (1 Pet. 5:7; 1 John 5:14) May we be zealous in Kingdom service and continually look to Jehovah to help us keep bearing fruit with endurance.

THEOCRATIC MINISTRY SCHOOL REVIEW

Closed-book review on material covered in Theocratic Ministry School assignments for the weeks of May 7 to August 20,1990. Use a separate sheet of paper to write down answers to as many of the questions as you can in the time allotted.

[Note: During the written review, only the Bible may be used to answer any question. References that follow the questions are for your personal research. Page and paragraph numbers may not appear on all references to The Watchtower.]

The Bible writer James, Jesus’ half brother, was not a disciple of Jesus during His earthly ministry, [si p. 246 par. 1]

The miraculous events on Pentecost 33 C.E. occurred late in the afternoon. [Weekly Bible reading; see w90 5/15 p. 24.]

The baptism of Cornelius, the first Gentile convert, marked the end of the “seventy weeks.” (Dan. 9:24) [Weekly Bible reading; see w90 5/15 p. 24.]

The witnessing of Paul and Barnabas at Philippi resulted in an uproar and

#271    8/90                                 5

• 13. Who was the owner of the runaway slave Onesimus? [si„p. 239 pars. 1, 2]

• 14. What definition does Paul give of faith? . [si p. 244 par. 20].

• 15. What is a sect? J(Acts 24:5) [Weekly Bible reading; see <788 1/8 p. 26.] .) j.i

• 16. What five canonical letters did 'Paul write during his first imprisonment at Rome? [Weekly Bible reading; see w90 5/15 p. 26.] 40*, l&y -

• 17. How was Paul (Saul) “kicking against the goads”? (Acts 26:14) [Weekly Bible reading; see w78 4/1 p. 23.] 4cv<-^-lv«^

• 18. Why did Paul very much want to go to Rome? (Rom. 1:11, 12) [Weekly Bible reading; see w90 8/1 p. 23.], i •

iff

Provide the word or phrase needed to complete each of the following statements:

• 19. First Timothy was written by Paul between the years 4 /-Cr */.^ . [si p. 232 par. 2]

• 20. In his letter to Titus, Paul said that an overseer must be “free from

.” [si p. 238 par. 5]

• 21. Natural Israel could not enter into God’s rest because               and

. [si p. 242 pa?. 12]

• 22. God’s promise to Abraham was made sure and firm by two unchangeable things:. [srp. 243 par. 14]

C'’■**■*&* ‘t

• 23. Among the Gospel writers, only ,l U v—- records heart-to-heart talks Jesus gave and the prayer He offered in behalf of his apostles on his final night. [Weekly Bible reading; see w90 3/15 p. 24.]

• 24. According to Acts 8:9-24, Christians in responsible .positions must not become guilty of \ ikom . [Weekly Bible reading; see w86 8/15 p. 15 par. 9.]

Select the correct answer in each of the following statements:

• 25. Persons who practice sin are to be reproved before (the elders only; all onlookers; the entire congregation), [si p?234 par. 13]

• 26. Paul wrote his letter to Titus when Titus was in (Rome; Corinth; Crete), [si p. 237 par. 1]

• 27. Jesus is the Mediator of the (new covenant; Abrahamic covenant; covenant for a heavenly kingdom), [si p. 243 par. 17]

• 28. The Herod mentioned at Acts 12:1, 2 was (Herod the Great; Herod Antipas; Herod Agrippa I). [Weekly Bible reading; see w90 5/15 p. 24.]

• 29. Paul’s first missionary tour began at (Antioch in Pisidia; Antioch, Syria; Jerusalem). [Weekly Bible reading; see w90 5/15 p. 24.]

• 30. So much interest was manifested in Corinth that Paul remained in that city for (18 months; 12 months; 6 months). [Weekly Bible reading; see w90 5/15 p. 25.]

Match the following scriptures to the statements listed below:

John 14:27; 20:31; Acts 6:3; Rom. 1:16, 17; 6:12

• 31. What provision did the early Christians make for caring for the needy? [Weekly Bible reading; see w87 6/1 p. 8 par. 2.]

• 32. The new life that Christians have in Jesus obligates them to fight their fleshly weaknesses. [Weekly Bible reading; see w90 8/1 p. 24.]     4. /t—

• 33. This was the apostle John’s stated purpose in writing his Gospel. [Weekly Bible reading; see w90 3/15 p. 24.] r^tr '      51

• 34. The righteous one lives by means of faith. [Weekly Bible reading; see w90 8/1 p. 23.]

• 35. The peace that Jesus gave his disciples served to calm their hearts and minds. [Weekly Bible reading; see w90 3/15 p.25.]

Announcements

• • Literature offer for August: Any 32-page brochure except the School brochure. September: Life—How Did It Get Here? By Evolution or by Creation? October: Subscription to either Awake! or The Watchtower or both. November: New World Translation of the Holy Scriptures and either Should You Believe in the Trinity? or “Look! I Am Making All Things New."

• • The 1991 Calendar of Jehovah’s Witnesses will feature our ministerial activities in six lands with a number of attractive color photographs of branches, Kingdom Halls, and scenes of Kingdom witnessing. Congregations should begin requesting the 1991 Calendar with their September literature request. The calendars will be available in Chinese, Danish, Dutch, English, Finnish, French, German, Greek, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Norwegian, Polish, Portuguese, Spanish, and Swedish. Calendars are special request items. Until the calendars are available and shipments are made, these will appear as “Pending” on congregation packing lists.

• • Starting with the week of September 24, 1990, The Bible—God’s Word or Man’s? will be considered in the Congregation Book Study.

• • From August 29 through September 1, the Society will be taking an inventory of all literature on hand in Brooklyn Bethel. Because of this inventory, no congregation literature requests will be processed for shipment or for pickup during those days.

• • Each congregation will receive three Literature Inventory forms and should take an actual count of campaign literature. Please fill out the forms completely, and send the original to us no later than September 6, 1990. Keep a carbon copy for your flies. We are sending a third copy for use as a work sheet.

• • All publishers should renew their subscriptions to The Watchtower and Awake! through the congregation. It will also be helpful if publishers will order personal literature and other items through the congregation rather than sending Tn “Tfffftvldualorders to the Brooklyn branch.

• • New Cassette Recordings Available:

Kingdom Melodies No. 2 (revised; single cassette tape)

This is a new recording featuring new arrangements of songs from the 1984 songbook.

MAY SERVICE REPORT

Av Av Av Av

Pubs. Hrs. Mags. R.V. Bi.St.

Sp'IPios. 241 128.3  87.4 55.3

Pios. 61,850  81.9  39.7 27.3

Aux. Pios. 42,933  58.1  29.4 16.1

Pubs. 711,239   9.7   6.5  3.7

TOTAL 816,263

Newly Dedicated Ones Baptized: 2,487

• ¹ In just a few more weeks, Christian youths will be returning to school. This may be with a measure of excitement and possibly certain apprehension. These inner feelings are created by the anticipated opportunities and challenges. Some youths will be meeting new classmates and teachers. Christian youths also realize that each new school year is accompanied by tests of their faith, integrity, and love for Jehovah. Are you young ones in the congregation ready to return to school? How can you parents fortify your children for the tests ahead?

USE THE SCHOOL BROCHURE

• ² In 1983 the School brochure was provided especially for Christian parents and their school-age children. It is designed to help clearly present to teachers and administrators the beliefs and practices of Jehovah’s Witnesses as these relate to certain school activities. It also provides guidelines as to the unified position of Jehovah’s Witnesses with respect to moral conduct.

• ³ For many youths this brochure has proved to be a real protection. For example, a Witness parent learned

  Question Box

  
  

• Why should we give special attention to our dress and grooming when visiting Brooklyn Bethel, Watchtower Farms, and all branch facilities throughout the world?

Christians are expected to maintain proper decorum. Our dress and grooming at all times should reflect the decency and dignity that befit servants of Jehovah God. This is especially true when visiting Brooklyn Bethel, Watchtower Farms, and branch offices and facilities around the world. In discussing the importance of proper dress and grooming, Organized to Accomplish Our Ministry comments on the need for physical cleanness and modest dress and grooming when engaging in the field ministry and attending Christian meetings. Then, on page 131, paragraph 2, it states: “The same would apply when visiting the Bethel home at‘Brooklyn or any oFthe society’s branch offices. Remember, the name Bethel means ‘House of God,' so our dress, grooming and conduct should be similar to what is expected of us when attending meetings for worship at the Kingdom Hall."

The apostle Paul said that we are “a theatrical spectacle to the world, and to angels, and to men.” (1 Cor. 4:9) Therefore, our dress and grooming that sex education lectures were to be given to the students by people known to be of loose morals. With the brochure in hand, the parent was able to discuss her Scriptural objections and succeeded in having appropriate changes made in her daughter’s classes.

• ⁴ Before school begins, parents can fortify the minds and hearts of their children by taking time to refresh their memories on the contents of the brochure. With due consideration to the children’s particular age, grade, and school, parents can emphasize choice points from the brochure that might be especially helpful during the year. (Prov. 14:15; 22:3) Rehearse with your child situations that might confront him, and demonstrate how the published material can be of benefit in ‘making straight paths for his feet.’—Heb. 12:13.

• ⁵ Parents can do much to help their children “make a defense before everyone” who might question them as to their personal views and hopes. (1 Pet. 3:15) In some cases parents may choose to talk personally with the teacher. Some Christian parents (Continued on page 8, col. SI should have a positive influence on others as to how they view the true worship of Jehovah. However, it has been noted that some brothers and sisters, when visiting the Society’s branches, tend to be extremely casual in their'dress. Such dress is not appropriate when visiting the branch facilities. In this matter, as in all other aspects of our Christian life, we desire to maintain the same high standards that distinguish God’s people as different from the world by doing all things for God’s glory. (Rom. 12:2; 1 Cor. 10:31) It is also good to speak with our Bible students and others who may be visiting Brooklyn Bethel or any of the Society's branch offices for the first time to remind them of the importance of giving attention to proper dress and grooming.

So when visiting the Society’s facilities, ask yourself: ‘Is my dress and grooming modest? (Mic. 6:8) Does it reflect well on the God that I worship? Would others be distracted or offended by my appearance? Am I setting the proper example for others who may be visiting for the first time?’ May we always, by our dress and grooming, “adorn the teaching of our Savior, God, in all things.”—Titus 2:10.

By Making Opportunities to Give an Informal Witness

• ¹ Jesus instructed his disciples to let their light shine. (Matt. J:|4J6) He wanted them to tell others'about the good news OT God’s Kingdom on every appropriate occasion. In this regard, Jesus was a model."An example of this was when he seized the opportunity to speak the truth, to a Samaritan woman at a well in Sychar. (John 4:5-30) What about us? Do we make such opportunities to give a witness?

• ² Not all of us can engage in the field service every day. But there may be occasions nearly every day when we can give a witness; In what way? By informal witnessing. Many thousands have become acquainted with the truth in this way. If we are alert to recognize the opportunities and then make the effort, many more people can be reached.

TO WHOM CAN WE PREACH?

• ³ In addition to formal house-to-house witnessing, return visits, and Bible studies, we can witness to our workmates, schoolmates, business associates, relaHves, and other acquaintances on an informal basis. When traveling by. bus, Xrain,-or airplane, we may be able to strike up a conversation with fellow travelers. While on vacation, we might share the good" news with hotel and motel personnel, service Station attendants, restaurant workers, and taxi drivers. We could talk to others while waiting at a doctor’s office or public laundry? While at tane.we can perhaps witness to neighbors, salesmen, or deliverymen. Even if we are hospitalized, we can witness to doctors, nurses, and other pafients.

HOW TO GET STARTED

• ⁴ If we have an appointment and know we will have to spend some time

Bible Study               (Cont’d)

⁶ During the past four service years, 959,834 persons have been baptized worldwide, and 172,659 of these were in the congregations in the United States. The vast majority of these people reached the poinLoi baptism with the help-odsomeone-conducting a Bible study with them. Attendance at the Memorial and at our district conventions indicates there are many more who may be helped to progress to baptism. By continuing our efforts to start and conduct Bible studies with such ones, we may be able to help many more to become disciples and eventually enjoy everlasting life. —1 Tim. 6:12,19.

waiting, we could take along the latest magazines and be prepared to discuss an article of interest with someone we meet Or we could use a tract or brochure as a basis for starting a conversation. In such a setting, some have found it effective to begin the conversation by making a* striking statement based on a current event and then asking for the person's reaction. Others have found that asking a thought-provoking question regarding some current event can lead into a fine witness. In all cases, initiative is what is needed to make things happen.

WITNESSING AT WORK

• ⁵ Those who have secular jobs can make opportunities to witness to workmates. Two sisters in Georgia made a list of fellow workers they thought might be interested in the truth. By talking with those on the list and a few others, they were able to place over 65 Revelation Climax books and cultivate much interest.

• ⁶ In another case, a brother resolved that he would witness to the first person who sat down next to him during his 15-minute break at work. The man to whom he spoke knew about the truth but said that he did not want to pursue the matter. None^; theless, our brother left^- literature where the man could easily pick it up. Within six months That man and his family were all baptized.

• ⁷ As “the light of the world,” Jesus made opportunities to give an informal witness. (John 8:12) If we are algrt and willing to share our Biblebased hope, we too will not miss opportunities to give a witness. Thus, like Jesus’ disciples, we will ‘shine as illuminators in the world.’—Phil. 2: 15,16.

Return to School          (Cont’d}

schedule periodic visits to the school, as this can help to create a good relationship between them and the teachers. Such personal interest also strengthens the relationship between parent and child. Some parents have heeded the suggestion to take time even to sit in on the classroom discussions where this is allowed. Sometimes this gives the parent a real feel for the environment and unique dayto-day pressures our children face. —1 Pet. 3:8.

BE A WITNESS EVERY DAY

⁶ A young Witness in Colorado would ask his teacher to help him

THEOCRATIC NEWS

♦ Martinique had a new peak of 2,884 publishers in March.

♦ In March, Myanmar had a new peak of 1,667 publishers, a 7-percent increase over last year’s average.

♦ Trinidad had a new peak of 5,685 publishers in March, their third consecutive peak.

Become Holy in All Your Conduct

• ¹ Just as in the past, holiness is a divine requirement for God’s servants today. A pressing need thus exists for each df us to understand clearly not only what holiness is but also how and why it should characterize our worship of Jehovah. To this end, “Become Holy in All Your Conduct" is the theme discussed in the special assembly day program for the 1991 service year.—1 Pet. 1:15.

• ² Since Jehovah’s righteous principles and laws originate with him as the Holy God, the righteous standing we enjoy is a direct result of our close, personal relationship with him. Consequently, the program will develop a number of ways to show how we can improve our relationship with God. These involve obedience to his holy standards, even in what might be considered little things. (Luke 16:10) We will be helped to cultivate a deeper appreciation for Jehovah's holy requirements and be reminded why these should influence all our thinking, attitudes, and ways.

• ³ Two principal discourses to be developed will be “Submitting to Being Progressively Cleansed” and “Expanding Activities of Jehovah’s Holy People.” As exciting world happenings daily impress upon our minds the urgency of our times, the special assembly day program for the new service year will motivate us to continue looking to Jehovah for direction and seeking to be well pleasing to him by conducting ourselves in holiness. —1 Pet. 1:14,16.

with difficult words he found when reading Examining the Scriptures booklet each day. One day he noticed that his booklet was missing. He later found out that his teacher had “borrowed" it for the day when she left school early because of sickness. She did not want to miss reading the text. This led to providing her with her own copy of Examining the Scriptures.

⁷ It is true that the new school year brings moments of apprehension and anxiety. However, a positive view along with diligent preparation will help both parents and youths to ‘brace up their minds for activity’ to Jehovah’s praise during the coming school year.—1 Pet. 1:13.

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