For United States of America

• ¹ The January 1, 1994, issue of The Watchtower, page 22, reminded us that our magazines publish “timely articles that have come to grips with the real needs of people.” We want to give these journals wide distribution. During the months of April and May, The Watchtower and Awake! are the featured offer, as well as any brochure except the School brochure.

• ² The house-to-house work gives us our best opportunity to place these magazines. Effective Informal witnessing and return visits also result in regular placements. Doing street work and calling on business establishments in our territory are likewise productive ways to increase distribution.

• ³ Subjects to Discuss: The April 1 issue of The Watchtower considers the subjects “A Better World—Just a Dream?” and “A Better World—At Handr This is certainly in keeping with the magazine’s objective to announce the Kingdom of God. The second article concludes by showing how an eternal paradise will become a reality under the rulership of Christ Jesus.—Luke 23:43.

• ⁴ “Where Can You Find Trustworthy Guidance?” is the question discussed in the April 15 issue. The May Issues will explore this subject further in the articles “Is Religion Filling Your Needs?" and “Why Read the Bible?” We should be able to start conversations readily with people who feel their life lacks meaning and purpose.

• ⁵ Increasing Placements: The January 1 Watchtower offered four suggestions to increase placements. We were encouraged (1) to be magazine conscious. When we read them, we should give some thought to which articles might be most appealing to people in our territory. Also, if we regularly carry copies with us, we may be able to place them with coworkers, neighbors, teachers, schoolmates, or shoppers.

• ⁶ We were reminded (2) to keep our presentations simple. Pick out one interesting point, and put it in a few words. It you can get the magazine into the home, it can do the “talking” to the person you met or others in the household.

’Another need is (3) to be flexible. It is good to have different articles in mind to discuss—one for youths, another for men, and something else for women.

• ⁸ Finally, we need (4) to set a personal goal for placements. While the congregation cannot set a certain quota, we can individually set a goal for ourselves. This may give us more incentive to be enthusiastic in offering the magazines. If we place a standing order for magazines, we may be prompted to do more.

• ⁹ We want others to know about God’s Kingdom. Let us take full advantage of the fine help the magazines provide in spreading the Kingdom message.—Matt. 10:7.

¹ The purpose of the Service Meeting is to motivate and equip us to share more fully in the preaching and disciple-making work. (2 Tim. 3:17) However, if we do not properly prepare for the meeting or we fail to apply what we learn, the benefits will be minimal.

’Preparation in advance will help you to absorb the instruction more fully. Review the publications that will be used, and bring them with you so that you can follow along and be able to participate. Be an attentive listener, and take notes for later use.

• ³ The presiding overseer reviews the scheduled meeting parts carefully. Capable. qualified elders and ministerial servants are assigned to prepare them. (om p. 70) Congregations having few elders and ministerial servants may assign other qualified brothers to assist them, (km 10/76, Question Box) Each speaker should prepare thoroughly, adhere closely to direction provided, and make sure that he does not go overtime.

• ⁴ The meeting usually begins with announcements. The brother assigned should contact the presiding overseer in advance to find out what matters need to be mentioned. These may include letters from the Society or reminders about service arrangements or monthly reports. We may learn that there are sick ones who need to be visited or hear details of congregation activities planned for the future?Pay close attention so that you will be informed and ready to do your share.

• ⁵ When a meeting part calls for audience participation, prepare by reading over the material and looking up the scriptures. Think about how you plan to apply the suggestions and what kind of comments you can make to encourage others. You might illustrate the practical value of the instruction by relating a brief experience.

• ⁶ When there is a demonstration, try to picture yourself in similar circumstances, and think about what you would say. Note the arguments used and the line of reasoning. Try to recall what you said the last'time you were in this type of situation, and consider how the points demonstrated can help you get better results in the future.

• ⁷ Participants in demonstrations and interviews should be well rehearsed in advance. Each one shoulcfkhow' what he is going to say and what he is supposed to do on the platform. Unrehearsed parts rarely motivate or encourage the audience. Some come prepared to rehearse their part at the conclusion of the Watchtower Study so that they can practice on the platform and let the brothers handling the microphones know what will be needed.

'The program will sometimes include a talk dealing with a specific congregation need or a timely Watchtower article. Listen closely, take the counsel to heart, and try to apply it.

• ⁹ We want to be “prepared for every good work." (2 Tim. 2:21) The Service Meeting is one of the provisions Jehovah makes to aid us in doing that. Faithful attendance and a sincere effort to use what we learn will surely help us so that we can “fully accomplish [our] ministry.”—2 Tim. 4:5.

  Service Meetings for April

  
  

Week Starting April 4

Song 16

to min: Local announcements and Announcements from Our Kingdom Ministry. Remind all about special talk that will be given on April 10, entitled "True Religion Meets the Needs of Human Society." A special effort should be made to assist new ones to attend.

15 min: “Tfte Watchtower and Awake! —Journals of Truth." Questions and answers. Invite audience to tell about methods they have used to increase magazine placements. Have some relate experiences as time allows.

20 min: “Offer the Best Magazines in the World.” Discuss material with audience, stressing special benefits of the magazines. In covering paragraph 2, ask an effective publisher to explain how to become familiar with contents and how to prepare presentation. Arrange for two demonstrations showing ways to offer the April 1 and 15 issues. Conclude by offering suggestions on articles that might be used in presenting the current issues of Awake!

Song 69 and concluding prayer.

Week Starting April 11

Song 80

10 min: Local announcements. Discuss main points in Question Box.

15 min: “The Service Meeting Equips Us for Every Good Work." Questions and answers. Include demonstration showing how a family prepares for meeting; emphasize importance of (1) advance preparation, (2) paying close attention, and (3) participation.

20 min: “Serve Jehovah Without Distraction.” Insert. Questions and answers. Cover paragraphs 1 to 6.

Song 90 and concluding prayer.

Week Starting April 18

Song 100

io min: Local announcements. Read accounts report and any donation acknowledgments from Society.

15 min: “Follow Up on Magazine and Brochure Placements.” Discuss with audience. Invite comments on why there is need to be well acquainted with contents of the magazines and to analyze carefully previous response of householder to determine what approach would be best. As time permits, have capable publishers demonstrate suggested presentations.

20 mln: “Serve Jehovah Without Distraction." Insert. Questions and answers. Cover paragraphs 7 to 12.

Song 51 and concluding prayer.

Week Starting April 25

Song 70

10 min: Local announcements. Theocratic News. “Help in Overcoming Everyday Problems."

15 min: Faith. Based on Reasoning book, pages 129-32. Discussion between elder and group of youths. Elder discusses definition of faith, then asks questions of group. Why do many not have faith? What is the basis for our faith? How can we maintain strong faith? How do we demonstrate such faith? Elder concludes by commending and encouraging group.

20 min: “Cleanliness Honors God.” Elder discusses article with audience. Conclude with brief talk that reviews the counsel given in June 1, 1989, Watchtower, pages 15-20.

Song 75 and concluding prayer.

• ¹ The Mosaic Law contained strict requirements to ensure cleanliness. They set Israel apart as a people who were required to keep themselves physically and spiritually clean. (Lev. 11:35, 36; 15:1-11; Isa. 52:11) This clean condition brought honor to God and contributed to the health of the nation.

• ² Today too, cleanliness is an identifying mark of Jehovah's people. But while this identifies Jehovah’s people as a group, is it true of each of us individually? The extent to which we are concerned about neatness and personal cleanliness reflects how much we appreciate Jehovah’s requirements.

• ³ What about the appearance of our home? Does it detract from the Kingdom message we bear? Is it possible that some may question our sincerity if we speak about transforming the earth into a paradise while our own home is unkempt and the yard is overgrown with uncut grass or weeds? If our home gives the appearance of being disorderly or there are disagreeable odors because of unsanitary habits, can it be said that we have developed the “patterns of cleanness that will fit in with the new world under God's Kingdom”?—am pp. 130-1.

’ What about the car we use for field service? Is it reasonably clean, inside and out, so that its appearance does not detract from our work? What about our clothing, book bag, and personal grooming? Are they neat and presentable, giving no cause for offense? It is reasonable that we keep ourselves and our clothing clean by regular bathing and laundering—u>89 6/1 pp. 16-19.

• ⁵ What if a brother has become careless so that his personal hygiene or surroundings have become a cause for reproach to the congregation? Perhaps he simply needs some loving assistance because of age or infirmity. If so, it would be a kindness to help him. Someone may have the problem and not even be aware of it; kind admonition may prompt him to correct the situation. Individuals who consistently set a poor example in this respect would not qualify for outstanding privileges ~in the congregation. Of course, elders should guard against imposing their own personal standards or preferences.

• ⁸ Newly interested persons are invited to enjoy spiritual feasts at our Kingdom Hall. Usually, we are eager to extend an invitation because the hall is so attractive and neat. It takes work, though, to keep it that way. Look around your hall. Are the chairs, floors, and walls clean? Are the rest rooms scrubbed regularly? When we become accustomed to looking at a soiled carpet or walls with peeling paint, we may soon view that as acceptable. However, strangers visiting for the first time may be left with an unfavorable Impression. We should do our best to maintain an appealing and attractive hall, doing our share when the time comes for cleaning or refurbishing.

• ⁷ Without speaking a word, we can glorify God by our personal appearance and the neatness of our homes, automobiles, and Kingdom Halls. Our good example will not give any cause for stumbling but will bear testimony that our worship is clean and upright.—1 Cor. 10:31, 32; Jas. 1:27.

Serve Jehovah Without Distraction

• ¹ “Happy is the people whose God is Jehovahr (Ps. 144:15) Are these words of King David still true, even during these wicked days? (Eph. 5:16) Yes! Christians still And joy in serving Jehovah. Things are not always easy for us. Satan causes us difficulties during these “critical times,” yet we are not downhearted. (2 Tim. 3:1,2) The worsening conditions are further proof that the time is at hand for God’s Kingdom to sweep away this decaying old world and replace it with a clean new world. (2 Pet. 3:13) The darkness of this world does not dim or extinguish the flame of our happy hope: rather, our Kingdom hope shines ever more brilliantly. Areyou not glad to be serving Jehovah as an illuminator in this dark world?—Phil. 2:15.

• ² As individuals, we must constantly watch how we are serving Jehovah. Why? Because Satan is a great Distracter. One dictionary defines “distract” as “to turn aside,” “to draw or direct (as one’s attention) to a different object or in different directions at the same time,” and “to stir up or confuse with conflicting emotions or motives.” Since being hurled down to this earth, Satan has succeeded in “misleading” mankind. He uses many devices to turn man’s attention away from the true issues of our day. (Rev. 12:9) Though Jehovah’s Witnesses have exerted themselves in preaching the Kingdom for the past one hundred years, how many people appreciate the all-important issues of the sanctification of God’s name and the vindication of his sovereignty by means of God’s Kingdom? Relatively few. (1 John 5:19) If Satan can distract billions of people on this earth, the ever-present danger is that he can distract us or capture our attention , so that we abandon Jehovah’s service. Sadly, some of our brothers have been confused by Satan’s distractions. They have allowed their minds to be drawn in different directions. There are all sorts of distractions today. Consider just a few of them.

• ³ Economic Problems and Love of Material Things: In most countries of the earth, unemployment and the high cost of living cause anxieties. True, we must provide food, clothing, and shelter for ourselves and our families. But if we allow ourselves to become overly anxious about the necessities of life, these concerns will dominate our thinking. Our physical survival can become the most important thing in life rather than our giving support to the Kingdom issue. The apostle Paul gave counsel in this regard at Hebrews 13:5, 6. Jesus Christ assures us that those who seek first the Kingdom need not be anxious; Jehovah provides what we truly need. (Matt. 6:25-34) Pioneers and other full-time servants throughout the world can confirm that this is true.

• ⁴ Satan’s world promotes the love of material things. Acquiring more possessions or safeguarding them is the driving force in the lives of millions. Similar distractions existed in Jesus’ day. A rich young ruler asked Jesus what he needed to do to inherit everlasting life. Jesus answered: “If you want to be perfect [or, complete], go sell your belongings and give to the poor and you will have treasure in heaven, and come be my follower.” (Matt. 19:16-23) Apparently, his many material possessions distracted this young man from serving God whole-souled. His heart was turned toward his riches. Jesus knew that the young man would be benefited if he unburdened himself of these distractions. They prevented him from being complete in his devotion to God. What about you? Do you find yourself working longer hours secularly just to maintain the life-style to which you have become accustomed? Has this affected your service to Jehovah? Are your material possessions crowding out Kingdom interests? (Matt. 6:24) Can you simplify vour life to devote more time to spiritual interests?

• ⁵ Ordinary Affairs of Daily Life: If we are not careful, we may become so engrossed in the ordinary affairs of life that we begin to neglect spiritual pursuits. Remember the people of Noah’s day. They were so preoccupied with social affairs, eating and drinking, marrying and getting their children married, that they took no pote of Noah’s warning message about the impending Deluge. Before they realized it, the Flood came and swept them all away. Distractions spelled destruction for them. Jesus said: “So the presence of the Son of man will be.” (Matt. 24:37-39) Indeed, most people today are too wrapped up in their own lives to pay attention to the warning message we bring to them. They show an appalling indifference to spiritual things.

• ⁶ Is your life becoming so crowded with social activities that spiritual matters are getting less and less attention? On one occasion, Jesus was invited to be a guest in the home of Martha and Mary. Mary was intently listening to what he had to say. On the other hand, Martha “was distracted with attending to many duties.” Martha had undue concern about being a good hostess. She failed to appreciate the need to take time to listen to Jesus. He kindly pointed out to Martha that elaborate provisions were not necessary; more attention should be given to spiritual matters. Do you need to apply that counsel? (Luke 10:38-42) Jesus also warned that we must pay attention to ourselves so that we do not overeat and drink heavily, dulling our senses. At this critical hour of human history, we need to be fully alert—Luke 21:34-36.

• ⁷ Pursuit of Pleasures: One of the greatest distractions the Devil uses to draw attention away from the Kingdom issue is the pursuit of pleasure. Millions in Christendom have put pleasure in the place of God. They prefer being amused by some diversion rather than taking a serious interest in God’s Word. (2 Tim. 3:4) Of course, wholesome entertainment and recreation are not wrong in themselves. But spending excessive time each week on such things as television, movies, videos, sports, secular reading, or hobbies may permit a treacherous heart to develop and pull us away from Jehovah. (Jer. 17:9; Heb. 3:12) How can that happen? During Christian meetings, you may find that your mind wanders; you may even wish the meeting would end so that you can get back to the pursuit of pleasures. Soon, you could find yourself looking for reasons to stay home rather than attend meetings or engage in field service. Now is the time to determine explicitly if these pursuits have become distractions in your life. (Luke 8:14) Could not some of the precious hours consumed by entertainment be better used for spiritual development?

• ⁸ Time-Consuming Side Issues: Some have got caught up in efforts to resolve common problems in modern society. Christians need to avoid becoming involved in the world’s endless debates over social issues or its futile struggles to correct injustices. (John 17:16) All of this is part of Satan’s design to divert attention from the Bible’s counsel and the fundamental fact that there is only one long-term solution—the Kingdom of God. If we have suffered a personal injury or injustice, we must guard against becoming vindictive or so emotionally distraught that we forget who we are—Witnesses of Jehovah. Above all, it is Jehovah who has been wronged, and it is his name that we must sanctify.—Isa. 43:10-12; Matt. 6:9.

• ⁹ While everyone wants to maintain a measure of good health, paying undue attention to the seemingly endless theories and remedies offered can make one obsessed with health matters. There are ever so many who advocate a wide variety of diets, treatments, and therapies for physical and emotional problems, many of which are in conflict with one another. What a person does in matters of health is a personal decision, as long as there is no conflict with Bible principles. Let us always maintain our complete trust in God’s Kingdom as the true remedy for mankind’s ills—Isa. 33:24; Rev. 21:3,4.

if Become Steadfast, Unmovable: As the end draws near, Satan will increase his efforts to distract you from your service to Jehovah. “Take your stand against him, solid in the faith.” (1 Pet. 5:9) How? You must nourish yourself with God’s thoughts. (Matt. 4:4) Do not let the distractions of the world rob you and your family of the time you need to meditate and to reflect quietly on God’s Word. At family meals, discuss upbuilding experiences and other spiritual matters together. Stick to a consistent schedule of personal study and preparation for the meetings.

• ¹¹ When anxieties threaten to unsettle your mind, throw your burden on Jehovah in prayer. Be assured that he cares for you. (1 Pet. 5:7) Let the peace of God guard your heart and mental powers. (Phil. 4:6, 7) Do not let distractions blur your spiritual vision. Keep Jehovah before you constantly, as did Jesus. (Acts 2:25) Keep your vision focused straight ahead on your goal, as Proverbs 4:25-27 encourages us: “As for your eyes, straight ahead they should look, yes, your own beaming eyes should gaze straight in front of you. Smooth out the course of your foot, and may all your own ways be firmly established. Do not incline to the right hand or to the left.”

• ¹² Faithfully attend all meetings, and discipline yourself so that you pay attention to instruction from God’s Word. (Heb. 2:1; 10:24, 25) And rather than look for pleasures offered by this decadent world, make it your goal to maintain a productive ministry. This is what brings lasting joy and satisfaction. (1 Thess. 2:19, 20) Finally, do not let anything or anyone distract you from your sacred service. “Become steadfast, unmovable, always having plenty to do in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not in vain in connection with the Lord.”—1 Cor. 15:58.

THEOCRATIC MINISTRY SCHOOL REVIEW

Closed-book review on material covered in Theocratic Ministry School assignments for the weeks of January 3 to April 18, 1994. 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.]

Answer each of the following statements True or False:

1. People who have God’s favor never suffer calamity. [Weekly Bible reading; see w92 9/15 p. 4.]

' 2. According to Nehemiah 10:34, offerings of wood were commanded in the Law. [Weekly Bible reading; see w86 2/15 p. 26.]

' 3. Job’s words of defense at Job 31:1 harmonize with what Jesus taught at Matthew 5:27, 28. [Weekly Bible reading; see w78 12/15 p. 32.]

• 4. More than 1,500 years before Christ, Job expressed hope in a resurrection. [Weekly Bible reading; see Job 14: 13 and w93 4/15 p. 11.]

• 5. The Pharisees and the scribes used the Hebrew expression 'am ha-’a'-rets, “people of the land [earth],” to refer to the common people, whom they treated like dirt, [gt chap. 85]

' 6. The account at Esther 1:10-12 can help a discerning person to appreciate that being submissive and qbe-dient is of greater value than having beauty. [Weekly Bible reading; see w79 3/15 p. 14.]

7. Godly devotion manifests loving attachment to Jehovah because of appreciation for him and his ways, [uw p. 19 par. 15]

' 8. The Bible account at Luke 16:19-31 of the rich man and Lazarus is a real-life story, [pi chap. 88]

• 9. When Jesus referred to “unrighteous riches” at Luke 16:9, he was talking about wealth obtained in an illegal manner, [gt chap. 87]

• 10. At Luke 17:34, 35, to be “taken along” means destruction, [gt chap. 93]

Answer the following questions:

What two important questions does

12.

help us to fix the time of Joto’s trial?

[si p. 95 par. 4]                 fiW<*

• 13. What did Jesus mean when he said that his followers should “hate” their relatiyes? (Luke 14:26) [gt chan. 84]

• 14. When and toward whom will Jesus’ words at John 11:26 prove true in a very literal sense? [gt chap..90]

• 15. Why was the raising of Lazarus from the dead an especially powerful blow to the Sadducees? [gt chap. 91]

' I'k/T                  -v'\ Xc            Ve»—vC

• 16. How are we to understand Jesus’ reply to the Pharisees when he said: “The kingdom of God is in your midst”? (Luke 17:21) [pi chap. 93]

• 17. What attitude of the Pharisees, as revealed at Luke 18:11, 12, must Christians avoid? [gt chap. 94]

• 18. Since Jesus was a perfect man who never sinned, why did he object to

  S-97   #282   4/94

  
  

the rich young ruler’s calling him “good”? (Mark 10:17, 18) [gt chap. 96]                   '

• 19. What are two key factors that con-

tribute to true Christian unity? [uw, p. 8 par. 8]

• 20. If a person says that he believes in the Trinity, why is it wise to invite him to express himself on the subject

  before disproving the Trinjty? [uw 29. p. 16 par. 10]

  
  
  

  Provide the word or phrase needed to 30. complete each of the following statements:

  
  

  21. The “desolate places” referred to ajTy . Job 3:14 were'/'*^__[X#%ekiy "

  
  

Bible reading; see w79 4/15 p. 31.]

• 22. Like the Jews of Esther’s day, Jehovah’s Witnesses properly appeal to X>-i7 for protection from enemies. [Weekly Bible reading; see w86 3/15 p. 25.]

• 23. Although some  human “secretaries” were used to record the Bible,  himself is its Author. [uw p. 20 par. 2]

• 24. The spirit of independence originated with ,7/r^*__[uw p. 10 par. 10]

• 25. Nehemiah ends his book with the simple and humble request: u_₇__[Weekly Bible reading]

Select the correct answer in each of the following statements:

26.^,-'Jesus’ disciples are the salt of the earth in that they (must endure persecution; speak with mildness; have a preserving influence on people). [gt chap. 84]

• 27. The text at John 1:1 refers to (one; two; three) person(s). [uw p. 16 par. 11 (3)]

• 28. According to Psalm 9:10, knowing

God’s name means (just knowing the ^name Jehovah; having some knowledge about his purposes; respecting his authority and obeying his-com-mandments). [uw p. 18 par. 14]

Lazarus, Martha, and Mary livedjn (Jerusalem; Bethlehem; Bethany).) [gri chap. 89]

At Genesis 1:1 and 1:26, the Hebrew word translated “God” is (’Adho-nai'; ’Elo-him'; Shad-dai'). [uw p. 17 par. 11 (4)]

Match the following scriptures to the statements listed below:

Neh. 13:23-27; Esther 1:17-20; Job 14:

14, 15; 26:7; Prov. 3:5, 6

There is no visible support that holds the earth in place. [Weekly Bible reading; see w92 5/15 p. 5.]       ''

• 32. Worshipers of the true God who seek > a mate should marry only a fellow /, believer who is in a dedicated rela-^ tionship with Jehovah. [Weekly Bible reading; see w89 6/1 p. 14.]

• 33. Jehovah earnestly desires to resurrect the dead. [Weekly Bible reading; see w90 5/1 p. 7.]-^T^

• 34. Our entire life course should give evidence that our thinking and our motives are God-oriented, [uw p. 10 par. 11]     ! ^vnZ b.

• 35. Showing disrespect for proper au-£ thority can have a bad effect on oth- । ers. [Weekly Bible reading; see w79 '• 3/15 p. 14.]

  

■ Literature to be used during April and Mayi The Watchtower and Awake! magazines, as well as any brochure (except the School brochure). Where interest is found on return visits, subscriptions may be offered. June: Life—How Did It Get Here? By Evolution or by Creation? July: A combination of three 32-page booklets that the congregation may already have in stock. If the congregation does not have a supply of booklets, an appropriate brochure may be used as an alternate offer. The 32-page booklets should not be requested from the Society, but congregations should use such booklets as they now have on hand. NOTE: Congregations that will need the abovementioned campaign items should request them on their next monthly Literature Request Form (S(d)-14). Please do not request 32-page booklets, since these are not available from the Society.

■ A packet of legal materials is available to assist publishers who are involved in lawsuits over child custody and visitation matters where our religion is under attack. The packet should be requested by the body of elders only in such a case if it is evident that the publisher’s religious beliefs will be at issue. Helpful information can be found for those facing secular, issues on child custody or visitation litigation in Awake! of October 22,1988, pages 2-14, and the chart found in Awake! of April 22,1991, page 9.

■ Where practical, elders should arrange for the congregation to share in evening witnessing as daylight hours increase.

Question Box

■ When should Congregation Book Studies be conducted?

It is usually more practical and convenient to have several book study groups meet In scattered locations throughout the congregation's territory rather than have everyone meet at the Kingdom Hall. These studies should be conducted at the time most convenient for the maior-ity assigned to.attend- Usually, this is on an evening during the week when there are no other meetings or service activities arranged. However, it may be advantageous to arrange for ■ Beginning in April, district convention badge cards for 1994 in Chinese, English. French. Greek, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Portuguese. Spanish, and Vietnamese will automatically be included with literature shipments. It will not be necessary to request these. Based on the size of each congregation, cards will be shipped in lots of 25. If additional badge cards are needed by the congregation, these should be requested on a Literature Request Form (S(d)-14). It is necessary to request plastic badge card holders for any in the congregation who desire them.

■ New Publications Available:

Armenian: Jehovah’s Witnesses—Unitedly Doing God’s Will Worldwide. Bengali: What Is the Purpose of Life —How Can You Find It? French: Watch Tower Publications Index 1986-1990. Gujarati: The Greatest Man Who Ever Lived; What Is the Purpose of Life—How Can You Find It? Hindi: The Greatest Man Who Ever Lived; What Is the Purpose of Life—How Can You Find It? Korean: Jehovah’s Witnesses—Proclaimers of God’s Kingdom. Sinhalese: What Is the Purpose of Life—How Can You Find It? Tamil: What Is the Purpose of Life—How Can You Find It? Tiddim Chin: You Can Live Forever in Paradise on Earth (Small Size). Vietnamese: Why You Can Trust the Bible (Tract No. 13). Zulu: You Can Live Forever in Paradise on Earth (Small size).

• ■ New Audiocassettes Available: Dutch: Doing God's Will With Zeal (Drama; single audiocassette). French: Doing God’s Will With Zeal (Drama; single audiocassette).

• ■ New Videocassettes Available:

Chinese (Mandarin): Jehovah’s Witnesses—The Organization Behind the Name.

a book study during the day to accommodate elderly <snes who are hesitant about going out after dark and night workers. In a few cases, it may be practical to have a daytime study on the weekend.

The elders can make appropriate inquiries to determine the meeting times that will be “convenient for the majority of publishers" as well as interested ones, (om p. 62) The time selected should be on a day and at an hour that will not unduly interfere with or limit planned field service arrangements.

Congregation Book Study

Schedule for congregation studies in the book Making Your Family Life Happy.

• To or from subheading.

TOTAL 890,976 Baptized: 2,762

Help in Overcoming Everyday Problems

Many expressed delight after receiving the book Happiness—How to Find It at the “Divine Love" Districtconvention in 1980. Highlighting the practical value of this publication, one publisher stated: “It came at the right time because people today are not so much interested in doctrines as they are in knowing who created us, why we exist, and how everyday problems can be overcome." Beginning May 9,1994, once again the Congregation Book Study will study this fine publication.' Prepare well, and attend regularly so that you too can find help in overcoming your everyday problems.

Cape Verde: An all-time peak of 861 publishers reported during November. The congregation publishers averaged 13 hours in the field ministry, and 1,798 home Bible studies were conducted.

Nepal: There were 576 in attendance at the “Divine Teaching” District Convention In Kathmandu, held November 18-21,1993.

• ¹ The stated purpose of The Watchtower is “to exalt Jehovah God as Sovereign Lord of the universe.” Awake! is “for the enlightenment of the entire family. ... This magazine builds confidence in the Creator’s promise of a peaceful and secure new world." These quotes are from the magazines themselves. Pursuit of these goals has made them a source of comfort to millions of readers.

• ² We will be featuring these journals in our ministry during April and May. To be effective, we need to be well acquainted with their contents. Read each issue, noting points that you may be able to use when offering them. Think about what concerns people. What social, family, or emotional issues dominate the thinking of most of your neighbors? Try to think of something you can say that will touch their hearts and stimulate a desire to learn more.

• ³ Highlighting the April 1 Watchtower: Most people yearn for a better world, one without the many problems that too often now rob them of their joy.

After introducing yourself, you might say:

■ “Id like to show you an interesting comment made in this article entitled ‘A Better World—Just a Dream?' It says: 'This world, our world, is certainly not an ideal place. . . . The list of present woes seems endless.' This situation makes it difficult to be optimistic about the future, doesn't it? Let me show you, however, what Psalm 37:11 says about the future." After reading the verse, ask the householder how he feels about this promise. If he responds favorably, turn to the article “A Better World—At Hand!,’’ page 4, and say. “A number of Scripture texts are cited, including the one we just read from Psalm 37:11. I believe you would enjoy reading these articles and looking up the references in your Bible. I’d be pleased to leave them with you.” If appropriate, mention that our work is supported by voluntary donations and that you would be willing to accept a small donation.

¹ Highlighting the April 15 Watchtower: The article on page 4 asks: “Where Can You Find Trustworthy Guidance?”

After introducing yourself, you could say:

■ “There are so many problems in the world today, such as [mention something that currently concerns the community or a news headline]. It makes us wonder if anyone can ever find a way out of this mess. Happily, 2 Timothy 3: 16,17 assures us that the Bible is a guide to a happy and secure way of life." After reading these verses, show how The Watchtower helps us to understand why the Bible is a trustworthy guide.

• ⁶ If you prefer to feature Awake!, you might use the May 8 issue and the article “Real Hope for the Children?” Likely you will find that parents are touched by the needs of children and want to know what can be done to help them.

“If we are enthusiastic about our magazines, the best in the world, we will be anxious to place them with others so that they too can embrace the Kingdom hope and share in exalting Jehovah as the Sovereign Lord of the universe.—Ps. 83:18.

‘Jesus encouraged his followers to work at making disciples. (Matt. 28:19) That means more than just placing literature: we want to help people progress spiritually. To do that we must return to provide further assistance for those who manifest interest.

• ² If you highlighted an article in one of the magazines on your first call, it would be good to discuss the same subject when you return:

■ “When I visited previously, I called your attention to an article in The Watchtower (or Awake!) that helped us appreciate the need to look into the Bible. God’s purpose of a better future for mankind centers on his Kingdom government. Micah 4:3, 4 records his promise that this Kingdom will bring an end to all wars.” After reading the scripture, introduce the “Look!" brochure. and show the cover illustration. Consider the first paragraph and the scriptures cited for that paragraph, noting that Micah 4:3, 4 is one of them.

Arrange for a return visit to continue the discussion with paragraph 2.

• ³ If the householder’s interest appears to be minimal or he does not have time to converse, you may decide simply to add his name to your magazine route:

■ “Since you expressed interest in the magazines I left with you previously, I thought you’d enjoy the latest issues. I believe you’ll find this article particularly interesting." Point out an article that you feel would appeal to him. (Many who/ have done this have found that people will readily offer a donation without our saying anything.) Offer to return with the next issues.

'If the householder read the magazines and expresses appreciation for them, you may decide to offer a subscription:

■ “Since you seem to enjoy The Watchtower, I’ve been pleased to deliver the latest issues as they come out. If you’d like, I can arrange for it to be sent to you regularly through the mail so that you’ll be sure to get every issue." If he wants a subscription, you can add: “There’s no charge for our literature because our work is supported by voluntary contributions. If you’d like to make a small donation toward our work. I’d be happy to accept it.”

• ⁵ If you placed a brochure but did not have an opportunity to demonstrate the study arrangement, plan to do that on the return visit.

For example, if you left the “Government’’ brochure, ask the householder to get his copy, and say:

■ "Notice what page 3 tells us about the theme of the message Jesus preached when he was on earth." Then briefly discuss the information on page 3. Ask the householder what he thinks he needs to do to learn more. Then say: “It’s important that we appreciate why we need God’s Kingdom so much. I’d like to return and discuss why we must look to God’s government as our only hope.”

• ⁶ We have a variety of brochures. Locate interesting points in the one you plan to use. It will help you to encourage sincere ones to learn more about the things Jesus commanded.—Matt. 28:20.

© 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 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.                 Printed in U.S.A

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