November

Skillfully Handle the Word of Truth

¹ Our skill in using God’s Word can affect the way people respond to the good news. Thus, Paul encouraged developing proficiency in the ministry, saying: “Do your utmost to present yourself approved to God, a workman with nothing to be ashamed of, handling the word of the truth aright.”​—2 Tim. 2:15.

² Skill in using the Bible must be developed. Setting aside time for personal study and attending Christian meetings is essential. However, we must put into practice the things we learn by regularly using the Bible in the ministry. This requires continual effort as we seek God’s help and guidance.​—1 John 3:22.

³ Focus on God’s Word: It is important for people to realize that our message is not of our own originality but from God’s written Word. (John 7:18) Showing a person what God says on a subject in the Bible can have great impact. Righteoushearted people are drawn to the Bible’s powerful message. As we make greater use of the Scriptures, we become more proficient and will be able to provide others with greater exposure to God’s Word, which will be of benefit to them.

⁴ Most people are unfamiliar with the Bible. When using it, we must do more than just read texts. Thoughtful preparation is necessary to determine how to introduce a scripture. Questions or a stated problem may be used to arouse interest. Also, attention must be given to what we say after the scripture is read. The person may not be able to absorb the point in just one reading. Reemphasizing key words and making application will permit the ideas to sink in.​—See School Guidebook, studies 24 and 25.

⁵ The Offer: When we find people during November who are sincerely interested, we will offer them the New World Translation of the Holy Scriptures along with The Bible​—God’s Word or Man’s? How might we approach people with this offer? After introducing ourselves we could say: “Today, many look to various individuals or publications for guidance. What do you feel is the best source of practical guidance? [Allow response.] Consider what the Bible says about the true source of wisdom. [Read Proverbs 2:6, 7.] Human wisdom has proved sadly lacking, leading to misfortune and despair. God’s wisdom, though, has always proved reliable and beneficial. [Read Isaiah 48:17, 18.] Therefore, we should look to God, who provides the direction needed to cope with the problems facing us.” Then we could turn to chapter 12 in the God’s Word book and direct attention to paragraph 2. After that, an applicable point from the chapter could be tied in.

⁶ After using Proverbs 2:6, 7 to highlight the superiority of God’s wisdom, introduce the New World Translation and explain to the householder why you have come to respect and treasure the Bible. Let him know that its teachings will benefit him and provide a solid hope for the future. Such a discussion may open opportunities to point out some of the Bible’s wise counsel on everyday problems and may lead to a Bible study.

⁷ Jesus always referred to the Scriptures to aid honesthearted ones and refute his opposers. It was Paul’s custom to ‘explain and prove by references’ the things he taught. (Acts 17:2, 3) Our confidence and joy in the ministry will increase as we earnestly strive to become ever more skillful in handling the Word of truth.

Be Whole-Souled in the Field Ministry

Part 5​—The Rich Benefits of Whole-Souled Service

¹ Jehovah makes available to his whole-souled servants a boundless supply of rich benefits. (Ps. 116:12) How can we enjoy a full measure of blessings from Jehovah in our ministry? What benefits are in store for us? What must we do to assure ourselves of his approval and favor?

² Personal Effort Required: The extent to which you enjoy God-given benefits depends in large measure on your individual efforts to do God’s will. Regarding the ministry, Paul wrote: “Each person will receive his own reward according to his own labor.” (1 Cor. 3:8) Let us therefore have as full a share in the ministry as we possibly can. The apostle Paul had the personal reward of helping many people, even entire congregations, to come to know God. What joy he felt in observing their firmness in the faith! (1 Thess. 2:19, 20) Likely, your circumstances will not allow you to be as fully involved in the ministry as Paul was. Yet, would it not be a rich blessing to help a person or even a family of sheeplike ones become firmly established on the road to life? What an incentive to work hard in the house-to-house ministry and follow through with return visits and Bible studies!

³ Further Benefits: An invaluable benefit of whole-souled service is that, as a fellow worker, one is drawn closer to Jehovah and Jesus Christ. (Matt. 11:29, 30; 1 Cor. 3:9) What joy there is to sense God’s spirit helping you in the ministry! (Matt. 10:20; John 14:26) Furthermore, diligently working side by side with others in the congregation strengthens our bond of love and unity.

⁴ We cannot enjoy full benefits from Jehovah unless we fully support the organization he is using to accomplish his will in these last days. (Compare 2 Kings 10:15.) When we closely and wholeheartedly follow the direction we receive through God’s channel and are actively involved in congregation activities, we are spiritually protected from Satan’s crafty devices. We are enabled to have a more productive share in the ministry.

⁵ This five-part series of articles on being whole-souled in the field ministry has highlighted a number of factors that are involved. Do you recall what the keys are to building appreciation for Jehovah, which motivates a person to be whole-souled? (July) Why is preparation essential for building up enthusiasm in the field ministry? How can we prepare? (August) How can experienced publishers help others to be whole-souled? (September) How can good personal organization help us be whole-souled in the ministry? (October) Are you applying these suggestions?

⁶ Jehovah wants us to benefit ourselves by obeying him. (Isa. 48:17) Furthermore, the benefits of whole-souled service extend to those who listen to you. (1 Tim. 4:15, 16) You can be sure that as you diligently apply yourself to the work at hand, Jehovah will observe this and “you will receive the due reward of the inheritance,” everlasting life.​—Col. 3:23, 24.

Service Meetings for November

Week Starting November 4

Song 180

10 min: Local announcements and selected Announcements from Our Kingdom Ministry. Call attention to outstanding publisher peak, and commend publishers for their part.

20 min: “Skillfully Handle the Word of Truth.” Questions and answers. Highlight the need to use the Bible at the doors. After discussing paragraph 5, demonstrate suggested presentation. Also, briefly demonstrate how to offer the Bible with Topic for Conversation. Point out that at times publishers may wish to offer just the God’s Word book to individuals who do not appear to want another Bible.

15 min: “The New World Translation​—Scholarly and Honest.” Discussion of article appearing in the March 1, 1991, Watchtower. Highlight points that may be useful in presenting the Bible in service.

Song 23 and concluding prayer.

Week Starting November 11

Song 161

10 min: Local announcements. Encourage auxiliary pioneering during December.

25 min: “Presenting the Good News​—Offering Home Bible Studies.” Question-and-answer coverage. Have an experienced publisher demonstrate how a Bible study might be started with a person who has expressed interest in the Bible offered. Encourage brothers to follow up any interest shown, whether placements are made or not.

10 min: Question Box. Elder discusses points with audience. Remind congregation to review regularly previous direction given in Our Kingdom Ministry so that all speak in agreement.

Song 167 and concluding prayer.

Week Starting November 18

Song 96

10 min: Local announcements, accounts report, and Society donation acknowledgments. Commend brothers for their share in giving. Announce service arrangements for November 28.

20 min: “Congregation Book Study Arrangement​—Part 5.” Question-and-answer discussion conducted by service overseer. Ask for comments on how some have benefited from this provision.

15 min: Local needs or “Kingdom Proclaimers Report.” Talk. Draw upon experiences in this feature of The Watchtower showing the powerful effect that the Bible has on the lives of people. Could include reports in April 1, 1991, and August 1, 1991, issues.

Song 75 and concluding prayer.

Week Starting November 25

Song 105

10 min: Local announcements. Theocratic News. Encourage all to share in field service Sunday, December 1. Remind brothers to pick up supply of new book, The Greatest Man Who Ever Lived.

20 min: “Be Whole-Souled in the Field Ministry​—Part 5.” Question-and-answer discussion. Warmly encourage all to follow through on suggestions given. Include interview of zealous publisher or pioneer who can relate the personal benefits from having a full share in the ministry.

15 min: Offering the new book, The Greatest Man Who Ever Lived. Present well-rehearsed demonstration of the following: After introducing self, publisher might say, “If we were to ask who the greatest man who ever lived is, we would receive a variety of answers. Of all the men in history who have been called great, no one has affected the life of so many of mankind in such a powerful way as Jesus Christ. His example is one we do well to follow. See what his disciple Peter said of him. [Read 1 Peter 2:21.] True worship of the Father is only through Jesus, as he said at John 14:6. [Read.] How much do we know about Jesus as a man? What did he teach? How did he live and treat others? This book, The Greatest Man Who Ever Lived, will answer those questions and many more.” Show highlights in the book. If genuine interest is shown, you may say: “I would like to offer you this personal copy that I know you will enjoy. If you desire to read it, you may have it.” When showing the householder the book, refer to a couple of the quotes in the introduction, such as those by H. G. Wells and Napoléon. Point out the many excellent color illustrations.

Song 205 and concluding prayer.

Question Box

◼ Are we not donating twice for the literature if a donation is made at the time we get literature and then when we put donations received in the field into the contribution boxes designated for the Society’s worldwide work?

No. Donations that go into the contribution boxes for the Society’s worldwide work are not only for the literature. Both publishers and sincerely interested persons in the field receive the literature without charge. When publishers make their donations, it is in support of maintaining branch offices, Bethel homes, missionary and ministerial schools, missionaries, traveling overseers, literature distribution centers, and numerous other support services necessary for accomplishing the overall assignment Jesus gave his disciples. Publishing literature is just a small part of this.

Therefore, when donations are received from interested ones in the field, we should not say that the donation is “for the literature.” As we explain to them, those who sincerely desire to read our literature receive it without charge. Any donations such ones give will be used to care for expenses involved in the worldwide work. The same is true of donations made by publishers.

Service Year Ends With Outstanding Publisher Peak

Our new peak of 892,551 publishers reporting in August is 35,071 over our previous peak in July and 42,431 more than in August 1990. The 9,524 congregations reporting represent an increase of 274 over the number reporting in August of last year. Commendable zeal is being demonstrated by publishers in helping lovers of freedom take refuge in Jehovah.​—Ps. 31:19.

August Service Report

Av. Av. Av. Av.

Number of: Hrs. Mags. R.V. Bi.St.

Sp’l Pios. 143 121.1 69.2 51.8 5.4

Pios. 62,367 59.6 24.9 20.0 2.4

Aux.Pios. 27,648 58.7 22.6 14.0 1.2

Pubs. 802,393 10.1 5.9 3.7 0.5

TOTAL 892,551 Baptized: 1,819

Selected Publications of the Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society of Pennsylvania

The publication and distribution of Bibles and Bible literature by Jehovah’s Witnesses is part of a worldwide Bible educational work that is supported by voluntary donations. The publications in this list are printed in most major languages.

NEW WORLD TRANSLATION OF THE HOLY SCRIPTURES.

It has a concordance, marginal references, an appendix, and maps; hard black cover with gilt-embossed title; special Bible paper; over 1,600 pages; size: 6 3⁄4” x 4 3⁄4” x 1 3⁄8”.

BIBLE STUDY AIDS

HARDBOUND BOOKS WITH COLOR ILLUSTRATIONS

MY BOOK OF BIBLE STORIES.

Its 116 Bible accounts appear in the order of their historical occurrence. The book is especially designed for young children, yet everyone can benefit from the book’s more than 125 beautiful illustrations. 256 pages; size: 9 1⁄4” x 7 1⁄4”.

REVELATION​—ITS GRAND CLIMAX AT HAND!

A fascinating, verse-by-verse consideration of the entire Bible book of Revelation. Filled with beautiful full-color illustrations. 320 pages; size: 9 1⁄4” x 7 1⁄4”.

MANKIND’S SEARCH FOR GOD.

Throughout mankind’s history the search for God has led up many pathways, resulting in a diversity of religious expression. Has this search for God been successful? Through this book we invite you to join in that fascinating search for the true God. 384 pages; size: 6 3⁄4” x 4 3⁄4”.

QUESTIONS YOUNG PEOPLE ASK​—ANSWERS THAT WORK.

Its 39 chapters answer many questions, such as: How can I cope with peer pressure? Should I quit school? How can I say no to premarital sex? Why say no to drugs? 320 pages; size: 6 3⁄4” x 4 3⁄4”.

THE GREATEST MAN WHO EVER LIVED.

The life of Jesus Christ, presenting every event in his earthly life that is set forth in the four Gospels, including the speeches he delivered and his illustrations and miracles. Full-color illustrations on practically every page. 448 pages; size: 6 3⁄4” x 4 3⁄4”.

LIFE​—HOW DID IT GET HERE? BY EVOLUTION OR BY CREATION?

The evidence can be examined, and the reader can see for himself what the facts show and how his future is involved. More than 150 illuminating illustrations. 256 pages; size: 6 3⁄8” x 4 7⁄8”.

YOU CAN LIVE FOREVER IN PARADISE ON EARTH.

Its simple, easy-to-understand style inspires hope as all the basic Bible teachings unfold through 30 chapters. More than 100 illustrations. 256 pages; size: 6 3⁄8” x 4 7⁄8”.

HARDBOUND POCKET-SIZE BOOKS

(192 pages; size: 6 3⁄8” x 4 1⁄4”)

THE BIBLE​—GOD’S WORD OR MAN’S?

Historical and scientific information is presented to prove that the Bible is accurate, trustworthy, and inspired by God for mankind’s benefit. Full-color illustrations.

WORLDWIDE SECURITY UNDER THE “PRINCE OF PEACE.”

How you can prepare to enter into the rule of the “Prince of Peace” is set forth in this publication. Full-color illustrations.

SURVIVAL INTO A NEW EARTH.

A thrilling study of 47 prophetic patterns and descriptions of people now living who will inherit the earthly realm of God’s Kingdom.

UNITED IN WORSHIP OF THE ONLY TRUE GOD.

Designed for those who want to deepen their understanding of God’s Word and to apply it more fully in their lives.

“LET YOUR KINGDOM COME.”

Highlights the Kingdom theme of the Bible, showing how Jehovah’s Kingdom under Christ soon will “come” to remove wickedness.

HAPPINESS​—HOW TO FIND IT.

Shows you the way to a happy, successful life now as well as a happy and abiding future in God’s new world.

MAKING YOUR FAMILY LIFE HAPPY.

Covers virtually every aspect of family life. Points the reader to the finest source of guidance for solving family problems, achieving marital happiness, and rearing children successfully​—God’s Word.

YOUR YOUTH​—GETTING THE BEST OUT OF IT.

An aid for teenagers in successfully facing up to the problems that confront young people today.

IS THIS LIFE ALL THERE IS?

Presents the revealing truth about life after death. Explains how many common beliefs about life and death have held millions in the grip of fear.

TRUE PEACE AND SECURITY​—HOW CAN YOU FIND IT?

Shows the real solution to the problems that plague mankind and how true peace and security soon will be a reality earth wide. Full-color illustrations.

LISTENING TO THE GREAT TEACHER.

Designed for parents and young children to read together. Helps parents to teach their children the Bible and its high moral standards. Illustrated; easily understood.

BROCHURES

(32 pages; size: 9” x 7”)

“LOOK! I AM MAKING ALL THINGS NEW.”

Find the answers to such questions as: Why does man die? Why has God permitted wickedness? How is mankind ransomed from death? Where and how does the resurrection take place? Illustrated.

SCHOOL AND JEHOVAH’S WITNESSES.

Acquaints school authorities and others with the beliefs of Jehovah’s Witnesses that affect participation in school activities.

ENJOY LIFE ON EARTH FOREVER!

Seventy-six full-color pictures, each with a brief comment; explains why God made man and how you can enjoy life on earth forever.

HOW CAN BLOOD SAVE YOUR LIFE?

Presents moral and medical aspects regarding the use of blood, and shows how this bears on saving your most valued possession: LIFE.

Illustrated.

JEHOVAH’S WITNESSES​—UNITEDLY DOING GOD’S WILL WORLDWIDE.

Some historical background on the preaching of “this good news of the kingdom . . . for a witness to all the nations.” (Matthew 24:14) Illustrated with color photos from more than 25 lands.

THE DIVINE NAME THAT WILL ENDURE FOREVER.

Discusses God’s name from a Scriptural and historical perspective, showing why it is vital for Christians both to know the Name and to use it in their worship. Illustrated.

SHOULD YOU BELIEVE IN THE TRINITY?

Answers such questions as: What is the Trinity? Does the Bible teach it? Is Jesus Christ the Almighty God and part of the Trinity? What is the holy spirit, and how does it function? Illustrated.

JEHOVAH’S WITNESSES IN THE TWENTIETH CENTURY.

Describes who they are, their modern development and growth, what they believe, the practical value to your community of what they preach, and their worldwide organization and work. Illustrated.

SPIRITS OF THE DEAD​—CAN THEY HELP YOU OR HARM YOU? DO THEY REALLY EXIST?

Provides convincing evidence that humans do not have anything to fear from the dead. Proof is given that the dead are powerless. Fully illustrated.

THE GOVERNMENT THAT WILL BRING PARADISE.

When Jesus was on earth, the Kingdom of God was the theme of his preaching. Read how God, by means of the Kingdom, will solve the problems that make life so difficult today. Fully illustrated.

ADDITIONAL BIBLE REFERENCE AIDS

THE WATCHTOWER and AWAKE!

Bible-based magazines with the largest distribution in the world. The Watchtower and Awake! both build confidence in the Creator’s promise of a peaceful and secure new world. Each is published semimonthly; attractively illustrated.

“ALL SCRIPTURE IS INSPIRED OF GOD AND BENEFICIAL.”

Contains a capsule account of every book of the Bible. Besides providing background and reasons for writing each Bible book, it gives evidence of the Bible book’s authenticity and why that book is beneficial today. Hardbound with charts, maps, and illustrations. 352 pages; size: 9 1⁄4” x 7 1⁄4”.

INSIGHT ON THE SCRIPTURES.

Alphabetically arranged. Thousands of articles deal with people, places, plant and animal life, notable events, and the record of God’s dealings with humankind. Two volumes, with a total of 2,560 pages, in clear, readable type; size: 9 1⁄4” x 7 1⁄4”.

AUDIOCASSETTE ALBUMS AND TAPES.

New World Translation of the Holy Scriptures​—The entire Bible, from Genesis to Revelation, in four albums. One album contains the Greek Scriptures of Matthew through Revelation. The three Hebrew Scriptures albums contain the cassettes of Genesis through Ruth, 1 Samuel through Psalms, and Proverbs through Malachi.

My Book of Bible Stories​—An album with four cassettes of 116 Bible stories that provide listeners with an idea of what the Bible is all about.

Listening to the Great Teacher​—The album contains four cassettes as well as the book recorded on the tapes, Listening to the Great Teacher.

Kingdom Melodies​—An album containing eight cassettes of refreshing musical arrangements.

Sing Praises to Jehovah​—This album holds eight cassettes of delightful piano music.

Bible Dramas​—The following five single-cassette dramas are available: Jehovah’s Name to Be Declared in All the Earth, Beware of Losing Faith by Drawing Away From Jehovah, Jehovah Delivers Those Calling Upon His Name, Jehovah’s Judgment Against Law-Defying People, and Preserving Life in Time of Famine.

[Box on page 6]

• These items may be obtained from the person who is showing you this list or from the local Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses. If you are not familiar with the location of the nearest Kingdom Hall, you may check the telephone book for the address.

• Jehovah’s Witnesses provide personal and group instruction in the Bible at no charge. If you would like to have a qualified Bible teacher visit you in your home or at some other convenient place, this will gladly be arranged by Jehovah’s Witnesses.

Announcements

◼ Literature offer for November: New World Translation of the Holy Scriptures with the book The Bible​—God’s Word or Man’s? December: The Greatest Man Who Ever Lived. January and February: Any 192-page book published in 1983 or earlier. If the congregation has no stock of such books to be offered, the book Worldwide Security Under the “Prince of Peace” should be offered and may be requested from Brooklyn.

◼ Congregations should begin requesting the 1992 Yearbook of Jehovah’s Witnesses on their November literature requests. (See the Watchtower Publications List, paragraph 10.) The Yearbook will be available in Czech, Danish, Dutch, English, Finnish, French, German, Greek, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Norwegian, Polish, Portuguese, Slovak, Spanish, and Swedish. Until the Yearbook is available and shipments are made, it will appear as “Pending” on congregation packing lists. Yearbooks are special-request items.​—See the Watchtower Publications List, paragraphs 24 and 25.

◼ New Publications Available:

Amharic: God’s Kingdom Will Bring Paradise. Arabic: The Greatest Man Who Ever Lived. Cebuano: The Greatest Man Who Ever Lived. Croatian: Spirits of the Dead​—Can They Help You or Harm You? Do They Really Exist?; The Bible​—God’s Word or Man’s?; The Greatest Man Who Ever Lived. Czech: New World Translation of the Holy Scriptures (bi12); Spirits of the Dead​—Can They Help You or Harm You? Do They Really Exist? Dutch: Aid to Bible Understanding, Volume 8 (Slaap-Z); “All Scripture Is Inspired of God and Beneficial.” German: Spirits of the Dead​—Can They Help You or Harm You? Do They Really Exist? Hebrew: Making Your Family Life Happy. Hungarian: Spirits of the Dead​—Can They Help You or Harm You? Do They Really Exist? Iloko: “All Scripture Is Inspired of God and Beneficial”; The Greatest Man Who Ever Lived. Japanese: “All Scripture Is Inspired of God and Beneficial” (Revised); The Greatest Man Who Ever Lived; Watch Tower Publications Index 1989. Maltese: The Greatest Man Who Ever Lived. Moore: You Can Live Forever in Paradise on Earth (Small size). Norwegian: Spirits of the Dead​—Can They Help You or Harm You? Do They Really Exist? Polish: Spirits of the Dead​—Can They Help You or Harm You? Do They Really Exist?; The Greatest Man Who Ever Lived. Portuguese: “All Scripture Is Inspired of God and Beneficial” (Revised); Spirits of the Dead​—Can They Help You or Harm You? Do They Really Exist? Romanian: Spirits of the Dead​—Can They Help You or Harm You? Do They Really Exist?; The Bible​—God’s Word or Man’s? Russian: 1992 Calendar of Jehovah’s Witnesses; The Greatest Man Who Ever Lived. Serbian: Spirits of the Dead​—Can They Help You or Harm You? Do They Really Exist?; The Bible​—God’s Word or Man’s? Slovak: New World Translation of the Holy Scriptures (bi12); Spirits of the Dead​—Can They Help You or Harm You? Do They Really Exist? Slovenian: Spirits of the Dead​—Can They Help You or Harm You? Do They Really Exist? Spanish: Insight on the Scriptures. Swahili: The Greatest Man Who Ever Lived. Swedish: Spirits of the Dead​—Can They Help You or Harm You? Do They Really Exist? Tagalog: “All Scripture Is Inspired of God and Beneficial”; The Greatest Man Who Ever Lived. Thai: Spirits of the Dead​—Can They Help You or Harm You? Do They Really Exist?; The Greatest Man Who Ever Lived. Turkish: Life Does Have a Purpose. Ukrainian: 1992 Calendar of Jehovah’s Witnesses.

◼ New Audiocassettes Available:

Danish: Jehovah’s Judgment Against Law-Defying People (Drama; single audiocassette). German: Preserving Life in Time of Famine (Drama; single audiocassette). Japanese: Jehovah’s Judgment Against Law-Defying People (Drama; single audiocassette). Norwegian: Jehovah’s Judgment Against Law-Defying People (Drama; single audiocassette). Spanish: Preserving Life in Time of Famine (Drama; single audiocassette).

Congregation Book Study

Schedule for congregation studies in the book Revelation​—Its Grand Climax At Hand!

From: To:

November 4: p. 128, ¶30 p. 131, ¶9

November 11: p. 132, ¶10 p. 134, ¶20

November 18: p. 134, ¶21 p. 138, ¶35

November 25: p. 138, ¶36 p. 142, ¶4*

* Except for page 139.

Theocratic News

Burkina Faso: Their fifth consecutive publisher peak this service year was reached in June, with 488 reporting.

Cook Islands: A 29-percent increase was reached in June, with a new peak of 134 publishers reporting.

India: The new peak of 11,524 publishers for June was an increase of 18 percent over last year’s average.

Portugal: Their ninth consecutive publisher peak was reported in June, with 38,818 in field service. This gives an excellent publisher to population ratio of 1:258.

Topic for Conversation

The True Source of Wisdom.

Prov. 2:6, 7: God lovingly provides practical wisdom.

Isa. 48:17, 18: Heeding God’s direction results in eternal blessings.

Meetings for Field Service

November 4-10: How will you direct attention to the Bible

(a) In your introductions to scriptures?

(b) In applying scriptures?

November 11-17: Discuss how to start Bible studies with the direct approach, using

(a) A tract.

(b) The God’s Word book.

November 18-24: Advantages of house-to-house work

(a) Why do we use this method? (Acts 5:42; 20:20)

(b) What experiences have you enjoyed recently?

November 25–December 1: What advantages are there in working

(a) With midweek groups?

(b) With others in your book study group on weekends?

(c) In group evening witnessing?

Presenting the Good News​—Offering Home Bible Studies

¹ The August 1991 Our Kingdom Ministry insert reminded us of our responsibility to plant and water in the process of making disciples of Christ. It showed us we should be motivated to conduct Bible studies because of our love for people who respond to the Kingdom message. Offering home Bible studies will help us fulfill our commission to make disciples.​—Matt. 28:19, 20.

² It is good to see that many of us have begun to put into practice the fine encouragement given. Reports indicate that many more Bible studies are being conducted. The number of Bible studies being reported in the United States increased about 5 percent in 1991 over the 1990 service year. Certainly those who have begun conducting studies for the first time are rejoicing in the share they are having in the disciple-making work. But how could more participate in this rewarding feature of our ministry?

³ Use the Offer for the Month: November is an especially appropriate month to seek to start new Bible studies. We will be offering the New World Translation of the Holy Scriptures and the book The Bible​—God’s Word or Man’s? A good way to develop the interest of the householder would be to use the suggestions found in the Reasoning book.

⁴ We could feature the Bible by using the introductions suggested on page 10 of the Reasoning book. There are five different ways listed to direct attention to the Bible. Encouraging people to seek the Bible’s answers to life’s questions may open the way for a Bible study.

⁵ Under the subheading “Home Bible Study” on page 12 of the Reasoning book, there are two suggestions that would be useful in directing attention to the God’s Word book. Both encourage using the book in a method of systematic study. If you are using the direct approach to start a Bible study, you can follow the fine suggestions contained in the September 1991 Our Kingdom Ministry.

⁶ Trust in Jehovah: To be successful in the Bible study work, we must remember that success in offering home Bible studies can be achieved only with Jehovah’s help. He plays the key role in our efforts to help people. (1 Cor. 3:6) Therefore, we should pray not only about finding someone to study with but also about the progress made by interested ones we have located. (John 16:23) We must remember we are “God’s fellow workers.”​—1 Cor. 3:9.

Congregation Book Study Arrangement

Part 5​—Visit of Service Overseer

¹ The service overseer should be an evangelizer and a teacher. He plays a key role in helping the congregation fulfill its responsibility to preach and teach the good news in its assigned territory. (Mark 13:10) When he takes his responsibility seriously and everyone cooperates, publishers will develop greater skill in presenting the good news and there will be a more thorough coverage of the territory.

² The service overseer concentrates on stimulating greater activity in the field ministry. This is accomplished primarily through the Congregation Book Study. Normally, the service overseer is assigned to conduct a book study, but once each month his assistant may fill in for him while he visits another group.​—km 10/81 pp. 1, 7.

³ Preparation for the Visit: Prior to the week of this visit, the service overseer should check the Congregation’s Publisher Record cards for those associated with the group. He should also arrange to meet with the conductor and review the activity of the publishers assigned to the group. The conductor can apprise the service overseer of any service-related problems or of needs that may not be evident from the record cards. The study conductor should be reminded that the study is to be only 45 minutes in length to allow time for a 15-minute service talk by the service overseer.

⁴ This talk will be aimed at promoting greater appreciation for the ministry. If publishers need assistance in some features of the ministry, the service overseer should offer practical suggestions for improvement. His remarks should be positive and encouraging so as not to embarrass or discourage anyone by negative comments. This would only defeat the purpose of his visit. His talk should encourage all to improve.

⁵ The service overseer endeavors to give individual attention to as many of the brothers and sisters as his schedule will allow. He can make appointments to work with various ones in the service. While working with the publishers from house to house, he may offer a helpful suggestion or two on ways to improve their presentations. This should be done not in a critical manner but with a sincere desire to be helpful. He may also offer to accompany publishers on return visits and Bible studies. If any in the group appear to need personal assistance, he may make a shepherding call during that week to help them. Thereafter, he can inform the conductor of the suggestions offered. This warm, personal attention has been a stimulus to some who have slowed down in their field service.

⁶ Meeting for Service: The meetings for field service that week should be conducted by the service overseer. They should start on time even if only a few are present. The meeting should be no longer than 10 to 15 minutes. Consideration of the daily Scripture text is optional. Before the group is dismissed, everyone should know where and with whom he will be working. (1 Cor. 14:33, 40) The service overseer should encourage everyone to leave for field service without delay.

⁷ The service overseer’s regular visits to the book study groups can be a real blessing to the congregation. By each of us cooperating with him when he visits, our ministry will be orderly and effective. Further, he will get joy from his work. (Heb. 13:17) Sheeplike ones will be gathered, and we will have the joy of knowing we have fulfilled our commission to preach to all who will hear.​—Isa. 61:1, 2; Ezek. 9:11; John 17:26.