Our Kingdom Ministry

October 1994                     For United States of America                     Vol. 37, No. 10

Now Is the Time

• ¹ When the apostle Paul wrote his second letter to the Corinthians, he reminded them that they had resolved to do a fine relief work in behalf of their fellow believers in Jerusalem. However, a year had passed, and they had still not completed the work that was started. So he urged them: “Go on and finish it: be as eager to complete the scheme as you were to adopt it."—2 Cor. 8:11, The New English Bible.

• ² At one time or another, all of us have set goals for ourselves. We may have decided to increase our share in the field ministry, to get to know our brothers better, to qualify for a privilege of service, or to overcome some weakness. Although we started out with good intentions, we may not have followed through to achieve our goal. Before we realized it. weeks, months, or even years may have gone by without our making any headway. Could it be that we need to apply to ourselves the counsel to "go on and finish" what we started?

• ³ Achieving Our Goals: It is one thing to make a personal resolve but quite another to carry out that resolve. Procrastination can thwart any progress. We need to make up our mind and then be determined to push ahead without delay. Personal organization is essential. It is important to set aside the time needed to get the job done and to make sure the time is used for that purpose. It is a good idea to establish a deadline and then exercise selfdiscipline to make sure it is met.

* When we are hard-pressed to meet our goals, it is easy to reason: ‘I'll get to it later.' But we do not know what will happen in the future. Proverbs 27:1 states: “Do not make your boast about the next day, for you do not know what a day will give birth to.” The disciple James warned against being overconfident about the future because “you do not know what your life will be tomorrow. ... If one knows how to do what is right and yet does not do it, it is a sin for him."—Jas. 4:13-17.

• ⁵ With so many distractions as well as demands made by others, our goals can easily become obscured. A conscious effort is needed to keep them fresh in mind. Keeping the matter in our prayers is helpful. Asking others close to us to remind and encourage us may make a difference. Putting a notation on our calendar will serve as a reminder to check our progress. A person must make up his mind to “do just as he has resolved in his heart."—2 Cor. 9:7.

• ⁶ The month of October provides a fine opportunity to concentrate on our goals. We will be offering copies of The Watchtower and Awake! Subscriptions to these two magazines may be offered where there is genuine interest, usually on return visits. Could we set some reasonable goals to be achieved? How about trying to increase our magazine placements? Deciding to make more return visits and to start a new Bible study could be reasonable goals for many.

• ⁷ It is not wise to put off what is important, since this “world is passing away.” (1 John 2:17) Special privileges and blessings in Jehovah’s service are available to us now. It is up to us to take advantage of them.

  Seek First God’s Kingdom

  —By Always Offering Sacrifices of Praise

  
  

• ¹ Those who seek first the Kingdom are always mindful of speaking about Jehovah and talking about his Kingdom. (Ps. 145:11-13) Every day there are opportunities to bless his name and speak about the good news. (Ps. 96:2) Praising Jehovah was a delight to the psalmist who declared: “In God we will offer praise all day long." (Ps. 44:8) If we feel the same way, we will be eager to share regularly in the Kingdom ministry.

• ² Jehovah has not established specific requirements as to how much time we should spend in the ministry, but he encourages us to be praising him “always." (Heb. 13:15) If our personal circumstances permit, we should make it our goal to spend some time praising Jehovah every week. Those who are already doing that might be able to arrange their affairs to serve as an auxiliary pioneer occasionally or even on a continuous basis. Some who have been enjoying the auxiliary pioneer service may be able to enroll as regular pioneers.

’Whatever our personal circumstances, is it possible for us to increase our sacrifice of praise? Zeal is stimulated by appreciation. Personal study of God’s .Word cultivates appreciation. Congregation meetings motivate us to express that appreciation in practical ways. Close association with other zealous praisers can ‘incite us to fine works.’ (Heb. 10:24) By taking full advantage of provisions made by the congregation, we may be able to increase our sacrifice of praise.

• ⁴ The prophetess Anna set a fine example in Jehovah’s service. Although 84 years old, she “was never missing from the temple, rendering sacred service night and day." (Luke 2:37) Her whole-souled involvement in congregation activities brought her great personal satisfaction. The Bible account of her faithful service provides encouragement for us today.

• ⁵ Paul recommended that those “who are strong ought to bear the weaknesses of those not strong.” (Rom. 15:1) Likely there are some in your congregation who would benefit from your kind assistance and encouragement. An invitation to accompany you in the field ministry may be just what is needed. A publisher may need transportation or someone to work with. Discouragement may be a problem with someone else, and you may be the one who can provide the upbuilding support needed to revive the person’s zeal for Kingdom service. (1 Thess. 5:14) Your willingness to “share with the holy ones according to their needs" demonstrates your heartfelt desire to increase your praise to Jehovah’s name.—Rom. 12:13.

• ⁶ We cannot begin to enumerate all the things that Jehovah has already done and will yet do for us. There is no way we can repay him for these blessings. What overpowering reasons there are for ‘everything that breathes to praise Jehovah’!—Ps. 150:6.

  Service Meetings for October

  
  

Week Starting October 3

Song 203

to min: Local announcements and selected Announcements from Our Kingdom Ministry. Remind all to bring their copy of the brochure When Someone You Love Dies to next week’s Service Meeting.

17 min: “Now Is the Time." Questions and answers. Include comments on subheading “Pursue Spiritual Goals” on pages 4 and 5 of the November 1993 Our Kingdom Ministry.

18 min: “Be Magazine Conscious During October.” Discuss with audience. Have two well-prepared demonstrations showing how to use the magazines to start conversations. Stress importance of offering magazines at every door with the goal of starting and maintaining a magazine route.

Song 212 and concluding prayer.

Week Starting October 10

Song 104

10 min: Local announcements. Accounts report and any donation acknowledgments.

20 min: “Parents—Be Supportive!” Talk by an elder based on first three articles in August 8.1994, Awake! Make local application of material. Briefly interview a parent who may have had experience speaking with teachers or school officials. Emphasize how parents can be supportive of their children.

15 min: “Using the New Brochure Effectively.” Discuss article with audience. Point out features of the brochure, and give suggestions showing how it can be used in comforting the bereaved. Song 108 and concluding prayer.

Week Starting October 17

Song 194

10 min: Local announcements. Theocratic News.

July Service report

Number of:		Av. Hrs.	Av. Mags.	Av. R V.	Av. Bi.St.
Sp'l Pios.	172	116.2	66.4	47.7	5.3
Pios.	69,815	69.2	29.0	21.8	2.4
Aux. Pios.	27,771	59.2	23.6	12.5	1.1
Pubs.	799,765	10.2	5.7	3.6	0.4

TOTAL 897,523 Baptized 8,481

15 min: Let Us Not Give Up in Doing What Is Fine. Talk by an elder. Spiritual fatigue can diminish our joy and zeal in Jehovah’s service. Review some ways to renew our spiritual strength using suggestions offered in January 15, 1986, Watchtower, page 19 (box). Stress wholehearted support of congregation activities.

20 min: “Lovingly Help Those Who Show Interest." Discuss with audience. Arrange for two demonstrations using the suggested presentations. Explain what is recommended in regard to offering subscriptions. Usually it is best to wait until you have made one or more return visits. There should be evidence of genuine interest. Start with a six-month subscription. If the interest is questionable, deliver the magazines personally until there is a more positive response.

Song 156 and concluding prayer.

Week Starting October 24

Song 141

12 min: Local announcements. Review “We Will Study the Revelation Climax Book Again." Remind all of the importance of studying the lessons in advance and attending regularly.

15 min: Do You Have a Standing Order? The Watchtower and Awake! magazines are tremendous aids in spreading the Kingdom message. We should offer them at every opportunity. The March 1984 Our Kingdom Ministry recommended that each publisher have “a definite magazine order ... for a set number of copies of each issue.” Otherwise we may find that we have no current issues to offer and have to rely on tracts or brochures. Good for each family member to have a standing order. Place orders at magazine counter. Be sure to pick magazines up each week. Tactfully inform householder that we accept a modest contribution for our worldwide work; make sure it is placed in the appropriate box at the Kingdom

THEOCRATIC NEWS

Haiti: May was an outstanding month with a new peak of 9,188 publishers, a 13-percent increase over last year’s average.

Italy: There was a new peak of 205,128 publishers in May. This was 1,499 more than the previous publisher peak just one month earlier.

Hall. Mention benefits that come from having a standing order.

18 min: “Seek First God’s Kingdom —By Always Offering Sacrifices of Praise.” Questions and answers. Mention some beneficial goals that we might strive for personally. Discuss ways we may be able to help others to do more. Song 171 and concluding prayer.

Week Starting October 31

Song 169

12 min: Local announcements. With worldly holidays coming up in November and December, encourage all to think about enrolling as auxiliary pioneers. Give some suggestions on how we might find enough time to do it.

15 min: Local needs. Or have an elder give a talk on the article “Can You Exercise Patience?" in the May 15, 1994, Watchtower, pages 21-3.

is min: Offer the New World Translation in November. Since most people already have a Bible, we need to show why the New World Translation is superior. Refer to the book “AU Scripture Is Inspired of God and Beneficial" (pages 327-8, pars. 1-6). Explain why Jehovah’s name is used, and give some examples showing the advantages of using modem language. Point out helpful features in the back of the Bible, such as “Bible Words Indexed,” which can be used to locate familiar texts quickly. The “Table of the Books of the Bible” shows who wrote each book and where and when it was written, as well as the time period covered. Refer to Reasoning book (page 59, subheading “Bible prophecy explains the meaning of world conditions”), and discuss how you might start a Scriptural conversation based on John 17:3 and Psalm 37:10, 11,29. Arrange for capable publisher to demonstrate how the New World Translation and the book The Bible—God’s Word or Man’s? might be presented in local territory.

Song 136 and concluding prayer.

Congregation Book Study
Schedule for congregation studies in the book Revelation—Its Grand Climax At Handl
	From:	To:
October 3:	p. 6,111	p. 8,119
October 10:	p. 9,111	p. 11,1114
October 17:	p. 12,1115	p. 14,1126
October 24:	p. 15,1)1	p. 17,1111
October 31:	p. 18,111	p. 21,1111

Announcements

■ Literature to be used during October! Copies of The Watchtower and Awake! will be featured. Subscriptions may be offered on return visits. November: New World Translation of the Holy Scriptures with the book The Bible—God’s Word or Man’s? December: The Greatest Man Who Ever Lived. January: Any 192-page book published prior to 1982 that the congregation may have in stock. Congregations that do not have the older publications in stock will offer True Peace and Security—How Can You Find It? NOTE: Congregations that have not yet requested the above-mentioned campaign items should do so on their next

• ¹ At our recent district convention, we were very pleased to receive the new brochure When Someone You Love Dies. It should appeal to people in all walks of life, since so many have grieved over the loss of a loved one. Its eye-catching photographs and illustrations should make it easy to place. On page 29 the dramatic painting of Lazarus being raised from the dead shows Jesus' “intense desire to undo the ravages of death.” The next fullpage illustration depicts a Joyful resurrection scene in the new world. How this should warm the hearts of those who grieve!

• ² This brochure can be a tremendous help in comforting the bereaved. It is designed for conversational discussion. Questions to bring out the highlights appear in a box at the end of each section rather than at the bottom of each page. You can use these “Questions to Ponder" in whatever way you feel will be most helpful to your student.

• ³ When making calls, be selective in discussing points that are found in the brochure. You might feel that it would be appropriate to show the table of contents on page 2 and ask the householder to indicate what interests him. Be sensitive to the needs of each individual. Let him express his feelings, and then show how the brochure offers comfort. Every section makes liberal use monthly Literature Request Form (S<d)-14). Older publications referred to above are not available in Brooklyn. ■ The Insert In this issue of Our Kingdom Ministry is the “Theocratic Ministry School Schedule for 1995." It should be kept for reference throughout 1995.

■ Congregations should begin requesting Examining the Scriptures Daily—1995 with their October literature request. The booklets will be available in Arabic, Chinese, Chinese (Simplified), Croatian, Danish, Dutch, English, Finnish, French, German, Greek, Hungarian, Iloko, Italian, Japanese. Korean, Norwegian, Polish, Portuguese, Romanian, Russian. Samoan. Serbian, Spanish. Swedish. Tagalog, Turkish, Ukrainian, and Vietnamese.

of Bible texts that provide the basis for our hope.

* The subheading on page 5, “There Is a Real Hope,” highlights the comforting Bible-based hope for the dead. This should whet the appetite for discussion of "A Sure Hope for the Dead," found on pages 26-31. The box on page 27 supplies further “Texts That Comfort” A grieving householder will soon see that Jehovah is indeed “the God of all comfort.”—2 Cor. 1:3-7.

• ⁵ In a sensitive way, the intervening sections cover different reactions to the death of a loved one. They show how to cope with sorrow and how others can help in such distressing times. There is a box on page 25 entitled “Helping Children Deal With Death." This should be a real help to parents who have to cope with this problem.

• ⁶ Keep an extra copy at hand, and use it for informal witnessing. You may wish to visit local funeral homes in your territory to see if they would like to have copies on hand to comfort bereaved families. Or you might tactfully approach grieving ones in cemeteries on occasions when they return to visit the grave of a loved one.

’We rejoice that Jehovah is the God “who comforts those laid low." (2 Cor. 7:6) We count it a privilege to have a share in ‘comforting these mourning ones.'—Isa. 61:2.

Until these booklets are available and shipments are made, they will appear as “Pending” on congregation packing lists. Examining the Scriptures booklets are special-request items.

We Will Study the Revelation Climax Book Again

• ¹ The title page of the Revelation Climax book quotes Revelation 1:3: "Happy is he who reads aloud and those who hear the words of this prophecy." The happiness of Jehovah's people today has certainly been enhanced in great measure by the modern-day fulfillments of the prophecies contained in the Bible book of Revelation. Our present-day understanding of happenings in this, “the Lord’s day," is set out in Revelation—Its . Grand Climax At Hand! (Rev. 1:10) Through a study of it, we have gained insight into significant world events, especially those that involve the world empire of false religion and the onward march of nations to Armageddon as well as Jehovah's dealings with his people.

• ² For many of us. a study of this publication will not only refresh our minds on points previously considered but also sharpen our spiritual view of current developments leading up to Jehovah’s day of triumph over all his enemies. The thousands who have joined our ranks during the past two to three years will certainly benefit from this third consideration of the Revelation Climax book in the Congregation Book Study.

• ³ Be sure to prepare well, to be present, and to participate in a meaningful way each week, starting October 3, 1994. You will be richly rewarded and blessed as you discern more clearly the meaning of unfolding world events in the light of prophecy recorded in the book of Revelation. Surely, we need to consider seriously such material, since it is even more timely now than ever before. May we enjoy the promised happiness as we read, listen to. and meditate on this thrilling prophecy about our times!

  Be Magazine Conscious During October

  
  

• ¹ The Watchtower and Awake! con-<*tain the comforting and encouraging _? message of everlasting good news. Be-¹ ing magazine conscious involves taking time to read them carefully and to consider haw the articles may appeal to people in our territory.

• ² First, become familiar with the articles highlighted on the coyer. The cover illustrations themselves will often place the magazines. Pick out articles that you feel may appeal to the people In your territory. Are the people primarily of one religious faith? What are their major concerns? With these thoughts in mind, you should be able to prepare an effective presentation. Note those set out below.

• ³ If you are offering the October 1 “Watchtower,” you might feature the article “The Bible — What Is Its Real Value?” You could say:

■ “You can find a Bible in virtually every home in our community. Many who have one feel that it contains something of special value." Then you might ask a direct question, such as: “What do you think makes the Bible unique?" or. “What do you think will help more people benefit from the Bible?” Following the householder's response, you may be able to continue with appropriate remarks, such as: “There is overwhelming evidence to prove that the Bible is Inspired by God and is a reliable guide for us. It contains knowledge that can lead us to everlasting life. [Read John 17:3.) Many people respect it but do not, know how to use It, This article in The Watchtower explains how you personally can use the Bible to obtain answers to your questions about the future. I would like to leave this copy with you. If you enlov it. the next time I call. I will let you know how ybu can have The Watchtower sent to your home on a regular basis."

• ⁴ Using the October 15 “Watchtower,” you may prefer a simple approach like this:

■ “Almost everyone has lost a loved one in death. This article raises the question, 'What Is the Condition of the Dead?' What do you think happens when a person dies? [Allow for response.) If you would like to know how the Bible answers that question, I would be pleased to leave this copy of the magazine with you.” Have the tract What Hope for Dead Loved Ones? ready to offer if the householder prefers more concise material.

• ⁵ The October 22 “Awake!” examines another one of the many evidences showing the failure of false religion. Using the articles on “When Religion Takes Sides in War,” you could pose this question:

■ “If Jesus were here today, how do you think he would feel about all the violence around us? [Allow for response.) Jesus taught us to love everyone, even our enemies. Yet, many religions claiming to be Christian take sides in political conflicts. How do you think that affects people who want to live by what Jesus taught? [Allow for response.) This issue of Awake! discusses that question and explains how God's Kingdom will provide the answer."

• ⁶ Make it a pgijjt to offer “the magazines at every door, even if you are unable to discuss the Bible. Most people who accept the magazines are pleased to make a small contribution toward our worldwide Bible educational work. _____L__'b* rj i S_________I- ■ -

  Lovingly Help Those Who Show Interest

  
  

• ¹ When directed by Jehovah’s angel to an Ethiopian who showed sincere interest in God's Word of truth, the disciple Philip lovingly offered to help him understand what he was reading. (Acts 8: 26-39) Do we go out of our way to help those who show interest? We should, since our divine commission includes the making of disciples. (Matt. 28:19,20) What can we do to help them?

• ² Set aside time each week for making return visits. Arrange to call on those who showed interest, and try to resume the Scriptural discussion started on your initial visit. Have in mind the goal of starting a Bible study. Return regularly to offer the latest issues of The Watchtower and Awake! When genuine interest is found, you may offer subscriptions.

• ³ If you discussed the value of the Bible on your initial call, you might resume the conversation, using a suggestion from page 66 of the “Reasoning” book and say something like this:

■ “Some feel that the Bible’s advice is not practical in our modem world. How do you feel about that? [Allow for response.) Wouldn't you agree that a book providing sound counsel that can enable us to have a happy family life is practical? [Allow for comment.) Theories and practices involving family life have changed, and the results that we see today are not good. But families that apply what the Bible says are basically stable and happy." Read Colossians 3: 18-21. Offer the tract Why You Can Trust the Bible, and explain that we offer a free Bible study program.

• ⁴ You could initiate a discussion aboyt the condition of the dead in this way:

■ “There has been much talk about the condition of the dead. What do you think happens to us when we die? [Allow for response.) Most religions teach that we continue to exist in some other form. Many have been surprised to learn what the Bible says about this matter. [Read Ecclesiastes 9:5.) While the dead have no conscious existence, they have not been forgotten. God has promised to bring them back to life under the rule of his Kingdom." Turn to the October 15.1994, Watchtower or to page 162 in the Live Forever book, and discuss the scriptures and illustrations. Arrange for another return visit, with a view to starting a Bible study.

• ⁵ If you wish to give further explanation about the Christian view of warfare among the nations, you may want to say something like this:

■ “Some believe that fighting is the only way to settle disputes. How do you feel about that? [Allow for response.) The Bible shows that God wants people to live together in peace. [Read Romans 12: 17,18.] That will become a reality worldwide under the rule of God's Kingdom.” Refer to the brochure Does God Really Care About Us?, pages 25-6. Offer to return to explain why Jesus taught us to pray for 'God’s will to be done on earth as it is in heaven.’—Matt. 6:10.

• ⁶ The Ethiopian eunuch acknowledged his inability to understand without someone to guide him. (Acts 8:31) Philip lovingly gave him the help he needed. We can show our genuine love for others by helping them in the same way.

© 1994 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 of New York. Inc., and International Bible Students Association. 25 Columbia Heights. Brooklyn. NY 11201-2483. Second-class postage paid at Brooklyn. N.Y. and at additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Watchtower. 25 Columbia Heights. Brooklyn. NY 11201-2483.            Printed in U.S.A

Theocratic Ministry School Schedule for 1995

INSTRUCTIONS

During 1995 the following will be the arrangements when conducting the Theocratic Ministry School.

TEXTBOOKS: The New World Translation of the Holy Scriptures [bi12], Jehovah’s Witnesses— Proclaimers of God’s Kingdom [jv], “All Scripture Is Inspired of God and Beneficial” (1990 Edition) [si], The Greatest Man Who Ever Lived [gt], “Bible Topics for Discussion” as found in the New World Translation [*td], and United in Worship of the Only True God [uw] will be the basis for assignments.

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

ASSIGNMENT NO. 1: 15 minutes. This talk should be handled by an elder or a ministerial servant, and it will be based on Jehovah’s Witnesses—Proclaimers of God’s Kingdom or “All Scripture Is Inspired of God and Beneficial.” When based on the Proclaimers book, this assignment should be delivered as a 15-minute instruction talk with no oral review; when based on the “All Scripture” book, it should be delivered as a 10- to 12-minute instruction talk with a 3- to 5-minute oral review following, using the printed questions in the publication. The objective should be not just to cover the material but to focus attention on the practical value of the information being discussed, highlighting what will be most helpful to the congregation. The theme shown should be used. Illustrations, photographs, and charts found in the Proclaimers book may be commented on by the speaker and used as teaching aids. All are encouraged to make careful advance preparation so as to benefit fully from this material.

The brothers assigned this talk should be careful to keep within the time limit. Private counsel may be given if necessary or if requested in advance by the speaker.

HIGHLIGHTS FROM BIBLE READING: 6 minutes. This should be handled by the school overseer or by another elder or ministerial servant who will effectively apply the material to local needs. This should not be just a summary of the assigned reading. Limit the overall review of the assigned chapters to 30 to 60 seconds. The principal objective is to help the audience to appreciate why and how the information is of value to us. The students will then be dismissed to their various classrooms by the school overseer.

TALK NO. 2: 5 minutes. This is a Bible reading of the assigned material to be given by a brother. This will apply in the main school as well as in the auxiliary groups. The reading assignments are usually short enough to permit the student to present brief explanatory information in the opening and concluding remarks. Historical background, prophetic or doctrinal significance, and application of principles may be included. All the assigned verses should actually be read without a break. Of course, where the verses to be read are not consecutive, the student may cite the verse where the reading continues.

TALK NO. 3: 5 minutes. This talk will be assigned to sisters. The subjects for this talk will be based on the book The Greatest Man Who Ever Lived or “Bible Topics for Discussion” as found in the New World Translation. The student assigned should be able to read. 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. Sisters assigned this talk will need to adapt the theme and the material to be considered to a practical setting, preferably one that involves field service or informal witnessing. Not the setting but the effective use of the material should be given prime consideration.

TALK NO. 4: 5 minutes. Assigned to a brother or a sister. It will be based on United in Worship of the Only True God. When assigned to a brother, this should be a talk to the entire audience. It will usually be best for the brother 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. When assigned to a sister, 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, not necessarily following the program of progressive counsel outlined on the Speech Counsel slip. Rather, he should concentrate on those areas where the student needs to improve. If the student speaker merits solely a “G” and there is no other speech quality marked “I” or “W,” then the counselor should circle the box, where the “G,” “I,” or “W” would normally appear, of the speech quality that the student should work on next. He will advise the student of this that evening as well as show this speech quality on the student’s next Theocratic Ministry School Assignment slip (S-89). Those giving talks should sit toward the front of the hall. This will save time and enable the school overseer to give his counsel directly to each student. As time allows after the giving of necessary oral counsel, comments may be given by the counselor on informative and practical points not covered by the students. The school overseer should be careful to use no more than a total of two minutes for counsel and any other brief remarks after each student talk. If the Bible highlights presentation left something to be desired, private counsel may be given.

PREPARING TALKS: Before preparing an assigned talk, the student should read carefully the School Guidebook material dealing with the speech quality to be worked on. Students assigned the second talk may choose a theme appropriate to the portion of the Bible that is to be read. Other talks will be developed in line with the theme shown on the printed schedule.

TIMING: No talk should go overtime, nor should the counsel and remarks of the counselor. Talks No. 2 through 4 should tactfully be stopped when the time is up. The one assigned to give the stop signal should do so promptly. When brothers handling Assignment No. 1 and Bible highlights go overtime, they should be given private counsel. All should watch their timing carefully. Total program: 45 minutes, excluding song and prayer.

WRITTEN REVIEW: 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-minute review. The balance of the time will be devoted to a discussion of the questions and answers. Each student will check his own paper. The school overseer will consider with the audience the answers to the review questions and concentrate on the more difficult ones, helping all to understand the answers clearly. If, for some reason, local circumstances make it necessary, the written review may be given a week later than what is shown on the schedule.

LARGE CONGREGATIONS: Congregations with a school enrollment of 50 or more students may wish to arrange for additional groups of students to deliver the scheduled talks before other counselors. Of course, unbaptized persons whose lives conform to Christian principles may also enroll in the school and receive assignments.

ABSENTEES: All in the congregation can show appreciation for this school by endeavoring to be present 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.

SCHEDULE

*td- “Bible Topics for Discussion” as found in the New World Translation

Jan. 2 Bible reading: Psalm 119:113-176

Song No. 160

No. 1: Integrity-Keeping Witnesses to Jehovah’s Rightful Sovereignty (jv p. 10-p. 13 par. 2)

No. 2: Psalm 119:161-176

No. 3: Why Jesus Was Called “The Man” (gt chap. 123)

No. 4: Identifying the Great Crowd (uw pp. 103-4 pars. 1-4)

Jan. 9 Bible reading: Psalms 120 to 130

Song No. 163

No. 1: Early Witnesses Who Proved Loyal to Jehovah (jv p. 13 par. 3-p. 18)

No. 2: Psalm 122:1-123:4

No. 3: Why Pilate Feared Jesus (gt chap. 124)

No. 4: Traits the Other Sheep Must Manifest (uw p. 105 par. 5)

Jan. 16 Bible reading: Psalms 131 to 136

Song No. 105

No. 1: Jesus Christ, the Faithful Witness (jv p. 19-p. 20 par. 3)

No. 2: Psalm 132:1-18

No. 3: Evidences of Jesus’ Love for Humankind (gt chap. 125)

No. 4: Why the Great Crowd Survives the Great Tribulation (uw pp. 106-7 pars. 6-8)

Jan. 23 Bible reading: Psalms 137 to 140

Song No. 220

No. 1: Jesus Loyally Bore Witness to God’s Name and Kingdom (jv p. 20 par. 4-p. 25)

No. 2: Psalm 137:1-138:8

No. 3: How Jesus Was Exemplary to the End (gt chap. 126)

No. 4: Why We Treasure Our Spiritual Paradise (uw pp. 107-9 pars. 9-13)

Jan. 30 Bible reading: Psalms 141 to 145

Song No. 165

No. 1: Psalms—Why Beneficial—Part 1 (si pp. 104-5 pars. 23-7)

No. 2: Psalm 144:1-15

No. 3: Why Jesus’ Burial and an Empty Tomb Interest Us (gt chap. 127)

No. 4: Why So Few Kingdom Heirs on Earth Today? (uw pp. 110-12 pars. 1-7)

Feb. 6 Bible reading: Psalms 146 to 150

Song No. 102

No. 1: Psalms—Why Beneficial—Part 2 (si pp. 105-6 pars. 28-32)

No. 2: Psalm 148:1-14

No. 3: The Joy of Jesus’ Resurrection (gt chap. 128)

No. 4: How Do They Know They Are Spiritual Sons? (uw pp. 112-13 pars. 8-10)

Feb. 13 Bible reading: Proverbs 1 and 2

Song No. 144

No. 1: Introduction to Proverbs—Part 1 (si pp. 106-7 pars. 1-5)

No. 2: Proverbs 2:1-19

No. 3: How Faith in the Resurrection Is Fortified (gt chap. 129)

No. 4: The Memorial Celebration Is Not an Empty Religious Ritual (uw pp. 114-16 pars. 11-14)

Feb. 20 Bible reading: Proverbs 3 and 4

Song No. 89

No. 1: Introduction to Proverbs—Part 2 (si pp. 107-8 pars. 6-11)

No. 2: Proverbs 3:1-18

No. 3: Jesus Explains How to Show Love (gt chap. 130)

No. 4: Identifying Jehovah’s Visible Organization (uw pp. 117-18 pars. 1-3)

Feb. 27 Bible reading: Proverbs 5 and 6

Song No. 38

No. 1: Christian Witnesses of Jehovah in the First Century (jv p. 26-p. 28 par. 3)

No. 2: Proverbs 6:1-19

No. 3: How Jesus Fortifies His Disciples (gt chap. 131)

No. 4: God’s Organization Is Theocratic (uw pp. 118-20 pars. 4-7)

Mar. 6 Bible reading: Proverbs 7 and 8

Song No. 65

No. 1: Organization of the Christian Congregation (jv p. 28 par. 4-p. 29 par. 4)

No. 2: Proverbs 8:22-36

No. 3: What Jesus Does at God’s Right Hand (gt chap. 132)

No. 4: The Scriptural Role of the Governing Body (uw pp. 120-22 pars. 8-12)

Mar. 13 Bible reading: Proverbs 9 and 10

Song No. 127

No. 1: Identifying Characteristics of the Christian Congregation (jv p. 29 par. 5-p. 32)

No. 2: Proverbs 10:16-32

No. 3: Why Jesus Was the Greatest Man Who Ever Lived (gt chap. 133)

No. 4: Analyzing Our Appreciation for God’s Organization (uw pp. 123-4 pars. 13, 14)

Mar. 20 Bible reading: Proverbs 11 and 12

Song No. 42

No. 1: The Great Apostasy Develops (jv p. 33-p. 37 par. 1)

No. 2: Proverbs 11:1-14

No. 3: Why Everyone Should Read the Greatest Man Book (gt—Prepare from introductory material in book.)

No. 4: Why Listen to Counsel? (uw pp. 125-7 pars. 1-4)

Mar. 27 Bible reading: Proverbs 13 and 14

Song No. 77

No. 1: Turning Away From Christ’s Pure Teachings (jv p. 37 par. 2-p. 41)

No. 2: Proverbs 14:1-16

No. 3: *td 32A Man Is Not Predestinated

No. 4: Fine Examples of Those Who Accepted Counsel (uw pp. 127-8 pars. 5, 6)

Apr. 3 Bible reading: Proverbs 15 and 16

Song No. 26

No. 1: A Search for Truth (jv p. 42-p. 46 par. 1)

No. 2: Proverbs 15:1-16

No. 3: *td 33A Jesus’ Human Life Was a Ransom for All

No. 4: Cultivate Priceless Qualities (uw pp. 128-30 pars. 7-11)

Apr. 10 Bible reading: Proverbs 17 and 18

Song No. 187

No. 1: Proclaiming the Lord’s Return (jv p. 46 par. 2-p. 51 par. 3)

No. 2: Proverbs 18:1-15

No. 3: *td 33B Why Jesus Could Pay the Ransom

No. 4: Do Not Reject Jehovah’s Discipline (uw pp. 130-1 pars. 12-14)

Apr. 17 Bible reading: Proverbs 19 and 20

Song No. 200

No. 1: Out Of Babylon Into Spiritual Refreshment (jv p. 51 par. 4-p. 55 par. 4)

No. 2: Proverbs 19:8-23

No. 3: *td 34A How to Identify the One True Religion

No. 4: Love Identifies True Christians (uw pp. 132-3 pars. 1-5)

Apr. 24 Written Review. Complete Psalm 119:113 to Proverbs 20

Song No. 155

May 1 Bible reading: Proverbs 21 and 22

Song No. 6

No. 1: Intensifying the Proclamation of the Lord’s Return (jv p. 55 par. 5-p. 60)

No. 2: Proverbs 22:1-16

No. 3: *td 34B Is It Wrong to Condemn False Teachings?

No. 4: What to Do When Problems Arise (uw p. 134 pars. 6-9)

May 8 Bible reading: Proverbs 23 and 24

Song No. 91

No. 1: Great Expectations (jv p. 61-p. 64 par. 2)

No. 2: Proverbs 24:1-16

No. 3: *td 34C When God Approves of a Change of Religion

No. 4: Handle Problems Scripturally (uw pp. 135-6 pars. 10-13)

May 15 Bible reading: Proverbs 25 and 26

Song No. 123

No. 1: A Change in Administration (jv p. 64 par. 3-p. 69 par. 2)

No. 2: Proverbs 25:1-13

No. 3: *td 34D Does God See “Good in All Religions”?

No. 4: Seek Ways to “Widen Out” (uw pp. 137-8 pars. 14-17)

May 22 Bible reading: Proverbs 27 and 28

Song No. 95

No. 1: Proverbs—Why Beneficial—Part 1 (si pp. 109-10 pars. 19-28)

No. 2: Proverbs 28:1-14

No. 3: *td 35A Who Will Be Raised From the Dead?

No. 4: Practice Godly Devotion at Home (uw p. 139 pars. 1, 2)

May 29 Bible reading: Proverbs 29 to 31

Song No. 117

No. 1: Proverbs—Why Beneficial—Part 2 (si pp. 110-11 pars. 29-38)

No. 2: Proverbs 31:10-31

No. 3: *td 35B Where Will the Dead Be Resurrected?

No. 4: What the Bible Says About Marriage, Divorce, and Separation (uw p. 140 par. 3)

June 5 Bible reading: Ecclesiastes 1 to 3

Song No. 35

No. 1: Introduction to Ecclesiastes (si pp. 112-13 pars. 1-8)

No. 2: Ecclesiastes 3:1-9, 18-22

No. 3: *td 36A The Return of Christ Is Invisible

No. 4: Key Factors in Successful Marriage (uw pp. 140-1 pars. 4, 5)

June 12 Bible reading: Ecclesiastes 4 to 6

Song No. 177

No. 1: A Time of Testing (jv p. 69 par. 3-p. 71)

No. 2: Ecclesiastes 5:1-8, 18-20

No. 3: *td 36B The Return of Christ Is Discerned by Physical Facts

No. 4: Fulfill Your Role in God’s Family Arrangement (uw pp. 142-3 pars. 6-10)

June 19 Bible reading: Ecclesiastes 7 to 9

Song No. 180

No. 1: Out Of Prison and On With the Work (jv p. 72-p. 77 par. 3)

No. 2: Ecclesiastes 7:1-12

No. 3: *td 37A Christians Are Not Obligated to Keep the Sabbath

No. 4: Let the Bible Be Your Source of Counsel (uw p. 144 pars. 11-13)

June 26 Bible reading: Ecclesiastes 10 to 12

Song No. 107

No. 1: Ecclesiastes—Why Beneficial (si p. 114 pars. 15-19)

No. 2: Ecclesiastes 12:1-14

No. 3: *td 37B The Sabbath Law Was Not Given to Christians

No. 4: Why the Mosaic Law Interests Us (uw pp. 146-7 pars. 1-4)

July 3 Bible reading: Song of Solomon 1 to 4

Song No. 11

No. 1: Introduction to Song of Solomon (si p. 115 pars. 1-4)

No. 2: Song of Solomon 2:1-14

No. 3: *td 37C When God’s Sabbath Rest Begins and Ends

No. 4: Scriptural Reasons Why We Are Not Under the Mosaic Law (uw pp. 147-8 pars. 5, 6)

July 10 Bible reading: Song of Solomon 5 to 8

Song No. 205

No. 1: Song of Solomon—Why Beneficial (si p. 117 pars. 16-18)

No. 2: Song of Solomon 8:1-14

No. 3: *td 38A God Gives Salvation Only Through Christ

No. 4: Faith Is Vital for Forgiveness and Salvation (uw pp. 148-50 pars. 7-10)

July 17 Bible reading: Isaiah 1 to 3

Song No. 114

No. 1: Introduction to Isaiah (si pp. 118-19 pars. 1-8)

No. 2: Isaiah 1:1-13

No. 3: *td 38B “Once Saved, Always Saved” Is Not Scriptural

No. 4: Benefits From Knowing the Law (uw pp. 150-1 pars. 11-13; p. 153 par. 14)

July 24 Bible reading: Isaiah 4 to 7

Song No. 151

No. 1: Advertise the King and the Kingdom (jv p. 77 par. 4-p. 83 par. 2)

No. 2: Isaiah 6:1-13

No. 3: *td 38C “Universal Salvation” Is Not Scriptural

No. 4: Basic Principles in the Mosaic Law: “Responsibilities Toward God” (uw p. 152)

July 31 Bible reading: Isaiah 8 to 10

Song No. 92

No. 1: Fearless Proclaimers of Kingdom Truth (jv p. 83 par. 3-p. 89)

No. 2: Isaiah 9:1-12

No. 3: *td 39A What Sin Is

No. 4: Basic Principles in the Mosaic Law: “Forbidden Religious Practices” (uw p. 152)

Aug. 7 Bible reading: Isaiah 11 to 13

Song No. 129

No. 1: Declaring the Good News Without Letup (jv p. 90-p. 94 par. 5)

No. 2: Isaiah 11:1-10

No. 3: *td 39B Why All Humans Suffer From Adam’s Sin

No. 4: Basic Principles in the Mosaic Law: “Marriage and Family Life” (uw p. 152)

Aug. 14 Bible reading: Isaiah 14 to 17

Song No. 133

No. 1: Qualified Teachers Carry the Good News Into Many Lands (jv p. 94 par. 6-p. 98 par. 3)

No. 2: Isaiah 14:3-20

No. 3: *td 39C What Was the Forbidden Fruit?

No. 4: Basic Principles in the Mosaic Law: “Duties Involving Other Persons” (uw p. 152)

Aug. 21 Bible reading: Isaiah 18 to 22

Song No. 53

No. 1: Theocracy’s Increase (jv p. 98 par. 4-p. 102 par. 3)

No. 2: Isaiah 21:1-17

No. 3: *td 39D What Is Sin Against the Holy Spirit?

No. 4: Life and Blood Are Sacred (uw pp. 154-6 pars. 1-6)

Aug. 28 Written Review. Complete Proverbs 21 to Isaiah 22

Song No. 181

Sept. 4 Bible reading: Isaiah 23 to 26

Song No. 174

No. 1: Well Equipped to Proclaim the Good News (jv p. 103 par. 1-p. 107)

No. 2: Isaiah 25:1-12

No. 3: *td 40A What Is the Soul?

No. 4: The Medical Use of Blood and a Christian’s Responsibility (uw pp. 156-8 pars. 7-9)

Sept. 11. Bible reading: Isaiah 27 to 29

Song No. 29

No. 1: Jehovah’s Word Keeps Moving Speedily (jv p. 108-p. 112 par. 4)

No. 2: Isaiah 28:1-13

No. 3: *td 40B How Do the Soul and the Spirit Differ?

No. 4: How Serious Is the Sacredness of Blood? (uw pp. 159-60 pars. 10-12)

Sept. 18 Bible reading: Isaiah 30 to 33

Song No. 30

No. 1: A People Zealous for Fine Works (jv p. 112 par. 5-p. 117)

No. 2: Isaiah 32:1-8, 16-20

No. 3: *td 41A What Is the Holy Spirit?

No. 4: True Christians Are No Part of the World (uw pp. 161-3 pars. 1-6)

Sept. 25 Bible reading: Isaiah 34 to 37

Song No. 111

No. 1: Growing in Knowledge of God and of His Word (jv p. 120-p. 126 par. 2)

No. 2: Isaiah 35:1-10

No. 3: *td 41B The Life-Force of Man and Beast Is Called Spirit

No. 4: What Being No Part of the World Requires of Christians (uw pp. 163-5 pars. 7-10)

Oct. 2 Bible reading: Isaiah 38 to 40

Song No. 218

No. 1: Appreciation for the Truth About Death and the Ransom (jv p. 126 par. 3-p. 132 par. 1)

No. 2: Isaiah 40:12-26

No. 3: *td 41C Why Shun All Forms of Spiritism?

No. 4: Christian Neutrality in the Time of the End (uw pp. 165-8 pars. 11-16)

Oct. 9 Bible reading: Isaiah 41 to 43

Song No. 195

No. 1: Discerning the Manner and the Time of the Lord’s Return (jv p. 132 par. 2-p. 137)

No. 2: Isaiah 43:1-15

No. 3: *td 42A Why Jehovah Cannot Be Part of a Trinity

No. 4: Continue to Speak God’s Word With Boldness (uw pp. 169-70 pars. 1-4)

Oct. 16 Bible reading: Isaiah 44 to 46

Song No. 85

No. 1: What Would the Setting Up of God’s Kingdom Mean? (jv p. 138-p. 142 par. 2)

No. 2: Isaiah 46:1-13

No. 3: *td 42B The Son Is Not Equal to the Father

No. 4: How We Rely on Jehovah for Strength (uw pp. 170-1 pars. 5-7)

Oct. 23 Bible reading: Isaiah 47 to 49

Song No. 191

No. 1: The Means by Which Jehovah’s Servants Are Taught (jv p. 142 par. 3-p. 148)

No. 2: Isaiah 48:1-11, 16-19

No. 3: *td 42C How God and Christ Are One

No. 4: Benefiting From the Apostles’ Example (uw p. 172 par. 8)

Oct. 30 Bible reading: Isaiah 50 to 53

Song No. 113

No. 1: How We Came to Be Known as Jehovah’s Witnesses (jv p. 149-p. 156 par. 3)

No. 2: Isaiah 52:1-15

No. 3: *td 42D The Holy Spirit Is Not a Person

No. 4: Preaching With Boldness and Discernment (uw pp. 173-5 pars. 9-13)

Nov. 6 Bible reading: Isaiah 54 to 57

Song No. 222

No. 1: Jehovah’s Witnesses—The Responsibility That Goes With the Name (jv p. 156 par. 4-p. 158)

No. 2: Isaiah 55:1-13

No. 3: *td 43A God Is Not Responsible for World Distress

No. 4: Why Keep Close in Mind That Jehovah’s Day Is Near? (uw pp. 176-7 pars. 1-4)

Nov. 13 Bible reading: Isaiah 58 to 62

Song No. 193

No. 1: Preaching With What Objective (From 1879 to 1925)? (jv p. 159-p. 163 par. 2)

No. 2: Isaiah 60:4-17

No. 3: *td 43B Why God Has Permitted Wickedness

No. 4: Keep Alert to Events Fulfilling the Sign (uw pp. 178-9 pars. 5, 6)

Nov. 20 Bible reading: Isaiah 63 to 66

Song No. 211

No. 1: Isaiah—Why Beneficial (si p. 123 pars. 34-39)

No. 2: Isaiah 65:11-25

No. 3: *td 43C God Manifests His Great Mercy

No. 4: The Great Separating Work—Evidence That the End Is Near (uw pp. 179-81 pars. 7-10)

Nov. 27 Bible reading: Jeremiah 1 to 3

Song No. 70

No. 1: Introduction to Jeremiah (si p. 124 pars. 1-5)

No. 2: Jeremiah 1:4-19

No. 3: *td 43D God’s Kingdom Is the Only Remedy

No. 4: What Lies Ahead Before Jehovah’s Day Begins? (uw pp. 181-3 pars. 11-14)

Dec. 4 Bible reading: Jeremiah 4 to 6

Song No. 127

No. 1: Identifying the Great Crowd (jv p. 163 par. 3-p. 170 par. 1)

No. 2: Jeremiah 5:1-14

No. 3: *td 44A All True Christians Must Bear Witness to the Truth

No. 4: Jehovah’s Wise and Loving Purpose (uw pp. 184-5 pars. 1-5)

Dec. 11 Bible reading: Jeremiah 7 to 9

Song No. 123

No. 1: Zeal in an Urgent Work Calls Forth God’s Blessing (jv p. 170 par. 2-p. 171)

No. 2: Jeremiah 9:12-26

No. 3: *td 44B Why We Keep Calling on People

No. 4: Jehovah Unifies His People (uw pp. 186-7 pars. 6-9)

Dec. 18 Bible reading: Jeremiah 10 to 12

Song No. 191

No. 1: Recognized by Our Holding to the Bible’s Moral Standards (jv p. 172-p. 178 par. 3)

No. 2: Jeremiah 10:6-15, 22-25

No. 3: *td 44C Witnessing Frees Us From Bloodguilt

No. 4: Human Creation Will Be Set Free (uw pp. 188-91 pars. 10-17)

Dec. 25 Written Review. Complete Isaiah 23 to Jeremiah 12

Song No. 217