October

Meetings for Field Service

OCTOBER 1-7

When offering magazines,

1. What points from The Watchtower will you feature?

2. What points from Awake! will you feature?

3. What approach have you found effective?

OCTOBER 8-14

What can be done when a person says

1. He has no time right now?

2. He is not interested in buying anything?

3. He has his own religion?

OCTOBER 15-21

How can tracts be used

1. At the outset of a presentation?

2. To help person understand at least one point from the Bible?

3. When asked to get to the point quickly?

OCTOBER 22-28

How do you introduce the good news

1. To a young person?

2. To a housewife with young children?

3. To a retired person?

Keep Doing It More Fully

¹ When the apostle Paul and his companions preached the “good news of God” among the Thessalonians about the year 50 C.E., many accepted it as “the word of God” and acted on what they learned.​—1 Thess. 2:8, 13; Acts 17:1-4.

² Paul instructed these believers on “how [they] ought to walk and please God.” After receiving news of their continuing steadfast, he encouraged the members of that infant congregation to keep on obeying the truth with even greater zeal and determination. Yes, he wanted them to “keep on doing it more fully.”​—1 Thess. 4:1.

³ Drawing on the exhortation given to the Thessalonians, we, too, want to strive to give fuller expression to our faith by zealous Kingdom activity. We must keep walking in the truth ourselves while preaching the message that can mean life to others. (John 17:3; 1 Tim. 4:16) During October we will again be inviting our neighbors to feed regularly on the fine information appearing in The Watchtower and Awake! by subscribing for these magazines.

GREATER EFFORT BRINGS BLESSED RESULTS

⁴ Fine suggestions on how to be more effective in obtaining subscriptions were given in the April 1983 Our Kingdom Ministry insert. A review of that insert could prove to be helpful now. We obtained more subscriptions in April 1983 than during both April and May 1982! The 102,001 new subscriptions obtained in October 1983 exceeded the total for the previous October by over 21,000. What blessed results come from the extra effort made to get the only message of genuine hope into the homes of more people!

CONTINUING THE FINE UPSWING

⁵ Would it not be wise to continue applying the excellent suggestions we have received on obtaining subscriptions? Ask yourself: ‘Do I have a negative or a positive attitude about offering the subscriptions at every appropriate opportunity? Do I prejudge whether the individual would like to have or could afford the subscriptions, or do I let the person himself decide? Do I start out offering just two individual magazines and then the subscriptions if unusual interest is shown? Or do I find it better to offer the subscriptions first? Have I offered subscriptions to fellow workers, in street witnessing, on my magazine route, to neighbors and relatives, in addition to making positive door-to-door presentations?’

⁶ An enthusiastic presentation of the subscriptions springs from a heart that has been touched by the fine information appearing in the magazines. Our School Guidebook accurately observes that enthusiasm results from being “firmly convinced that your audience needs to hear what you have to say.” (sg p. 163 par. 1) That is also true of information we want them to read. So take into consideration the various kinds of people you will likely meet in your territory and select points that may help them see the need to receive the magazines regularly.

⁷ Some publishers have found it helpful to fill out the subscription blanks on the initial call for those promising to subscribe later. This must be followed up by dependably calling back at the agreed-on time. So keep an accurate house-to-house record.

⁸ Realizing that at times just one article from our magazines has helped individuals start on the path to life, we surely want to ‘keep doing more fully’ the vital work of sharing the good news by positively inviting others to subscribe. Have you set a personal subscription goal for October? In time we want to introduce the subscriber to the Live Forever or United in Worship book and explain the home Bible study arrangement. As Proverbs 3:27 says, “Do not hold back good from those to whom it is owing.”

New Publisher Peak for July​—670,395!

What a happy throng of united worshipers exalted God’s name together during July! (Ps. 34:3) The total of 670,395 publishers is 7,875 more than the publisher peak that was reached in the United States last April. Truly, we have experienced the goodness of Jehovah in many ways. As we apply the things learned at our recent district conventions, may we continue to bubble over with joyful activity in our field ministry.​—Ps. 145:7.

Working Toward Theocratic Goals

¹ Why should we all set theocratic goals for ourselves? One reason is that they stimulate us to work harder in Jehovah’s service. Paul stated: “For to this end we are working hard and exerting ourselves, because we have rested our hope on a living God, who is a Savior of all sorts of men, especially of faithful ones.” (1 Tim. 4:10) Yes, we work hard to the end of gaining salvation for ourselves and helping others to be faithful also. Toward what theocratic goals are you now working?

PURSUE DIVINE EDUCATION

² The various features of full-time service are fine theocratic goals to set for oneself. But what could divert a brother from such theocratic goals? One thing might be secular education, especially after finishing high school. At the “Kingdom Increase” District Convention we were stirred by the drama on Friday, entitled Divine Education Increases Kingdom Fruitage. No doubt you still remember the point made: The best secular education in the world does not mean a thing if you have not maintained your spiritual goals and continued to expand your divine education! Is this the view you have taken?

³ Jesus asked, “For what benefit will it be to a man if he gains the whole world but forfeits his soul?” (Matt. 16:26) Many of our youths have seen the futility of pursuing worldly, material goals, including advanced secular education. Along with their parents, they have concluded that such goals are not worth the dangers to be encountered. At best, benefits from attaining such goals can last only as long as this system, which is now hastening toward its complete end. A thorough divine education will prepare us for pursuing worthwhile theocratic goals, such as the various features of full-time service, and lead ultimately to eternal salvation.​—2 Tim. 3:1-5, 14-17.

GOALS IN FULL-TIME SERVICE

⁴ Many parents and youths are to be commended for their spiritual progress realized in recent years. It has been noted that more youths are putting Kingdom interests first. In November of 1982 there were 1,288 young people under 20 years of age in regular pioneer work in the United States. In May of 1984 there were 1,945. This means that in 18 months there was an increase of 51 percent in the number of those who entered regular pioneer work shortly after high school. Many are the benefits being realized by parents and children who have worked toward such theocratic goals.

⁵ We all rejoice that Jehovah is bringing the increase. This increase creates a need for additional literature. Hence, more brothers are needed to serve at Bethel. During the period from August 1977 to May 1984, there was a need to call in 800 more brothers for service at Brooklyn Bethel and Watchtower Farms. These brothers have not only kept theocratic goals clearly in focus but have had to meet the high theocratic standards required for this unique privilege of service. The same could be said for those who have pursued Gilead training and missionary work as their goal.

HELP YOUTHS SET GOALS

⁶ Wise parents have helped their children set theocratic goals from an early age. Some have accomplished this by bringing their children into association with those in full-time service, taking advantage of opportunities to entertain traveling overseers and their wives, missionaries, Bethelites and regular pioneers as guests. Thus the children have observed firsthand the joy of these full-time servants. Many who now enjoy successful careers in the regular pioneer work, Bethel service or missionary work recall with fondness such wholesome association during youth. Make such theocratic goals a part of your family’s regular daily discussions.

⁷ Our youths need to have a realistic view of spiritual goals. Especially help them to see the advantage of a career in full-time service. In the conclusion of the drama Divine Education at this past summer’s district convention, it was said: “If you are inclined to esteem highly an advanced secular education, remember this: To increase Kingdom fruitage requires that we give more than the usual attention to divine education.” Like Paul, parents and youths in the Christian congregation want to appreciate “the excelling value of the knowledge of Christ Jesus.” (Phil. 3:7, 8) Divine education will assure that we keep theocratic goals in clear focus.

Meetings to Help Us Make Disciples

WEEK STARTING SEPTEMBER 30

Song 43

10 min: Local announcements and Announcements that apply to congregation. Encouragement to share in house-to-house work on the first Sunday. Brief comment on the day’s text.

20 min: “Keep Doing It More Fully.” Questions and answers. When covering paragraph 5, have two or three selected publishers or pioneers express which suggestions in the April 1983 Our Kingdom Ministry insert they believe helped them to improve their effectiveness in offering subscriptions.

15 min: Topic for Conversation. Have demonstration of Topic for Conversation and subscription offer by an experienced pioneer or publisher. Also, discuss how to drop down to offering the two magazines when subscription offer is refused and how to arrange to come later to get subscription.

Song 130 and concluding prayer.

WEEK STARTING OCTOBER 7

Song 126

10 min: Local announcements, including accounts report. Also encourage support for magazine work on second Saturday. As time permits, have one or two experiences in obtaining subscriptions. These should be prepared in advance.

20 min: “Presenting the Good News​—By Effective Use of Magazines.” Discussion of article. Have two well-prepared publishers demonstrate 30- to 60-second presentations, one featuring an article in the October 8 Awake! and the other featuring an article in the October 15 Watchtower.

15 min: Getting Acquainted With Newer Ones. Interview two or three dedicated and baptized exemplary publishers who may not yet be well known to others in the congregation. If some were just baptized at recent circuit or district assemblies, it may be well to interview these. Those being interviewed may wish to call attention to specific provisions of the congregation that helped them progress to dedication and baptism. These interviews should help all present to appreciate their share in present Kingdom increase.​—Isa. 60:22.

Song 92 and concluding prayer.

WEEK STARTING OCTOBER 14

Song 128

15 min: Local announcements. Discuss outstanding July service report and any positive aspects of congregation’s report for that month. Call attention to items in Theocratic News.

18 min: “Working Toward Theocratic Goals.” Discussion by elder who has some background in full-time service, otherwise by the service overseer. Interview one or two regular pioneers or youths reaching out for a career in full-time service. Let them express why they are pursuing such goals rather than a career in this system. Also reflect on some lessons remembered from the drama Divine Education at the “Kingdom Increase” District Convention.

12 min: “Make Yourself Available!” Review highlights from The Watchtower (w84 5/1 pp. 17-22). Put special emphasis on points under the subheadings “A Great Need Is Met” and “Respond With Faith in Jehovah.”

Song 9 and concluding prayer.

WEEK STARTING OCTOBER 21

Song 216

10 min: Local announcements and preselected experiences had in subscription campaign.

25 min: “Skillfully Use the Book United in Worship.” Questions and answers. When considering paragraph 4, have qualified publisher demonstrate how to use material at a Bible study to help student reason on problem of bad association. With paragraph 6, get comments from audience on how they were helped by studying the chapter “The Meaning of Your Baptism.” Encourage use of this book and specific points discussed to stir to action any holding back.

10 min: Discussion and demonstration of magazine presentations that can be used on the fourth Saturday of the month. Encourage publishers to support the magazine work this Saturday.

Song 203 and concluding prayer.

WEEK STARTING OCTOBER 28

Song 213

15 min: Local announcements. Encourage support of house-to-house work on first Sunday. Highlight points in Survival Into a New Earth that can be tied in with the Topic for Conversation.

12 min: “Would You Spread a Rumor?” Talk based on The Watchtower (w84 9/1 pp. 20-3).

18 min: Arrange locally. May want to include Scriptural and practical points based on the last report of the circuit overseer.

Song 211 and concluding prayer.

July Service Report

Av. Av. Av. Av.

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

Sp’l Pios. 269 124.7 94.7 51.6 5.6

Pios. 28,600 74.6 48.7 28.6 3.3

Aux. Pios. 25,098 60.4 38.6 16.7 1.5

Pubs. 616,428 9.5 7.9 3.6 0.4

TOTAL 670,395

Newly Dedicated Ones Baptized: 5,840

Topic for Conversation

Will the Earth Be Destroyed in a Nuclear War?

Eccl. 1:4​—The earth remains forever.

Prov. 2:20, 21​—Righteous to live forever on earth.

Prov. 2:22​—God will destroy the wicked.

Congregation Book Study

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

October 7: Pages 47* to 53

October 14: Pages 54 to 62*

October 21: Pages 62* to 69

October 28: Review chapters 1-5

* To or from subheading.

Theocratic Ministry School Schedule for 1985

INSTRUCTIONS

During 1985 the following will be the arrangements when conducting the Theocratic Ministry School.

TEXTBOOKS: The New World Translation of the Holy Scriptures [bi12 and Rbi8], Bible Topics for Discussion [td], The Watchtower [w] and the books “All Scripture Is Inspired of God and Beneficial” [si], Theocratic Ministry School Guidebook [sg] and You Can Live Forever in Paradise on Earth [pe] will be the basis for assignments.

The school will begin with song and prayer and remarks of welcome, and then proceed as follows. [Alternate songs are from 1966 songbook.]

ASSIGNMENT NO. 1: 15 minutes. This should be handled by an elder or by a qualified ministerial servant. When based on the Theocratic Ministry School Guidebook, this should be delivered as a ten-minute instruction talk followed by a five-minute oral review. Since a part of a study is assigned from this book, the brother handling this assignment should be careful to cover only the portion of the material that is assigned. The objective should be not just to cover the material but to focus attention on the practical value of the information being discussed. All are encouraged to make careful advance preparation so as to benefit fully from this material.

When based on “All Scripture Is Inspired of God and Beneficial” or the Watchtower article on the Bible book(s) being considered, this assignment should be delivered as a 15-minute instruction talk with no oral review following. Once again, the objective is not just to summarize the material but rather to focus attention on the practical value of the information, highlighting what will be most helpful to the congregation.

All assigned this talk should be careful to keep within the time limit. The brother handling Assignment No. 1 may be given private counsel if that is necessary.

HIGHLIGHTS FROM BIBLE READING: 6 minutes. This should be handled by the school overseer or another qualified elder or ministerial servant assigned by him. This should not be just a summary of the assigned reading. After giving a brief overall view of the assigned chapters, help the audience to appreciate why and how the information is of value to us. The students will then be dismissed to their various classrooms by the school overseer.

TALK NO. 2: 5 minutes. This is a Bible reading of the assigned material to be given by a brother. This will apply in the main school as well as in the auxiliary groups. The reading assignments are usually short enough to permit the student to present brief explanatory information in the opening and concluding remarks, and even at intermediate points. Historical background, prophetic or doctrinal significance and application of principles may be included. All the assigned verses should actually be read. The material may also be presented by a boy reading it to a qualified older brother who may then use questions to draw comments from the boy on the value of the material.

TALK NO. 3: 5 minutes. This talk will be assigned to a sister, including younger ones, 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 ministry, in the congregation or elsewhere. The one 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. The student should use the theme shown.

TALK NO. 4: 5 minutes. Assigned preferably to a brother with some experience. This should be a talk to the entire audience. 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 better to another practical and suitable setting, the speaker may choose to develop his talk accordingly. The student should use the theme shown. Numbers in parentheses refer to Bible Topics for Discussion found in the bi12 Bible, 1984 edition.

When assigned to a sister, the material should be presented as outlined for Talk No. 3.

COUNSEL AND REMARKS: After each student talk, the school overseer will give specific counsel, not necessarily following the program of progressive counsel outlined on the Speech Counsel slip. Rather, he should concentrate on those areas where the student needs to improve. If the student speaker merits solely a “G” and there is no other speech quality marked “I” or “W,” then the counselor should circle the box, where the “G,” “I” or “W” would normally appear, of the speech quality that the student should work on next. He will advise the student of this that evening as well as show this speech quality on the student’s next Theocratic Ministry School Assignment slip (S-89). Those giving talks should sit toward the front of the hall. This will save time and enable the school overseer to give his counsel directly to each student. As time allows, comments may be given by the counselor on informative and practical points not covered by the students. The school overseer should be careful to use no more than two minutes for counsel and remarks after each student talk.

PREPARING TALKS: Brothers assigned the first and second talks should choose a theme that will allow for the best coverage of the material. Students assigned the third and fourth talks should use the theme shown. Students will want to read over the School Guidebook material dealing with the speech quality being worked on next.

TIMING: No talk should go overtime. Neither should the counsel and remarks of the counselor. Talks Nos. 2 through 4 should tactfully be stopped when the time is up. The one assigned to give the “stop signal” should do so immediately. When brothers handling Assignment No. 1 go overtime, they should be given private counsel. All should watch their timing carefully. Total program: 45 minutes, not counting song and prayer.

WRITTEN REVIEW: Periodically a written review will be given. In preparation, review the assigned material and complete the scheduled Bible reading. The school overseer will already have made sure that he covers main points that should be highlighted and that were overlooked by the speakers. Only the Bible may be used during this 25-minute review. The balance of the time will be devoted to a discussion of the questions and answers. Each student will check his own paper. The school overseer will read off all answers and concentrate on the more difficult questions, helping all to understand the answers clearly. 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 75 or more students may wish to arrange for additional groups of students to deliver the scheduled talks before other counselors. Of course, nondedicated persons who are leading lives that conform to Christian principles may also enroll in the school and receive assignments.

ABSENTEES: All in the congregation can show appreciation for this school by endeavoring to be present at every weekly session, by preparing their assignments well and by participating in question sessions. It is hoped that all students will view their assignments conscientiously. 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. 6 Bible reading: 1 Samuel 1 to 3

Song No. 109 (119)

No. 1: 1 and 2 Samuel (si p. 53 ¶1 to p. 63 ¶31)

No. 2: 1 Samuel 3:2-18

No. 3: pe chap. 1 ¶1-9 “Why Living Forever Is Not Just a Dream”

No. 4: td 1B (1B) “Who Only May Be Worshiped, But Who May Be Honored?”

Jan. 13 Bible reading: 1 Samuel 4 to 7

Song No. 23 (1)

No. 1: sg p. 96 ¶1 to p. 98 ¶7

No. 2: 1 Samuel 7:1-14

No. 3: pe chap. 1 ¶10-19 “Grand Blessings From God​—Now Near!”

No. 4: td 2A (2A) “How Will Wickedness Be Ended?”

Jan. 20 Bible reading: 1 Samuel 8 to 11

Song No. 45 (59)

No. 1: sg p. 98 ¶8 to p. 99 ¶10

No. 2: 1 Samuel 11:1-15

No. 3: pe chap. 2 ¶1-12 “Who Is the Ruler of the World?”

No. 4: td 2C (2B) “Why Will Armageddon Be an Act of Love on God’s Part?”

Jan. 27 Bible reading: 1 Samuel 12 to 14

Song No. 26 (9)

No. 1: sg p. 100 ¶1 to p. 102 ¶12

No. 2: 1 Samuel 13:1-14

No. 3: pe chap. 2 ¶13-25 “What Is the Devil Doing?”

No. 4: td 3A (3A) “What Baptism Requirements Must All Christians Meet?”

Feb. 3 Bible reading: 1 Samuel 15 to 17

Song No. 8 (22)

No. 1: sg p. 103 ¶13 to p. 108 ¶21

No. 2: 1 Samuel 15:5-23

No. 3: pe chap. 3 ¶1-10 “Religion That Is Not Good”

No. 4: td 3B (3B) “Does Baptism Wash Away Sins?”

Feb. 10 Bible reading: 1 Samuel 18 to 20

Song No. 180 (100)

No. 1: sg p. 108 ¶1 to p. 111 ¶13

No. 2: 1 Samuel 18:1-16

No. 3: pe chap. 3 ¶11-22 “What Makes Religion Pleasing to God?”

No. 4: td 4A (4A) “Is the Bible Inspired of God?”

Feb. 17 Bible reading: 1 Samuel 21 to 24

Song No. 61 (21)

No. 1: sg p. 111 ¶14 to p. 112 ¶20

No. 2: 1 Samuel 23:13-29

No. 3: pe chap. 4 ¶1-17 “God​—Who Is He?”

No. 4: td 5B (5B) “Is It Scriptural to Put Saving a Life Ahead of God’s Law?”

Feb. 24 Written Review. Complete 1 Samuel 1 to 24

Song No. 156 (88)

Mar. 3 Bible reading: 1 Samuel 25 to 27

Song No. 34 (8)

No. 1: sg p. 113 ¶1 to p. 114 ¶7

No. 2: 1 Samuel 26:7-25

No. 3: pe chap. 4 ¶18-31 “God’s Name and Purpose”

No. 4: td 7D (7B) “Is Peter the ‘Rock-Mass’?”

Mar. 10 Bible reading: 1 Samuel 28 to 31

Song No. 46 (20)

No. 1: sg p. 114 ¶8 to p. 116 ¶16

No. 2: 1 Samuel 30:7-25

No. 3: pe chap. 5 ¶1-20 “How the Bible Has Come to Us”

No. 4: td 9A (8A) “Does Creation Agree With Proved Science or With Evolution?”

Mar. 17 Bible reading: 2 Samuel 1 to 4

Song No. 175 (104)

No. 1: 1 and 2 Samuel (w85 1/1)

No. 2: 2 Samuel 1:1-4, 17-27

No. 3: pe chap. 5 ¶21-28 “Why We Know the Bible Is True”

No. 4: td 9B (8B) “Is a Creative Day 24 Hours Long?”

Mar. 24 Bible reading: 2 Samuel 5 to 8

Song No. 105 (46)

No. 1: sg p. 116 ¶1 to p. 118 ¶12

No. 2: 2 Samuel 6:1-19

No. 3: pe chap. 6 ¶1-19 “What Jesus Accomplished on Earth”

No. 4: td 10B (9B) “Should Christians Worship the Cross?”

Mar. 31 Bible reading: 2 Samuel 9 to 12

Song No. 185 (98)

No. 1: sg p. 119 ¶13 to p. 121 ¶28

No. 2: 2 Samuel 10:1-14

No. 3: pe chap. 6 ¶20-28 “Jesus’ Miracles​—What They Mean to Us”

No. 4: td 11B (10B) “What Is the Condition of the Dead?”

Apr. 7 Bible reading: 2 Samuel 13 to 15

Song No. 96 (32)

No. 1: sg p. 122 ¶1 to p. 124 ¶12

No. 2: 2 Samuel 15:1-17

No. 3: pe chap. 7 ¶1-18 “Why We Are Here”

No. 4: td 11C (10C) “Can the Living Talk to the Dead?”

Apr. 14 Bible reading: 2 Samuel 16 to 18

Song No. 191 (28)

No. 1: sg p. 124 ¶13 to p. 125 ¶21

No. 2: 2 Samuel 18:1-17

No. 3: pe chap. 8 ¶1-14 “What Happens at Death?”

No. 4: td 14A (11A) “Is the Devil a Real Creature?”

Apr. 21 Bible reading: 2 Samuel 19 to 21

Song No. 57 (29)

No. 1: sg p. 126 ¶1 to p. 128 ¶14

No. 2: 2 Samuel 19:1-14

No. 3: pe chap. 9 ¶1-22 “What Kind of Place Is Hell?”

No. 4: td 14D (11C) “Where Did the Demons Originate?”

Apr. 28 Written Review. Complete 1 Samuel 25-31 to 2 Samuel 1-21

Song No. 123 (63)

May 5 Bible reading: 2 Samuel 22 to 24

Song No. 218 (111)

No. 1: sg p. 128 ¶15 to p. 129 ¶22

No. 2: 2 Samuel 22:1-4, 24-36

No. 3: pe chap. 10 ¶1-12 “Who Are the Wicked Spirits?”

No. 4: td 17C (12B) “Will the Earth Always Be Populated?”

May 12 Bible reading: 1 Kings 1 and 2

Song No. 209 (33)

No. 1: 1 and 2 Kings (si p. 64 ¶1 to p. 74 ¶36)

No. 2: 1 Kings 1:32-48

No. 3: pe chap. 10 ¶13-19 “Be Informed and Resist Wicked Spirits”

No. 4: td 22C (14C) “Does Faith Healing Today Have God’s Approval?”

May 19 Bible reading: 1 Kings 3 to 6

Song No. 50 (23)

No. 1: sg p. 130 ¶1 to p. 131 ¶10

No. 2: 1 Kings 3:10-28

No. 3: pe chap. 11 ¶1-14 “Why Has God Permitted Wickedness?”

No. 4: td 22D (14D) “What Purpose Did Speaking in Tongues Serve?”

May 26 Bible reading: 1 Kings 7 and 8

Song No. 71 (103)

No. 1: sg p. 131 ¶11 to p. 133 ¶20

No. 2: 1 Kings 8:54-66

No. 3: pe chap. 12 ¶1-17 “You Are Involved in a Vital Issue”

No. 4: td 23B (15A) “How Many From Earth Will Go to Heaven?”

June 2 Bible reading: 1 Kings 9 to 11

Song No. 201 (107)

No. 1: sg p. 133 ¶1 to p. 135 ¶8

No. 2: 1 Kings 10:1-13

No. 3: pe chap. 13 ¶1-9 “The Importance of God’s Government”

No. 4: td 24B (16A) “Are the Wicked Dead in a Place of Torment?”

June 9 Bible reading: 1 Kings 12 to 14

Song No. 60 (86)

No. 1: sg p. 135 ¶9 to p. 138 ¶21

No. 2: 1 Kings 12:1-15

No. 3: pe chap. 13 ¶10-18 “Arranging for God’s Government”

No. 4: td 24E (16C) “Is the Rich Man and Lazarus Account Literal?”

June 16 Bible reading: 1 Kings 15 to 17

Song No. 179 (12)

No. 1: sg p. 138 ¶1 to p. 140 ¶9

No. 2: 1 Kings 17:1-16

No. 3: pe chap. 14 ¶1-20 “Who Go to Heaven, and Why?”

No. 4: td 26B (18B) “Why Is Image Worship Not for Christians?”

June 23 Bible reading: 1 Kings 18 to 20

Song No. 213 (42)

No. 1: sg p. 140 ¶10 to p. 141 ¶19

No. 2: 1 Kings 18:25-40

No. 3: pe chap. 15 ¶1-19 “What Is Required to Be a Subject of God’s Government?”

No. 4: td 26C (18C) “Can Worship of Jehovah Be ‘Relative’?”

June 30 Written Review. Complete 2 Samuel 22-24 to 1 Kings 1-20

Song No. 25 (31)

July 7 Bible reading: 1 Kings 21 and 22

Song No. 176 (4)

No. 1: sg p. 142 ¶1 to p. 144 ¶10

No. 2: 1 Kings 21:15-29

No. 3: pe chap. 16 ¶1-13 “What Marked the Beginning of Kingdom Rule?”

No. 4: td 27A (19A) “Is It Proper for Christians to Join Interfaith Movements?”

July 14 Bible reading: 2 Kings 1 to 3

Song No. 168 (84)

No. 1: 1 and 2 Kings (w85 5/1)

No. 2: 2 Kings 2:1-14

No. 3: pe chap. 16 ¶14-22 “Identifying the Time for Kingdom Rule to Begin”

No. 4: td 27B (19B) “Is the Statement ‘There Is Good in All Religions’ True?”

July 21 Bible reading: 2 Kings 4 to 6

Song No. 98 (91)

No. 1: sg p. 144 ¶11 to p. 146 ¶23

No. 2: 2 Kings 5:1-14

No. 3: pe chap. 17 ¶1-17 “Christ’s Return​—How Seen?”

No. 4: td 29F (20D) “Do All Religious People Serve the Same God?”

July 28 Bible reading: 2 Kings 7 to 9

Song No. 144 (78)

No. 1: sg p. 146 ¶24 to p. 148 ¶34

No. 2: 2 Kings 9:1-14

No. 3: pe chap. 18 ¶1-8 “Why We Know ‘the End of the World’ Is Near”

No. 4: td 31E (22C) “Is Belief in Jesus Enough to Gain Life?”

Aug. 4 Bible reading: 2 Kings 10 to 12

Song No. 4 (93)

No. 1: sg p. 149 ¶1 to p. 150 ¶8

No. 2: 2 Kings 10:15-30

No. 3: pe chap. 19 ¶1-21 “What the Paradise Earth Will Be Like”

No. 4: td 33E (23C) “Is God’s Kingdom a Real Government?”

Aug. 11 Bible reading: 2 Kings 13 to 15

Song No. 102 (53)

No. 1: sg p. 150 ¶9 to p. 153 ¶21

No. 2: 2 Kings 13:14-25

No. 3: pe chap. 20 ¶1-9 “Why We Know the Dead Can Be Raised”

No. 4: td 34A (24A) “What Is Meant by ‘the End of the World’?”

Aug. 18 Bible reading: 2 Kings 16 to 18

Song No. 164 (117)

No. 1: sg p. 153 ¶1 to p. 156 ¶14

No. 2: 2 Kings 17:1-15

No. 3: pe chap. 20 ¶10-18 “Who Will Be Resurrected on Earth?”

No. 4: td 38D (26C) “What Responsibility Do Parents Have Toward Their Children?”

Aug. 25 Written Review. Complete 1 Kings 21-22 to 2 Kings 1-18

Song No. 204 (109)

Sept. 1 Bible reading: 2 Kings 19 to 22

Song No. 117 (101)

No. 1: sg p. 156 ¶15 to p. 158 ¶24

No. 2: 2 Kings 19:14-28, 35

No. 3: pe chap. 20 ¶19-27 “The Resurrection Miracle​—When and Where?”

No. 4: td 38E (26D) “From Where Should Single Christians Select a Mate?”

Sept. 8 Bible reading: 2 Kings 23 to 25

Song No. 220 (19)

No. 1: sg p. 158 ¶1 to p. 160 ¶9

No. 2: 2 Kings 23:1-15

No. 3: pe chap. 21 ¶1-23 “The Judgment Day and Afterward”

No. 4: td 38F (26E) “Does God Approve of Polygamy?”

Sept. 15 Bible reading: 1 Chronicles 1 to 3

Song No. 217 (67)

No. 1: 1 and 2 Chronicles (si p. 75 ¶1 to p. 84 ¶36)

No. 2: 1 Chronicles 3:1-16

No. 3: pe chap. 22 ¶1-20 “How to Identify the True Religion”

No. 4: td 39A (27A) “Is It Proper to Call Mary the ‘Mother of God’?”

Sept. 22 Bible reading: 1 Chronicles 4 to 6

Song No. 114 (61)

No. 1: sg p. 160 ¶10 to p. 163 ¶24

No. 2: 1 Chronicles 5:1-17

No. 3: pe chap. 23 ¶1-14 “God’s Visible Organization​—Past and Present”

No. 4: td 39C (27B) “Did Mary Continue a Virgin?”

Sept. 29 Bible reading: 1 Chronicles 7 to 10

Song No. 189 (49)

No. 1: sg p. 163 ¶1 to p. 165 ¶9

No. 2: 1 Chronicles 7:1-12

No. 3: pe chap. 23 ¶15-32 “What God’s Organization Is Doing”

No. 4: td 40A (28A) “What Commemoration Are All Christians Expected to Observe?”

Oct. 6 Bible reading: 1 Chronicles 11 to 14

Song No. 163 (94)

No. 1: sg p. 165 ¶10 to p. 167 ¶21

No. 2: 1 Chronicles 13:1-14

No. 3: pe chap. 24 ¶1-14 “Are We Under the Ten Commandments?”

No. 4: td 40B (28B) “Should Christians Attend Mass?”

Oct. 13 Bible reading: 1 Chronicles 15 to 18

Song No. 38 (65)

No. 1: sg p. 168 ¶1 to p. 169 ¶9

No. 2: 1 Chronicles 17:1-15

No. 3: pe chap. 25 ¶1-11 “What Is Satan’s World?”

No. 4: td 42A (30A) “Why Can Christians Expect Opposition?”

Oct. 20 Bible reading: 1 Chronicles 19 to 22

Song No. 202 (112)

No. 1: sg p. 169 ¶10 to p. 171 ¶22

No. 2: 1 Chronicles 22:6-19

No. 3: pe chap. 25 ¶12-23 “How to Avoid Being Part of Satan’s World”

No. 4: td 42C (30B) “Should a Wife Place Her Husband Ahead of God?”

Oct. 27 Written Review. Complete 2 Kings 19-25 to 1 Chronicles 1-22

Song No. 177 (92)

Nov. 3 Bible reading: 1 Chronicles 23 to 26

Song No. 161 (118)

No. 1: sg p. 172 ¶1 to p. 175 ¶13

No. 2: 1 Chronicles 23:1-5, 24-32

No. 3: pe chap. 26 ¶1-8 “The Fight to Do What Is Right”

No. 4: td 43A (31A) “What Prayers Does God Hear?”

Nov. 10 Bible reading: 1 Chronicles 27 to 29

Song No. 42 (52)

No. 1: sg p. 175 ¶1 to p. 177 ¶14

No. 2: 1 Chronicles 27:23-34

No. 3: pe chap. 26 ¶9-19 “Help Needed to Win the Fight”

No. 4: td 43C (31B) “What Prayers Does God Not Hear?”

Nov. 17 Bible reading: 2 Chronicles 1 to 5

Song No. 188 (77)

No. 1: 1 and 2 Chronicles (w85 9/1)

No. 2: 2 Chronicles 5:1-14

No. 3: pe chap. 27 ¶1-16 “How to Gain Help Through Prayer”

No. 4: td 44A (32A) “Is Man’s Destiny Predetermined?”

Nov. 24 Bible reading: 2 Chronicles 6 to 8

Song No. 200 (108)

No. 1: sg p. 177 ¶15 to p. 180 ¶29

No. 2: 2 Chronicles 7:1-16

No. 3: pe chap. 28 ¶1-9 “The Need to Get Along in Love”

No. 4: td 46A (33A) “For How Many Did Christ Die?”

Dec. 1 Bible reading: 2 Chronicles 9 to 12

Song No. 155 (15)

No. 1: sg p. 181 ¶1 to p. 187 ¶34

No. 2: 2 Chronicles 9:1-14

No. 3: pe chap. 28 ¶10-19 “Solving Difficulties With Love”

No. 4: td 46B (33B) “What Corresponding Price Did Christ Pay?”

Dec. 8 Bible reading: 2 Chronicles 13 to 17

Song No. 145 (115)

No. 1: sg p. 188 ¶1 to p. 191 ¶13

No. 2: 2 Chronicles 13:8-22

No. 3: pe chap. 29 ¶1-23 “How to Make a Success of Family Life”

No. 4: td 47A (34A) “How Many True Religions Are There?”

Dec. 15 Bible reading: 2 Chronicles 18 to 21

Song No. 12 (45)

No. 1: Reference Bible (w85 11/1)

No. 2: 2 Chronicles 19:1-11

No. 3: pe chap. 29 ¶24-33 “Successfully Handling Family Problems”

No. 4: td 47E (34C) “When Would It Be Wise for a Person to Change His Religion?”

Dec. 22 Bible reading: 2 Chronicles 22 to 25

Song No. 109 (76)

No. 1: Reference Bible (w85 11/15)

No. 2: 2 Chronicles 23:1-15

No. 3: pe chap. 30 ¶1-15 “What You Must Do to Live Forever”

No. 4: td 47G (34D) “Does God See ‘Good in All Religions’?”

Dec. 29 Written Review. Complete 1 Chronicles 23-29 to 2 Chronicles 1-25

Song No. 113 (62)

Announcements

● Literature offer for October: One-year subscription for either Awake! or The Watchtower or both, for contribution of $4.00 each. Six-month subscriptions to semimonthly magazines are $2.00 and yearly subscriptions to monthly magazines are $2.00. (There is no six-month subscription to monthly magazines.) November: Survival Into a New Earth, for contribution of $1.00. December: New World Translation with any older 192-page book, for contribution of $3.50, $4.00 or $4.50, depending on which Bible is offered. (See “Looking Ahead to the December Campaign With the Bible” on page 3 of the September Our Kingdom Ministry.) The brochure Enjoy Life on Earth Forever! may be offered for contribution of 30¢, especially to those with reading difficulties or where there are children. January and February: Watchtower subscription for contribution of $4.00. When subscription offer is refused we will offer a brochure​—Enjoy Life on Earth Forever!, The Divine Name That Will Endure Forever or Jehovah’s Witnesses in the Twentieth Century​—with one magazine for a contribution of 50¢. Or, a brochure may be offered with two magazines for 70¢.

● With this issue of Our Kingdom Ministry we are including the Theocratic Ministry School Schedule for 1985. This will enable school overseers to become familiar with the instructions and make assignments well in advance.

● New Publications Available:

You Can Live Forever in Paradise on Earth​—Reduced-size (congregation and public: $1.25; pioneers: 65¢)​—Spanish

Watch Tower Publications Index for 1983​—English

Enjoy Life on Earth Forever!​—Kihaya, Laotian, Sukuma, Taita, Tiv

Is There a God Who Cares?​—Hungarian

Jehovah’s Witnesses in the Twentieth Century​—Greek

“Singing and Accompanying Yourselves with Music in Your Hearts” (Paper edition)​—Samoan

● New Cassette Recordings Available:

Joshua (set of two; congregation and public: $3.00; pioneers: $2.50)​—English

Skillfully Use the Book United in Worship

¹ Words, words, words​—billions are printed every day. No words, however, can have as powerful an effect for good as those that are based on Jehovah’s wisdom. For example: Did you feel a strong impact on your thinking and attitude when the United in Worship book was discussed at the Congregation Book Study? Indeed, “the words of the wise ones are like oxgoads, and just like nails driven in are those indulging in collections of sentences; they have been given from one shepherd.”​—Eccl. 12:11.

² Our Shepherd, Jehovah, has given us ‘wise words’ in the book United in Worship. Like an ‘oxgoad,’ which is used to move and direct animals, this fine publication can be used to help newly interested ones to keep on making advancement in the way of Jehovah. Elders making shepherding calls on the inactive and others needing exhortation can skillfully use certain chapters or portions thereof “like nails driven in” to give support to those buffeted by pressures of the world and help stabilize their faith.​—Isa. 32:1, 2.

SKILLFULLY USE ON BIBLE STUDIES

³ Think about the one with whom you study, whether newly interested or an inactive one. What step must he take next in order to keep making progress? Is there something hindering him from taking that step? Have you discussed this with him? Is there some portion of the book United in Worship that could effectively help him? Let us consider some possibilities.

⁴ Does he still have bad associations? Take a few minutes to discuss portions of the material on pages 44 and 45, looking up the Scriptures. You can ask him if he thinks his associates are helping or hindering him in applying the truth. From the Scriptures discussed, what does he think he should do to remedy the problem? Where can good associations be found?

⁵ Is he fearful of preaching in public? Consider some of the Scriptural points on pages 172 and 173. Help him to see that Jehovah will support him just as he supported his faithful witnesses in the past. Explain what you do to prepare yourself for Jehovah’s service and the joys that result from fearlessly preaching.

ELDERS​—USE IN SHEPHERDING

⁶ Elders, how can you use the Scriptural discussions to incite your brothers to love and fine works and refresh them spiritually? For example, how about those who are irregular in service? Information under the subtitles “Do Not Let Kingdom Truth Be Choked Out” and “Keep the Kingdom First in Your Life” in chapter 11 will provide a basis for a stimulating discussion. Also, it may be refreshing for those who dedicated their life to Jehovah long ago to have reviewed with them Scriptural points from chapter 12, “The Meaning of Your Baptism.”

⁷ Have you noted a brother growing weaker on account of excessive attention to pleasures or worldly entertainment? Consider with him the wise admonition contained in the chapter ‘Wrestling Against Wicked Spirit Forces.’ If he has strayed, the inspired counsel from Jehovah could move him to change his course.

⁸ Are there some having difficulty in getting along with others? Points from chapter 17 under the subtitles “What to Do When Problems Arise” and “Seek Ways to ‘Widen Out’” may provide the stimulus needed to overcome these problems.

⁹ Satan’s world produces a multitude of books offering the conflicting opinions of imperfect man. How frustrating or wearisome these can be! (Eccl. 12:12) Happily, Jehovah has provided clear, wise direction through the Bible and Bible study aids. Our skillfully using this printed wisdom from Jehovah will without doubt help many to stay on the road that leads to everlasting happiness.

Presenting the Good News​—By Effective Use of Magazines

¹ The Watchtower and Awake! are beneficial aids in keeping us well informed on vital matters. For this reason, we do well to read our personal copies right away. By doing so, we can familiarize ourselves with the material in the articles and take note of points that may be of particular interest to people in our territory.

² Generally when offering the magazines, it is best to highlight briefly just one point in one issue. When a series of articles is involved, attention could be called to the subject matter of that series. Or a practical point can be highlighted at times by actually reading a statement from the article being featured.

³ When offering the October 8 Awake!, the article “The Near-Death Experience​—Proof of Immortality?” could be featured by saying: “Good morning. I have the latest Watchtower and Awake! magazines; they answer Bible questions most of us have wondered about. This article ‘The Near-Death Experience​—Proof of Immortality?’ mentions visions some persons have experienced when near death. Some believe such experiences to be proof of immortality. But you might be surprised at what the Bible says on this. I believe you will enjoy reading this article.” You may then wish to hand the magazines to the person and say: “May I leave these with you for the printing cost of 40 cents?”

⁴ If a young person is contacted, you could feature the article “Is Winning Everything?” This material may also be of interest to parents who want to help their children cope with the competitive spirit so often generated in school. You might say: “You may agree that we all need recreation of some sort for a change of pace from the normal daily routine. But what if a person becomes obsessed with the desire to win? This article presents some interesting points you will enjoy considering.”

⁵ The October 15 Watchtower, with its cover theme “Our Critical Times,” could be featured by saying: “Most persons will agree that we are living in critical times. No doubt you are concerned as to how your family is affected by rash acts of individuals or entire nations. Just a few years ago many persons would have suggested religion as a solution in resolving long-standing problems. Now, an increasing number do not share that viewpoint but feel some religions are contributing to the increasing world tensions. You may find good reasons to agree after noting some of the points made in this article, ‘Can Religion Meet the Crisis?’”

⁶ By being well acquainted with the information found in the magazines, we will be able to present them effectively. Perhaps others too will gain an appreciation for The Watchtower and Awake! and develop a “longing for the unadulterated milk belonging to the word.”​—1 Pet. 2:2.

Theocratic News

◆ In Argentina, 49,129 publishers enjoyed the ministry in June​—a new peak. They reported 54,357 Bible studies, also a new peak.

◆ Costa Rica’s peak of 8,072 publishers in June is a 16-percent increase over last year. They had a peak also in return visits and their sixth consecutive peak in home Bible studies.

◆ Ecuador reports 8,040 publishers and 12,238 Bible studies in June. El Salvador had 12,914 publishers and 20,500 studies. All these figures are new peaks.

◆ Guatemala has enjoyed new publisher peaks each of the last 12 months, the most recent being 7,176 in June.

◆ Ireland reports a new peak of 2,335 publishers in June, with the congregation publishers averaging 11.4 hours and 15.1 magazines placed.

◆ The work in Mexico is growing rapidly. The peak of 148,844 publishers in June is a 22-percent increase. The brothers conducted 202,132 studies during the month.

◆ Panama and Paraguay report new publisher peaks for June with 3,909 and 2,030 respectively.

◆ Senegal had its fourth consecutive peak with 422 publishing in June, a 13-percent increase.

◆ Despite rainy weather in Suriname the brothers had a new peak of 1,010 publishers for a 14-percent increase.

◆ The Venezuelan brothers enjoyed a 23-percent increase in publishers with a new peak of 25,131 reporting in June. Peaks were reached also in return visits and Bible studies.

◆ Fiji reported a new peak of 891 publishers in June for a 17-percent increase.

◆ Madagascar had a 25-percent increase in June with 1,762 publishers reporting. Congregation publishers averaged 1.2 studies each.

◆ New Caledonia’s new peak of 626 in June was a 26-percent increase.

◆ Puerto Rico’s spring series of circuit assemblies was attended by 33,701, some 13,000 more than the total number of publishers.