Our Kingdom ministry

July 1994                         For United States of America                         Vol. 37, No. 7

• ¹ In ancient Israel, sacrifices were offered daily. (Ex.2f):38-42) The fire of the altar was kept burning; the ascending smoke was “a restful odor” that pleased Jehovah. (Ex. 29:18) Today, we are urged to “offer to God a sacrifice of praise, that is, the fruit of lips which make public declaration to his name.” (Heb. 13:15) Instead of using sacrifices prescribed by the law. we worship Jehovah by recounting his praises without letup. —Isa. 43:21; Acts 5:42.

• ² Jesus Christ, the greatest Witness ever to walk this earth, taught us how we must carry on pure worship by offering sacrifices of praise. He taught his disciples that there was an urgency to the message they preached. He knew that the most effective way to reach people with the good news was to talk to them personally in their homes. (Matt. 10:7,12) So we find that the apostles followed his divinely inspired direction to preach from house to house. —Acts 20:20.

• ³ It is no different today. As Jesus’ disciples, true Christians follow his example by preaching the good news from house to house. Though we may be criticized and persecuted for that, millions have learned the truth and hundreds of thousands of new disciples are joining the ranks of the great crowd each year, giving evidence that this is Jehovah’s way of accomplishing his will. That is why we persevere in our ministry.

' Benefits of Preaching From House to Houses “God is not partial... The man that fears him and works righteousness is acceptable to him.” (Acts 10:34, 35) Going directly to each house in our territory clearly demonstrates impartiality, giving everyone opportunity to hear the Kingdom message regularly. In turn receptive ones receive personalized assistance according to their Individual needs.

⁵ Almost all publishers, including younger ones, the elderly, and even those who are new, can participate in the house-to-house work. In this way each one can make “public declaration for salvation." (Rom. 10:10) Participation with others in the house-to-house ministry draws us together in the bonds of love and unity. At the same time, we are given an opportunity to display our endurance when we encounter indifference or opposition. This public display of faith makes us “a theatrical spectacle,” which helps sincere ones to realize that we have an organized arrangement for teaching the Bible and that they can benefit from it. (1 Cor. 4:9) Everything clearly shows that Jehovah is blessing the house-to-house work and using it to gather the great crowd to his “house” of pure worship.—Isa. 2:2-4.

' Now more than at any other time in history, people need to hear the Kingdom message. Let us keep on preaching from house to house without letup until Jehovah says it is enough. (Isa. 6:11) Doing so, we will be rewarded with the joy that comes from sharing in the important and beneficial house-to-house ministry in this time of the end.—1 Cor. 15:58.

• ¹ Jesus instructed his disciples to search out those who deserve to hear the Kingdom good news. (Matt. 10:11) Yet. in many areas today, it is becoming more and more difficult to contact people at their homes. So, what can be done to reach deserving ones who may be missed?

• ² Street witnessing can be an effective way to find people missed in the house-to-house work. We can do street witnessing at bus stops, near high-security apartment buildings, in public parks, and in other places where people go about their daily affairs.

• ³ When street witnessing is mentioned. some have feelings of apprehension. They may be hesitant to share in that work because they tend to be shy or they anticipate being rebuffed by people who resent the Kingdom message. These anxieties are usually unfounded. Those who are experienced in this activity report that it is no more difficult than door-to-door witnessing. In fact, they have found that most people are used to being approached on the street for various reasons, and some may be more inclined to converse or listen than they would be if we knocked at their door. So if we ‘muster up boldness.’ we may be pleasantly surprised. —1 Thess. 2:2.

• ⁴ How can street work be done most effectively? It is important to prepare well. Read the magazines ahead of time, and select one or two talking points that you feel will interest the people you meet. A presentation of 30 seconds is about right. Since the goal Is to make personal contact with others, choose a location where a considerable number of people regularly pass by. Although it may be advisable to have another publisher close by, It is usually best to work separately. Publishers who stand together may be inclined to pass the time conversing with each other and not be attentive to those of the public who may be disposed to listen to the Kingdom message.

• ⁵ Standing in one spot and simply displaying the magazines is not as effective as taking the initiative to approach individuals. Try to establish eye contact. Be warm, friendly, and direct as you endeavor to start a conversation. In some cases, you may have to walk a few paces with the person while speaking with him. If he is responsive, offer the magazines. If the magazines are refused, you may want to offer a tract.

• ⁶ Usually it is best to prepare a brief presentation that raises a question or makes a statement that will create interest. If there is a suitable response, try to obtain the person’s name, address, and perhaps even his telephone number so that you can follow up the interest. You might say: “If you would like to learn more, I would be happy to visit you at your home or arrange for another Witness to do so.”

• ⁷ An elder engaging in street witnessing approached a woman and learned that she had never had occasion to talk with the Witnesses at her home. She accepted a book and agreed to having a sister visit her in her home at a convenient time. Many more deserving ones can surely be found and assisted if we are effective in street witnessing.—Acts 17:17.

  Service Meetings for July

  
  

Week Starting July 4

Song 141

10 min: Local announcements and applicable Announcements from Our Kingdom Ministry. Mention titles of booklets, if any, congregation has in stock; encourage publishers to get supply for use in service. If congregation has no booklets, suggest brochures that might be used.

17 min: “House to House Without Letup.” Questions and answers. Invite expressions of appreciation from some in audience who were first contacted through door-to-door work.

18 min: “Help Others Learn the Truth.” Discuss with audience. Arrange for capable publishers to demonstrate two or three suggested presentations. Stress benefits of brief, simple approach.

Song 120 and concluding prayer.

Week Starting July 11

Song 115

12 min: Local announcements. Read accounts report along with any Society donation acknowledgments. Give commendation for contributions. (Ex. 35:29) Encourage publishers to consider doing evening witnessing—a fine time for door-to-door work or return visits.

15 mln: Local needs. Or have experience^ elder give a talk on article “Keep Your Distance When Danger Threatens,” in February 15,1994, Watchtower, pages 22-5.

18 min: “How Will They Hear Unless We Return?” Discuss with audience. Demonstrate suggestions in paragraphs 3 and 4. Give additional comments showing why return visits should be made with goal of starting studies.

Song 123 and concluding prayer.

Week Starting July 18

Song 125

15 min: Local announcements. Review highlights of article “New Circuit Assembly Program.” Mention dates of next circuit assembly if available. Outline field service arrangements for weekend, and encourage participation in magazine distribution.

8 min: Question Box. Question-and-answer discussion.

22 min: “Finding Interested Ones by Means of Effective Street Witnessing.” Service overseer or other capable elder who is effective in street witnessing discusses article with two or three publishers who also have experience in street witnessing. Discussion can include two or three brief experiences. Demonstrate approaches with current magazines.

Song 134 and concluding prayer.

Week Starting July 25

Song 140

io min: Local announcements. Theocratic News. Demonstrate presentation of latest issues of magazines. Encourage all to participate in magazine distribution.

15 min: “Younger Ones Need a Good Example.” Questions and answers. Interview one or two young persons who are good examples. Have them explain what spiritual goals they have set for themselves and how their efforts have brought extra blessings.

20 min: Improving the Effectiveness of Our Presentations. Family group has practice session based on suggestions in School Guidebook, page 99, paragraph 9. One family member demonstrates presentation, others offer commendation and suggestions for improvement. Include a common objection met in your area, and discuss how to overcome it.

Song 187 and concluding prayer.

• ¹ We rejoice to have with us a growing number of young people who are ‘praising Jehovah’s name.’ (Ps. 148: 12, 13) Many of them are still quite young in years. Their progress is largely determined by the training and example provided by their parents and other older ones in the congregation. Not to be overlooked, however, Is the Influence exercised by other young people, especially older teenagers and young adults. If you are in this age group, these comments may benefit you.

• ² Young people In their preteens are inclined to imitate older teenagers. They have the natural desire to be like close associates whom they admire. They tend to look up to other youths who are somewhat older and who give the appearance of being knowledgeable and more advanced. As a result, they may Imitate your speech and conduct as well as your appreciation for spiritual values and your participation in congregation activities.

• ³ As an older teenager, you have a privilege as well as a weighty responsibility. Right now, your example is likely influencing your younger companions. Ask yourself, 'What kind of influence do I exert on younger ones? Am I serious-minded, avoiding foolishness and wrong “desires Incidental to youth”? Do I demonstrate obedience and respectfulness toward my parents, the elders, and other older persons?’ (2 Tim. 2:22; Col. 3:20) What you say and do may be a major factor in the spiritual progress of other younger ones who observe your actions.

* Preaching the Kingdom message is the primary work of the congregation. Your willing and regular participation can encourage your companions to be more active. If you are able to take up the pioneer service, your friends will be motivated in a similar way. Commenting at the meetings and volunteering your help in performing necessary tasks at the Kingdom Hall may also set a good example.

• ⁵ Even though Timothy was no longer in his teens when Paul gave him the following advice, you teenagers can apply it: “Become an example to the faithful ones in speaking, in conduct, in love, in faith, in chasteness.” (1 Tim. 4:12) Your enthusiastic and whole-souled participation in Jehovah’s service can motivate your associates and younger observers in a positive way. helping them to make progress toward becoming spiritually full-grown men. (Eph. 4:13) Teenagers who are part of families that have just begun to study may be attracted to the truth by what they see in you.

• ⁶ Even more Important, your diligence in demonstrating godly qualities reflects favorably on Jehovah and his organization. (Prov. 27:11) Sincere observers will marvel at the striking contrast between you and the young people of the world. So you have a unique opportunity to help younger ones while you are making a valuable contribution to Jehovah’s praise.—Ps. 71:17.

  Announcements

  
  

New Circuit Assembly Program

■ Literature offer for 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 alternative offer. The 32-page booklets should not be requested from the Society, but congregations should use such booklets as they now have on hand. August: Any of the following 32-page brochures may be used: Does God Really Care About Us?, Enjoy Life on Earth Forever!, "Look! I Am Making AU Things New," Should You Believe in the Trinity?, The Divine Name That WiU Endure Forever, The Government That Will Bring Paradise, and What Is the Purpose of Life—How Can You Find It? September: You Can Live Forever in Paradise on Earth. October: The Watchtower and Awake! magazines. Subscriptions may be offered on return visits. 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.

■ New Audiocassettes Available: Danish: Doing God’s Will With Zeal (Drama; single audiocassette). English: The Greatest Man Who Ever Lived (set of eight audiocassettes in an album).

Theocratic News

• ¹ The theme that will be developed in the new circuit assembly program to begin in September is “Stay Awake, Stand Firm, Grow Mighty.” It is based on the apostle Paul’s words of encouragement to first-century Christians recorded at 1 Corinthians 16:13.

• ² The program will begin by highlighting our constant need for spiritual self-examination. Maintaining a strong stand for what is right in these “last days” calls for a realistic evaluation of our relationship with Jehovah and our standing with his earthly organization. (2 Tim. 3:1) We will be reminded of God’s appreciation for all our hard work. We need to be instructed in ways to Improve our Christian qualities and maintain exemplary conduct.

• ³ The need to be zealous in the disciple-making work while reaching out for spiritual advancement and

CONGREGATION BOOK STUDY

Schedule for congregation studies in the book Happiness—How to Find It.

July 4:      Pages 78‘-85

July 11:      Pages 86-95

July 18:      Pages 96-102

July 25:      Pages 103-111

' To or from subheading.

responsibility will also be emphasized. Practical suggestions on how individuals and families can maintain a regular spiritual feeding program will be featured in a variety of talks, demonstrations, and discussions.

• ⁴ On Saturday qualified candidates will be able to make public declaration of their dedication by baptism in water. Then, on Sunday all of us will want to be present for the public talk, entitled “What Is Your Standing With God?”

• ⁵ The program will conclude with encouragement to remain firm in faith, always dealing with one another in the spirit of love and peace. The circuit assembly is one of the special opportunities Jehovah provides for all of us to ‘incite one another to love and fine works.’ (Heb. 10:24,25) Make definite plans to be present for the entire program on both days.

APRIL SERVICE REPORT

TOTAL 902,928 Baptized: 2,284

Haiti: A 12-percent Increase in February brought a new peak of 9,115 publishers. The 1994 series of circuit assemblies was attended by 15,824, and 252 were baptized.

Japan: February was a very cold month with much snowfall. However, a new peak of 188,844 publishers was reached. There were also new peaks in return visits, Bible studies, and regular pioneers.

Philippines: The February report revealed a new peak of 117,519 publishers. Bible studies exceeded 100,000 for the first time, with 100,146 being reported. Magazine placements were up more than 100,000 over November 1993 because of a changeover to full-color printing.

Question box

■ What should the secretary do when a regular pioneer moves into the congregation?

The secretary should notify the Society, using the space provided on the back of the Congregation Report (S-l). He should also promptly contact the secretary of the pioneer’s former congregation and request all the Congregation’s Publisher Record cards (S-21) on file as well as a letter of introduction from the Congregation Service Committee.

When a pioneer makes a major move, he often has some difficulties in getting settled and establishing a good routine for service. A pioneer appreciates it very much when elders offer loving assistance to him so that his transition to the new congregation is as smooth as possible.

Reminder: The secretary provides replacement Pioneer Service Identification cards (S-202) only for pioneers who move to the congregation from within the contiguous United States. Pioneers who lose their card, who change their name because of marriage or divorce, or who move from areas served by another branch (including Alaska, Hawaii, and Puerto Rico) should receive their new card from the Society, not the secretary. The secretary or the pioneer should write the Society, explain the situation, and request a new card.

• ¹ Jesus came to earth to bear witness to the truth. To get the truth preached to others, he trained his disciples to be teachers. He was so confident of their success in teaching others that he called them ‘public instructors.’ (Matt. 13:52) He likened each one to a learned man having a veritable treasure store from which to draw. Jesus’ disciples today use the printed page to speed up the Kingdom-preaching work. For example, many congregations have a variety of booklets to use in helping others become disciples. How can these valuable instruments be used?

• ² To start a conversation leading into offering the booklet “A Secure Future—How You Can Find It," you might ask:

■ “Have you ever wondered why it is that in spite of all man’s efforts, prospects for a secure future seem quite dim? [Allow for response.] The Bible explains why so many efforts have failed.” Read Psalm 146:3, 4. After reasoning with the householder on information in paragraph 6, you could ask: “Who is really able to provide us with long-term security?” Depending on the householder’s response, you may decide to discuss appropriate points from paragraph 7 or arrange to do that at a future time.

• ³ Here is one way you may be able to use the booklet “Is There a God Who Caresf”:

■ “Many people have asked the question that appears in the caption below these two illustrations. [Read the question at the bottom of pages 6 and 7, and allow for response.] Since a loving God would not promote both good and bad at the same time, what do you think of his promise recorded here at Isaiah 65:21-24?" If you get a comment that shows a measure of interest, turn to paragraph 37, and explain what will be accomplished by God’s Kingdom.

* When offering the booklet “There Is Much More to Life!,” you could say:

■ “For many the quality of life has been reduced to dreary, monotonous drudgery. What do you think is needed to make life more meaningful? [Let householder express his opinion.) The Bible shows that God has better things in store for us. See what he says here at Revelation 21:4, 5.” If appropriate, continue the discussion with points from paragraph 42 of the booklet.

⁵ Using the brochure “Enjoy Life on Earth Forever!, ” a younger publisher might ask:

■ “Would you like to live in a paradise earth like this? [Show the front and back cover, and allow for a comment.) My family and I look forward to living there because of what the Bible says here at John 17:3.” If interest is observed after reading the scripture, offer to leave the brochure for the person to read.

⁹ If you are using other booklets or brochures in your ministry this month, you may pattern your introductions and presentations on the foregoing suggestions. Remember to be brief and to make positive and upbuilding comments to arouse the interest of householders.

• ¹ Jehovah has given us the truth. We should seize the opportunities set before us to share it with others, both in printed form and in our conversations with the people we meet. In this way we prove ourselves to be public Instructors for the lasting benefit of others.—Matt. 28:19, 20.

  How Will They Hear Unless We Return?

  
  

• ¹ “How . . . will they hear without someone to preach?” (Rom. 10:14) Indeed, how will they grasp the meaning of the truth unless we make effective return visits? Any call where we were able to converse with the householder about the Kingdom message merits a return visit. This month we may be able to follow up our initial conversation with additional Scriptural thoughts from whichever booklet we placed, and that may lead successfully into a Bible study.

• ² If you placed the booklet “A Secure Future—How You Can Find It, ” you may be able to initiate a conversation that would lead into a Bible study this way. Pointing to the front cover, you could ask:

■ “Would you like to live in a world where a secure future is guaranteed for you and your family? [Allow for a response. Then turn to paragraph 2.) All of us share this desire, although many doubt that it will ever be possible. For God, who promises to make this a reality, it is not impossible.” Read Isaiah 32: 17,18 as it is quoted in paragraph 2, or read it from your Bible. Continue, explaining that there are people around the world who are already experiencing the Joy and peace of mind that come with a sure hope for the future. Discuss Scriptural thoughts in paragraph 3, and then explain how a study of the booklet can help the householder learn more. If the person is interested, make arrangements for an early return visit to continue the discussion.

* When you return after placing the booklet “Is There a God Who Caresf,” perhaps something like this will be effective: ■ “On my previous visit, we discussed the question, Is there a God who cares? Do you think God cares enough about us to bring an end to suffering and violence? [After the person responds, turn to paragraph 32, and continue.) God has promised to replace this wicked world with a new one inhabited by good people who will be able to live in peace. (Read Psalm 37:11.) You and I can also enjoy life in that new world if we believe the Bible and apply its counsel.” Explain our program for helping people study the Bible.

• ⁴ When you make a return visit after placing the brochure “Look! I Am Making All Things New, ” you might start by showing the picture on the cover and then asking the question:

■ “What do you think it would be like to live in a perfect world? [Get householder’s comments.) What you see in this picture is not just a figment of the imagination; it is based on sure promises stated in the Bible. [Read Revelation 21:4 and Psalm 37:11, 29.] I would like to explain how you and your family can enjoy this blessing." If the householder manifests interest, continue the discussion, and offer a Bible study.

• ⁵ When we find sincere people who are searching for the truth, we demonstrate our genuine love by returning to help them act on what they have heard. We use the sacred truths entrusted to us for the everlasting blessing of ourselves and those who listen.—1 Tim. 4:16.

© 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

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