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00:00 Welcome to JW Broadcasting. 00:03 In this month’s program, 00:05 we will feature the study methods that are used in Gilead School. 00:08 For a moment, let’s imagine ourselves starting our day as a Gilead student. 00:15 See you later. 00:16 See you, Nathan. 00:35 Morning. 00:36 Have a good day in class. 00:37 Thank you. 00:44 Welcome. 00:45 How are you? 00:49 Good morning. 00:50 Hello, Nathan. 00:58 Lyubomyr. 00:59 Nice to see you. 01:00 How are you? 01:00 Good. 01:01 I am good. 01:01 Good to see you. 01:02 How was your night? 01:03 It was good. 01:04 A long night of studying, but it was worth it. 01:06 I’m really looking forward to the lesson this morning. 01:09 You know, I agree with you. I feel the same. 01:11 The information we have been studying is really touching my heart. 01:15 I know what you mean. 01:16 I feel like I’ve become more of a spiritual person, 01:18 and my relationship with Jehovah has become so much stronger. 01:21 Good morning everyone. Very good to see you all here this morning. 01:25 What are the study methods that are helping the students grow 01:29 in their relationship with Jehovah? 01:31 And more importantly, how can we apply these methods 01:35 in our own personal study? 01:37 We’ll find the answers and more. 01:39 Here are some of the highlights of what’s ahead. 01:42 These brothers and sisters describe 01:44 how they approach their personal Bible study. 01:46 They’re from different parts of the world, 01:49 but they share many common study techniques. 01:52 What questions do they ask as they read and meditate on the Bible? 01:56 How does their deep study take them beyond the basics of Bible understanding? 02:02 Young ones, are you digging deep into God’s Word now? 02:06 How can this help you make the truth your own? 02:10 And can you succeed even without the support 02:12 of those spiritually close to you? 02:14 This sister’s experience will show us 02:17 the benefits of searching the Bible 02:19 as if for hidden treasures. 02:22 Can you be ready to make a wise choice in matters of conscience? 02:26 Do study habits affect how well-prepared and well-trained 02:29 your conscience is for an unexpected situation? 02:33 We’ll see how the sister in this dramatization 02:35 answers these questions. 02:38 This is JW Broadcasting for July 2018. 03:01 We begin with an archived interview of Brother Allan Boyle. 03:04 Among his many assignments, Brother Boyle spent 37 years 03:08 in the Art Department at world headquarters. 03:11 The beautiful and accurate illustrations 03:14 produced there enhance our study, 03:16 helping us to visualize and meditate on what we are reading. 03:20 An assignment to create these pictures is exciting, 03:23 but it requires that a person have spiritual qualities. 03:27 Artists collaborate 03:29 and must humbly listen to each other’s comments. 03:31 They must apply direction from “the faithful and discreet slave” 03:35 to prepare artwork that we can take in as spiritual food. 03:39 As you’ll hear Brother Boyle describe, 03:41 a person must be an avid student of the Bible. 03:45 Listen to Brother Boyle’s story, 03:47 and note what he said was needed for him to do his assignment well. 04:07 I was born in 1933. 04:10 I got to the age of 18, and one suppertime 04:14 my mother had invited the company servant, 04:17 as they were called back then, to come for supper. 04:20 He asked me what I was going to do with my life. 04:22 I said to him, “Well, I’m going to pioneer.” 04:25 So three weeks later, at the convention in London, 04:28 I got baptized and then went pioneering six months after that. 04:33 I was 21 when I was in the circuit work, 04:35 and that was a wonderful experience. 04:37 And in those days, of course, you didn’t have a car. 04:39 I used to have a motorbike. 04:41 And I’d go around on the motorbike with my briefcase 04:44 and my typewriter and my clothes in the other case on the back. 04:47 Yeah, that was very exciting. 04:49 I was invited to go to Gilead, and that was wonderfully exciting. 04:53 We had 103 in the class. 04:56 Little did I know at the time 04:58 that I would be sent as a missionary to Ireland. 05:09 My friend had been invited to go down 05:12 to London Bethel to do the artwork there. 05:15 I’d always wanted to be in Bethel. 05:17 I thought, ‘Well, why don’t I just call him up and congratulate him?’ 05:20 So that’s what I did, and he told me that he decided not to go. 05:23 So he said: “If you’re still interested, why don’t you go? 05:26 You know, call them up and let them know.” 05:28 So that’s what I did. The next morning, I called up London Bethel, 05:31 and within a week I was in London Bethel doing the graphics work 05:36 for the magazines, you know. 05:37 It was a wonderful, thrilling experience. 05:41 I was in London Bethel for a couple of years, 05:44 in 1977 to 1979, 05:47 and then Brother Barry invited me to come over to Brooklyn Bethel. 05:55 You know that you’re doing something that’s going to be beneficial 06:00 and helpful to other people, 06:02 even to people in different languages, in different cultures. 06:05 A little painting that you do is going to help them 06:08 to get a memory of something significant. 06:13 One of the most beautiful things about working in the Art Department 06:18 and doing paintings is that it makes you do research. 06:22 You have to investigate. Is this the right time of the day? 06:24 Is it night? Is it day? 06:26 What did the sky look like? 06:28 What was it like before the Flood when Noah built the ark? 06:32 How did he paint underneath the ark? 06:34 How did he waterproof it? 06:36 Because that’s the most important part, isn’t it? 06:38 He used bitumen. OK, how did he get underneath the ark? 06:41 Maybe he put it on stilts. 06:42 You have to come up with all these little questions in your mind. 06:51 To do the research was very rewarding. 07:16 This is a little model of a boat, 07:18 and underneath the deck they used to keep 07:20 a ballast sack of 110 pounds (50 kg) of sand. 07:23 It says in the Scriptures that Jesus was asleep on “a pillow.” 07:27 Apparently, this was the ballast sack that he was asleep on. 07:31 And actually, in the Kingdom Interlinear translation, 07:34 it doesn’t say that he was asleep on “a pillow”; 07:37 it says he was asleep on “the pillow.” 07:39 So apparently, back 2,000 years ago in that area, 07:42 everybody knew what “the pillow” was. 07:49 I remember meeting a brother once who’d been to Siberia, 07:54 and he’d taken a snapshot of somebody’s kitchen in Siberia. 07:58 And to my amazement, on the wall 08:00 —pinned with drawing pins on the wall— 08:03 was one of the pages of the publications 08:06 that we produced here at Brooklyn. 08:08 And so, remarkably, 08:10 it’s wonderful to feel that whatever we do here 08:14 —if it’s support work, if it’s the painting, 08:17 and, of course, we need a lot of support work for the paintings— 08:20 all of what we do here 08:22 has an effect upon the brothers and sisters 08:24 out there in the world, wherever it might be. 08:27 And you really feel that your time is well spent. 08:34 You’re adorning the Word of truth. 08:36 You’re helping other people to be taught something from the Bible, 08:41 which is going to be to their benefit. 08:45 It’s been very rewarding and thrilling 08:49 to be in Jehovah’s service, and I’ve really enjoyed it. 09:11 Allan Boyle finished his earthly course in 2016. 09:16 Those in the Art Department who worked with him 09:18 remember his enthusiasm and his thorough attention to detail. 09:23 What Allan brought to his assignment 09:25 was rooted in his own personal study of the Bible. 09:28 He found it rewarding to do the research 09:30 needed to illustrate Bible scenes. 09:33 Today, the Writing Department supplies 09:36 a team of researchers to assist the artists. 09:39 But did you recall what Allan said helped his research? 09:42 He asked questions about the scenes he was painting! 09:47 These same kinds of questions are part of the study methods 09:50 Gilead students learn in class. 09:52 And these are the same methods that we’ll learn about in this program. 09:58 How would you feel 10:00 if you received an invitation 10:02 to attend the next class of Gilead School? 10:05 For many, it has been a lifelong dream to attend Gilead. 10:08 The course helps students keep “a tight grip on the word of life.” 10:13 For others, the idea of five months of intense study seems intimidating. 10:18 We know we need to study, 10:20 but we may find it a challenge to get the most 10:22 out of the time we spend reading God’s Word. 10:26 In this program, we will discuss why study is so important, 10:31 what it means to study something, 10:34 and how you can get more from your study sessions. 10:38 Since most cannot attend Gilead, 10:40 we will demonstrate the method used in Gilead School. 10:45 First, why is study so important? 10:50 Only by study can we keep “a tight grip on the word of life.” 10:55 When the apostle Paul penned these words, 10:57 he was imprisoned and nearing the end of his action-packed life. 11:02 He had been the “apostle to the nations” 11:04 and had spent his best years 11:06 taking the Word of God to the then-known world. 11:10 As he reflected on the fruits of his labors, 11:12 he wrote a letter to his friends in the congregation in Philippi in Macedonia. 11:18 Inspired by holy spirit, he wrote words 11:21 that would aid his brothers to gain the prize of eternal life. 11:25 These words are found at Philippians 2:15, 16. 11:30 Let’s read them: 11:33 “So that you may come to be blameless and innocent, 11:37 “children of God without a blemish in the midst 11:40 “of a crooked and twisted generation, 11:43 “among whom you are shining as illuminators in the world, 11:46 keeping a tight grip on the word of life.” 11:51 Imagine the joy Paul felt 11:54 when he was reunited in the heavenly resurrection 11:57 with those who listened to his admonition 12:00 to keep “a tight grip on the word of life”! 12:03 Whether we have the heavenly or earthly hope, 12:07 Paul’s words can help us gain the prize of eternal life. 12:10 They imprint on our hearts and minds a basic exhortation 12:15 that will lead us through these last days and into our everlasting reward. 12:20 The question is, Will we remain ‘blameless and without blemish 12:25 in the midst of this crooked and twisted generation’ of our day? 12:30 Will we rejoice with other faithful servants of God in the new world? 12:35 We can and we will 12:38 if we take to heart Paul’s counsel 12:40 to keep “a tight grip on the word of life.” 12:45 Next, what does it mean to study? 12:49 Stop and contemplate this word picture 12:51 for keeping a tight grip. 12:54 Imagine a hiker who has slipped near a ledge. 12:57 But before falling over the cliff, he grabs hold of a tree branch. 13:02 How tight do you think his grip will be on that branch? 13:05 This is not a halfhearted effort. 13:08 Likewise, keeping a tight grip on the word of life 13:12 is not just a mechanical routine, nor is it a casual habit. 13:17 It requires strenuous effort. 13:20 It involves actively living by the truths in God’s Word. 13:25 To do this, we must understand 13:28 more than what God expressly commands and condemns. 13:31 We must be able to identify principles, 13:34 or life lessons, contained in the Bible. 13:38 Once identified, we must understand 13:41 how to match these valuable truths 13:43 to specific situations in our lives. 13:47 Then we must allow these principles to influence our decisions 13:51 and guide our reaction to trials and temptations. 13:56 Ask yourself, 13:58 ‘How strong is my grip on the word of life?’ 14:02 To answer that, 14:04 let’s consider the fundamentals of Bible study. 14:09 This is not about old methods or new methods, 14:12 nor is it about what device you are using. 14:15 This discussion transcends devices. 14:19 Study requires active thinking. 14:22 In a world of increasing distractions, 14:25 this is becoming an even greater challenge. 14:28 We’ve often received instant information 14:30 that enables us to quickly recite facts, 14:33 but this is not the same as active thinking. 14:37 Through active thinking, 14:39 we draw meaningful conclusions in our hearts. 14:43 We are certainly grateful for all the study tools we’ve been given. 14:47 We should use these to the full. 14:50 At the same time, we need to be careful 14:53 that these tools do not cause us to develop mental laziness. 14:57 Devices can help us to access information, 15:01 but they can’t think for us. 15:04 We must work hard if we are to develop new patterns of thinking. 15:08 For example, if we study The Watchtower on a device, 15:13 we can use the hyperlink feature to read the Scriptures. 15:17 With a simple touch, we quickly find and read the verse. 15:21 That is good! 15:23 If you regularly do this, you get a grip on the word of life. 15:27 But would you like to get a tight grip on the word of life? 15:32 To get a tight grip requires more effort 15:35 than a swipe of a finger and then swiftly moving on. 15:39 You need to slow down and analyze the material. 15:43 Only then will the information you study 15:46 become imprinted on your mind and heart, 15:49 leaving a clear and distinct impression. 15:53 How, then, can I get more out of my study? 15:57 Let’s demonstrate a method taught during Gilead School. 16:01 It involves the use of six questions. 16:05 The following poem, written by English journalist Rudyard Kipling, 16:09 can help guide better thinking: 16:12 “I keep six honest serving-men 16:15 “(They taught me all I knew); 16:17 “Their names are What and Why 16:19 “and When and How 16:21 and Where and Who.” 16:25 When studying God’s Word, ask yourself these questions 16:29 and then do research in our publications 16:32 to get the facts and discern the spiritual lessons. 16:36 To illustrate how to do this, 16:39 let’s open our Bibles to Genesis chapter 49 16:42 and look at verses 22 through 25. 16:51 First, we ask the when and where. 16:55 Now, with some research, 16:57 we learn that Jacob spoke these words near the end of his life. 17:01 He was in Egypt, 17:03 but what he described takes us back to Canaan some 40 years 17:07 when his son Joseph was a young man. 17:10 Now we have a clearer picture of these verses. 17:13 So now, let’s read and analyze verse 22: 17:18 “Joseph is the offshoot of a fruitful tree, 17:23 a fruitful tree by a spring, whose branches extend over the wall.” 17:28 “The offshoot of a fruitful tree.” 17:31 Who is the “fruitful tree”? 17:32 It is Joseph’s father, Jacob. 17:35 How was he fruitful? 17:37 He bore many children. 17:40 Joseph’s “branches extend over the wall.” 17:44 As Jacob’s offshoot, Joseph is singled out 17:48 for a special blessing superior to that of his brothers. 17:51 Why? 17:53 Joseph proved he had the qualities needed for leadership. 17:57 However, of even greater value than his abilities 18:00 was his being a spiritual man. 18:03 Let’s read verse 23: 18:06 “But the archers kept harassing him 18:09 and shot at him and kept harboring animosity against him.” 18:13 “The archers kept harassing him.” 18:15 Who are “the archers”? 18:17 Joseph’s half brothers. 18:19 How? 18:21 They shot figuratively at Joseph 18:23 —arrows of envy and hatred and jealousy were used to attack him. 18:28 Now, eventually, his brothers sold him into slavery. 18:32 Now let’s read verse 24: 18:34 “And yet his bow remained in place, 18:38 “and his hands stayed strong and agile. 18:41 “This was from the hands of the powerful one of Jacob, 18:44 from the shepherd, the stone of Israel.” 18:47 “His bow remained in place.” 18:49 How? 18:51 Despite the repeated attacks, 18:53 Joseph repaid animosity with kindness. 18:56 Joseph endured this ill-treatment 18:59 and did not weaken in his devotion to God. 19:02 Now we ask, How? 19:04 How is it that Joseph kept a spiritual outlook 19:07 despite the harassment and animosity? 19:10 Let’s read verse 25: 19:13 “He [Joseph] is from the God of your father, 19:17 “and he will help you, and he is with the Almighty, 19:21 “and he will bless you with the blessings of the heavens above, 19:24 “with the blessings of the deep below, 19:26 with the blessings of the breasts and womb.” 19:30 “He is with the Almighty.” 19:33 Joseph had Jehovah’s help. 19:36 The Almighty was by his side through it all. 19:39 We’ve used our questions to get the facts of the account, 19:43 but we’re not done. 19:45 Now let’s use them to take our study to a spiritual plane. 19:49 Next, let’s ask a what question. 19:53 What does this account teach us about Jehovah? 19:57 Jehovah never abandons his loyal servants. 20:01 Even in the depths of prison, Joseph was not alone. 20:06 Jehovah found ways to bless Joseph. 20:09 Now make the connection to Jehovah’s people today, 20:12 including yourself. 20:14 Jehovah will never abandon us. 20:17 Rather, he shows loyal love to all those who serve him whole-souled. 20:22 Would Jehovah let Joseph remain in prison indefinitely? 20:27 No. 20:29 At the appointed time, relief came. 20:32 Joseph was raised from a prisoner in chains 20:35 to the second most powerful man in Egypt 20:38 —from prison to palace in one day. 20:41 Make the connection to us. 20:43 Our trials are temporary. 20:46 Jehovah will soon bring relief, 20:48 even in unexpected or surprising ways. 20:52 Meanwhile, we are never alone; 20:55 Jehovah is with us. 20:59 Again, let’s ask the question, How? 21:02 How does the account contribute to the Bible’s theme? 21:07 Joseph suffered, but his suffering led 21:10 to the survival of Abraham’s offspring, 21:13 leading to the Messiah. 21:15 Joseph’s account is not just a riveting story. 21:19 It directly contributed 21:21 to the development of Jehovah’s purpose. 21:24 Think about this: 21:26 In spite of the poor conduct of his brothers, 21:30 Joseph forgave them and took the initiative 21:33 to improve their relationship with him. 21:37 Joseph’s attitude was a reflection of Jehovah’s attitude. 21:42 With their family reunited, 21:44 Jehovah also forgave Joseph’s brothers 21:47 and took the initiative in restoring their relationship with Himself. 21:52 In fact, Jehovah gave Joseph’s brother Judah 21:57 the honor of being an ancestor of the Messiah. 22:01 What are the lessons in this account? 22:04 Let’s highlight just one. 22:06 Genesis 49:23: 22:10 “But the archers kept harassing him 22:13 and shot at him and kept harboring animosity against him.” 22:18 Arrows of animosity were fired at Joseph. 22:21 Recall Joseph’s response in verse 24? 22:27 “And yet his bow remained in place, 22:30 and his hands stayed strong and agile.” 22:33 In other words, he did not return fire. 22:37 His bow remained in place. 22:39 Reflect on the last time you were wronged by someone. 22:44 How did we react to what we experienced? 22:48 Did we seek to vindicate ourselves or insist on our rights? 22:53 Did we fire arrows of animosity in return, 22:57 or did we show mercy and loyal love? 23:00 Did our reaction reveal that God’s spirit was operative on us? 23:05 Like Joseph, we know we will have Jehovah’s approval 23:09 even if we are wronged or experience trials 23:13 that make us feel like we are in prison. 23:15 Reflective questions like these 23:18 enable us to make the account our own. 23:21 It becomes part of us, 23:23 part of our way of thinking, our way of acting. 23:25 This nourishes our relationship with Jehovah. 23:29 This type of study rewards us not simply with a collection of facts 23:34 that impress us today and are forgotten tomorrow. 23:38 Rather, it leaves us with core principles that we remember, 23:42 that influence our decisions, and that guide our lives. 23:46 We tighten our grip on the word of life. 23:51 Let’s review the fundamentals of study. 23:54 Again, this is not about old methods or new methods 23:58 or about what device you are using. 24:00 This discussion transcends devices. 24:03 It’s about basic methods of Bible study. 24:08 We can liken these three phases of study 24:11 to gathering, sifting, and baking grain. 24:15 Gathering is when we read the Bible. 24:18 We don’t run through the field grabbing just handfuls of grain; 24:22 we systematically harvest the field. 24:26 Sifting is when we sort out what we gathered, 24:29 answering who, what, where, when, why, and how to get the facts. 24:33 Baking is when we think 24:36 —“turning up the heat” in our mind and heart— 24:39 something no one else can do for you. 24:43 The questions we ask can take our study to a spiritual plane. 24:48 Most importantly, what does this teach me about Jehovah? 24:53 How does it contribute to the Bible’s theme? 24:56 And the bottom line: What is the lesson for me? 25:03 Jehovah gave us a mind that is begging to learn. 25:06 It is a gift with the capacity to cultivate thinking ability. 25:11 When we make the effort to unearth gems from God’s Word, 25:14 we find that study is rewarding and delightful. 25:18 More importantly, our study skills enable us 25:21 to keep a tight grip on the word of life. 25:24 A tight grip on God’s Word will make our life better now 25:29 and give us the opportunity to continue learning 25:32 about our heavenly Father for all eternity. 25:37 Joseph’s account was an excellent example for us 25:41 to demonstrate the fundamentals of Bible study. 25:45 During our discussion, 25:47 we used pictures to help bring the account to life. 25:51 As we learned from Brother Boyle’s interview, 25:53 pictures and illustrations give us an accurate image 25:57 to use in our meditation. 25:59 And if there’s a video, 26:01 we have yet another way to imagine ourselves in the account. 26:05 So we’re excited to introduce this month’s music video 26:09 depicting the trials and blessings that Joseph experienced. 26:13 It reminds us that, like Joseph, 26:16 when we have Jehovah, we are never alone. 26:36 Abandoned and betrayed, Forsaken and alone, 26:50 Despair my one companion, My heart within me like a stone 27:04 With no one here for me, No kindly word of care, 27:18 Who’ll offer consolation? My heavy burden, who can share? 27:29 I’m not alone; I never was. 27:37 I’ll never be, And all because 27:44 Jehovah knows; Jehovah sees. 27:51 He hears my prayer; He’s here with me. 27:58 Whatever comes my way, I’m never alone. 28:14 Whatever I may lose By sticking close to you, 28:29 No matter who may fail me, I know you’ll never be untrue. 28:43 You’re close to me, O God, And never far away. 28:57 My faith, my hope, reliance— I know you never will betray. 29:08 I’m not alone; I never was. 29:15 I’ll never be, And all because 29:23 Jehovah knows; Jehovah sees. 29:29 He hears my prayer; He’s here with me. 29:37 Whatever comes my way, I’m never alone. 29:47 I never was. 29:51 I’ll never be, And all because 29:58 Jehovah knows; Jehovah sees. 30:05 He hears my prayer; He’s here with me. 30:12 Whatever comes my way, I’m never alone. 30:31 Have you ever felt as Joseph did? 30:35 There were times when Joseph’s life was not turning out as he had hoped. 30:40 He no doubt wondered if he’d ever be set free from prison 30:44 or if he’d ever see his father again or his younger brother, Benjamin. 30:49 But Joseph knew that his God, Jehovah, never lost sight of him. 30:54 This surely helped him endure. 30:57 We could be in a painful situation that seems to drag on endlessly. 31:02 But when we study a Bible account like Joseph’s 31:05 —asking the six questions— 31:07 we can fully understand and apply the lessons in our life. 31:11 Then we can build the same faith that he had 31:14 —that we too are never alone. 31:19 Let’s now listen to brothers and sisters 31:21 who are using the study methods we’ve discussed. 31:24 Some learned them in Gilead School, others from Gilead graduates, 31:28 or good examples in their families and congregations. 31:32 They’ve also applied what they learned 31:34 from our publications about good study habits. 31:37 See if any of the ways they study 31:39 could help you keep “a tight grip” on God’s Word. 31:45 The more you study, 31:47 the more you understand Jehovah. 31:49 The more you understand Jehovah, 31:51 the more you love him. 31:53 Jehovah clearly tells us: 31:54 “My thoughts are not your thoughts.” 31:56 So if we want to understand Jehovah’s thinking better, 31:59 we need to dig deep in our study, 32:01 and then we share those thoughts with others. 32:05 Personal study is like fuel 32:07 that keeps you going. 32:10 Personally, I’m not a good student, 32:12 but I really learned how to study the Bible. 32:16 The Bible came alive during Gilead. 32:18 Self-discipline is involved —very much. 32:25 I overcome the tiredness aspect 32:29 of Bible study by not doing it 32:32 at a time of day when I know I’m going to be tired. 32:34 I can be tired for other things later on —but not for that. 32:40 Each session of my Bible study begins with a prayer, 32:43 “Please help me recognize it is counsel for me, 32:47 and then give me the strength to work on it.” 32:50 I have a color-coded system, 32:52 so I know what certain things stand for. 32:55 I have a particular color 32:57 for Jehovah’s good hand in people’s lives; 33:02 I have another color for warning examples; 33:07 I have another for fine examples to imitate. 33:23 You have to get behind the information, 33:26 not just focus on one verse or one chapter. 33:29 See who’s involved, the time, 33:32 the conditions, how many people are there, 33:35 and then you’ll get the true meaning of the verse. 33:39 John 1:1, 33:41 who is “the Word”? 33:44 We can go to verse 18. 33:46 “Begotten” meant 33:48 he had a beginning, a time when he started 33:50 —when he began— 33:53 in heaven with his Father. 33:55 That’s where he was. 33:58 Philippians 4:6, 7 is a scripture that I’ve read many times over. 34:02 “The peace of God that excels all thought.” 34:05 OK, how do you get that? 34:07 It’s from having a good relationship with Jehovah. 34:11 How is it that God’s peace ‘guards your heart’? 34:15 “By means of Christ Jesus” our Lord. 34:17 And I said: “Why by Jesus? 34:21 “Because Jesus paid the ransom; 34:25 that ransom is what makes possible a relationship with Jehovah.” 34:30 So it almost goes full circle. 34:57 I attended a School for Congregation Elders 35:00 that had Gilead graduates as instructors. 35:04 One of the methods is to analyze 35:07 a certain Bible account from different perspectives. 35:10 We can’t see the whole picture from one angle. 35:15 I share my research results with Bible students, 35:17 and that helps them to know Jehovah better, 35:20 and it helps them to see that what they’re studying 35:22 is of practical value. 35:25 I had studied up on Jacob; 35:27 he wrestled all night 35:29 with an angel. 35:32 And I wanted to share it with some of my friends. 35:35 One of the brothers that happened to sit around 35:40 when this discussion was going on came back to me, and he said to me: 35:45 “I had concluded my arrangements 35:49 “to quit full-time service. 35:50 “But after listening to that discussion, 35:53 I’ve decided that I’m no longer stopping.” 35:56 And that was such a wonderful moment for me. 36:00 I thanked Jehovah. 36:04 When I learned that I was going to become a mom, 36:06 I said, “Jehovah, if this little one 36:09 could love you, then I’ll get to keep him forever.” 36:13 And I began to teach everything I was learning to him. 36:17 So it’s a matter 36:19 of keeping my faith strong, 36:22 and there’s no shortcut. 36:24 Every session of study that is properly done with good meditation 36:28 adds a new pillar 36:30 to the strength of our faith. 36:35 I look forward to those times when I can, you know, 36:36 run upstairs by myself and just shut everything off, 36:39 and it’s just me and Jehovah. 36:44 Life today is very unpredictable, 36:46 but I’ve come to see that as long as I keep a tight grip on God’s Word, 36:50 nothing can “separate [me] from God’s love.” 36:54 The joy these brothers and sisters get from their personal study 36:58 is clearly heard in their expressions. 37:00 Recall what they said: 37:02 “The more you understand Jehovah, the more you love him.” 37:06 “Study is like fuel that keeps you going.” 37:09 And “I can shut everything off, and it’s just me and Jehovah.” 37:14 We also heard them ask the six questions: 37:16 who, what, where, when, why, and how. 37:20 They also used tools for research and note-taking that works for them. 37:24 Is there something you saw or that we discussed 37:27 that you’d like to add to your study routine? 37:29 If so, try it out. 37:33 Young ones, it’s true that the more you understand Jehovah, 37:36 the more you love him. 37:38 And what a blessing you have if your family worships Jehovah with you 37:42 and teaches you how to draw close to him. 37:45 But some young ones have had to build their faith 37:48 without their family’s support. 37:51 Listen to the experience of Ersi Royer from the United States. 37:55 What spiritual decision did she face at just 14 years old? 38:00 And what did she do that illustrates the value 38:03 of deep personal study? 38:05 Growing up, 38:08 it wasn’t the typical, 38:10 “My mom is a pioneer, my dad is an elder, 38:13 and we’re doing great in the congregation.” 38:15 My family life wasn’t the best, 38:18 so why would I want to do this religion that nobody is happy 38:21 in our family with? 38:24 And I think that can make you feel 38:26 very alone or odd 38:29 or awkward or secluded. 38:33 And at that time, I was graduating eighth grade. 38:35 There were dances; 38:36 friends were hanging out, going to parties. 38:39 And I remember thinking: ‘Wow, these look like really nice kids. 38:44 Why aren’t I doing that?’ 38:47 I hadn’t really delved into the Bible enough to answer questions 38:51 that I really needed to know. 38:54 I went in prayer to Jehovah and said: “I’m so sorry, but today I’m not a Witness. 38:58 I’m going to try to prove everything that I’ve been taught is wrong.” 39:02 I asked him that if he’s real, 39:05 to help me understand. 39:07 So I went in my room 39:09 and shut the door. 39:10 I got every book off the shelf. 39:13 I started off organized, 39:15 but by the end of the evening, 39:16 I had books all over the place with pages open. 39:19 The more I kept reading about Jehovah, 39:22 the more the next topic would take me to then connect the scriptures. 39:26 Jesus is linked to Jehovah; 39:28 the angels are linked to Jehovah; the resurrection is linked to Jehovah. 39:31 So you can’t believe in one thing and not everything else 39:35 if you really want to know the truth. 39:37 And so that’s what did it for me, 39:41 especially the scripture in Psalms 39:43 when it said that ‘you saw even the embryo of me.’ 39:47 And it was an emotional scripture for me 39:49 because I thought: ‘Wow, 39:52 ‘my parents aren’t doing great in the truth right now. 39:55 ‘But Jehovah found a way to find me, 39:58 ‘and he knew what I could be. 40:01 ‘Now I have my answer. I don’t have an excuse. 40:03 ‘Jehovah gave me enough knowledge that now I’m responsible. 40:06 I now need to act on that and show my love in return for him.’ 40:11 Within a week, I found another sister 40:14 in the hall that was really helpful in me getting out 40:16 in service quite often. 40:19 I don’t think to this day she ever knew how much I appreciated that. 40:22 Although things were declining in our family spiritually, 40:26 I was able to get baptized. 40:28 As I progressed spiritually, 40:30 I could see that I did not have 40:32 the support of my family, 40:35 but I had to trust that Jehovah would help me through it. 40:37 And at least by the time I got home, if there was an issue, 40:40 I had the strength of the meeting and the brothers and sisters 40:43 and joy that they couldn’t take away from me. 40:48 I remember I came home one day with some friends. 40:50 It was a nice day 40:52 —encouraging, upbuilding. 40:54 We pulled into our driveway; they dropped me off 40:57 and said good-bye. 40:59 My parents were really upset 41:02 when they came and met me at the door. 41:04 They couldn’t fully understand 41:07 why I was making my decisions 41:10 the way I was to serve Jehovah more fully. 41:15 We just could not agree 41:17 on where my relationship with Jehovah was going. 41:21 And at that point, I left with the clothes on my back. 41:26 In a matter of a few minutes, 41:29 my life forever changed. 41:37 I had a spiritual aunt that took me in, 41:42 helped me gather myself together, 41:43 and literally fed me, clothed me, 41:47 helped me spiritually. 41:50 And so then, my support became Jehovah 41:53 and the congregation. 41:57 I remember that a sister told me years ago, 42:00 “Be who you needed when you were young.” 42:03 And so when I look at those little ones, 42:06 I look at myself and say, 42:08 ‘How could I have benefited 42:10 from someone taking the time for me when I was that age?’ 42:14 I’ve always tried remembering the young ones 42:16 —because that’s just part of who I am— 42:19 and making sure that they know that they’re not alone. 42:22 If there is a young one out there who isn’t sure 42:25 if this is the truth or not, 42:27 I would like them to know that Jehovah knows 42:30 who they are, 42:32 and he’s finding a way for them to know him. 42:35 Jehovah is real, he knows them by name, 42:40 he wants them to live, and he’s fighting for them. 42:44 How amazing that young Ersi chose to spend an entire day studying 42:49 —proving to herself that Jehovah knew her and loved her. 42:54 But this was no onetime study marathon. 42:57 From there, she worked to develop the study habits she needed 43:00 to endure, grow, and become a spiritual person. 43:04 She pioneered for several years, 43:06 and now serves at Bethel with her husband, Jeff. 43:09 In my conversation with Ersi, she expressed her love for her family 43:14 and the hope that someday in the future 43:17 she’ll be reunited with them spiritually. 43:21 There’s no situation in life 43:23 that cannot be handled better than by seeking 43:26 Jehovah’s guidance in the Bible. 43:29 That’s certainly true in matters of conscience. 43:32 In these situations, 43:34 Jehovah does not tell us what to do with a command, 43:38 but his Word gives us the principles we use to train our conscience. 43:43 In this dramatization, 43:45 Emma has to make a difficult decision. 43:48 How is her conscience involved, 43:50 and what steps does she take to make her decision? 43:57 Every day we make choices 43:59 that can affect our relationship with Jehovah. 44:02 When there’s a clear Scriptural command, 44:04 the right choice may seem easy. 44:08 But what if there’s not? 44:12 How can we be sure we’re making a wise decision? 44:17 An invitation to our niece’s wedding arrived. 44:22 Thomas was excited about it. 44:28 I was excited too. 44:32 But the ceremony 44:34 was being held at a local church. 44:38 I wondered if it would still be OK for me to attend. 44:43 Even though Thomas wasn’t yet willing 44:45 to accept a Bible study, he gradually softened over the years 44:48 since I came into the truth. 44:51 I knew he understood why I would never enter a church for worship, 44:55 but what about attending a wedding? 44:57 Jehovah approves of weddings. 45:03 That afternoon, 45:04 I went to help Amy plan a menu 45:06 for the pioneer school lunch coming up. 45:12 She noticed I was a bit distracted, 45:16 so I told her my concerns about the wedding. 45:19 But you’re not thinking of going, are you? 45:22 Amy sure had a strong opinion on the matter, 45:25 but I didn’t feel she really understood my situation. 45:31 Although I appreciated her concern, 45:34 I felt like she was judging me. 45:39 The next day, I decided to visit Charlotte and Allan 45:42 and ask their advice. 45:46 Like me, Charlotte had come into the truth 45:48 many years before Allan, so they really understood my situation. 45:53 Is Amy right? 45:55 Would it be wrong to attend the wedding? 45:58 What would you do if you were me? 46:01 Charlotte explained that in situations 46:04 where there’s no specific Bible command, 46:06 it becomes a matter of conscience. 46:10 And what one person’s conscience allows 46:13 may be different from another. 46:17 The important thing 46:19 is that we make decisions that leave us with a good conscience. 46:35 But how do I do that? 46:38 Dear Emma, it’s really a matter of training. 46:43 Allan showed me the scripture at Hebrews 5:14, 46:45 where the apostle Paul wrote: 46:47 “Solid food belongs to mature people, 46:50 “to those who through use 46:52 “have their powers of discernment trained 46:55 to distinguish both right and wrong.” 47:00 But Paul didn’t just write those words; 47:05 he lived them. 47:09 He carefully studied the principles in God’s Word. 47:14 And as a result, he was able to make decisions 47:18 that left him with a good conscience. 47:24 So even when there’s no stated law on a matter, 47:27 we can always find a Bible principle 47:30 that can give us insight into God’s thinking. 47:36 So I made it a matter of prayer, and then I got to work. 47:45 I researched articles 47:48 in the Watch Tower Publications Index and the Research Guide. 47:53 I found a really good thought in chapter 2 of the “God’s Love” book. 48:02 I also read about others who faced similar situations 48:05 and what Bible principles they found helpful. 48:09 Then I meditated on all these. 48:20 As I kept studying, I was able to bring my conscience 48:23 in harmony with Jehovah’s spirit, 48:26 not just with my heart. 48:39 I realized that having a Bible-trained conscience 48:42 doesn’t mean everyone will always think exactly alike 48:46 —and that’s OK. 48:48 But if we train our conscience by applying Bible principles, 48:53 it will guide us along in life, so that each of us 48:56 can remain in God’s love. 49:00 What did our sister, Emma, do that we can imitate? 49:04 When she realized that she needed more information, 49:06 she got to work! 49:08 She studied in order to train her conscience 49:11 and to make a decision that left her conscience clean. 49:15 We can do the same when a conscience matter comes up. 49:18 But we can do more. 49:20 We can prepare in advance, 49:22 train our conscience on matters that do not have clear Bible commands, 49:27 and study Bible principles 49:29 that teach our conscience the rules it should work with. 49:33 Then, when we need it, it’s ready. 49:35 We can trust it and make decisions 49:37 in harmony with a Bible-trained conscience. 49:41 We urge you brothers and sisters: 49:44 Keep “a tight grip on the word of life.” 49:47 That’s what our program has been about. 49:50 We learned why it’s essential to stay close to God 49:54 and to receive his gift of everlasting life. 49:57 But what’s more, we learned practical ways to do it 50:01 using tried and true methods of personal Bible study. 50:05 We may not have an opportunity to attend Gilead 50:09 or another theocratic school, 50:11 but Jehovah shows all of us how to benefit from his written Word. 50:16 What an expression of God’s love! 50:20 To prepare this month’s program, 50:22 our team spent time with the Theocratic Schools Department 50:26 at the world headquarters facility in Patterson, New York. 50:29 This has been the home for Gilead School since 1995. 50:34 And since arriving here, 50:36 47 classes have graduated. 50:38 Gilead School began with its first class in 1943, 50:42 and since then, close to 9,000 students have been trained. 50:46 When students come to class each day, 50:50 the writings and models on display 50:52 put their mind on spiritual things 50:55 as they get ready to study God’s Word. 50:58 Isaiah 11:9 says: 51:00 “The earth will certainly be filled with the knowledge of Jehovah 51:05 as the waters cover the sea.” 51:07 Our worldwide brotherhood 51:09 works in harmony with that prophecy. 51:12 It’s fitting then that here in the classroom, 51:15 lectures cover every part of the Bible, 51:19 exploring background information 51:21 to get the sense of the account. 51:23 . . . probably still got bruises. 51:25 And Paul is telling them, very honestly, 51:28 ‘we have to enter through many tribulations.’ 51:31 Can you imagine, you’re sitting there and you’re looking at this man 51:33 bruised and cut, 51:35 and he’s saying, 51:37 ‘We (you and I) have to go through many tribulations.’ 51:42 Students participate freely, 51:45 drawing lessons that they can use in their life and assignments. 51:49 It impresses me to see that the Christian congregation in our time 51:54 follows exactly the pattern that was used back then. 51:58 Studying in the Theocratic Schools’ library 52:01 is a cherished part of their day. 52:04 In a quiet, relaxed setting, 52:06 they associate figuratively with “the faithful and discreet slave,” 52:10 searching and taking in the spiritual food 52:13 that nourishes and strengthens their relationship 52:16 with their heavenly Father, Jehovah. 52:19 Students benefit from the hard work of the school instructors. 52:24 Under the direction of the Teaching Committee 52:26 of the Governing Body, 52:28 they manage the curriculum for Gilead and other schools 52:31 that are taught here and in the field. 52:34 Through their diligent efforts and Jehovah’s blessing, 52:37 the Theocratic Schools staff count it a privilege 52:41 to serve their brothers and the Governing Body. 52:44 We send you our sincere Christian love and greetings. 52:51 Thank you for joining us this month. 52:54 This is JW Broadcasting 52:56 from the world headquarters of Jehovah’s Witnesses.
00:00 Welcome to JW Broadcasting. 00:03 In this month’s program, 00:05 we will feature the study methods that are used in Gilead School. 00:08 For a moment, let’s imagine ourselves starting our day as a Gilead student. 00:15 See you later. 00:16 See you, Nathan. 00:35 Morning. 00:36 Have a good day in class. 00:37 Thank you. 00:44 Welcome. 00:45 How are you? 00:49 Good morning. 00:50 Hello, Nathan. 00:58 Lyubomyr. 00:59 Nice to see you. 01:00 How are you? 01:00 Good. 01:01 I am good. 01:01 Good to see you. 01:02 How was your night? 01:03 It was good. 01:04 A long night of studying, but it was worth it. 01:06 I’m really looking forward to the lesson this morning. 01:09 You know, I agree with you. I feel the same. 01:11 The information we have been studying is really touching my heart. 01:15 I know what you mean. 01:16 I feel like I’ve become more of a spiritual person, 01:18 and my relationship with Jehovah has become so much stronger. 01:21 Good morning everyone. Very good to see you all here this morning. 01:25 What are the study methods that are helping the students grow 01:29 in their relationship with Jehovah? 01:31 And more importantly, how can we apply these methods 01:35 in our own personal study? 01:37 We’ll find the answers and more. 01:39 Here are some of the highlights of what’s ahead. 01:42 These brothers and sisters describe 01:44 how they approach their personal Bible study. 01:46 They’re from different parts of the world, 01:49 but they share many common study techniques. 01:52 What questions do they ask as they read and meditate on the Bible? 01:56 How does their deep study take them beyond the basics of Bible understanding? 02:02 Young ones, are you digging deep into God’s Word now? 02:06 How can this help you make the truth your own? 02:10 And can you succeed even without the support 02:12 of those spiritually close to you? 02:14 This sister’s experience will show us 02:17 the benefits of searching the Bible 02:19 as if for hidden treasures. 02:22 Can you be ready to make a wise choice in matters of conscience? 02:26 Do study habits affect how well-prepared and well-trained 02:29 your conscience is for an unexpected situation? 02:33 We’ll see how the sister in this dramatization 02:35 answers these questions. 02:38 This is JW Broadcasting for July 2018. 03:01 We begin with an archived interview of Brother Allan Boyle. 03:04 Among his many assignments, Brother Boyle spent 37 years 03:08 in the Art Department at world headquarters. 03:11 The beautiful and accurate illustrations 03:14 produced there enhance our study, 03:16 helping us to visualize and meditate on what we are reading. 03:20 An assignment to create these pictures is exciting, 03:23 but it requires that a person have spiritual qualities. 03:27 Artists collaborate 03:29 and must humbly listen to each other’s comments. 03:31 They must apply direction from “the faithful and discreet slave” 03:35 to prepare artwork that we can take in as spiritual food. 03:39 As you’ll hear Brother Boyle describe, 03:41 a person must be an avid student of the Bible. 03:45 Listen to Brother Boyle’s story, 03:47 and note what he said was needed for him to do his assignment well. 04:07 I was born in 1933. 04:10 I got to the age of 18, and one suppertime 04:14 my mother had invited the company servant, 04:17 as they were called back then, to come for supper. 04:20 He asked me what I was going to do with my life. 04:22 I said to him, “Well, I’m going to pioneer.” 04:25 So three weeks later, at the convention in London, 04:28 I got baptized and then went pioneering six months after that. 04:33 I was 21 when I was in the circuit work, 04:35 and that was a wonderful experience. 04:37 And in those days, of course, you didn’t have a car. 04:39 I used to have a motorbike. 04:41 And I’d go around on the motorbike with my briefcase 04:44 and my typewriter and my clothes in the other case on the back. 04:47 Yeah, that was very exciting. 04:49 I was invited to go to Gilead, and that was wonderfully exciting. 04:53 We had 103 in the class. 04:56 Little did I know at the time 04:58 that I would be sent as a missionary to Ireland. 05:09 My friend had been invited to go down 05:12 to London Bethel to do the artwork there. 05:15 I’d always wanted to be in Bethel. 05:17 I thought, ‘Well, why don’t I just call him up and congratulate him?’ 05:20 So that’s what I did, and he told me that he decided not to go. 05:23 So he said: “If you’re still interested, why don’t you go? 05:26 You know, call them up and let them know.” 05:28 So that’s what I did. The next morning, I called up London Bethel, 05:31 and within a week I was in London Bethel doing the graphics work 05:36 for the magazines, you know. 05:37 It was a wonderful, thrilling experience. 05:41 I was in London Bethel for a couple of years, 05:44 in 1977 to 1979, 05:47 and then Brother Barry invited me to come over to Brooklyn Bethel. 05:55 You know that you’re doing something that’s going to be beneficial 06:00 and helpful to other people, 06:02 even to people in different languages, in different cultures. 06:05 A little painting that you do is going to help them 06:08 to get a memory of something significant. 06:13 One of the most beautiful things about working in the Art Department 06:18 and doing paintings is that it makes you do research. 06:22 You have to investigate. Is this the right time of the day? 06:24 Is it night? Is it day? 06:26 What did the sky look like? 06:28 What was it like before the Flood when Noah built the ark? 06:32 How did he paint underneath the ark? 06:34 How did he waterproof it? 06:36 Because that’s the most important part, isn’t it? 06:38 He used bitumen. OK, how did he get underneath the ark? 06:41 Maybe he put it on stilts. 06:42 You have to come up with all these little questions in your mind. 06:51 To do the research was very rewarding. 07:16 This is a little model of a boat, 07:18 and underneath the deck they used to keep 07:20 a ballast sack of 110 pounds (50 kg) of sand. 07:23 It says in the Scriptures that Jesus was asleep on “a pillow.” 07:27 Apparently, this was the ballast sack that he was asleep on. 07:31 And actually, in the Kingdom Interlinear translation, 07:34 it doesn’t say that he was asleep on “a pillow”; 07:37 it says he was asleep on “the pillow.” 07:39 So apparently, back 2,000 years ago in that area, 07:42 everybody knew what “the pillow” was. 07:49 I remember meeting a brother once who’d been to Siberia, 07:54 and he’d taken a snapshot of somebody’s kitchen in Siberia. 07:58 And to my amazement, on the wall 08:00 —pinned with drawing pins on the wall— 08:03 was one of the pages of the publications 08:06 that we produced here at Brooklyn. 08:08 And so, remarkably, 08:10 it’s wonderful to feel that whatever we do here 08:14 —if it’s support work, if it’s the painting, 08:17 and, of course, we need a lot of support work for the paintings— 08:20 all of what we do here 08:22 has an effect upon the brothers and sisters 08:24 out there in the world, wherever it might be. 08:27 And you really feel that your time is well spent. 08:34 You’re adorning the Word of truth. 08:36 You’re helping other people to be taught something from the Bible, 08:41 which is going to be to their benefit. 08:45 It’s been very rewarding and thrilling 08:49 to be in Jehovah’s service, and I’ve really enjoyed it. 09:11 Allan Boyle finished his earthly course in 2016. 09:16 Those in the Art Department who worked with him 09:18 remember his enthusiasm and his thorough attention to detail. 09:23 What Allan brought to his assignment 09:25 was rooted in his own personal study of the Bible. 09:28 He found it rewarding to do the research 09:30 needed to illustrate Bible scenes. 09:33 Today, the Writing Department supplies 09:36 a team of researchers to assist the artists. 09:39 But did you recall what Allan said helped his research? 09:42 He asked questions about the scenes he was painting! 09:47 These same kinds of questions are part of the study methods 09:50 Gilead students learn in class. 09:52 And these are the same methods that we’ll learn about in this program. 09:58 How would you feel 10:00 if you received an invitation 10:02 to attend the next class of Gilead School? 10:05 For many, it has been a lifelong dream to attend Gilead. 10:08 The course helps students keep “a tight grip on the word of life.” 10:13 For others, the idea of five months of intense study seems intimidating. 10:18 We know we need to study, 10:20 but we may find it a challenge to get the most 10:22 out of the time we spend reading God’s Word. 10:26 In this program, we will discuss why study is so important, 10:31 what it means to study something, 10:34 and how you can get more from your study sessions. 10:38 Since most cannot attend Gilead, 10:40 we will demonstrate the method used in Gilead School. 10:45 First, why is study so important? 10:50 Only by study can we keep “a tight grip on the word of life.” 10:55 When the apostle Paul penned these words, 10:57 he was imprisoned and nearing the end of his action-packed life. 11:02 He had been the “apostle to the nations” 11:04 and had spent his best years 11:06 taking the Word of God to the then-known world. 11:10 As he reflected on the fruits of his labors, 11:12 he wrote a letter to his friends in the congregation in Philippi in Macedonia. 11:18 Inspired by holy spirit, he wrote words 11:21 that would aid his brothers to gain the prize of eternal life. 11:25 These words are found at Philippians 2:15, 16. 11:30 Let’s read them: 11:33 “So that you may come to be blameless and innocent, 11:37 “children of God without a blemish in the midst 11:40 “of a crooked and twisted generation, 11:43 “among whom you are shining as illuminators in the world, 11:46 keeping a tight grip on the word of life.” 11:51 Imagine the joy Paul felt 11:54 when he was reunited in the heavenly resurrection 11:57 with those who listened to his admonition 12:00 to keep “a tight grip on the word of life”! 12:03 Whether we have the heavenly or earthly hope, 12:07 Paul’s words can help us gain the prize of eternal life. 12:10 They imprint on our hearts and minds a basic exhortation 12:15 that will lead us through these last days and into our everlasting reward. 12:20 The question is, Will we remain ‘blameless and without blemish 12:25 in the midst of this crooked and twisted generation’ of our day? 12:30 Will we rejoice with other faithful servants of God in the new world? 12:35 We can and we will 12:38 if we take to heart Paul’s counsel 12:40 to keep “a tight grip on the word of life.” 12:45 Next, what does it mean to study? 12:49 Stop and contemplate this word picture 12:51 for keeping a tight grip. 12:54 Imagine a hiker who has slipped near a ledge. 12:57 But before falling over the cliff, he grabs hold of a tree branch. 13:02 How tight do you think his grip will be on that branch? 13:05 This is not a halfhearted effort. 13:08 Likewise, keeping a tight grip on the word of life 13:12 is not just a mechanical routine, nor is it a casual habit. 13:17 It requires strenuous effort. 13:20 It involves actively living by the truths in God’s Word. 13:25 To do this, we must understand 13:28 more than what God expressly commands and condemns. 13:31 We must be able to identify principles, 13:34 or life lessons, contained in the Bible. 13:38 Once identified, we must understand 13:41 how to match these valuable truths 13:43 to specific situations in our lives. 13:47 Then we must allow these principles to influence our decisions 13:51 and guide our reaction to trials and temptations. 13:56 Ask yourself, 13:58 ‘How strong is my grip on the word of life?’ 14:02 To answer that, 14:04 let’s consider the fundamentals of Bible study. 14:09 This is not about old methods or new methods, 14:12 nor is it about what device you are using. 14:15 This discussion transcends devices. 14:19 Study requires active thinking. 14:22 In a world of increasing distractions, 14:25 this is becoming an even greater challenge. 14:28 We’ve often received instant information 14:30 that enables us to quickly recite facts, 14:33 but this is not the same as active thinking. 14:37 Through active thinking, 14:39 we draw meaningful conclusions in our hearts. 14:43 We are certainly grateful for all the study tools we’ve been given. 14:47 We should use these to the full. 14:50 At the same time, we need to be careful 14:53 that these tools do not cause us to develop mental laziness. 14:57 Devices can help us to access information, 15:01 but they can’t think for us. 15:04 We must work hard if we are to develop new patterns of thinking. 15:08 For example, if we study The Watchtower on a device, 15:13 we can use the hyperlink feature to read the Scriptures. 15:17 With a simple touch, we quickly find and read the verse. 15:21 That is good! 15:23 If you regularly do this, you get a grip on the word of life. 15:27 But would you like to get a tight grip on the word of life? 15:32 To get a tight grip requires more effort 15:35 than a swipe of a finger and then swiftly moving on. 15:39 You need to slow down and analyze the material. 15:43 Only then will the information you study 15:46 become imprinted on your mind and heart, 15:49 leaving a clear and distinct impression. 15:53 How, then, can I get more out of my study? 15:57 Let’s demonstrate a method taught during Gilead School. 16:01 It involves the use of six questions. 16:05 The following poem, written by English journalist Rudyard Kipling, 16:09 can help guide better thinking: 16:12 “I keep six honest serving-men 16:15 “(They taught me all I knew); 16:17 “Their names are What and Why 16:19 “and When and How 16:21 and Where and Who.” 16:25 When studying God’s Word, ask yourself these questions 16:29 and then do research in our publications 16:32 to get the facts and discern the spiritual lessons. 16:36 To illustrate how to do this, 16:39 let’s open our Bibles to Genesis chapter 49 16:42 and look at verses 22 through 25. 16:51 First, we ask the when and where. 16:55 Now, with some research, 16:57 we learn that Jacob spoke these words near the end of his life. 17:01 He was in Egypt, 17:03 but what he described takes us back to Canaan some 40 years 17:07 when his son Joseph was a young man. 17:10 Now we have a clearer picture of these verses. 17:13 So now, let’s read and analyze verse 22: 17:18 “Joseph is the offshoot of a fruitful tree, 17:23 a fruitful tree by a spring, whose branches extend over the wall.” 17:28 “The offshoot of a fruitful tree.” 17:31 Who is the “fruitful tree”? 17:32 It is Joseph’s father, Jacob. 17:35 How was he fruitful? 17:37 He bore many children. 17:40 Joseph’s “branches extend over the wall.” 17:44 As Jacob’s offshoot, Joseph is singled out 17:48 for a special blessing superior to that of his brothers. 17:51 Why? 17:53 Joseph proved he had the qualities needed for leadership. 17:57 However, of even greater value than his abilities 18:00 was his being a spiritual man. 18:03 Let’s read verse 23: 18:06 “But the archers kept harassing him 18:09 and shot at him and kept harboring animosity against him.” 18:13 “The archers kept harassing him.” 18:15 Who are “the archers”? 18:17 Joseph’s half brothers. 18:19 How? 18:21 They shot figuratively at Joseph 18:23 —arrows of envy and hatred and jealousy were used to attack him. 18:28 Now, eventually, his brothers sold him into slavery. 18:32 Now let’s read verse 24: 18:34 “And yet his bow remained in place, 18:38 “and his hands stayed strong and agile. 18:41 “This was from the hands of the powerful one of Jacob, 18:44 from the shepherd, the stone of Israel.” 18:47 “His bow remained in place.” 18:49 How? 18:51 Despite the repeated attacks, 18:53 Joseph repaid animosity with kindness. 18:56 Joseph endured this ill-treatment 18:59 and did not weaken in his devotion to God. 19:02 Now we ask, How? 19:04 How is it that Joseph kept a spiritual outlook 19:07 despite the harassment and animosity? 19:10 Let’s read verse 25: 19:13 “He [Joseph] is from the God of your father, 19:17 “and he will help you, and he is with the Almighty, 19:21 “and he will bless you with the blessings of the heavens above, 19:24 “with the blessings of the deep below, 19:26 with the blessings of the breasts and womb.” 19:30 “He is with the Almighty.” 19:33 Joseph had Jehovah’s help. 19:36 The Almighty was by his side through it all. 19:39 We’ve used our questions to get the facts of the account, 19:43 but we’re not done. 19:45 Now let’s use them to take our study to a spiritual plane. 19:49 Next, let’s ask a what question. 19:53 What does this account teach us about Jehovah? 19:57 Jehovah never abandons his loyal servants. 20:01 Even in the depths of prison, Joseph was not alone. 20:06 Jehovah found ways to bless Joseph. 20:09 Now make the connection to Jehovah’s people today, 20:12 including yourself. 20:14 Jehovah will never abandon us. 20:17 Rather, he shows loyal love to all those who serve him whole-souled. 20:22 Would Jehovah let Joseph remain in prison indefinitely? 20:27 No. 20:29 At the appointed time, relief came. 20:32 Joseph was raised from a prisoner in chains 20:35 to the second most powerful man in Egypt 20:38 —from prison to palace in one day. 20:41 Make the connection to us. 20:43 Our trials are temporary. 20:46 Jehovah will soon bring relief, 20:48 even in unexpected or surprising ways. 20:52 Meanwhile, we are never alone; 20:55 Jehovah is with us. 20:59 Again, let’s ask the question, How? 21:02 How does the account contribute to the Bible’s theme? 21:07 Joseph suffered, but his suffering led 21:10 to the survival of Abraham’s offspring, 21:13 leading to the Messiah. 21:15 Joseph’s account is not just a riveting story. 21:19 It directly contributed 21:21 to the development of Jehovah’s purpose. 21:24 Think about this: 21:26 In spite of the poor conduct of his brothers, 21:30 Joseph forgave them and took the initiative 21:33 to improve their relationship with him. 21:37 Joseph’s attitude was a reflection of Jehovah’s attitude. 21:42 With their family reunited, 21:44 Jehovah also forgave Joseph’s brothers 21:47 and took the initiative in restoring their relationship with Himself. 21:52 In fact, Jehovah gave Joseph’s brother Judah 21:57 the honor of being an ancestor of the Messiah. 22:01 What are the lessons in this account? 22:04 Let’s highlight just one. 22:06 Genesis 49:23: 22:10 “But the archers kept harassing him 22:13 and shot at him and kept harboring animosity against him.” 22:18 Arrows of animosity were fired at Joseph. 22:21 Recall Joseph’s response in verse 24? 22:27 “And yet his bow remained in place, 22:30 and his hands stayed strong and agile.” 22:33 In other words, he did not return fire. 22:37 His bow remained in place. 22:39 Reflect on the last time you were wronged by someone. 22:44 How did we react to what we experienced? 22:48 Did we seek to vindicate ourselves or insist on our rights? 22:53 Did we fire arrows of animosity in return, 22:57 or did we show mercy and loyal love? 23:00 Did our reaction reveal that God’s spirit was operative on us? 23:05 Like Joseph, we know we will have Jehovah’s approval 23:09 even if we are wronged or experience trials 23:13 that make us feel like we are in prison. 23:15 Reflective questions like these 23:18 enable us to make the account our own. 23:21 It becomes part of us, 23:23 part of our way of thinking, our way of acting. 23:25 This nourishes our relationship with Jehovah. 23:29 This type of study rewards us not simply with a collection of facts 23:34 that impress us today and are forgotten tomorrow. 23:38 Rather, it leaves us with core principles that we remember, 23:42 that influence our decisions, and that guide our lives. 23:46 We tighten our grip on the word of life. 23:51 Let’s review the fundamentals of study. 23:54 Again, this is not about old methods or new methods 23:58 or about what device you are using. 24:00 This discussion transcends devices. 24:03 It’s about basic methods of Bible study. 24:08 We can liken these three phases of study 24:11 to gathering, sifting, and baking grain. 24:15 Gathering is when we read the Bible. 24:18 We don’t run through the field grabbing just handfuls of grain; 24:22 we systematically harvest the field. 24:26 Sifting is when we sort out what we gathered, 24:29 answering who, what, where, when, why, and how to get the facts. 24:33 Baking is when we think 24:36 —“turning up the heat” in our mind and heart— 24:39 something no one else can do for you. 24:43 The questions we ask can take our study to a spiritual plane. 24:48 Most importantly, what does this teach me about Jehovah? 24:53 How does it contribute to the Bible’s theme? 24:56 And the bottom line: What is the lesson for me? 25:03 Jehovah gave us a mind that is begging to learn. 25:06 It is a gift with the capacity to cultivate thinking ability. 25:11 When we make the effort to unearth gems from God’s Word, 25:14 we find that study is rewarding and delightful. 25:18 More importantly, our study skills enable us 25:21 to keep a tight grip on the word of life. 25:24 A tight grip on God’s Word will make our life better now 25:29 and give us the opportunity to continue learning 25:32 about our heavenly Father for all eternity. 25:37 Joseph’s account was an excellent example for us 25:41 to demonstrate the fundamentals of Bible study. 25:45 During our discussion, 25:47 we used pictures to help bring the account to life. 25:51 As we learned from Brother Boyle’s interview, 25:53 pictures and illustrations give us an accurate image 25:57 to use in our meditation. 25:59 And if there’s a video, 26:01 we have yet another way to imagine ourselves in the account. 26:05 So we’re excited to introduce this month’s music video 26:09 depicting the trials and blessings that Joseph experienced. 26:13 It reminds us that, like Joseph, 26:16 when we have Jehovah, we are never alone. 26:36 Abandoned and betrayed, Forsaken and alone, 26:50 Despair my one companion, My heart within me like a stone 27:04 With no one here for me, No kindly word of care, 27:18 Who’ll offer consolation? My heavy burden, who can share? 27:29 I’m not alone; I never was. 27:37 I’ll never be, And all because 27:44 Jehovah knows; Jehovah sees. 27:51 He hears my prayer; He’s here with me. 27:58 Whatever comes my way, I’m never alone. 28:14 Whatever I may lose By sticking close to you, 28:29 No matter who may fail me, I know you’ll never be untrue. 28:43 You’re close to me, O God, And never far away. 28:57 My faith, my hope, reliance— I know you never will betray. 29:08 I’m not alone; I never was. 29:15 I’ll never be, And all because 29:23 Jehovah knows; Jehovah sees. 29:29 He hears my prayer; He’s here with me. 29:37 Whatever comes my way, I’m never alone. 29:47 I never was. 29:51 I’ll never be, And all because 29:58 Jehovah knows; Jehovah sees. 30:05 He hears my prayer; He’s here with me. 30:12 Whatever comes my way, I’m never alone. 30:31 Have you ever felt as Joseph did? 30:35 There were times when Joseph’s life was not turning out as he had hoped. 30:40 He no doubt wondered if he’d ever be set free from prison 30:44 or if he’d ever see his father again or his younger brother, Benjamin. 30:49 But Joseph knew that his God, Jehovah, never lost sight of him. 30:54 This surely helped him endure. 30:57 We could be in a painful situation that seems to drag on endlessly. 31:02 But when we study a Bible account like Joseph’s 31:05 —asking the six questions— 31:07 we can fully understand and apply the lessons in our life. 31:11 Then we can build the same faith that he had 31:14 —that we too are never alone. 31:19 Let’s now listen to brothers and sisters 31:21 who are using the study methods we’ve discussed. 31:24 Some learned them in Gilead School, others from Gilead graduates, 31:28 or good examples in their families and congregations. 31:32 They’ve also applied what they learned 31:34 from our publications about good study habits. 31:37 See if any of the ways they study 31:39 could help you keep “a tight grip” on God’s Word. 31:45 The more you study, 31:47 the more you understand Jehovah. 31:49 The more you understand Jehovah, 31:51 the more you love him. 31:53 Jehovah clearly tells us: 31:54 “My thoughts are not your thoughts.” 31:56 So if we want to understand Jehovah’s thinking better, 31:59 we need to dig deep in our study, 32:01 and then we share those thoughts with others. 32:05 Personal study is like fuel 32:07 that keeps you going. 32:10 Personally, I’m not a good student, 32:12 but I really learned how to study the Bible. 32:16 The Bible came alive during Gilead. 32:18 Self-discipline is involved —very much. 32:25 I overcome the tiredness aspect 32:29 of Bible study by not doing it 32:32 at a time of day when I know I’m going to be tired. 32:34 I can be tired for other things later on —but not for that. 32:40 Each session of my Bible study begins with a prayer, 32:43 “Please help me recognize it is counsel for me, 32:47 and then give me the strength to work on it.” 32:50 I have a color-coded system, 32:52 so I know what certain things stand for. 32:55 I have a particular color 32:57 for Jehovah’s good hand in people’s lives; 33:02 I have another color for warning examples; 33:07 I have another for fine examples to imitate. 33:23 You have to get behind the information, 33:26 not just focus on one verse or one chapter. 33:29 See who’s involved, the time, 33:32 the conditions, how many people are there, 33:35 and then you’ll get the true meaning of the verse. 33:39 John 1:1, 33:41 who is “the Word”? 33:44 We can go to verse 18. 33:46 “Begotten” meant 33:48 he had a beginning, a time when he started 33:50 —when he began— 33:53 in heaven with his Father. 33:55 That’s where he was. 33:58 Philippians 4:6, 7 is a scripture that I’ve read many times over. 34:02 “The peace of God that excels all thought.” 34:05 OK, how do you get that? 34:07 It’s from having a good relationship with Jehovah. 34:11 How is it that God’s peace ‘guards your heart’? 34:15 “By means of Christ Jesus” our Lord. 34:17 And I said: “Why by Jesus? 34:21 “Because Jesus paid the ransom; 34:25 that ransom is what makes possible a relationship with Jehovah.” 34:30 So it almost goes full circle. 34:57 I attended a School for Congregation Elders 35:00 that had Gilead graduates as instructors. 35:04 One of the methods is to analyze 35:07 a certain Bible account from different perspectives. 35:10 We can’t see the whole picture from one angle. 35:15 I share my research results with Bible students, 35:17 and that helps them to know Jehovah better, 35:20 and it helps them to see that what they’re studying 35:22 is of practical value. 35:25 I had studied up on Jacob; 35:27 he wrestled all night 35:29 with an angel. 35:32 And I wanted to share it with some of my friends. 35:35 One of the brothers that happened to sit around 35:40 when this discussion was going on came back to me, and he said to me: 35:45 “I had concluded my arrangements 35:49 “to quit full-time service. 35:50 “But after listening to that discussion, 35:53 I’ve decided that I’m no longer stopping.” 35:56 And that was such a wonderful moment for me. 36:00 I thanked Jehovah. 36:04 When I learned that I was going to become a mom, 36:06 I said, “Jehovah, if this little one 36:09 could love you, then I’ll get to keep him forever.” 36:13 And I began to teach everything I was learning to him. 36:17 So it’s a matter 36:19 of keeping my faith strong, 36:22 and there’s no shortcut. 36:24 Every session of study that is properly done with good meditation 36:28 adds a new pillar 36:30 to the strength of our faith. 36:35 I look forward to those times when I can, you know, 36:36 run upstairs by myself and just shut everything off, 36:39 and it’s just me and Jehovah. 36:44 Life today is very unpredictable, 36:46 but I’ve come to see that as long as I keep a tight grip on God’s Word, 36:50 nothing can “separate [me] from God’s love.” 36:54 The joy these brothers and sisters get from their personal study 36:58 is clearly heard in their expressions. 37:00 Recall what they said: 37:02 “The more you understand Jehovah, the more you love him.” 37:06 “Study is like fuel that keeps you going.” 37:09 And “I can shut everything off, and it’s just me and Jehovah.” 37:14 We also heard them ask the six questions: 37:16 who, what, where, when, why, and how. 37:20 They also used tools for research and note-taking that works for them. 37:24 Is there something you saw or that we discussed 37:27 that you’d like to add to your study routine? 37:29 If so, try it out. 37:33 Young ones, it’s true that the more you understand Jehovah, 37:36 the more you love him. 37:38 And what a blessing you have if your family worships Jehovah with you 37:42 and teaches you how to draw close to him. 37:45 But some young ones have had to build their faith 37:48 without their family’s support. 37:51 Listen to the experience of Ersi Royer from the United States. 37:55 What spiritual decision did she face at just 14 years old? 38:00 And what did she do that illustrates the value 38:03 of deep personal study? 38:05 Growing up, 38:08 it wasn’t the typical, 38:10 “My mom is a pioneer, my dad is an elder, 38:13 and we’re doing great in the congregation.” 38:15 My family life wasn’t the best, 38:18 so why would I want to do this religion that nobody is happy 38:21 in our family with? 38:24 And I think that can make you feel 38:26 very alone or odd 38:29 or awkward or secluded. 38:33 And at that time, I was graduating eighth grade. 38:35 There were dances; 38:36 friends were hanging out, going to parties. 38:39 And I remember thinking: ‘Wow, these look like really nice kids. 38:44 Why aren’t I doing that?’ 38:47 I hadn’t really delved into the Bible enough to answer questions 38:51 that I really needed to know. 38:54 I went in prayer to Jehovah and said: “I’m so sorry, but today I’m not a Witness. 38:58 I’m going to try to prove everything that I’ve been taught is wrong.” 39:02 I asked him that if he’s real, 39:05 to help me understand. 39:07 So I went in my room 39:09 and shut the door. 39:10 I got every book off the shelf. 39:13 I started off organized, 39:15 but by the end of the evening, 39:16 I had books all over the place with pages open. 39:19 The more I kept reading about Jehovah, 39:22 the more the next topic would take me to then connect the scriptures. 39:26 Jesus is linked to Jehovah; 39:28 the angels are linked to Jehovah; the resurrection is linked to Jehovah. 39:31 So you can’t believe in one thing and not everything else 39:35 if you really want to know the truth. 39:37 And so that’s what did it for me, 39:41 especially the scripture in Psalms 39:43 when it said that ‘you saw even the embryo of me.’ 39:47 And it was an emotional scripture for me 39:49 because I thought: ‘Wow, 39:52 ‘my parents aren’t doing great in the truth right now. 39:55 ‘But Jehovah found a way to find me, 39:58 ‘and he knew what I could be. 40:01 ‘Now I have my answer. I don’t have an excuse. 40:03 ‘Jehovah gave me enough knowledge that now I’m responsible. 40:06 I now need to act on that and show my love in return for him.’ 40:11 Within a week, I found another sister 40:14 in the hall that was really helpful in me getting out 40:16 in service quite often. 40:19 I don’t think to this day she ever knew how much I appreciated that. 40:22 Although things were declining in our family spiritually, 40:26 I was able to get baptized. 40:28 As I progressed spiritually, 40:30 I could see that I did not have 40:32 the support of my family, 40:35 but I had to trust that Jehovah would help me through it. 40:37 And at least by the time I got home, if there was an issue, 40:40 I had the strength of the meeting and the brothers and sisters 40:43 and joy that they couldn’t take away from me. 40:48 I remember I came home one day with some friends. 40:50 It was a nice day 40:52 —encouraging, upbuilding. 40:54 We pulled into our driveway; they dropped me off 40:57 and said good-bye. 40:59 My parents were really upset 41:02 when they came and met me at the door. 41:04 They couldn’t fully understand 41:07 why I was making my decisions 41:10 the way I was to serve Jehovah more fully. 41:15 We just could not agree 41:17 on where my relationship with Jehovah was going. 41:21 And at that point, I left with the clothes on my back. 41:26 In a matter of a few minutes, 41:29 my life forever changed. 41:37 I had a spiritual aunt that took me in, 41:42 helped me gather myself together, 41:43 and literally fed me, clothed me, 41:47 helped me spiritually. 41:50 And so then, my support became Jehovah 41:53 and the congregation. 41:57 I remember that a sister told me years ago, 42:00 “Be who you needed when you were young.” 42:03 And so when I look at those little ones, 42:06 I look at myself and say, 42:08 ‘How could I have benefited 42:10 from someone taking the time for me when I was that age?’ 42:14 I’ve always tried remembering the young ones 42:16 —because that’s just part of who I am— 42:19 and making sure that they know that they’re not alone. 42:22 If there is a young one out there who isn’t sure 42:25 if this is the truth or not, 42:27 I would like them to know that Jehovah knows 42:30 who they are, 42:32 and he’s finding a way for them to know him. 42:35 Jehovah is real, he knows them by name, 42:40 he wants them to live, and he’s fighting for them. 42:44 How amazing that young Ersi chose to spend an entire day studying 42:49 —proving to herself that Jehovah knew her and loved her. 42:54 But this was no onetime study marathon. 42:57 From there, she worked to develop the study habits she needed 43:00 to endure, grow, and become a spiritual person. 43:04 She pioneered for several years, 43:06 and now serves at Bethel with her husband, Jeff. 43:09 In my conversation with Ersi, she expressed her love for her family 43:14 and the hope that someday in the future 43:17 she’ll be reunited with them spiritually. 43:21 There’s no situation in life 43:23 that cannot be handled better than by seeking 43:26 Jehovah’s guidance in the Bible. 43:29 That’s certainly true in matters of conscience. 43:32 In these situations, 43:34 Jehovah does not tell us what to do with a command, 43:38 but his Word gives us the principles we use to train our conscience. 43:43 In this dramatization, 43:45 Emma has to make a difficult decision. 43:48 How is her conscience involved, 43:50 and what steps does she take to make her decision? 43:57 Every day we make choices 43:59 that can affect our relationship with Jehovah. 44:02 When there’s a clear Scriptural command, 44:04 the right choice may seem easy. 44:08 But what if there’s not? 44:12 How can we be sure we’re making a wise decision? 44:17 An invitation to our niece’s wedding arrived. 44:22 Thomas was excited about it. 44:28 I was excited too. 44:32 But the ceremony 44:34 was being held at a local church. 44:38 I wondered if it would still be OK for me to attend. 44:43 Even though Thomas wasn’t yet willing 44:45 to accept a Bible study, he gradually softened over the years 44:48 since I came into the truth. 44:51 I knew he understood why I would never enter a church for worship, 44:55 but what about attending a wedding? 44:57 Jehovah approves of weddings. 45:03 That afternoon, 45:04 I went to help Amy plan a menu 45:06 for the pioneer school lunch coming up. 45:12 She noticed I was a bit distracted, 45:16 so I told her my concerns about the wedding. 45:19 But you’re not thinking of going, are you? 45:22 Amy sure had a strong opinion on the matter, 45:25 but I didn’t feel she really understood my situation. 45:31 Although I appreciated her concern, 45:34 I felt like she was judging me. 45:39 The next day, I decided to visit Charlotte and Allan 45:42 and ask their advice. 45:46 Like me, Charlotte had come into the truth 45:48 many years before Allan, so they really understood my situation. 45:53 Is Amy right? 45:55 Would it be wrong to attend the wedding? 45:58 What would you do if you were me? 46:01 Charlotte explained that in situations 46:04 where there’s no specific Bible command, 46:06 it becomes a matter of conscience. 46:10 And what one person’s conscience allows 46:13 may be different from another. 46:17 The important thing 46:19 is that we make decisions that leave us with a good conscience. 46:35 But how do I do that? 46:38 Dear Emma, it’s really a matter of training. 46:43 Allan showed me the scripture at Hebrews 5:14, 46:45 where the apostle Paul wrote: 46:47 “Solid food belongs to mature people, 46:50 “to those who through use 46:52 “have their powers of discernment trained 46:55 to distinguish both right and wrong.” 47:00 But Paul didn’t just write those words; 47:05 he lived them. 47:09 He carefully studied the principles in God’s Word. 47:14 And as a result, he was able to make decisions 47:18 that left him with a good conscience. 47:24 So even when there’s no stated law on a matter, 47:27 we can always find a Bible principle 47:30 that can give us insight into God’s thinking. 47:36 So I made it a matter of prayer, and then I got to work. 47:45 I researched articles 47:48 in the Watch Tower Publications Index and the Research Guide. 47:53 I found a really good thought in chapter 2 of the “God’s Love” book. 48:02 I also read about others who faced similar situations 48:05 and what Bible principles they found helpful. 48:09 Then I meditated on all these. 48:20 As I kept studying, I was able to bring my conscience 48:23 in harmony with Jehovah’s spirit, 48:26 not just with my heart. 48:39 I realized that having a Bible-trained conscience 48:42 doesn’t mean everyone will always think exactly alike 48:46 —and that’s OK. 48:48 But if we train our conscience by applying Bible principles, 48:53 it will guide us along in life, so that each of us 48:56 can remain in God’s love. 49:00 What did our sister, Emma, do that we can imitate? 49:04 When she realized that she needed more information, 49:06 she got to work! 49:08 She studied in order to train her conscience 49:11 and to make a decision that left her conscience clean. 49:15 We can do the same when a conscience matter comes up. 49:18 But we can do more. 49:20 We can prepare in advance, 49:22 train our conscience on matters that do not have clear Bible commands, 49:27 and study Bible principles 49:29 that teach our conscience the rules it should work with. 49:33 Then, when we need it, it’s ready. 49:35 We can trust it and make decisions 49:37 in harmony with a Bible-trained conscience. 49:41 We urge you brothers and sisters: 49:44 Keep “a tight grip on the word of life.” 49:47 That’s what our program has been about. 49:50 We learned why it’s essential to stay close to God 49:54 and to receive his gift of everlasting life. 49:57 But what’s more, we learned practical ways to do it 50:01 using tried and true methods of personal Bible study. 50:05 We may not have an opportunity to attend Gilead 50:09 or another theocratic school, 50:11 but Jehovah shows all of us how to benefit from his written Word. 50:16 What an expression of God’s love! 50:20 To prepare this month’s program, 50:22 our team spent time with the Theocratic Schools Department 50:26 at the world headquarters facility in Patterson, New York. 50:29 This has been the home for Gilead School since 1995. 50:34 And since arriving here, 50:36 47 classes have graduated. 50:38 Gilead School began with its first class in 1943, 50:42 and since then, close to 9,000 students have been trained. 50:46 When students come to class each day, 50:50 the writings and models on display 50:52 put their mind on spiritual things 50:55 as they get ready to study God’s Word. 50:58 Isaiah 11:9 says: 51:00 “The earth will certainly be filled with the knowledge of Jehovah 51:05 as the waters cover the sea.” 51:07 Our worldwide brotherhood 51:09 works in harmony with that prophecy. 51:12 It’s fitting then that here in the classroom, 51:15 lectures cover every part of the Bible, 51:19 exploring background information 51:21 to get the sense of the account. 51:23 . . . probably still got bruises. 51:25 And Paul is telling them, very honestly, 51:28 ‘we have to enter through many tribulations.’ 51:31 Can you imagine, you’re sitting there and you’re looking at this man 51:33 bruised and cut, 51:35 and he’s saying, 51:37 ‘We (you and I) have to go through many tribulations.’ 51:42 Students participate freely, 51:45 drawing lessons that they can use in their life and assignments. 51:49 It impresses me to see that the Christian congregation in our time 51:54 follows exactly the pattern that was used back then. 51:58 Studying in the Theocratic Schools’ library 52:01 is a cherished part of their day. 52:04 In a quiet, relaxed setting, 52:06 they associate figuratively with “the faithful and discreet slave,” 52:10 searching and taking in the spiritual food 52:13 that nourishes and strengthens their relationship 52:16 with their heavenly Father, Jehovah. 52:19 Students benefit from the hard work of the school instructors. 52:24 Under the direction of the Teaching Committee 52:26 of the Governing Body, 52:28 they manage the curriculum for Gilead and other schools 52:31 that are taught here and in the field. 52:34 Through their diligent efforts and Jehovah’s blessing, 52:37 the Theocratic Schools staff count it a privilege 52:41 to serve their brothers and the Governing Body. 52:44 We send you our sincere Christian love and greetings. 52:51 Thank you for joining us this month. 52:54 This is JW Broadcasting 52:56 from the world headquarters of Jehovah’s Witnesses.
