November

Branch Letter

Dear Kingdom Publishers:

Our brothers are still talking about the “Victorious Faith” International Conventions. And, of course, many are yet to be held in Central and South America, Africa and the South Pacific. For the conventions held to date in the continental United States, Canada, the Caribbean Islands, the Orient and Europe, for which we have received reports, the peak attendance is up to 1,789,414 and there were 18,754 baptized.

One of the high points of the convention everywhere has been our activity in the field service on Friday morning. A brother who attended the convention in Los Angeles said: “I was happy to share in this special work. What better way to demonstrate our love and fellow feeling toward our neighbors?” Another said: “I was proud to be among the thousands carrying our little yellow bags. That in itself was a powerful witness.” And still another: “People readily accepted the brochure. We really enjoyed the work. Let’s do it again.”

One woman had heard on TV that Jehovah’s people would be visiting persons in their homes on Friday. When a brother approached her, she said: “You aren’t supposed to come until Friday.” When the brother assured her that it was Friday she said: “Oh, so it is. Yes, I’ll be glad to take the offer.” Another woman had just been talking on the phone to a friend across town about the calls of the Witnesses when her doorbell rang. She came to the door with 25c in her hand, smiled at our brother and said: “I was expecting you and am glad to have my copies of the publications.” In Seattle, Washington, the evening news carried a film showing one of our brothers giving his presentation to a woman earlier in the day. It is apparent that a good witness was given.

When we receive news from the conventions still to be held we will be glad to pass this on to you. As you keep busy and happy in Jehovah’s service, we pray that his blessing will go with you.

Your brothers,

BROOKLYN BRANCH OFFICE

Relief from Pressure

¹ Most of us have fond memories of pleasures and successes we have enjoyed in discussing subjects that have been featured in the tracts. And we have a fine one this time, too. It is “Relief from Pressure​—Is It Possible?”

² It is an accepted fact that pressures of life are increasing daily. And it is apparent that we need relief from these pressures. What a marvelous Father we have, to provide relief even now for those who love him, while at the same time he provides direction for all mankind so that they, too, may enjoy relief from the pressures of a corrupt system of things and from human imperfection if they will only receive it. Our appreciation for what God has done for us and our love for our neighbors will move us to speak to them from our hearts and endeavor to help them.​—Matt. 22:37-39.

HOW WILL WE DO IT?

³ In fulfilling our commission to preach the good news it is good to be adaptable. Since pressure is commonly experienced, our conversing with others on this subject shows understanding and fellow feeling. Because the subject concerns them, many may be inclined to express themselves.

⁴ As you hand people the tract, we suggest that you draw them into the conversation whenever possible. You will find many opportunities to do so. For instance, as they look at the cover you might ask: “Do you think it is possible for people to find relief from pressure?” Listen to what they have to say. Show understanding for their feelings. You may formerly have felt the same way yourself.

⁵ As you point to page two, which illustrates the many things that cause pressure, you might ask the householder what sort of things he feels causes pressure on people in his neighborhood. Then, why not ask him if he feels that the Bible could help? Again, listen to what he has to say. Only when you know his thinking will you be in a position to be of assistance to him. If you have opportunity, you can point to some of the illustrations on page three and draw attention to the Scriptural encouragement on page four. We also encourage you to explain the home Bible study arrangement if at all possible.

⁶ One brother wrote the Society after our last tract distribution and said: “The conversational approach with the tracts is excellent and we have found that it often opens the way for Scriptural discussions and further literature placements more easily than when we are working with the regular offer.” Others found that use of the tracts opened the way to start new Bible studies, and keep in mind that this month, that is our objective. Another said: “This approach has made it possible to have conversations with persons that we normally do not get a chance to talk with. It has made service more interesting. And those we talk to seem to warm up to us a lot more because we are showing more interest in them as individuals.”

⁷ Look for opportunities to demonstrate our method of studying the Bible. You may choose to use the Truth book starting in chapter 12 because it shows how the Kingdom rule will provide relief from the problems we face, such as crime, food shortages, pollution, corruption in government, as well as sickness and death. (Any other chapter in the book may be used, if you wish.) Demonstrate the study using the Bible itself or any publication that you wish. If you find interest and feel that you need the assistance of another publisher in caring for it or in starting a study, do not hesitate to ask for his assistance.

⁸ During November, is it possible that you could have a fuller share in the work than you normally do? Share in the work as a family whenever possible, and as you do so, keep in mind that you want to start studies with other families. We encourage you also to include new ones in your plans for service as often as possible. Take the initiative in inviting them to work along with you. If they would like to make just a brief offer of the tract, encourage them to do so. If you could help someone else to have a share in the service this month, it would be a wonderful thing. And while we are busy in Jehovah’s work, remember that it is his will that we be ‘happy in doing it.’​—Jas. 1:25.

Have You Tried It?

¹ What? Using a number of the suggestions made in Our Kingdom Service a few months ago.

² Do you remember the article that asked: “How many people do you pass in a day’s time? . . . Have you ever wondered how many of these have ever heard the good news from one of our brothers? And how many have not?” What are we doing to help these people? To illustrate a possibility, when you are going from house to house​—and we find so many are not at home these days—​do you endeavor to talk to those who are doing things outside the home and those who are passing by? This was one of the suggestions that was made. Have you tried it?

³ The article went on to ask: “How many people are there in your territory who have never had opportunity to hear the good news? Look at the people you pass when you are away from home. Some of them are standing and waiting. Some of them are sitting on a bench or in a car. Some are walking and looking. Could you approach them?” Have you tried to do so?

⁴ One sister wrote the Society and said: “After reading the article ‘How Many Can You Reach?’ in the December 1977 issue of Our Kingdom Service, four other pioneers and I tried the suggestions given in the article. We approached people on the street and engaged them in conversation concerning better government. We had one fine conversation after another. In just over an hour, five of us placed 27 books. One girl even came up to us and asked for the books. We thoroughly enjoyed the entire experience. Since none of us had done anything like this before, we thank Jehovah that he helped us to overcome our initial nervousness. You can be sure that we plan to do this again.”

⁵ Another wrote and said: “We approached people who did not seem to be rushed. Generally, the conversations were brief and to the point, but we also enjoyed lengthy discussions with several who showed considerable interest. We appreciated the suggestion that we choose the people we talk to. We found the best success with teen-agers and also older men, persons who rarely get the chance to speak to us at the doors. One brother said that he had the best success approaching people who were resting and waiting on benches in public places. Generally, we had the undivided attention of those with whom we spoke, since there were no babies in the bathtub or phones ringing or food on the stove. Once we were over our initial nervousness we all had a most enjoyable time. We have also had some good results in calling back on people we met.”

⁶ All of us know that a person does not have to be behind a closed door before we show interest in him. But how often do you approach people who are away from home? Have you ever tried it? It will be your love for people and your desire to share the truth with them that will move you to do so.

⁷ Would you like to try it? A review of the suggestions given in the article “How Many Can You Reach?” in the December 1977 issue of Our Kingdom Service will help you.

Your Service Meetings

WEEK STARTING NOVEMBER 5

18 min: Song 40 and local announcements. Jehovah’s Witnesses in the Twentieth Century. (Pp. 3-5) (It is requested that each week the brochure is considered, a capable reader be assigned in advance so that he can prepare to read well.) Have brother read with feeling and good emphasis the material under the heading “Who Are They?” Then ask audience: What kind of people are Jehovah’s Witnesses? What can be said about our beliefs and the Bible?

Have assigned brother read the material under the heading “Their Name.” Then ask audience: How many Hebrew letters are there in Jehovah’s name? How is Jehovah’s name presented in the Roman Catholic Jerusalem Bible? How many times does Jehovah’s name appear in the original Hebrew Scriptures? What verses would you use to show that our name is Scriptural? (1) In the Hebrew Scriptures? (2) In the Greek Scriptures? How many Witnesses are there world wide? (Encourage all to bring their copy of the brochure to the meetings in following weeks.)

18 min: “Relief from Pressure.” Question-and-answer consideration of article. Demonstrate how capable publisher has been offering tracts and drawing householder into conversation in a simple and uncomplicated way.

Encourage young publishers to make a simple offer of the tract if they desire. Have a young person demonstrate how he might do it. As a suggestion he might say: “Good morning. This tract discusses something that most people face and that is pressure. [Show p. 2.] It shows a remedy that millions of persons have found. Please be sure to read it. Also, if you wish, Jehovah’s Witnesses will be glad to come to your home to study the Bible with you. There will be no charge for this service.” If the householder asks the youngster if he will be conducting the study, he can reply that he will be glad to bring his father or mother, if this would be best. Encourage all to share in the work this week.

17 min: Learn from Jeremiah’s Experience. Jeremiah was a man of faith and loyalty, though he experienced difficult times. As you cover the following material, have the scriptures read by someone in the audience before you ask the questions.

1. Read Jeremiah 1:6-8. Then ask: Despite feelings of inadequacy that we may have, how may we be encouraged by these verses?

2. Read Jeremiah 1:17-19. What assurances and confidence do these verses give us as we do a work like that of Jeremiah?

3. Read Jeremiah 20:9, 11, 13. If we become temporarily discouraged, what encouragement do we have in these verses?

4. Read Jeremiah 26:12, 15. Of what are we reminded by these verses?

5. Read Jeremiah 31:3, 4. How do these verses tell of Jehovah’s love and mercy to those who repent and turn to doing his will? Can people today change and still have Jehovah’s favor? What does Isaiah 1:18, 19 say?

In conclusion, ask audience: What assurance and encouragement did this discussion give you?

7 min: Review field service arrangements for the weekend. Ask audience how many shared in the special field service activity on Friday morning at the international convention. Encourage all to have a full share in the tract work during November. Could you put forth a special effort to share in the work just as you did during the convention? Could you work together as a family this weekend? Endeavor to start home Bible studies. Song 39 and prayer.

WEEK STARTING NOVEMBER 12

10 min: Song 66. Local announcements and accounts report.

12 min: Jehovah’s Witnesses in the Twentieth Century. (Pp. 6-8) Have assigned brother read with good feeling and clarity the material on page 6 of the brochure. Then ask audience: What impressed you from this material? How many pioneers are there world wide today?

Read the material under the heading “The Year 1914.” Ask audience to comment on anything that impressed them. Which quotation do you believe would impress an interested person the most?

13 min: “Did You Get the Sense of It?” Have a capable brother read the article to the audience. The review material by asking audience a few questions on main points of article.

In conclusion allow at least three minutes to entertain expressions or experiences from those who have already endeavored to follow through on some of the things brought to our attention at the convention on Thursday. If expressions are few, present concrete suggestions as to what can be done now to follow through on some of the main points.

12 min: “Presenting the Good News​—Do You Help Young Ones to Have a Part?” Question-and-answer consideration of article.

13 min: How Do You Do It? Without making introductory remarks, invite expressions from individuals who include young publishers in their conversation when they go from house to house. How do they get them to have a part? What do they say? How do they introduce them? and so forth. Also entertain expressions on how they have included young ones in the tract work.

Have two or three young ones present the tract as they have been doing in the house-to-house work. Also have an older publisher demonstrate how he or she introduces a young person at the door.

Encourage families to work together in the tract work this weekend, if at all possible. Encourage all to endeavor to start home Bible studies. Or, if interest is found, and you do not feel you can handle it, return with a brother or sister who could start a study. Song 103 and prayer.

WEEK STARTING NOVEMBER 19

8 min: Song 62. Local announcements.

12 min: Jehovah’s Witnesses in the Twentieth Century. (Pp. 8-11) Have assigned brother read with good clarity the material under “Court Victories” and “Special Training Programs.” Ask: How many remember these days? What do you remember about them? Were you involved in these events? How?

Read paragraphs under “Printing Facilities Expand” and “International Conventions.” Ask: How many have ever served at Bethel or the Society’s farms? How many have attended international conventions? What experiences and memories do you treasure from these events? Invite brief expressions so that the greatest number can comment.

20 min: Continue to Grow in Humility. Humility is defined as “lowliness of mind.” While the idea was foreign to Greek thought, a word was coined to express this idea about which Paul wrote in Philippians 2:3. (Read.) As you cover the following points, have someone in the audience read the scripture before you ask the question.

1. After reading Psalm 113:5-7, ask: How is Jehovah an example of humility?

2. Read 2 Samuel 22:1, 36. Why did David speak of Jehovah as being humble when he delivered David out of the hand of his enemies? Does this quality make you love Jehovah? Why?

3. Read 1 Corinthians 4:7. How do Paul’s words help us to be humble and patient when faced with the imperfections of others?

4. Read Romans 12:10, 16. How will following the counsel in these verses help us to stay humble?

5. Read 1 Corinthians 9:19, 22, 23. How will our taking the view expressed by Paul help us to be humble in presenting the good news to others?

6. What opportunities do we have to show humility toward members of our own family? Toward other members of the congregation?

20 min: Local experiences in the tract work. Perhaps one or two could be arranged ahead of time so that participation will not lag. However, a generous portion of the time should be allowed for a spontaneous expression of experiences that the brothers have had in the tract work.

Outline local arrangements for field service with the tract during the rest of the week. Encourage audience: Could you put forth a special effort in the tract work this weekend? Or next weekend? Could you spend a little more time than usual because of you neighbor love and love for God? Encourage family members to enjoy the pleasure of working together if this is possible. Endeavor to start home Bible studies with other families. Song 31 and prayer.

WEEK STARTING NOVEMBER 26

10 min: Song 11. Appropriate local announcements. Also comment on article “Help from Jehovah at the Right Time.” Encourage all to bring their copy of the booklet Unseen Spirits with them to the book study next week when we will begin to study it.

15 min: Use as needed locally.

15 min: “Have You Tried It?” Question-and-answer consideration of article. Read selected paragraphs. Call for expressions of publishers who have successfully approached people outside their homes.

15 min: The offer for December: New World Translation of the Holy Scriptures and any pocket-size book for $1.85. Or as an alternate offer the new publication My Book of Bible Stories can be offered for a contribution of $2.00.

Ask audience for comments on the following: (1) How they present the New World Translation. (2) What features they point to in the New World Translation so the householder can see the value of obtaining a copy for himself. (3) How many have ever tried to start a study right after placing the offer. (4) How they started the study and in what publication. (5) How they would present the new publication My Book of Bible Stories.

Suggested Topic for Conversation during December will be: “How to Make Your Way Successful.” (Josh. 1:8) Demonstrate it with presentation of New World Translation and pocket-size book. Have another publisher demonstrate brief presentation of My Book of Bible Stories.

5 min: Song 100 and prayer.

Theocratic School Schedule for 1979

INSTRUCTIONS

During 1979 the following will be the arrangement when conducting the Theocratic School.

TEXTBOOKS: The New World Translation of the Holy Scriptures, The Watchtower [w], Awake! [g], Bible Topics for Discussion [td], and the books Aid to Bible Understanding [ad] “All Scripture Is Inspired of God and Beneficial” [si] and Holy Spirit​—The Force Behind the Coming New Order! [hs] will be the basis for assignments.

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

INSTRUCTION TALK: No. 1: 15 minutes. This should not be just a summary of the assigned material. It should be a well-developed talk on a chosen theme, assigned to an elder if possible, or, when necessary, to a qualified ministerial servant. The coverage should not be superficial but should provide a presentation that is truly informative and helpful to the congregation. There will be no oral review.

HIGHLIGHTS FROM BIBLE READING: 5 minutes. Right after the instruction talk the school overseer, or another qualified elder assigned by him, will present highlights and questions based on the week’s Bible reading assignment. This should be well prepared. Following this, the students will be dismissed to their various classrooms.

TALK NO. 2: 6 minutes. This is a Bible reading of the assigned material to be given by a brother. The reading assignments are usually short enough to permit the student to present brief explanatory information in his opening and concluding remarks, and even at intermediate points. Historical background, prophetic or doctrinal significance, application of principles and expressions of appreciation for the wisdom reflected in the text may be included. The talk should be planned in a way that allows for all the assigned verses actually to be read. The allotted time should be fully utilized. The material may be presented as a talk to the congregation, or a boy may read it to his father or to another qualified older brother while they are seated on the platform. The father or other older brother may then use questions to draw comments from the boy on the value of the material.

TALK NO. 3: 6 minutes. This talk will be assigned to sisters whenever possible. When delivering the talk, the student may be either seated or standing. One assistant will be scheduled by the school overseer, but additional assistants may be used. Settings could include situations arising at home, in the field service, in the congregation or elsewhere. The sister giving the talk may either initiate the conversation to establish the setting or have her assistant(s) do so. Not the setting, but the material should be given prime consideration.

TALK NO. 4: 6 minutes. Rather than a talk, this will be a Bible study, conducted by a sister. The one conducting the study should strive to make it as helpful realistic and interesting as possible. This assignment in the school should encourage those who are not yet conducting home Bible studies to work toward this end and help publishers who do conduct them to improve. It is not necessary to read the paragraphs, though certain ones might be read. Nor is it necessary to cover all the assigned material; at times certain choice paragraphs could be selected, questions raised and scriptures looked up and considered. If an answer is incomplete, the conductor should ask auxiliary questions. Though only one assistant will be scheduled by the school overseer, additional assistants may be used.

TALK NO. 5: 6 minutes. Assigned preferably to a brother with some experience, it should be a talk to the entire audience. While giving his talk from notes, the speaker, when he thinks it fitting, may read quotations or pointed excerpts from the assigned material. It will usually be best for the speaker to prepare his talk with the Kingdom Hall audience in mind, so that it will be truly informative and beneficial to those who actually hear it. However, if the material lends itself to another practical and suitable setting, the speaker may choose to develop his talk accordingly.

REMARKS: After each student talk (Nos. 2 through 5), the school overseer will have two minutes to highlight truths and principles that the students may not have included in their presentations. These remarks should be meaningful, emphasizing points that will be helpful to the brothers in their homelife, at school, on the job, within the congregation or while out in the field service. Occasionally, questions can be put to the audience on points in the assigned material that can be applied.

COUNSEL: This will always be given privately after the meeting. More than two minutes may be used as advisable. The private counsel for Talk No. 4 may include overall impressions as to how the study was conducted. On the Speech Counsel slip use only those aspects that would suitably apply to one conducting a Bible study.

PREPARING TALKS: Where the material makes it possible, talks should follow a well-developed theme. Choose a theme that will allow for the best coverage of the material in the allotted time. Prepare all talks with the points in mind to be considered next on the Speech Counsel slip.

TIMING: No talk should go overtime. Neither should the remarks by the school overseer. Talks Nos. 2 through 5 should tactfully be stopped when the time is up. If the school overseer assigns someone to give the “stop signal,” that one should be advised as to the importance of doing this whenever a talk goes overtime. An instruction talk speaker who goes overtime should be given private counsel. All should watch their timing carefully so that the Theocratic School as a whole does not run overtime.

WRITTEN REVIEWS: Periodically a written review will be given. In preparation, review principally the material in ad, si and hs and complete the assignment of personal Bible reading. Only the Bible may be used during this thirty-minute review. The balance of the hour will be devoted to a discussion of the questions and answers. Each student will check his own paper and, in reading off the answers, the school overseer will concentrate on the more difficult questions, stressing the matter of accurate knowledge and letting the audience turn to the textbooks where the answers may be checked. If, for some reason, local circumstances make it necessary, the written review may be used a week later than what is shown on the schedule.

LARGE AND SMALL CONGREGATIONS: Congregations with a school enrollment of 50 or more students may wish to arrange for additional groups of students to deliver the scheduled talks before other counselors. Rotate the students to the various halls. Where it is necessary, sisters may take any student talk, presenting it to someone else, as outlined for Talk No. 3.

ABSENTEES: The entire congregation can show appreciation for this school by being present, when possible, at every weekly session, by preparing their assignments well, and by participating in question sessions. If a student is not present when scheduled, a volunteer may take the assignment, making whatever application he feels qualified to make on such short notice. Or, the school overseer may cover the material with appropriate audience participation.

SCHEDULE

Jan. 7 Bible reading: 2 Chronicles 1 to 4

No. 1: si p. 79 ¶1 to p. 84 ¶36. “2 Chronicles.”

No. 2: 2 Chronicles 1:1-12

No. 3: td 2A “Will God Ever Put an End to Wickedness?”

No. 4: hs p. 5 ¶1 to p. 7 ¶6

No. 5: w77 pp. 244-247

Jan. 14 Bible reading: 2 Chronicles 5 to 8

No. 1: ad p. 1582 ¶3 to p. 1584 ¶1. “Temple.”

No. 2: 2 Chronicles 6:12-21, 32, 33

No. 3: td 3B “Does Baptism Wash Our Sins Away?’

No. 4: hs p. 8 ¶7 to p. 12 ¶15

No. 5: w77 pp. 253-255

Jan. 21 Bible reading: 2 Chronicles 9 to 12

No. 1: ad p. 907 ¶3 to ¶12; p. 1383 ¶12 to p. 1384 ¶2. “Jeroboam,” “Rehoboam.”

No. 2: 2 Chronicles 9:1-9, 12, 23, 24

No. 3: td 4G “Do Christians Need the ‘Old Testament’?”

No. 4: hs p. 12 ¶16 to p. 15 ¶21

No. 5: w77 pp. 259-262

Jan. 28 Bible reading: 2 Chronicles 13 to 16

No. 1: si p. 269 ¶1 to 277 ¶32. “A Visit to the Promised Land.”

No. 2: 2 Chronicles 13:8-20

No. 3: td 5A “Why Don’t You Take Blood Transfusions?”

No. 4: hs p. 16 ¶1 to p. 19 ¶9

No. 5: w77 pp. 293-295

Feb. 4 Bible reading: 2 Chronicles 17 to 20

No. 1: ad p. 881 ¶8 to p. 882 ¶1. “Jehoshaphat.”

No. 2: 2 Chronicles 20:5-12, 22-25

No. 3: td 6C “How Do You Know Jesus Was Not Born in the Winter?”

No. 4: hs p. 20 ¶10 to p. 23 ¶15

No. 5: w77 pp. 323-325

Feb. 11 Bible reading: 2 Chronicles 21 to 24

No. 1: ad p. 507 ¶8 to p. 508 ¶8. “Elijah.”

No. 2: 2 Chronicles 24:15-25

No. 3: td 7E “Was Peter Jesus’ Successor?”

No. 4: hs p. 23 ¶ 16 to p. 26 ¶22

No. 5: w77 pp. 355, 356

Feb. 18 Bible reading: 2 Chronicles 25 to 28

No. 1: ad p. 1629 ¶1 to ¶8. “Uzziah.”

No. 2: 2 Chronicles 25:5-16

No. 3: td 8A “Is Conduct All That Important?”

No. 4: hs p. 27 ¶23 to p. 31 ¶32

No. 5: w77 pp. 357, 358

Feb. 25 Written Review. Complete 2 Chronicles 1 to 28

Mar. 4 Bible reading: 2 Chronicles 29 to 32

No. 1: ad p. 762 ¶12 to p. 764 ¶7. “Hezekiah.”

No. 2: 2 Chronicles 32:5-9, 16-22

No. 3: td 10B “Should the Cross Be Used in Worship?”

No. 4: hs p. 31 ¶33 to p. 34 ¶38

No. 5: w77 pp. 444-446

Mar. 11 Bible reading: 2 Chronicles 33 to 36

No. 1: ad p. 968 ¶6 to ¶15. “Josiah.”

No. 2: 2 Chronicles 33:1-13

No. 3: td 11B “Does the Soul Live On After Death?”

No. 4: hs p. 35 ¶1 to p. 38 ¶7

No. 5: w77 pp. 451, 452

Mar. 18 Bible reading: Ezra 1 to 3

No. 1: si p. 85 ¶1 to p. 87 ¶18. “Ezra.”

No. 2: Ezra 3:6-13

No. 3: td 13A “What Can Be Done About Juvenile Delinquency?”

No. 4: hs p. 38 ¶8 to p. 43 ¶18

No. 5: w77 pp. 509-511

Mar. 25 Bible reading: Ezra 4 to 6

No. 1: ad p. 296 ¶6 to p. 299 ¶1. “Captivity.”

No. 2: Ezra 6:1-13

No. 3: td 14D “Are There Really Wicked Spirits?”

No. 4: hs p. 44 ¶19 to p. 47 ¶26

No. 5: w77 pp. 526, 527

Apr. 1 Bible reading: Ezra 7 to 10

No. 1: ad p. 290 ¶7 to p. 292 ¶1. “Canon​—Hebrew Scriptures.”

No. 2: Ezra 9:1-12

No. 3: td 15A “Why Do You Practice Disfellowshiping?”

No. 4: hs p. 48 ¶27 to p. 52 ¶34

No. 5: w77 pp. 547, 548

Apr. 8 Bible reading: Nehemiah 1 to 4

No. 1: si p. 88 ¶1 to p. 91 ¶19. “Nehemiah.”

No. 2: Nehemiah 4:7-20

No. 3: td 16A “Why Do the Witnesses Shun Drugs for Pleasure?”

No. 4: hs p. 52 ¶35 to p. 56 ¶42

No. 5: w77 pp. 605-607

Apr. 15 Bible reading: Nehemiah 5 to 7

No. 1: w72 pp. 716-723. “The Spiritual Temple.”

No. 2: Nehemiah 6:1-13

No. 3: td 17D “Will Men Eventually Destroy the Earth?”

No. 4: hs p. 57 ¶1 to p. 59 ¶7

No. 5: w77 pp. 637-639

Apr. 22 Bible reading: Nehemiah 8 to 10

No. 1: ad p. 1473 ¶3 to p. 1475 ¶5. “Seventy Weeks.”

No. 2: Nehemiah 9:4, 9-21

No. 3: td 18A “Did Man Descend from an Apelike Beast?”

No. 4: hs p. 60 ¶8 to p. 63 ¶14

No. 5: w78 2/15 pp. 3-6

Apr. 29 Written Review. Complete 2 Chronicles 29-36; Ezr 1-10 to Nehemiah 1-10

May 6 Bible reading: Nehemiah 11 to 13

No. 1: si p. 277 ¶1 to p. 283 ¶34. “Time and the Holy Scriptures.”

No. 2: Nehemiah 13:15-18, 23-31

No. 3: td 19A “How Can False Prophets Be Identified?”

No. 4: hs p. 64 ¶15 to p. 67 ¶22

No. 5: w78 2/15 pp. 27-30

May 13 Bible reading: Esther 1 to 5

No. 1: si p. 91 ¶1 to p. 94 ¶18. “Esther.”

No. 2: Esther 4:6-17

No. 3: td 20C “Why Is Neutrality So Important for Christians?”

No. 4: hs p. 68 ¶23 to p. 72 ¶33

No. 5: w78 3/1 pp. 3, 4

May 20 Bible reading: Esther 6 to 10

No. 1: ad p. 1292 ¶9 to p. 1295 ¶8. “Persia, Persians.”

No. 2: Esther 6:1-13

No. 3: td 21D “What Is the Christian View of Charity?”

No. 4: hs p. 72 ¶34 to p. 76 ¶42

No. 5: w78 3/15 pp. 3, 4

May 27 Bible reading: Job 1 to 4

No. 1: si p. 95 ¶1 to p. 100 ¶43. “Job.”

No. 2: Job 2:1-13

No. 3: td 22C “Is God Behind Faith Healers Today?”

No. 4: hs p. 76 ¶43 to p. 80 ¶51

No. 5: w78 5/15 pp. 3, 4

June 3 Bible reading: Job 5 to 9

No. 1: ad p. 1450 ¶7 to p. 1452 ¶7. “Satan.”

No. 2: Job 6:14-30

No. 3: td 23A “Will Not All Good People Go to Heaven?”

No. 4: hs p. 81 ¶1 to p. 85 ¶11

No. 5: w78 6/1 pp. 3, 4

June 10 Bible reading: Job 10 to 13

No. 1: ad p. 1535 ¶10 to p. 1538 ¶6. “Sovereignty.”

No. 2: Job 13:1-19

No. 3: td 24E “Does Not the Parable of the Rich Man and Lazarus Prove Hellfire?”

No. 4: hs p. 85 ¶12 to p. 89 ¶19

No. 5: w78 6/15 pp. 3, 4

June 17 Bible reading: Job 14 to 17

No. 1: ad p. 1393 ¶15 to p. 1395 ¶5. “Resurrection.”

No. 2: Job 16:1-17

No. 3: td 26A “Are Images an Aid to True Worship?”

No. 4: hs p. 89 ¶20 to p. 93 ¶28

No. 5: w78 7/1 pp. 3, 4

June 24 Written Review. Complete Nehemiah 11-13; Es 1-10 to Job 1-17

July 1 Bible reading: Job 18 to 21

No. 1: si p. 283 ¶1 to p. 292 ¶30; also w76 pp. 436, 437. “Measuring Events in the Stream of Time.”

No. 2: Job 19:1-9, 20-26

No. 3: td 27A “Is Interfaith the Way to Unity?”

No. 4: hs p. 94 ¶29 to p. 98 ¶38

No. 5: g77 4/8 pp. 27, 28

July 8 Bible reading: Job 22 to 25

No. 1: si p. 298 ¶1 to p. 303 ¶26. “The Bible and Its Canon.”

No. 2: Job 24:13-25

No. 3: td 28C “Do All Religions Lead to Salvation?”

No. 4: hs p. 99 ¶39 to p. 103 ¶50

No. 5: g77 4/22 pp. 26-28

July 15 Bible reading: Job 26 to 30

No. 1: si p. 304 ¶1 to p. 312 ¶31. “The Hebrew Text of the Holy Scriptures.”

No. 2: Job 29:1-18

No. 3: td 29G “Is Jehovah the God of the Jews Only?”

No. 4: hs p. 104 ¶1 to p. 108 ¶8

No. 5: g77 5/8 pp. 27, 28

July 22 Bible reading: Job 31 to 34

No. 1: ad p. 506 ¶39 to p. 507 ¶3. “Elihu.”

No. 2: Job 33:8-13, 21-25; 34:10-12

No. 3: td 30A “What Is the Origin of Jehovah’s Witnesses?”

No. 4: hs p. 108 ¶9 to p. 111 ¶17

No. 5: g77 5/22 pp. 26-28

July 29 Bible reading: Job 35 to 37

No. 1: si p. 314 ¶1 to p. 319 ¶32. “The Christian Greek Text of the Holy Scriptures.”

No. 2: Job 37:1-14, 23, 24

No. 3: td 31E “Are We Saved by Believing in Jesus?”

No. 4: hs p. 112 ¶18 to p. 115 ¶27

No. 5: g77 6/8 pp. 27, 28

Aug. 5 Bible reading: Job 38 to 42

No. 1: ad p. 390 ¶10 to p. 393 ¶5. “Creation.”

No. 2: Job 42:1-17

No. 3: td 32B “Is Judgment Day a Time of Terror?”

No. 4: hs p. 116 ¶28 to p. 120 ¶36

No. 5: g77 6/22 pp. 27, 28

Aug. 12 Bible reading: Psalms 1 to 9

No. 1: si p. 101 ¶1 to p. 106 ¶32. “Psalms.”

No. 2: Psalm 2:1-12

No. 3: td 33A “Why Do You Say So Much About God’s Kingdom?”

No. 4: hs p. 121 ¶1 to p. 123 ¶7

No. 5: g77 7/8 pp. 27, 28

Aug. 19 Bible reading: Psalms 10 to 17

No. 1: ad p. 737 ¶2 to ¶5; p. 740 ¶7 to p. 741 ¶7. “Hebrew​—Hebrew Poetry.”

No. 2: Psalms 11:1-7; 15:1-5

No. 3: td 34A “What Is Meant by ‘the End of the World’?”

No. 4: hs p. 124 ¶8 to p. 126 ¶14

No. 5: g77 7/22 pp. 27, 28

Aug. 26 Written Review. Complete Job 18-42 to Psalm 1-17

Sept. 2 Bible reading: Psalms 18 to 21

No. 1: si p. 319 ¶1 to p. 326 ¶32. “The Bible in Modern Times.”

No. 2: Psalm 19:1-14

No. 3: td 35C “Is Keeping the Ten Commandments Enough?”

No. 4: hs p. 127 ¶15 to p. 132 ¶25

No. 5: g77 8/8 pp. 27, 28

Sept. 9 Bible reading: Psalms 22 to 27

No. 1: si p. 326 ¶1 to p. 330 ¶23. “Advantages of the New World Translation.”

No. 2: Psalm 22:1-18

No. 3: td 36B “Is Eternal Life Really Possible?”

No. 4: hs p. 132 ¶26 to p. 137 ¶36

No. 5: g77 8/22 pp. 27, 28

Sept. 16 Bible reading: Psalms 28 to 33

No. 1: si p. 331 ¶1 to p. 337 ¶27. “Archaeology Supports the Inspired Record.”

No. 2: Psalm 31:1-16

No. 3: td 37D “When People Say: ‘I Get Our Church Literature.’”

No. 4: hs p. 138 ¶1 to p. 141 ¶8

No. 5: g77 9/8 pp. 27, 28

Sept. 23 Bible reading: Psalms 34 to 37

No. 1: si p. 337 ¶1 to p. 342 ¶25. “The Bible​—Authentic and True.”

No. 2: Psalm 34:1-22

No. 3: td 38E “Does It Matter Whom Christians Marry?”

No. 4: hs p. 141 ¶9 to p. 146 ¶18

No. 5: g77 9/22 pp. 27, 28

Sept. 30 Bible reading: Psalms 38 to 41

No. 1: w78 1/1 pp. 17-23. “Enduring in Faithfulness.”

No. 2: Psalm 41:1-13

No. 3: td 39D “Can Saints Be of Help to You?”

No. 4: hs p. 146 ¶19 to p. 151 ¶27

No. 5: g77 10/8 pp. 28, 29

Oct. 7 Bible reading: Psalms 42 to 47

No. 1: w78 2/1 pp. 4-7. “Maintaining the Family Circle.”

No. 2: Psalm 45:1-17

No. 3: td 41A “Is God Partial?”

No. 4: hs p. 151 ¶28 to p. 153 ¶32

No. 5: g77 12/8 pp. 27, 28

Oct. 14 Bible reading: Psalms 48 to 54

No. 1: w78 3/1 pp. 21-26. “‘The Kingdom of Our Lord and of His Christ’ Takes Over.”

No. 2: Psalm 48:1-14

No. 3: td 42B “Should Persecution Be Feared?”

No. 4: hs p. 154 ¶33 to p. 156 ¶38

No. 5: g77 12/22 pp. 27, 28

Oct. 21 Bible reading: Psalms 55 to 60

No. 1: w78 5/1 pp. 4-12. “Jehovah’s Name.”

No. 2: Psalm 58:1-11

No. 3: td 44A “Is the Fate of Men Predestined?”

No. 4: hs p. 157 ¶39 to p. 160 ¶44

No. 5: g78 1/8 pp. 27, 28

Oct. 28 Written Review. Complete Psalms 18 to 60

Nov. 4 Bible reading: Psalms 61 to 67

No. 1: w78 5/1 pp. 26-28. “How Important Is Christian Giving?”

No. 2: Psalm 62:1-12

No. 3: td 45A “Are Some Races Superior Before God?”

No. 4: hs p. 160 ¶45 to p. 162 ¶48

No. 5: g78 1/22 pp. 27, 28

Nov. 11 Bible reading: Psalms 68 to 70

No. 1: w78 5/15 pp. 11-14. “Where Did Those Verses Go?”

No. 2: Psalm 69:1-10, 19-21

No. 3: td 46A “How Was Jesus a ‘Ransom for All’?

No. 4: hs p. 163 ¶1 to p. 165 ¶6

No. 5: g78 2/8 pp. 27, 28

Nov. 18 Bible reading: Psalms 71 to 74

No. 1: w78 6/1 pp. 16-20. “Share Joyfully with Jesus Christ in Jehovah’s Work.”

No. 2: Psalm 72:1-20

No. 3: td 47B “How Can the True Religion Be Identified?”

No. 4: hs p. 166 ¶7 to p. 168 ¶11

No. 5: g78 2/22 pp. 27, 28

Nov. 25 Bible reading: Psalms 75 to 78

No. 1: w78 6/1 pp. 26-29. “Christian ‘Works’​—What Do They Include?”

No. 2: Psalms 75:1-10; 76:1-5

No. 3: td 48A “Is There Hope for the Dead?”

No. 4: hs p. 169 ¶12 to p. 170 ¶14

No. 5: g78 3/8 pp. 26-28

Dec. 2 Bible reading: Psalms 79 to 85

No. 1: w78 6/15 pp. 12-15. “Human Governments Crushed by God’s Kingdom.”

No. 2: Psalm 81:1-16

No. 3: td 50D “How Can One Enter God’s Rest?”

No. 4: hs p. 171 ¶15 to p. 174 ¶22

No. 5: g78 3/22 pp. 27, 28

Dec. 9 Bible reading: Psalms 86 to 89

No. 1: w78 6/15 pp. 16-21. “Appreciating the Sacredness of Life and Blood.”

No. 2: Psalm 89:3, 4, 19-37

No. 3: td 51E “Will Everyone Finally Be Saved?”

No. 4: hs p. 175 ¶23 to p. 177 ¶27

No. 5: g78 4/22 pp. 27, 28

Dec. 16 Bible reading: Psalms 90 to 96

No. 1: w78 6/15 pp. 21-26. “Firmly Resolved About Life and Blood.”

No. 2: Psalm 91:1-16

No. 3: td 58C “Was Jesus a God-Man?”

No. 4: hs p. 177 ¶28 to p. 180 ¶33

No. 5: g78 5/8 pp. 27, 28

Dec. 23 Bible reading: Psalms 97 to 103

No. 1: w78 6/15 pp. 26-29. “More ‘Workers’ Needed​—Can You Share?”

No. 2: Psalms 100:1-5; 101:1-8

No. 3: td 60D “How Are Jehovah’s Witnesses Financed?”

No. 4: hs p. 180 ¶34 to p. 183 ¶39

No. 5: g78 5/22 pp. 27, 28

Dec. 30 Written Review. Complete Psalms 61 to 103

Did You Get the Sense of It?

¹ “Of what?” you may ask. The need for all of us to examine ourselves to determine if we have been taking the truth for granted and to see if our circumstances will allow us to do more in the field service.

² On Thursday at the international convention, these points were forcefully brought to our attention. Do you recall the theme for that day? “A Unique Privilege​—Faithfully Working with God.” And it was on that day that we were all encouraged to take a look at ourselves to see what we are doing as far as the preaching work is concerned.

³ Starting off the day, in the talk “Pioneering in the Steps of the Master,” we were encouraged to take up the pioneer service if we could adjust our circumstances to do so. Jesus set a fine example for us. He was motivated by love; he was self-sacrificing; he spent much time in the preaching activity. Have you given serious thought to the invitation to take up the pioneer service? If your circumstances permit, by all means enjoy the many blessings and pleasures that come with the pioneer service.​—Mal. 3:10.

⁴ It may be that your circumstances will not permit you to pioneer right now. But on Thursday afternoon we were encouraged to consider Paul’s words at Romans 10:10-17, which highlight our obligation to exercise faith and to make public declaration. To what extent? Do you recall the talk “Working Hard and Exerting Ourselves”? Working hard is not for a lazy person. Jehovah God and Jesus Christ are hard workers. Have you been working hard and exerting yourself? If so, you have seen Jehovah’s reward for your hard work since the convention.​—1 Tim. 4:10.

⁵ One of the highlights of the afternoon came with the talk “The Whole World Is Jehovah’s Field.” It pointed out that Jehovah is deeply interested in people and wants them to get life. (Ezek. 33:11) We too can share Jehovah’s view of other people. One way we can do this is by sharing in the preaching activity each month. Have you been doing so since the convention?

⁶ To climax the day’s program, the “Declaration of Our Faith” was read. The main points of our Christian faith were concisely expressed. Were you one of those who said “Yes” to indicate that these were expressions of your faith? If so, then you no doubt have been sharing these faith-strengthening truths with others as often as you can. How active is your faith?

⁷ Did you get the sense of it? Are you following the suggestions received at the convention? If so, you appreciate the unique privilege of working together with Jehovah in his work. (1 Cor. 3:9) By our prayers, our speech and our activity in God’s service we can show that we DID get the sense of it!

August Service Report

Av. Av. Av. Av.

Pubs. Hrs. R.V. Bi.St. Mags.

Sp’l Pios. 665 109.1 35.1 3.6 94.9

Pios. 13,095 73.5 28.8 3.0 67.0

Aux. Pios. 14,084 60.8 17.4 1.2 54.2

Pubs. 490,155 8.5 3.5  .4 10.1

TOTAL 517,999

Newly Dedicated Ones Baptized: 989

Help from Jehovah at the Right Time

¹ In country after country, reports are being received about the increased activity of the demons. What can we do to protect ourselves against the influence of the demons? How happy we all were at the international convention this summer when we received the new booklet Unseen Spirits​—Do They Help Us? Or Do They Harm Us? This booklet is an aid from Jehovah at the right time!

² We are glad to inform you that we will study this booklet at our congregation book studies during the month of December.

³ You may be wondering, though, why is it that we will be studying this booklet in the United States since it has been prepared primarily for the African field? The answer is that we need to be alert to demonic influence that is prevalent here, too. Yes, there are many reports appearing in newspapers and magazines telling of spiritism in this country. At no time should we feel complacent about the counsel at 1 Peter 5:8, 9 and James 4:7.

Announcements

● Literature offer for November: Offer the tract and endeavor to start a Bible study. Use and offer The Truth That Leads to Eternal Life or Good News​—to Make You Happy, either one for 35c. December: New World Translation of the Holy Scriptures and any pocket-size book for $1.85, or offer My Book of Bible Stories alone for $2.00. January: Watchtower subscription for one year, together with any 384- or 416-page book free to new subscribers, for $2.00. If such larger books are not available, use God’s “Eternal Purpose” Now Triumphing for Man’s Good.

● Thanksgiving Day witnessing: It is suggested that each congregation arrange a meeting for field service appropriate to the local territory.

● Meetings for field service: At each meeting for field service in November, please remind the group that our objective this month is not merely to distribute tracts, but also to start home Bible studies if at all possible.

● Please note the following rates for the book My Book of Bible Stories (my). Pioneer: $ .85; Congregation: $1.90; Public: $2.00.

● New Publications Available:

Life Does Have a Purpose​—French

Our Incoming World Government​—God’s Kingdom—​Japanese

The Truth That Leads to Eternal Life​—Punjabi

● The brochure Jehovah’s Witnesses in the Twentieth Century may be placed with those with whom home Bible studies are conducted. The brochure features information that will aid such persons to become better acquainted with the organization and the work that we are doing. Copies may also be provided to other interested persons and groups who request such information. Congregations may order a small supply of this publication for such purposes.

● During the month of January there will be a series of four special public talks in the congregations based on the recently released book Making Your Family Life Happy. Outlines for these talks will be sent to congregations in the near future and the elders can make assignments of such talks to those who will be asked to give them. If your congregation is scheduled to have a circuit overseer’s visit or a circuit assembly during January, then these special talks may run over into the month of February.

● It will not be possible to hold an international convention in Montevideo, Uruguay. However, those taking the South American tour may visit the country and arrangements will be made for an English session. Assistance will be given with any sight-seeing tours.

● The dates for the Kumasi, Ghana international convention have been changed from December 20-24 to December 27-31, 1978. The dates for the Accra, Ghana convention, namely, December 20-24, 1978, remain unchanged.

● The international convention scheduled for January 3-7, 1979, in Lesotho (Africa) has been canceled.

Topic for Conversation

Relief from Pressure​—Is It Possible?

These are the scriptures presented in the tract. Feel free to use the verses that are appropriate to your conversation.

Crime removed​—Prov. 2:22.

Sickness ended​—Rev. 21:4.

Dead raised​—John 5:28, 29.

Abundance for all​—Ps. 72:16.

Presenting the Good News​—Do You Help Young Ones to Have a Part?

¹ We appreciate that there are many young persons associated with us. Some of these may be your children. Do you study with them? Are you helping to mold their hearts so that they love Jehovah and find delight in sharing in his service? Do you share with your children in the field service? We encourage you to do so in the spirit of what is written in Deuteronomy 6:6, 7.

² When you are sharing in the preaching work with your children or if other young ones are accompanying you, do you see that they have a part? Often young ones just tag along, have little or nothing to say and get restless. What can you do to see that they have a part? They, too, want to serve Jehovah and so need to have a share in the public preaching work.

³ Often very young ones can have a part not only by handing householders the handbill, but also by telling them where the Kingdom Hall is and when the meetings are held and then letting them know that they are welcome to come. Could the young ones who work with you in the field do this?

⁴ Many include the young ones by having them read a scripture during the presentation. One brother tells the householder: “I am training John in this work of Bible education and, if I may, I would like to ask him to read the verse at . . . John, would you read it for us please?” As the young publisher progresses, the older brother asks him a question or two about the verse he has read in order to isolate the main point(s). Then he turns back to the householder and continues the conversation. In this way the brother involves young ones in the conversations at the doors. As you can appreciate, it makes the work much more enjoyable for them as they are having a part. Householders are often prompted to comment on how well such young ones express themselves.

⁵ Often young brothers and sisters who go in the field service have prepared and practiced an effective presentation but have difficulty in getting the conversation started. Perhaps you could help in this. One brother handles the introduction by greeting the householder and saying: “We have something encouraging to share with you from the Bible, but Bill and I are taking turns and this is his turn to explain what we are doing. If you have just a minute, I believe you will enjoy this. Bill . . .” Another brother says: “Hello. My name is Mr. . . . and I am training this young man in Christian service. He would like to explain why we have called.” And, of course, if the householder is too busy to talk you could always say: “Since it is not convenient to talk right now, Bill has something he would like to give you before we leave.” This will often allow for a brief explanation of the handbill, a tract or other small publication.

⁶ One householder in Louisiana said: “I truly admire you people for training and involving your young ones the way you do. I enjoy their visits to my home.” Are you training your children in the field service? And when you work in the field service with your children or others, do you see that they have a part? We encourage you to do so. They, too, must be ‘making a public declaration of their faith for salvation.’ (Rom. 10:10) And how fine it would be if, as they grow older, they could say as the psalmist did, “O God, you have taught me from my youth on, and until now I keep telling about your wonderful works.”​—Ps. 71:17.

Theocratic News

◆ It is interesting to learn that more than one third of those baptized at the international conventions so far this summer have been in Italy, Spain, Portugal and Japan.

Congregation Book Study

Schedule for congregation book studies in Word of God book:

November 5: Pages 171 to 179

November 12: Pages 180 to 189

November 19: Review of chapters 1 to 7

November 26: Review of chapters 8 to 14