Our kingdom ministry

JANUARY 2012

WEEK STARTING JANUARY 9

Song 53 and Prayer

Q Congregation Bible Study:

bt chap. 15 ^8-12, box on p. 118 (25 min.)

Q Theocratic Ministry School:

Bible reading: Isaiah 29-33 (10 min.)

No. 1: Isaiah 30:15-26 (4 min. or less)

No. 2: Were Humans Made to Live Briefly and Then Die?—rs p. 245 fl1-p. 246 ^2 (5 min.)

No. 3: How Can Imperfect Humans Sanctify Jehovah’s Name?—Matt. 6:9 (5 min.)

Q Service Meeting:

Song 61

5 min: Announcements.

10 min: Preach to Those Who Speak Another Language. Talk explaining how to use the booklet Good News for People of All Nations. Have a demonstration showing how to use the booklet.

10 min: Evidence of the Bible’s Inspiration. Discussion based on the Reasoning book, page 60, paragraph 3, to page 64, paragraph 3.

10 min: “Direct Your Blows Wisely.” Questions and answers. When considering paragraph 2, briefly interview the service overseer regarding where people can be found in the local territory during various times of the day and days of the week.

Song 115 and Prayer

Direct Your Blows Wisely

¹ The apostle Paul wrote: “The way I am running is not uncertainly; the way I am directing my blows is so as not to be striking the air.” (1 Cor. 9:26) Paul was referring to his single-mindedness and sharp focus in pursuing spiritual goals. However, in principle, these words also apply to the minis-

• 1. First Corinthians 9:26 has what application to the ministry?

try. We want to direct our “blows,” or efforts, wisely so that they will accomplish the most good. How?

• ² Go Where the People Are: Paul and other first-century evangelizers preached where they expected people to be. (Acts 5: 42; 16:13; 17:17) So if many in our territory are at home in the evening, this may be the best time to go from house to house. Is the local bus or train station busy in the early mornings and late afternoons when people are going to work or returning home? When are the shopping areas in the territory filled with people? Street witnessing may be most productive during these times.

• ³ Work the Territory Wisely: Care should also be taken to direct our blows wisely in the way we work our territory. For example, instead of taking a very large group into the same area, where much time and effort will be required to keep the group organized and busy, it may be better to divide the group. Similarly, when working rural territory, we will cover the territory faster and have more opportunities to speak if car groups are not too large. Could we obtain a personal territory near our home, which would reduce the time needed for travel?

• ⁴ Jesus likened evangelizers to “fishers of men.” (Mark 1:17) A fisherman’s objective is not simply to fish but to catch fish. Therefore, successful fishermen go where and when they expect to find fish, and they begin fishing without delay. Yes, they direct their efforts wisely. May we show similar industriousness in our ministry.—Heb. 6:11.

• 2. How can we imitate Paul and other first-century evangelizers in selecting when and where to preach?

• 3. How can we direct our blows wisely in the way we work our territory?

• 4. What will help us to be successful “fishers of men”?

WEEK STARTING JANUARY 16

Song 98 and Prayer

Q Congregation Bible Study:

bt chap. 15 box on p. 121 (25 min.)

Q Theocratic Ministry School:

Bible reading: Isaiah 34-37 (10 min.)

No. 1: Isaiah 35:1-10 (4 min. or less)

No. 2: Jehovah Is Deserving of OurTrust—Ps. 25:1-5 (5 min.)

No. 3: On What Basis Can We Hope to Live Forever?—rs p. 246 fl5-7 (5 min.)

Q Service Meeting:

Song 2

5 min: Announcements.

15 min: Discern the Questioner’s Viewpoint. Talk based on the Ministry School book, page 66, paragraph 1, to page 68, paragraph 3. Have a brief demonstration of a publisher soliloquizing about the likely views and concerns of a householder who has just asked a question; the publisher then gives a good reply.

15 min: Maintain Your Conduct Fine Among the Nations. (1 Pet. 2:12) Discussion based on the 2011 Yearbook, page 124, paragraphs 1-2, and page 150, paragraphs 1-6. Invite audience to comment on the lessons learned.

Song 97 and Prayer

WEEK STARTING JANUARY 23

Song 89 and Prayer

Q Congregation Bible Study:

bt chap. 15 fl13-20 (25 min.)

Q Theocratic Ministry School:

Bible reading: Isaiah 38-42 (10 min.)

No. 1: Isaiah 39:1-40:5 (4 min. or less)

No. 2: How Will Prospects for Future Life Be Realized?—rs p. 246 fl8-p. 247 fl1 (5 min.) No. 3: The Superiority of Divine Education —Phil. 3:8 (5 min.)

Q Service Meeting:

Song 69

10 min: Announcements. Mention the literature offer for February, and have one or two presentations demonstrated.

10 min: What Do We Learn? Discussion. Have Mark 10:17-30 read. Consider how these verses can help us in our ministry.

15 min: “Preach to ‘People of All Sorts.’” Questions and answers. Discuss the purpose of each brochure shown in the supplement. Then choose two brochures that may benefit people in the territory. Discuss features of both brochures, and demonstrate how each may be offered.

Song 112 and Prayer

Preach to “People of All Sorts”

• ¹ A skilled craftsman has many tools, and he knows when and how to use each one. Similarly, we have various tools to help us fulfill our work as evangelizers. For example, brochures on a variety of subjects have been produced to help us preach to “people of all sorts.” (1 Cor. 9:22) The enclosed supplement lists some of these brochures, explains whom they were designed for, and suggests how the brochures might be offered.

• ² When to Use Brochures: A craftsman will use a tool whenever it is beneficial. Similarly, we may offer a brochure whenever we

• 1. How are effective evangelizers like skilled craftsmen?

• 2. When may we use brochures in the ministry? feel someone would benefit, not just during months when it is the literature offer. For example, if the offer is the Bible Teach book and we are preaching in a non-Christian land where people have little interest in the Bible, it may be beneficial to offer an appropriate brochure and then introduce the Bible Teach book after we have cultivated the person’s interest.

• ³ The Scriptures speak well of those who are skillful in their work. (Prov. 22:29) Certainly, no work is more important today than “the holy work of the good news.” (Rom. 15:16) In order to be “a workman with nothing to be ashamed of,” we will endeavor to become adept at using our tools.—2 Tim. 2:15.

• 3. Why should we become adept at using our witnessing tools?

© 2012 Christian Congregation of Jehovah’s Witnesses. All rights reserved. Our Kingdom Ministry (ISSN 1067-7259) is published monthly by Christian Congregation of Jehovah’s Witnesses; C. I. Woody, President; W. H. Nonkes, Secretary-Treasurer; 2821 Route 22, Patterson, NY 12563-2237. Periodicals Postage Paid at Patterson, NY, and at additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Our Kingdom Ministry, 1000 Red Mills Road, Wallkill, NY 12589-3299.           Printed in Canada

Are You Using These Brochures?

Designed to appeal to those who know little about the Bible, especially those in non-Christian religions

How to offer it: “We would like to get your opinion on what is stated here in the Scriptures (or in this holy book). [Read Psalm 37:11, which is referred to in section 11.] What do you think the earth will be like when this prophecy is fulfilled? [Allow for response.] This is an example of the hope and comfort that people of all cultures and faiths can receive from the Bible.” Read the paragraph at the top of page 3, and offer the brochure.

You might try this: If you are conducting a Bible study in the Bible Teach book with a person from a non-Christian religion, take a few minutes at the beginning or end of each study to consider one section of this brochure to give him an overview of the Bible.

Designed to appeal to educated people who know little about the Bible

How to offer it: Read 2 Timothy 3:16, 17. Then say: “Do you agree with this, that the Bible is inspired of God? Or do you think that it is simply a good book? [Allow for response.] Most people have an opinion on this question, but we have found that few have actually examined the Bible for themselves. [Read the experience under the title on page 3.] This interesting brochure outlines good reasons for people of all backgrounds and faiths to consider what the Bible contains.”

You might try this: If the householder accepts the brochure, say: “One reason that many people think the Bible has little to offer is because religion has misrepresented the Bible and its teachings. When I come back, I’d like to give you an example.” When you return, consider some of the information from pages 4-5.

Designed to appeal to those with limited education or reading ability

How to offer it: “Do you think it is possible for us to become friends of God? [Allow for response. Then read James 2:23.] This brochure has been designed to help us become God’s friend, as Abraham was.”

You might try this: Either on the initial call or the return visit, demonstrate a Bible study by discussing together all or part of lesson 1.

© 2012 Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society of Pennsylvania All Rights Reserved

Designed to appeal to those who are secular, nonreligious

How to offer it: “We are calling because many people would like to find more satisfaction in life. All of us experience problems that can bring unhappiness. When we do, we may look for advice from a trusted relative or friend or use the library or the Internet. What have you found to be a good resource for advice? [Allow for response.] Some have been surprised to find practical advice in the Bible. Here is an example. [Show the householder chapter 2, and read one of the quoted texts.] This brochure is designed to explain how we can attain a more satisfying life.”

You might try this: If the householder accepts the brochure, say: “Many have heard that the Bible is filled with inaccuracies. When I come back, I would like to show you an example of the Bible’s scientific accuracy that may intrigue you.” When you return consider paragraph 4 on page 12.

Designed for Christian youths who are being taught evolution in school and is also helpful when reasoning with evolutionists, agnostics, and atheists (This brochure is not designed to be offered from house-to-house.)

How to use it when speaking to an evolutionist or an atheist: “Virtually all science textbooks today teach evolution. Do you believe that evolution is a theory, or do you think that it has now been established as fact? [Allow for response.] To make an informed decision, I’m sure you will agree that we should examine both sides of a matter. This brochure presents some of the evidence that has led many to believe that life was created.”

You might try this: If you go to school, leave the brochure out on your desk and see if it piques the curiosity of any classmates.

Designed to appeal to Hindus

How to offer it: “A well-known Indian prayer says: ‘From delusion lead me to truth. From darkness lead me to light.’ Do you think it is important to worship God in love and truth? [Allow for response.] Notice what Jesus said about this.” Read John 4:24. Then read paragraph 4 on page 3 and offer the brochure.

You might try this: If the householder accepts the brochure, say: “Some Hindu sages say that the truth is hidden in our hearts. Others say that truth is found in sacred scripture. Next time, I would like to discuss a question raised at the end of paragraph 3 on page 4: ‘Where should we look to find divine truth?’ ”

Designed to appeal to Buddhists

How to offer it to an older person who is a Buddhist: “Perhaps you are as concerned as I am about the current flood of degraded ideas and the effect that these are having on our children. Why, do you think, is there such an increase in immorality among young people? [Allow for response.] Did you know that this was foretold in a book that started to be written long before the founding of the Christian, Hindu, and Muslim religions? [Read 2 Timothy 3:1-3.] Note that these conditions prevail despite continuous learning. [Read verse 7.] The information in this publication helped me to understand truths that most people never learn. Would you like to read it?”

You might try this: On a future return visit, after cultivating the householder’s interest in the Bible, show him the questions on the back cover, and point out the coupon for the Bible Teach book. Explain that you brought along a copy if he wants to see it. Show him the book’s table of contents, and consider a paragraph or two in the chapter of his choosing.

Designed to appeal to Hindus

How to offer it: “Many people whom we have talked to are distressed by the wickedness they see in the world. Do you think that God will one day rid this world of its problems? [Allow for response.] This prophecy gives hope. [Read Psalm 37:11.] What I just read is from the Bible, a book that has often been misunderstood and misused. You may be surprised to know that the Bible is not a Western book; it does not promote colonialism or the superiority of one race over another. But it does give us hope that God will soon remove our problems. It also contains principles that can help us manage our problems right now. This brochure provides more information.”

You might try this: On a future return visit, after cultivating the householder’s interest in the Bible, show him the pictures on pages 4-5 of the Bible Teach book. Read at least one of the quoted scriptures and offer the book.

Designed to appeal to Jews

How to offer it: “Throughout history humans have experienced much suffering as a result of war. Why, do you think, do we continue to have wars even though people say they want peace? [Allow for response.] This prophecy from Isaiah gives hope. [Read Isaiah 2:4.] However, this raises several questions: When and how will Isaiah’s prophecy be fulfilled? Why can we trust the Scriptures to be a reliable source of hope? This brochure answers these questions.”

You might try this: If the brochure is accepted, refer the householder to pages 16-17 and say: “Many point to atrocities such as the Holocaust and ask, ‘If God exists, why does he permit suffering?’ We can discuss this when I return.”

Designed to appeal to Muslims who live in an environment where they may feel free to study the Bible

How to offer it: “I understand that Muslims believe in one true God and in all the prophets. Is that correct? [Allow for response.] I would like to talk with you about an ancient prophecy that foretells the transformation of the earth into a paradise. May I read to you what the prophet wrote? [Read Isaiah 11:6-9.] Many have wondered just how God will bring such changes to the earth. This brochure shows what the prophets say on this subject.”

You might try this: If the householder accepts the brochure, say: “This book of God explains that in the beginning, man lived in paradise. The next time we talk, I would like to answer this question, ‘How did man turn away from God’s guidance and lose paradise?’ ” When you return, discuss the beginning of the unit that starts on page 6.

Designed to appeal to Muslims who live in an environment where they may feel free to study the Bible

How to offer it: Show the picture on pages 16-17 and say: “This scene is much different from what we see in the world today. Do you think it’s possible for the world to become like this one day? [Allow for response.] Notice what this book of God promises. [Read one of the quoted scriptures from your Bible.] This brochure helps us to cultivate real faith that such promises will come true.”

You might try this: At the end of the initial call, ask the householder to choose one of the questions on the back cover. Then make arrangements to discuss the answer from the brochure when you return.

Designed to appeal to Chinese

How to offer it: “Today life has many challenges that can rob us of happiness. What helps you to be happy despite problems? [Allow for response.] Many people have found happiness from following the counsel of the Bible. [Read Psalm 119:1, 2.] Some dismiss the Bible as a Western book. But notice this. [Consider paragraph 16 on page 17.] This brochure discusses how we can find lasting peace and happiness.” You might try this: If the householder accepts the brochure, read together the first three sentences of paragraph 18 on page 17 and say: “When I return, I would like to show you what we can look forward to according to the Bible.” When you return, consider one of the points in paragraph 6 on page 30.

WEEK STARTING JANUARY 30

Song 30 and Prayer

Q Congregation Bible Study:

bt chap. 16 ^1-7, box on p. 128 (25 min.)

Q Theocratic Ministry School:

Bible reading: Isaiah 43-46 (10 min.)

No. 1: Isaiah 45:15-25 (4 min. or less)

No. 2: How God’s Patience Leads to Salvation

—2 Pet. 3:9, 15 (5 min.)

No. 3: Is It Important to Get Married in Accord With Legal Requirements?—rs p. 248 fl2-p. 249 ^2 (5 min.)

Q Service Meeting:

Song 87

5 min: Announcements. Using the sample presentation on page 4, demonstrate how a study may be started on the first Saturday in February.

10 min: What Should I Know About Social Networking?—Part 1. Talk based on the July 2011 Awake! pages 24-27 and February 2012 Awake! pages 6-7.

20 min: “Are You Prepared for a Medical Emergency?” Questions and answers. Use the information in the first and last paragraphs for a brief introduction and conclusion.

Song 116 and Prayer

Are You Prepared for a Medical Emergency?

A medical emergency can occur suddenly and without warning. (Jas. 4:14) Therefore, one who is shrewd will prepare as much as possible. (Prov. 22:3) Have you decided what medical treatments and procedures you will accept, and have you put your decision in writing? To help you, the video TransfusionAlternative Health Care—Meeting Patien t Needs and Rights, the second presentation on the DVD entitled Transfusion-Alternatives—Documentary Series, has been produced. As you watch it, see if you can answer the following questions. Because the video includes brief surgical scenes, parents should use discretion in viewing it with young children.

(1) Why are some in the medical community reevaluating the use of blood transfusions? (2) Give three examples of complex surgeries that have been performed without blood transfusions. (3) Why are thousands of physicians and surgeons worldwide willing to treat patients without blood transfusions? (4) What have recent hospital studies revealed about blood use? (5) What are the medical risks associated with blood transfusions? (6) What have many experts concluded regarding the benefits of transfusion alternatives? (7) What causes anemia, and what can be done to compensate for it? (8) How can red-cell production be stimulated in a patient’s body? (9) What techniques are being used to minimize blood loss during surgery? (10) Can transfusion alternatives work for young children or for people involved in life-threatening emergencies? (11) What is one of the primary ethical principles of good medical care?

Have you decided what medical treatments and procedures you will accept and put this in writing?

Since acceptance of some of the treatments featured in the video is a matter of conscience, do not wait until you are faced with an emergency to consider what you will or will not accept. Chapter 7 of the “God’s Love” book and the cited references as well as the insert in the November 2006 issue of Our Kingdom Ministry will help you make informed decisions. Then, if you are baptized, indicate your choices on the DPA card, and carry the card with you at all times.

WEEK STARTING FEBRUARY6

Song 101 and Prayer

Q Congregation Bible Study:

bt chap. 16 ^8-12, box on p. 132 (25 min.)

Q Theocratic Ministry School:

Bible reading: Isaiah 47-51 (10 min.)

No. 1: Isaiah 51:1-11 (4 min. or less)

No. 2: The First Wedding Involved What Formalities?—rs p. 249 ^3-4 (5 min.)

No. 3: Why Would a God of Love Destroy Any Humans?—2 Thess. 1:6-9 (5 min.)

Q Service Meeting:

Song 36

5 min: Announcements.

10 min: What Should I Know About Social Networking?—Part 2. Talk based on the August 2011 Awake! pages 10-13 and February 2012 Awake! pages 8-9.

10 min: Local needs.

10 min: Ideas for Offering the Magazines in February. Discussion. Take one to two minutes to point out a few of the articles that may have appeal in your territory. Next, using the cover series of The Watchtower, invite the audience to give suggestions on an interest-arousing question to ask, and then invite suggestions on a scripture to read. Do the same for the cover series of Awake! and, if time allows, for one other article from either magazine. Demonstrate how each issue may be offered.

Song 96 and Prayer

■ Beginning with the February 1, 2012, issue, the public edition of The Watchtower will include a series entitled “My Bible Lessons.” Designed for parents to use with children who are three years of age and younger, it will alternate with the series “Teach Your Children” and “For Young People.”

■ The branch facilities in Brooklyn, Patterson, and Wallkill, New York, will be closed for spring cleaning on Friday, May 11, 2012. There will be no arrangements for tours or for congregations to pick up literature on this day.

Sample Presentations

To Start Bible Studies on the First Saturday in February

“Do you think that God has an organization today, or do you think that he deals only with individuals? [Allow for response.] Notice what this says about a people whom God organized many years ago.” Turn to page 26 of the February 1 issue of The Watchtower, and consider together the material under the first subheading and at least one of the cited scriptures. Offer the magazines, and arrange to return and discuss the next question.

WATCHTO6ER February 1

Announcing Jehovah's Kingdom

“Armageddon has been the subject of much discussion in recent years. Do you think there is anything mankind can do to prevent Armageddon from occurring? [Allow for response.] Here is where the term ‘Armageddon’ comes from. [Read Revelation 16:16. Then show the cover of the magazine.] This magazine gives the Bible’s answer to these questions.”

Announcements

■ Literature offer for January: What Does the Bible Really Teach? Endeavor to start Bible studies on the initial call. If householders already have the book and do not accept the offer of a Bible study, offer an older magazine or any brochure that addresses the person’s interest. February: Is There a Creator Who Cares About You?, The Bible—God’s Word or Man’s?, or The Secret of Family Happiness. March: What Does the Bible Really Teach? Endeavor to start Bible studies on the initial call. If householders already have the book and do not accept the offer of a Bible study, offer an older magazine or any brochure that addresses the person’s interest. April: The Watchtower and Awake! magazines. Where interest is shown, present the tract Would You Like to Know the Truth? and endeavor to start a Bible study. When making return visits on those who attended the Memorial or other theocratic events but who are not actively associating with the congregation, concentrate on starting studies using the Bible Teach book.

■ Starting in February, the new public talk for the circuit overseers will be “Is Your Confidence in Jehovah?”

!"#$ February

“Today many enjoy communicating online. Do you think this type of communication has risks? [Allow for response.] The Bible contains principles that can make our online experience safer. [Turn to pages 6-9, and discuss one of the questions and a cited scripture.] This magazine will help you identify and avoid the dangers associated with online communication.”

Field Service Highlights

We are thrilled to reportthree new peaks forAugust 2011! Bermuda reported 513 total publishers, an increase of 22 over the previous peak in August 2009. The Turks and Caicos Islands reported 299 total publishers, an increase of 4 overthe previous peak in February2011.The United States reported 1,200,572 total publishers, an increase of 16,323 over the previous peak in April 2011. How blessed we are to be God’s fellow workers during the time ofthe harvest! —1 Cor. 3:6-9.

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