September

Branch Letter

Dear Kingdom Publishers:

At the “Victorious Faith” International Convention, we were delighted to receive still another provision designed to increase the understanding and spread of the Kingdom message. In the past, many have inquired about recorded Bible readings from the New World Translation. We were pleased to learn that cassette tape recordings of the Gospel of John have been produced and are now available for our use. Why was John’s Gospel selected? It is filled with the comforting words of Jesus that warm the heart and prompt us to draw closer to Jehovah. It is understandable that this is the most widely distributed portion of the Christian Greek Scriptures.

How can these recordings be used? All of us are sure to enjoy and benefit from hearing God’s Word read with force and meaning. Those confined to a sickbed or who are in a hospital will especially appreciate them. Blind persons, as well as those with limited reading ability, will be able to put them to good use. Undoubtedly you will find that they can be used with good results in a variety of other situations.

Bear in mind that these tapes are copyrighted. Any commercial or profit-making duplication or distribution would be an infringement of the copyright. This would not necessarily apply to making a copy for personal use.

Cassette recordings to The Good News According to John should be ordered through the congregation. Special order blanks have been sent to each congregation with the August statement. Please do not send any remittance with the order. The recordings will be charged to your congregation’s literature account. The price is $3.00 per set. For pioneers, the rate is $2.50. Use this means to build appreciation for the Bible.

We send our Christian love.

Your brothers,

BROOKLYN BRANCH OFFICE

‘Always Have Plenty to Do in the Work of the Lord’

¹ All of us have plenty to do every day. Each day we are confronted with many responsibilities, all vying for our time. The demands of the family and secular jobs may be enough to keep us occupied. Added to that we would like to reach out for a full share in the activities of the congregation, including meetings, personal study and participation in the disciple-making work. Sometimes we may get discouraged, feeling we are unable to do justice to each responsibility.

² But, having a very busy schedule is not something new for God’s servants. The apostle Paul implied that he had a very busy schedule when he spoke of anxiety for the congregations that “rushes in on me from day to day.” (2 Cor. 11:28) Yet he always viewed things positively, discerning with appreciation the underlying benefits. That appreciation moved him to admonish his brothers ‘always to have plenty to do in the work of the Lord.’​—1 Cor. 15:58.

³ It is also good for us to view things in a positive way. Being kept busy in Kingdom activity serves as a protection. There is danger in being “unoccupied.” (1 Tim. 5:13) Idleness is a fertile ground for the seeds of complaint and complacency. We are urged to keep our “minds on maintaining fine works.” (Titus 3:8) Individuals busily engaged in worthwhile activities rarely have time to pursue worthless things, harbor resentment, worry about their mistakes, or get involved in wrong conduct.

⁴ Having plenty to do also protects the congregation. At times, individuals whose motives are not good will associate with the Christian congregation. But anyone who is insincere or has a wrong motive will not tarry long where there is much good work to be done. This safeguards the congregation, helping to assure that those within are wholehearted. It also helps us individually to grow stronger spiritually by exercising and developing our thinking abilities and powers of reason.​—Heb. 5:14.

⁵ Always having plenty to do teaches us some vital lessons. Assignments to aid others remind us to think of them and their needs ahead of our own. A willingness to accept responsibility and follow direction helps us to learn the meaning of humility. Working side by side with others provides valuable lessons in patience and brotherly love. Sticking with a job to its completion teaches us to be faithful and to appreciate the value of endurance, as well as reminds us that we must exert ourselves “vigorously” if we are to merit Jehovah’s blessing.​—Luke 13:24.

⁶ Keeping up with all that is expected of us means that we will have to keep “working hard and exerting ourselves.” (1 Tim. 4:10) Nevertheless, there is a great reward in the knowledge that God is well pleased with such efforts. Always having plenty to do in Jehovah’s service can help us to be counted among the faithful servants who “will get many blessings.”​—Prov. 28:20.

Those ‘Acquiring a Fine Standing’

¹ Regarding ministerial servants, Paul wrote: “For the men who minister in a fine manner are acquiring for themselves a fine standing and great freeness of speech in the faith in connection with Christ Jesus.” (1 Tim. 3:13) The apostle was thus explaining, not a prerequisite for being a ministerial servant, but the benefits when such a brother does minister or carry out his duties in a fine manner.

² The Bible sets high standards for a ministerial servant. (1 Tim. 3:8-10, 12) Brothers recommended should clearly be meeting these. Becoming a ministerial servant is no routine thing; it is not as if almost every adult, baptized male should have the position as a sort of titleholder. Ministerial servants should be exemplary, spiritual men.

³ Acts 6:1-6 illustrates what should be true of such men. (ad pp. 1162, 1163) So as to concentrate on the Word, the apostles needed assistance in caring for duties that were important, but that could be handled by other qualified men. They selected men “full of spirit and wisdom.” Hence, they would be worthy of the congregation’s confidence. Their selection was not just to take care of some menial task or to encourage them; it was a privilege by means of which they could work hard in serving the congregation.

⁴ Ministerial servants today help to care for many necessary duties involving the Kingdom Hall, distribution of supplies, and assisting elders with record keeping and accounts. In this way they work in behalf of their brothers and sisters. If they appreciate that this is what they are doing, they will be conscientious in fulfilling their responsibilities. Rather than being casual about showing up to care for assigned duties, they will be dependable week after week. In fact, if something beyond their control interferes with their being on time or handling their assignment, men of their spiritual stature can be counted on to make alternate arrangements. They will be concerned that the congregation is not left in the lurch. The congregation respects and treasures such brothers.​—Luke 16:10-12.

⁵ Other avenues to serve may also open up. Though the elders have the primary responsibility to do “speaking and teaching,” ministerial servants with ability may be assigned instruction talks or parts on the service meeting. (1 Tim. 5:17; 3:2) They may even be asked to give part or all of a public talk. Their advancement can be greater if they will approach an elder who is experienced or gifted as a teacher and seek suggestions, or perhaps ask for counsel after giving a talk. Often they will be asked to read The Watchtower or perhaps, to conduct a book study where circumstances require it. Of course, conscientious preparation should be put into such assignments.

⁶ Because he is to be a spiritual example, a ministerial servant should have as great a share in the field service as his circumstances reasonably allow. He knows that thereby he is pleasing and praising Jehovah. It will also be a stimulus to those working with him. He can provide them with much fine training. They will know that he is not someone who merely handles details, but is an exemplary servant of Jehovah in all respects.

⁷ It is easy to see, then, why Paul said of such men that they “are acquiring . . . a fine standing.” This is not, as some suggest, an advancement in a church hierarchy. Rather, ministerial servants who “minister in a fine manner” are assured of a blessing from Jehovah and Jesus, and they have the respect and support of the whole congregation. Rightfully they acquire “great freeness of speech in the faith in connection with Christ Jesus.” Being true to their position, they are appreciated for their fine service; they have firmness of faith and can declare their faith without cowardice or fear of reproach.

Your Service Meetings

WEEK STARTING SEPTEMBER 3

Theme: Youth​—Firmly Establish Your Way.​—Prov. 4:26.

20 min: Song 73. Local announcements.

Safeguard Your Heart. Audience discussion of Proverbs chapter 4. Ask several young persons to read verses. Discuss questions with audience. (Vss. 1, 2) What kind of attitude should young people have toward their parents? Why? (Vss. 3-6) What are the benefits of listening to advice of parents who are older and more experienced? (Vss. 7-9) How can a young person demonstrate wisdom? (Vss. 20-23) How can you guard your heart and why is it so important? (Vss. 24-27) What kinds of bad conduct will you avoid if you firmly establish your way? (Invite young people to relate experiences where they did apply good counsel and it turned out well.)

20 min: Do You Understand Why? Audience discussion dealing with questions that concern young people. Questions should be directed toward parents and older ones, asking them kindly to explain why certain counsel is given. Try to help young people look beyond rules and appreciate why it is wise for them to listen. Strive to be positive, helpful; avoid being critical.

Chairman: Some young people become resentful toward parents, teachers and others in authority, feeling that they are restricted in many areas without good reason. Result: resistance to counsel and a communication gap. How can we help them understand why guidelines are established to regulate their conduct? How would you answer these questions?

(1) It is common to see use of tobacco, alcohol and drugs at schools and other places. Why are parents so concerned when they hear about such things? (2 Cor. 7:1; Prov. 23:20, 21) (2) Young people have a need for recreation. Why are they advised to avoid many forms of entertainment and sports? (1 Tim. 4:8; Phil. 4:8) (3) Music and dancing have been a part of every culture all the way back to Bible times. Why so much apprehension about what is popular now? (Jas. 1:14, 15; 1 Pet. 1:14-16) (4) They enjoy the company of others their own age. Why are some restrictions made about their association together? (1 Cor. 15:33; Prov. 13:20) (5) Why do you encourage them to have a full share in the activities of the congregation and consider the possibility of taking up the pioneer service?​—Eccl. 12:1; 1 Tim. 6:18, 19.

20 min: God’s Word Can Help You to Make Wise Decisions. (Ps. 19:7) Discussion between elder and group of young people on platform. Group comments on following questions using Scriptural guidelines provided in Youth book: (1) What Bible principles can help determine the kind of dress and grooming that is proper for you? (Chap. 7) (2) What viewpoint will help you to avoid feeling resentment toward parents? (Chap. 10) (3) What are some good reasons for applying yourself in school? (Chap. 11) (4) What advantages are there in delaying plans for marriage beyond the teen-age years? (Chap. 20) (5) How important should money and material things be in your plans for the future? (Chap. 21) (6) How is a knowledge of the truth a big advantage in deciding your goals for the future? (Chap. 23) (7) In what ways will your good conduct eventually be rewarded? (Chap. 24) Mention that some of these points highlighted from Youth book may be helpful when offering this publication in the field this month.

Conclude with warm encouragement, expressing appreciation for youth in our midst. Song 19 and prayer.

WEEK STARTING SEPTEMBER 10

Theme: “Always Have Plenty to Do in the Work of the Lord.’​—1 Cor. 15:58.

10 min: Song 89. Local announcements. Accounts report. Highlights of Branch Letter.

15 min: “‘Always Have Plenty to Do in the Work of the Lord.’” Audience discussion of article. Invite some to express themselves about their busy schedule and what it takes to keep up. Review what can be learned from Paul’s example. Get comments on why much activity serves a useful purpose and how this should affect our attitude toward a busy schedule.

15 min: “Enjoying Organized Service.” Talk by study conductor on article. Briefly review and demonstrate Topic for Conversation.

20 min: “Those ‘Acquiring a Fine Standing.’” A group of ministerial servants on platform discuss this article with an elder. Each one expresses appreciation for having plenty to do and comments on how they as a group can be of greater service to their brothers. Song 7 and prayer.

WEEK STARTING SEPTEMBER 17

Theme: Imitate the “God of All Comfort.”​—2 Cor. 1:3.

12 min: Song 34. Local announcements. Talk on Jehovah’s being a “God of all comfort.” (2 Cor. 1:3) Creation shows he is concerned about well-being of all persons. Also, record of his dealings provides comfort, assuring us that we are not alone or without hope. (Rom. 15:4, 5) Jesus promised comfort to those mourning over wickedness of present system and who acknowledge own sinfulness and seek forgiveness. (Matt. 5:4) Will we imitate Jehovah by comforting others?

28 min: “Keep Comforting One Another.” Audience discussion. All of us can be a comfort to one another. Paul comforted his brothers, aiding them to be faithful. (1 Thess. 2:11, 12) We should do likewise. (1 Thess. 5:11) What would you say or do in these cases?

(1) Sister’s unbelieving husband makes it hard for her to get to meetings or to share in field service. (2) Young person is discouraged over being different from schoolmates. (3) Older Witness has less strength and often is ill. (Heb. 6:10) (4) Brother has become downhearted after being counseled. (Heb. 12:5, 11) (5) Brother is disheartened by pressure on job to ignore his conscience. (Heb. 13:5, 6, 18) (6) Single or widowed person would like to marry but unable to find suitable Christian mate.​—1 Cor. 7:28.

When we see such situations, are we genuinely concerned? When was the last time we sought to comfort and upbuild family member or fellow Witness needing consolation or encouragement? Good to imitate Jehovah in doing so.​—2 Cor. 1:3, 4.

20 min: Comforting Others Brings Fine Results. Talk, with audience comments and perhaps interviews. Christians do not comfort only other Witnesses. Proclaiming good news includes sharing comforting message, as did Jesus. (Isa. 61:2; Luke 4:16-21) Have not many householders mentioned to you troubles or problems they have or their grief over the decline of morals? Here are opportunities to comfort from God’s Word.

What would you do if householder says that family member recently died? Need to be discerning and tactful. Some comforting Bible verses may open the way for a further witness later. (John 11:19, 31) Any experiences of this type? What did you say? What was the response?

Interview some in congregation, or invite audience to relate experiences: (1) How they may have responded to truth because of being given comfort, or how they were aided to make progress by comforting encouragement received. (2) Joy they have had in comforting others (Witnesses or not) and beneficial result of doing so. Song 40 and prayer.

WEEK STARTING SEPTEMBER 24

Theme: Do I Appreciate What Jehovah Is Doing for Me?

10 min: Song 31. Local announcements. Talk. Thoughtful Christians realize that we benefit from what God has done for all mankind. We have life from him. (Acts 17:26-28) He provided earth with much that makes living possible and enjoyable. (lp pp. 10-22) But what about the many things he does for us personally?

20 min: God’s Special Provisions for You. Discussion. Invite audience to comment on and to relate personal experiences regarding: (1) How each of the following is something special that God has done for us. (2) How we can benefit the most from what he is doing.

(1) A purpose and hope​—making life more satisfying. (2) Explanations that resolved questions we had, or Bible counsel that makes life more peaceful and meaningful. (3) Elders as “gifts in men.” (4) Training for more effectiveness and pleasure in field service. (5) Brothers and sisters who will help if we have difficulties.

Appreciation for what God has done aids us to avoid becoming critical, uncooperative or complacent and it draws us closer to him.​—Ps. 92:1, 2.

12 min: Jehovah Helps Us to Develop New Personalities. Interviews. By his spirit and Word, God helps us to change to new personality. (Eph. 4:22-24) We sense need for more progress, yet we probably recognize that we already have come a long way.

Interview some who formerly had old personality traits such as bad temper, tendency to jealousy, being withdrawn, or too pushy. How did they recognize need to work on that weakness? What did they do? Did they meet obstacles difficult to overcome? How do they feel now in looking back on old personality? Contrast present joy and peace with former problems and uncertainties.

18 min: “Presenting the Good News​—By Being a Good Listener.” Questions and answers. Conclude with comments about Awake! subscription offer that starts Sunday, encouraging all to apply foregoing suggestions in starting conversations. Ask all to bring October 8 Awake! to next service meeting. Song 43 and prayer.

Enjoying Organized Service

¹ A Bible principle that should mean much to a book study group and its conductor is that stated at 1 Corinthians 14:40: “Let all things take place decently and by arrangement.” This principle, when applied, makes for joyful, productive service.

² As publishers, we appreciate it when the conductor follows this principle. One thing the group will need is territory. So the conductor should plan in advance how the territory can best be worked. Will there be enough for the group? If territory is not nearby, could the group meet earlier or even in the territory? Will safety require publishers to work in groups or pairs? Dividing up the assignment can be done “by arrangement” with brothers assisting in taking groups to different parts of the territory. In this way, the publishers will not create a scene by congregating on a street corner. The conductor wants things to be done “decently.”

³ Does your book study group organize for service right after the Sunday meetings or meet again later? Or do you meet at the book study location either Sunday morning or afternoon? These are arrangements that can be worked out locally, but it is important for all to know clearly what the arrangements are.

⁴ Another thing that can contribute to effective, organized service is when the conductor arranges to work with us from door to door. As we observe how he handles matters at the door or on a return visit, possibly we can see ways to improve our own service. We appreciate his suggestions and observations. And do not words of commendation move us to greater zeal? By making appointments in advance and working with even one or two each week, he may be able to work with all in the group during a period of a few months. He can be alert, too, to enlist the help of his assistant and others, perhaps aiding them to make appointments to assist others. He must be a good organizer, because “when there is no skillful direction, the people fall.”​—Prov. 11:14.

⁵ Are you personally supporting the arrangements in your group? If we wait until Saturday or Sunday morning to make our decision about field service, might the Adversary help influence our decision? Sticking to a regular schedule for service will let “things take place decently and by arrangement.”

⁶ When you reach the first house in the territory, are you really ready to knock on the door? Have you organized things? What about your book bag? Are Bible, books and magazines arranged neatly? Do you have a pencil? Subscription slips? Do you keep a House-to-House Record so you can call back on interested ones? Thoughtful organization will contribute to a more productive and joyful day in service.

⁷ Jehovah has foreseen the needs of the people of this generation. Their greatest need is to have the truth. He has given us the privilege of declaring his truths to mankind. Our enjoyment and effectiveness in doing this will be greatly increased by organized service in our book study groups, doing everything “decently and by arrangement.”

Convention News

The “Victorious Faith” International Conventions got off to a good start in June with a total attendance of 600,489 for the public lecture at 14 conventions. There were 3,856 baptized. At Montreal, in Canada, July 5-9, the peak attendance was 80,008, and 831 were baptized.

The convention program was enthusiastically received. The overall spiritual provision has been described as “most faith strengthening.” Many expressed appreciation for the way field service was stressed. “It is a call to action.” observed one brother. Another remarked: “It has really gotten to the hearts of the brothers. We will see . . . a more serious view of service​—and this is the time for it.”

On Friday morning thousands shared in field activity, using the special kits, which attracted much attention. One report said: “People knew Jehovah’s Witnesses were in town.” It was exciting to participate in the well-organized campaign. Kingdom publishers appeared like a swarm of locusts as they covered residential territory, did street work and called on persons in offices and stores. In several places, news reporters accompanied brothers in the door-to-door activity, and they wrote interesting reports.

And what about the conduct of the conventioners? Time and again brothers were impressed with the attentiveness of the audiences, the way families stayed together and the fine behavior of children. Compared with past assemblies, fewer persons worked during sessions and there was less milling around. All this contributed toward the orderliness of the conventions. “One thing that impressed me,” an elder said, “was the lack of movement and restless running around. Everybody was sitting and listening. It was a real joy to be there and concentrate on the outstanding program.” Outsiders, including hotel managers and stadium personnel, commented on the orderly way conventioners conducted themselves.

So many reports being received tell about the benefits resulting from applying the counsel and reminders given prior to the conventions. Surely, this pleases Jehovah. This is evident by the outpouring of his rich blessings. May we all continue to ‘maintain our conduct fine among the nations,’ as we now press ahead with the same spirit in the field service as was shown at the international conventions.​—1 Pet. 2:12.

Announcements

● The September 8, 1978, issue of Awake! will contain an interesting report based on the November distribution of the Blood booklet. It is a fine issue to leave with your own doctor because it presents the favorable response of many doctors, lawyers and judges, which may have a wholesome effect on your own doctor.

● The September 22 Awake! reports on persecution of our brothers in Argentina. Further information is contained in a special letter to all congregations. We encourage everyone to write one or more letters to Argentine officials.

● Literature offer for September: Your Youth​—Getting the Best out of It for 35c. May also use Listening to the Great Teacher or any other pocket-size book. October: Awake! subscription for $2.00 with any 384- or 416-page book free to new subscribers. Brooklyn still has a supply of the books Man’s Salvation out of World Distress at Hand! and “The Nations Shall Know that I Am Jehovah”​—How? that may be ordered. Credit for such free books given to new subscribers may be requested as in the previous campaign with similar offer. November: Tract distribution.

● Congregation accounts should be audited on September 1, or as soon thereafter as possible, by the presiding overseer or someone appointed by him.

● New Publication Available:

Life Does Have a Purpose​—Japanese, Korean, Norwegian

Making Your Family Life Happy​—English, Finnish, Spanish

My Book of Bible Stories​—English, German

Jehovah’s Witnesses and the Question of Blood​—Greek, Korean

Unseen Spirits​—Do They Help Us? Or Do They Harm Us?​—English, Spanish

Jehovah’s Witnesses in the Twentieth Century​—English, French, Spanish

The Good News According to John (Cassette recordings)​—English, French, Spanish

● When ordering the 1979 Yearbook, publishers and pioneers are requested to do so through the congregation. Orders for the Yearbook in the following languages may be placed after the dates here listed. November 1: English. November 15: French, Italian, Japanese, Portuguese, Spanish. February 1: Dutch, German, Korean, PAYMENT SHOULD NOT ACCOMPANY ORDERS. Congregation account will be charged at rate of 50 cents each for publishers. Regular and special pioneers on the list before July 1, 1978, may receive a free copy for which the congregation may request credit. Pioneers may obtain additional copies at 15 cents each.

● During their meeting in September, elders should review any needs for repair or decoration of the Kingdom Hall in harmony with guidelines in May 1976, Our Kingdom Service. Results on this meeting will be discussed with congregation in October 8 service meeting.

● Copies of the brochure Jehovah’s Witnesses in the Twentieth Century should be reported as booklets when placed by the publishers in the field or when provided to groups or organizations by the congregation.

Topic for Conversation

‘Remember God in Your Youth.’​—Eccl. 12:1, 13.

1. Vital to know and remember Him.

2. Fulfilling this obligation assures happy future.

Presenting the Good News​—By Being a Good Listener

¹ In the July issue of Our Kingdom Service, the importance of developing conversations with householders was considered. We hope that you have tried some of the suggestions offered, with good results. In doing so, very likely you have come to appreciate the need to be a good listener.

² A willingness to listen is an evidence of sincere interest. People respond to that. Hence, it is good to be “swift about hearing.” (Jas. 1:19) Listening carefully helps us to know what to say and how to say it. Our interest in what is said can prompt a householder to say more, giving further opportunity to witness more effectively.

³ Listening means more than just hearing with our ears. It means paying attention with a genuine interest in the welfare of the speaker. It calls for a display of unselfishness, kindness, patience and self-control. (Gal. 5:22, 23) Besides the words, note the tone of voice. Is the speaker happy or depressed, pleased or angry, proud or humble?

⁴ Many householders are somewhat reserved or skeptical when we try to converse with them at the door. Use of tactful, friendly questions is one of the best means to encourage them to express themselves. When they comment, always look for points of agreement and try to build on that rather than taking exception to some wrong view.

⁵ Sometimes we are prone to talk too much and to “preach” to people. Even if we ask questions, the tendency is not to listen to the reply when we have a prepared presentation in mind. Subconsciously we may be afraid that if we stop, the householder will lose interest and turn away. Have you felt that way? It is good to remember that a warm conversation is far more appealing than a cut-and-dried “sermon.”​—Eccl. 3:7.

⁶ Being a good listener is a help in making return visits and conducting Bible studies. People like to be treated with respect and given personal attention. When they comment we can ask ourselves: Does he really understand? Is he using good reasoning? Does he grasp what the Bible says and believe it? What you are able to learn as a careful listener may determine your success as a teacher.

⁷ Due to increasing pressures of this generation, interested persons are often burdened with many problems. They become depressed and need encouragement. A listening ear sometimes does wonders for another’s spirit. While we must be careful not to pry into their personal affairs, or make decisions for them, we can show ourselves to be a true friend who wants to help.​—Prov. 18:24.

⁸ So, to be a good teacher, one must be a good listener. We can appreciate why Jesus advised his disciples to “pay attention to how you listen.” (Luke 8:18) If we listen, others may listen to us and save their lives.​—1 Tim. 4:16.

Theocratic News

◆ The small European country of Liechtenstein reports a new peak of 25 publishers. The one congregation there also had 57 in attendance at the Memorial.

◆ A new branch office was established in Iran on June 1, 1978. They reported a new peak of 69 publishers for May.

◆ Upper Volta reported a publisher peak of 100 for May​—their sixth consecutive peak. This is a 43 percent increase over last May.

◆ Japan reported another peak of 44,646 for May. Twenty-seven percent of the total publishers shared in some field of pioneer service that month.

◆ Liberia reported a new peak of 1,119 publishers for May, with 1,456 Bible studies reported​—their highest number of Bible studies yet.

June Service Report

Av. Av. Av. Av.

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

Sp’l Pios. 611 114.5 40.3 4.3 86.8

Pios. 13,129 76.2 28.9 3.1 62.8

Aux. Pios. 8,878 59.0 17.3 1.4 44.4

Pubs. 465,505 8.0 3.3  .4 8.4

TOTAL 488,123

Newly Dedicated Ones Baptized: 1,907

Congregation Book Study

Schedule for congregation book studies in the Word of God book:

September 3: Pages 109 to 114

September 10: Pages 115 to 120

September 17: Pages 121 to 127*

September 24: Pages 127 to 134

* To subheading.