October

Special Issue of Awake! to Be Offered During November!

¹ Many people have sincere questions about the value of the Bible. If men wrote it, how can it be called God’s Word? What reasons are there for trusting it to direct my steps? If I read and study the Bible, how will my time and effort be rewarded? Which Bible translation should I use? These are some of the questions that are answered in the November special issue of Awake! entitled “Can You Trust the Bible?”

² We will want to give this special issue of Awake! wide distribution in our territory. If possible, share in the house-to-house ministry with the congregation each Saturday during the month of November. Show this issue of Awake! to your relatives, neighbors, workmates, teachers, schoolmates, and return visits. Carry copies with you when shopping and traveling. The elders have requested extra copies so that the congregation will have a sufficient supply.

³ Start a Bible Study: If you place the magazine, you can lay the groundwork for a Bible study before concluding your conversation. For example, you might say, “Next time, I would like to show you the Bible’s answer to this question, ‘What is God’s purpose for the earth?’” Then return with the Bible Teach book and show the householder pages 4-5, or consider paragraphs 1-3 of chapter 3. Another option is to say, “Next time, I would like to discuss a Bible prophecy that is being fulfilled right now.” When you return, show the householder chapter 9 of the book and consider together paragraphs 1-3. Or you might simply tell the householder: “Many find it difficult to understand what they read in the Bible. Next time, I would like to show you how you can understand your Bible better.” On the return visit, introduce the Bible Teach book, and demonstrate a study.

⁴ Only the Bible contains “holy writings,” which are able to make us “wise for salvation.” (2 Tim. 3:15) Therefore, all of us will want to have a zealous share in distributing this special issue of Awake! to help people develop trust in the Bible!

Offer Hope to the Poor

¹ Jesus took a special interest in those who were impoverished. There were occasions when he miraculously provided material assistance and healed the sick, but his focus was on declaring “good news” to the poor. (Matt. 11:5) The Christian ministry today continues to benefit the poor as well as others.​—Matt. 24:14; 28:19, 20.

² Real Hope: Christendom’s ministers often promise the poor that they will prosper if they give generously to the church. However, the Bible teaches that only God’s Kingdom will end poverty and solve all of mankind’s problems. (Ps. 9:18; 145:16; Isa. 65:21-23) By showing the poor what the Bible really teaches, we impart hope and help them to satisfy their spiritual need.​—Matt. 5:3.

³ The Pharisees of Jesus’ day looked down on the poor, contemptuously calling them ‘am-ha·’aʹrets, or “people of the land.” However, Jesus viewed “their blood,” or their life, as “precious.” (Ps. 72:13, 14) We can imitate Jesus and ‘show favor’ to such poor ones by being kind and sympathetic. (Prov. 14:31) Never would we want to speak disparagingly about people living in poor neighborhoods or show a reluctance to witness to them. Many who are responding to the Kingdom message are of humble means.

⁴ Help Now: Our teaching Bible principles to poor ones in the territory also helps them to mitigate the effects of poverty right now. For example, the Bible condemns drunkenness, gambling, laziness, the use of tobacco, and other practices that contribute to poverty. (Prov. 6:10, 11; 23:21; 2 Cor. 7:1; Eph. 5:5) The Scriptures encourage honesty and working “whole-souled,” qualities looked for in employees. (Col. 3:22, 23; Heb. 13:18) In fact, in one survey the majority of employers ranked honesty and integrity as qualities that impress them most in job candidates.

⁵ Jehovah is not insensitive to the sufferings of the poor. Soon Jesus Christ will deliver “the poor one crying for help.” (Ps. 72:12) Until then, we have the privilege of comforting others, including the poor, with the Bible’s message of hope.

Service Meeting Schedule

Week Starting October 8

Song 56

10 min: Local announcements. Using the suggestions on page 8 or other presentations appropriate for your territory, demonstrate how to offer the October 15 Watchtower and the October Awake! In each case the magazines should be offered as a set even though only one magazine is featured.

20 min: Stay Close to Jehovah’s Organization. Talk and audience discussion based on chapter 17 of Organized to Do Jehovah’s Will.

15 min: “Special Issue of Awake! to Be Offered During November!”a Briefly review the contents of the November Awake! Then proceed with a question-and-answer discussion of the article. When considering paragraph 3, demonstrate how to offer the November Awake! using the suggestion on page 8 or another presentation appropriate for your territory. Lay the groundwork for the next visit before concluding the demonstration.

Song 10

Week Starting October 15

Song 67

10 min: Local announcements. Selected Announcements from Our Kingdom Ministry.

20 min: Is the Truth Bearing Fruit in Those You Teach? Talk and audience discussion based on the February 1, 2005, Watchtower, pages 28-30. Include comments on how the questions in the Bible Teach book have been designed to help us discern what is in a student’s heart. Consider a few examples, such as chapter 1, paragraph 19; chapter 2, paragraph 4; chapter 3, paragraph 24; and chapter 4, paragraph 18. Encourage publishers to make good use of the various features of the book.

15 min: Do You Remember? Audience discussion based on the August 15, 2007, Watchtower, page 19.

Song 151

Week Starting October 22

Song 175

10 min: Local announcements. Read accounts report and donation acknowledgments. Using the suggestions on page 8 or other presentations appropriate for your territory, demonstrate how to offer the November 1 Watchtower and the November Awake!

15 min: Local needs.

20 min: Go On Walking as Children of Light. Talk and interviews. We have left the darkness of this world and have allowed ourselves to be guided by Jehovah’s light. (Eph. 5:8, 9) This has made our life better, giving it purpose. (1 Tim. 4:8) This light also gives us hope. (Rom. 15:4) Interview two or three publishers who have faced and overcome major obstacles in order to gain and maintain a fine relationship with Jehovah. What challenges did they face when coming into the truth? How were they able to overcome them? In what way is their life better now? What helps them to remain steadfast in the truth? Conclude by encouraging all to continue making spiritual progress and demonstrating deep appreciation for the truth that Jehovah has revealed.​—2 Pet. 1:5-8.

Song 23

Week Starting October 29

Song 124

10 min: Local announcements. Remind publishers to turn in field service reports for October. Mention the literature offer for November, and have one presentation demonstrated.

15 min: Set Spiritual Goals to Glorify Your Creator. Talk and audience discussion based on the July 15, 2004, Watchtower, pages 21-3. Invite audience to comment on the spiritual goals they have set and what they are doing to reach them. One or two comments may be arranged in advance.

20 min: “Offer Hope to the Poor.”b When considering paragraph 2, include comments on the September 8, 2003, Awake! pages 26-7.

Song 7

Week Starting November 5

Song 156

10 min: Local announcements.

15 min: How to Protect Your Children by Means of Godly Wisdom. Talk based on the January 1, 2005, Watchtower, pages 23-7.

20 min: “An Interchange of Encouragement for All.”c Invite audience to give specific comments on how they were encouraged by a traveling overseer during his visit to the congregation. One or two comments may be arranged in advance.

Song 192

[Footnotes]

June Service Report

Av. Av. Av. Av.

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

Sp’l Pios. 387 105.7 63.0 40.5 4.0

Pios. 99,941 62.8 34.6 18.7 1.9

Aux.Pios. 31,659 49.7 29.3 11.1 1.0

Pubs. 902,825 10.2 7.7 3.4 0.4

TOTAL 1,034,812 Baptized: 5,653

Theocratic Ministry School Schedule for 2008

Instructions

During 2008 the following will be the arrangements for conducting the Theocratic Ministry School.

SOURCE MATERIAL: New World Translation of the Holy Scriptures [bi12], Benefit From Theocratic Ministry School Education [be], “All Scripture Is Inspired of God and Beneficial” (1990 Edition) [si], and Reasoning From the Scriptures (1989 Edition) [rs].

The school should begin ON TIME with song, prayer, and remarks of welcome and then proceed as outlined below. After each part, the school overseer will introduce the next part.

SPEECH QUALITY: 5 minutes. The school overseer, the auxiliary counselor, or another qualified elder will discuss a speech quality based on the Ministry School textbook. (In congregations with a limited number of elders, qualified ministerial servants may be used.)

ASSIGNMENT NO. 1: 10 minutes. This should be handled by a qualified elder or ministerial servant, and it will be based on Benefit From Theocratic Ministry School Education or “All Scripture Is Inspired of God and Beneficial.” It is to be delivered as a ten-minute instruction talk. The objective should be not just to cover the material but to focus attention on the practical value of the information being discussed, highlighting what will be most helpful to the congregation. The theme shown should be used. It is expected that brothers assigned this talk will be careful to keep within the time limit. Private counsel may be given as needed.

HIGHLIGHTS FROM BIBLE READING: 10 minutes. For the first five minutes, a qualified elder or ministerial servant should apply the material in a way that will be beneficial to the congregation. He may comment on any portion of the assigned Bible reading for the week. This should not be just a summary of the assigned reading. The principal objective is to help the audience to appreciate why and how the information is of value. The speaker should be careful not to exceed the five minutes allotted for the opening portion. He should ensure that five minutes are set aside for audience participation. The audience should be invited to offer brief comments (30 seconds or less) on what they have appreciated in the Bible reading and its benefits. The school overseer will then dismiss the students who are assigned to other classrooms.

ASSIGNMENT NO. 2: 4 minutes or less. This is a reading to be given by a brother. The student should read the assigned material without giving an introduction or a conclusion. The school overseer will be especially interested in helping students to read with understanding, fluency, proper sense stress, modulation, appropriate pausing, and naturalness.

ASSIGNMENT NO. 3: 5 minutes. This will be assigned to a sister. Sisters receiving this assignment either will be assigned a setting or will select one from the list appearing on page 82 of the Ministry School textbook. The student should use the assigned theme and apply it to an aspect of field service that is realistic and practical for the local territory. When no references are indicated as source material, the student will need to gather material for this part by doing research in our publications. Newer students should be given assignments for which references are supplied. The school overseer will be particularly interested in the way the student develops the material and the way she helps the householder to reason on the Scriptures and to understand the key points of the presentation. The school overseer will assign one assistant.

ASSIGNMENT NO. 4: 5 minutes. The student should develop the assigned theme. When no references are indicated as source material, the student will need to gather material for this part by doing research in our publications. When assigned to a brother, this part should be given as a talk with the Kingdom Hall audience in mind. When a sister is given this part, it should always be presented as outlined for Assignment No. 3. The school overseer may give a brother Assignment No. 4 whenever he sees fit to do so. Please note that themes with an asterisk next to them should always be assigned to brothers to develop as talks. If there are more than enough elders and ministerial servants in your congregation to handle the various parts on the Theocratic Ministry School and Service Meeting, then it is preferred that themes with asterisks be assigned to an elder or a ministerial servant whenever possible.

COUNSEL: 1 minute. The school overseer will not announce in advance the speech quality that a student is working on. After Assignments No. 2, No. 3, and No. 4, the school overseer will offer positive observations on an aspect of the talk that was commendable. His aim is not simply to say “well done” but, rather, to draw attention to specific reasons why that aspect of the presentation was effective. According to the need of each student, additional constructive counsel may be given privately after the meeting or at another time.

TIMING: No talk should go overtime, nor should the remarks of the counselor. Assignments No. 2 through 4 should tactfully be stopped when the time is up. If brothers handling the opening talk on a speech quality, Assignment No. 1, or highlights from the Bible reading go overtime, they should be given private counsel. All should watch their timing carefully. Total program: 45 minutes, excluding song and prayer.

COUNSEL FORM: In textbook.

AUXILIARY COUNSELOR: The body of elders may select a capable elder, if one is available in addition to the school overseer, to handle the assignment as auxiliary counselor. If there are a number of elders in the congregation, then a different qualified elder may care for this assignment each year. The auxiliary counselor’s responsibility will be to give private counsel, if needed, to brothers who present Assignment No. 1 and Bible highlights. It is not necessary that he offer counsel after each of such talks by fellow elders or by ministerial servants.

THEOCRATIC MINISTRY SCHOOL REVIEW: 30 minutes. Every two months, the school overseer will conduct a review. It will be preceded by the consideration of a speech quality and highlights from the Bible reading as outlined above. The review will be based on material considered in the school during the preceding two months, including the current week. If your congregation has a circuit assembly during the week of the Theocratic Ministry School Review, then the review (and the rest of the weekly schedule) should be postponed one week and the subsequent week’s schedule should be used one week early. If the circuit overseer will be visiting your congregation during the week of a review, then the song, the speech quality talk, and Bible highlights should be presented as scheduled. The instruction talk (given after the speech quality talk) should be drawn from the following week’s schedule. The Theocratic Ministry School for the next week will proceed with the speech quality talk and Bible highlights as scheduled, followed by the review.

SCHEDULE

Jan. 7 Bible reading: Matthew 1-6 Song 62

Speech Quality: Providing Needed Explanation (be p. 228 ¶2-3)

No. 1: Introduction to Matthew (si pp. 175-7 ¶1-10)

No. 2: Matthew 5:1-20

No. 3: Why Do Humans Die? (rs pp. 98-9 ¶6)

No. 4: Ways in Which God’s Holy Spirit Helps Us

Jan. 14 Bible reading: Matthew 7-11 Song 224

Speech Quality: How the Heart Is Involved (be p. 228 ¶4–p. 229 ¶1)

No. 1: Take Delight in God’s Word (be p. 9 ¶1-5)

No. 2: Matthew 10:1-23

No. 3: Why It Pays to Be Honest

No. 4: Where Are the Dead, and What Is Their Condition? (rs p. 99 ¶7–p. 101 ¶4)

Jan. 21 Bible reading: Matthew 12-15 Song 133

Speech Quality: Informative to Your Audience (be p. 230 ¶1-6)

No. 1: Read the Bible Daily (be p. 10 ¶1–p. 12 ¶4)

No. 2: Matthew 14:1-22

No. 3: Why Do Jehovah’s Witnesses Not Share in Traditional Mourning Customs? (rs p. 102 ¶1–p. 103 ¶2)

No. 4: What or Who Is the Antichrist?

Jan. 28 Bible reading: Matthew 16-21 Song 176

Speech Quality: Making a Talk Informative Through Research (be p. 231 ¶1-3)

No. 1: “Pay Attention to How You Listen” (be p. 13 ¶1–p. 14 ¶5)

No. 2: Matthew 17:1-20

No. 3: Responding to Incorrect Viewpoints About Death (rs p. 103 ¶3–p. 104 ¶1)

No. 4: Things That Christians Hold Sacred

Feb. 4 Bible reading: Matthew 22-25 Song 151

Speech Quality: Explaining Scriptures (be p. 231 ¶4-5)

No. 1: Listening at Meetings and Assemblies (be p. 15 ¶1–p. 16 ¶5)

No. 2: Matthew 23:1-24

No. 3: Everlasting Life Will Not Be Boring

No. 4: Dreams​—Inspired and Otherwise (rs pp. 104-6 ¶3)

Feb. 11 Bible reading: Matthew 26-28 Song 110

Speech Quality: Explaining the Meaning of Terms (be p. 232 ¶1)

No. 1: Matthew​—Why Beneficial (si pp. 180-1 ¶29-33)

No. 2: Matthew 27:1-22

No. 3: Why Exercising Faith Is More Than Just Believing

No. 4: Drugs​—When Forbidden to Christians (rs pp. 106-8 ¶1)

Feb. 18 Bible reading: Mark 1-4 Song 167

Speech Quality: Reasoning on Texts (be p. 232 ¶2-4)

No. 1: Introduction to Mark (si pp. 181-3 ¶1-11)

No. 2: Mark 2:1-17

No. 3: Why Christians Avoid Marijuana (rs p. 108 ¶2–p. 109 ¶2)

No. 4: How Love Strengthens Courage

Feb. 25 Bible reading: Mark 5-8 Song 72

Speech Quality: Choosing Information That Will Benefit Your Audience (be p. 233 ¶1-5)

Theocratic Ministry School Review

Mar. 3 Bible reading: Mark 9-12 Song 195

Speech Quality: Use of Assigned Material (be p. 234 ¶1–p. 235 ¶3)

No. 1: You Can Improve Your Memory (be p. 17 ¶1–p. 19 ¶1)

No. 2: Mark 11:1-18

No. 3: Why God Cannot Lie

No. 4: Why Christians Avoid Tobacco (rs p. 109 ¶3–p. 111 ¶3)

Mar. 10 Bible reading: Mark 13-16 Song 87

Speech Quality: Effective Use of Questions (be p. 236 ¶1-5)

No. 1: Mark​—Why Beneficial (si p. 186 ¶31-3)

No. 2: Mark 14:1-21

No. 3: Overcoming Bad Habits​—How? (rs p. 111 ¶4–p. 112 ¶3)

No. 4: Why “Man’s Wrath Does Not Work Out God’s Righteousness” (Jas. 1:20)

Mar. 17 Bible reading: Luke 1-3 Song 13

Speech Quality: Questions to Introduce Important Thoughts (be p. 237 ¶1-2)

No. 1: Introduction to Luke (si pp. 187-8 ¶1-9)

No. 2: Luke 1:1-23

No. 3: Why “Faith Apart From Works Is Inactive” (Jas. 2:20)

No. 4: Nations Will Not Frustrate God’s Purpose Regarding Earth (rs pp. 112-13 ¶5)

Mar. 24 Bible reading: Luke 4-6 Song 156

Speech Quality: Questions to Reason on a Subject (be p. 237 ¶3–p. 238 ¶2)

No. 1: The Role of God’s Spirit in Remembering (be p. 19 ¶2–p. 20 ¶3)

No. 2: Luke 4:1-21

No. 3: Will Jehovah Destroy the Earth by Fire? (rs p. 113 ¶6–p. 115 ¶1)

No. 4: The Fear of God Can Restrain Us From Sinning

Mar. 31 Bible reading: Luke 7-9 Song 122

Speech Quality: Questions to Draw Out Inner Feelings (be p. 238 ¶3-5)

No. 1: Why Apply Yourself to Reading? (be p. 21 ¶1–p. 23 ¶3)

No. 2: Luke 7:1-17

No. 3: Evidence That God Loves Us and Wants Us to Be Happy

No. 4: Members of New Jerusalem Are Not to Return to Earth After Wicked Are Destroyed (rs p. 115 ¶2–p. 116 ¶1)

Apr. 7 Bible reading: Luke 10-12 Song 68

Speech Quality: Questions to Add Emphasis (be p. 239 ¶1-2)

No. 1: How to Apply Yourself to Reading (be p. 23 ¶4–p. 26 ¶5)

No. 2: Luke 11:37-54

No. 3: Has God’s Purpose for the Earth Changed? (rs p. 116 ¶2–p. 117 ¶2)

No. 4: How Are We to Understand Revelation 17:17?

Apr. 14 Bible reading: Luke 13-17 Song 86

Speech Quality: Questions to Expose Wrong Thinking (be p. 239 ¶3-5)

No. 1: How to Study (be p. 27 ¶1–p. 31 ¶2)

No. 2: Luke 16:1-15

No. 3: What God’s Law on Gleaning Teaches Us (Lev. 19:9, 10)

No. 4: How Can We Encourage Sick Ones? (rs pp. 117-18 ¶1)

Apr. 21 Bible reading: Luke 18-21 Song 182

Speech Quality: Similes and Metaphors That Teach (be p. 240 ¶1–p. 241 ¶1)

No. 1: Luke​—Why Beneficial (si pp. 192-3 ¶30-5)

No. 2: Luke 18:1-17

No. 3: How We Can Encourage Bereaved Ones (rs p. 118 ¶2-6)

No. 4: What It Means to ‘Keep Free From Murmurings’ (Phil. 2:14)

Apr. 28 Bible reading: Luke 22-24 Song 218

Speech Quality: Using Examples (be p. 241 ¶2-4)

Theocratic Ministry School Review

May 5 Bible reading: John 1-4 Song 31

Speech Quality: Examples in Scripture (be p. 242 ¶1-2)

No. 1: Introduction to John (si pp. 193-5 ¶1-9)

No. 2: John 3:1-21

No. 3: What We Learn From David’s Refusal to Have King Saul Killed

No. 4: Encouragement for Those Persecuted for Doing God’s Will (rs p. 118 ¶7–p. 119 ¶4)

May 12 Bible reading: John 5-7 Song 150

Speech Quality: Will It Be Understood? (be p. 242 ¶3–p. 243 ¶1)

No. 1: Study Is Rewarding (be p. 31 ¶3–p. 32 ¶4)

No. 2: John 6:1-21

No. 3: What the Account About Ananias and Sapphira Teaches Us

No. 4: How Can You Encourage Those Disheartened by Injustices? (rs p. 119 ¶5–p. 120 ¶2)

May 19 Bible reading: John 8-11 Song 102

Speech Quality: Illustrations From Familiar Situations (be p. 244 ¶1-2)

No. 1: How to Do Research With the Bible (be p. 33 ¶1–p. 35 ¶2)

No. 2: John 11:38-57

No. 3: What Encouragement for Those Pressed by Economic Problems? (rs p. 120 ¶3-7)

No. 4: Since It Was Not Possible to Enforce the Tenth Commandment, Why Was It Given?

May 26 Bible reading: John 12-16 Song 3

Speech Quality: Illustrations Appropriate for Your Audience (be p. 244 ¶3–p. 245 ¶4)

No. 1: Learning to Use Other Research Tools (be p. 35 ¶3–p. 38 ¶4)

No. 2: John 12:1-19

No. 3: Encouragement for Those Disheartened by Shortcomings (rs p. 120 ¶8–p. 121 ¶3)

No. 4: How We Throw Our Burden Upon Jehovah (Ps. 55:22)

June 2 Bible reading: John 17-21 Song 198

Speech Quality: Effective Use of Visual Aids (be p. 247 ¶1-2)

No. 1: John​—Why Beneficial (si pp. 198-9 ¶30-5)

No. 2: John 21:1-14

No. 3: Why Believe in God, Whom We Cannot See?

No. 4: Evolution​—A Scientific Dilemma (rs pp. 121-3 ¶1)

June 9 Bible reading: Acts 1-4 Song 92

Speech Quality: How Jesus Employed Visual Aids (be p. 247 ¶3)

No. 1: Introduction to Acts (si pp. 199-200 ¶1-8)

No. 2: Acts 1:1-14

No. 3: Evolution, the Fossil Record, and Reasonableness (rs p. 123 ¶2–p. 126 ¶2)

No. 4: What Does “Freeness of Speech” Involve? (Heb. 3:6)

June 16 Bible reading: Acts 5-7 Song 2

Speech Quality: Ways to Employ Visual Aids (be p. 248 ¶1-3)

No. 1: Making an Outline (be pp. 39-42)

No. 2: Acts 5:1-16

No. 3: Responding to Assertions by Evolutionists (rs p. 126 ¶3–p. 128 ¶3)

No. 4: Why Is the Fear of Jehovah the Beginning of Wisdom? (Ps. 111:10)

June 23 Bible reading: Acts 8-10 Song 116

Speech Quality: Using Maps, Printed Assembly Programs, and Videos (be p. 248 ¶4–p. 249 ¶2)

No. 1: Preparing Student Assignments for the School (be p. 43 ¶1–p. 44 ¶3)

No. 2: Acts 8:1-17

No. 3: How Jesus Will “Deliver the Poor One” (Ps. 72:12)

No. 4: Why Many People Lack Faith (rs pp. 129-30 ¶2)

June 30 Bible reading: Acts 11-14 Song 79

Speech Quality: Using Visual Aids for Larger Groups (be p. 249 ¶3–p. 250 ¶1)

Theocratic Ministry School Review

July 7 Bible reading: Acts 15-17 Song 203

Speech Quality: Why a Reasoning Manner Is Important (be p. 251 ¶1-3)

No. 1: Working With a Subject and a Setting (be p. 44 ¶4–p. 46 ¶2)

No. 2: Acts 16:1-15

No. 3: Reasons for Serving Jehovah Fearlessly

No. 4: How Can a Person Acquire Faith? (rs p. 130 ¶3–p. 131 ¶3)

July 14 Bible reading: Acts 18-21 Song 32

Speech Quality: Where to Begin (be p. 251 ¶4–p. 252 ¶3)

No. 1: Preparing Talks for the Congregation (be p. 47 ¶1–p. 49 ¶1)

No. 2: Acts 20:1-16

No. 3: Faith in Prospect of Righteous New System Proved by Works (rs p. 131 ¶5–p. 132 ¶2)

No. 4: What Can We Learn From the Prohibition Found at Exodus 23:19b?

July 21 Bible reading: Acts 22-25 Song 200

Speech Quality: When to Yield (be p. 252 ¶4–p. 253 ¶2)

No. 1: Preparing Service Meeting Parts and Other Talks (be p. 49 ¶2–p. 51 ¶2)

No. 2: Acts 22:1-16

No. 3: In What Ways Do Jehovah’s Witnesses Fulfill John 13:34, 35?

No. 4: How Can False Prophets Be Identified? (rs pp. 132-4 ¶2)

July 28 Bible reading: Acts 26-28 Song 29

Speech Quality: Asking Questions and Giving Reasons (be p. 253 ¶3–p. 254 ¶2)

No. 1: Acts​—Why Beneficial (si pp. 204-5 ¶32-40)

No. 2: Acts 26:1-18

No. 3: True Prophets Did Not Always Understand How and When Things Foretold Would Happen (rs p. 134 ¶3-8)

No. 4: Why Jehovah Shows Patience

Aug. 4 Bible reading: Romans 1-4 Song 170

Speech Quality: Sound Arguments Based Firmly on God’s Word (be p. 255 ¶1–p. 256 ¶2)

No. 1: Introduction to Romans (si pp. 205-6 ¶1-7)

No. 2: Romans 3:1-20

No. 3: How Angels Protect and Strengthen God’s Servants

No. 4: Jehovah’s Witnesses Promote True Worship (rs p. 135 ¶1-2)

Aug. 11 Bible reading: Romans 5-8 Song 207

Speech Quality: Support Arguments by Corroborative Evidence (be p. 256 ¶3-5)

No. 1: Preparing Discourses for the Public (be p. 52 ¶1–p. 54 ¶1)

No. 2: Romans 6:1-20

No. 3: Jehovah’s Witnesses Identified by Fruits Produced (rs p. 135 ¶3–p. 137 ¶1)

No. 4: How Righteousness Can Protect Us

Aug. 18 Bible reading: Romans 9-12 Song 152

Speech Quality: Presenting Sufficient Evidence (be p. 256 ¶6–p. 257 ¶3)

No. 1: Romans​—Why Beneficial (si pp. 208-9 ¶20-5)

No. 2: Romans 9:1-18

No. 3: What Are the Dangers of Gossiping and Spreading Rumors?

No. 4: Responding to Those Who Call Us False Prophets (rs p. 137 ¶2-4)

Aug. 25 Bible reading: Romans 13-16 Song 16

Speech Quality: Effort to Reach the Heart (be p. 258 ¶1-5)

Theocratic Ministry School Review

Sept. 1 Bible reading: 1 Corinthians 1-9 Song 199

Speech Quality: Drawing People Out (be p. 259 ¶1-3)

No. 1: Introduction to 1 Corinthians (si pp. 210-11 ¶1-7)

No. 2: 1 Corinthians 4:1-17

No. 3: God Does Not Predestinate When Each Person Will Die (rs p. 138 ¶1-3)

No. 4: Is Having Material Riches Evidence of God’s Blessing?

Sept. 8 Bible reading: 1 Corinthians 10-16 Song 35

Speech Quality: Stirring Up Beneficial Feelings (be p. 259 ¶4–p. 260 ¶1)

No. 1: 1 Corinthians​—Why Beneficial (si pp. 213-14 ¶23-6)

No. 2: 1 Corinthians 13:1–14:6

No. 3: Why Doers of the Word Are Happy

No. 4: Not Everything That Happens Is God’s Will (rs p. 139 ¶1–p. 140 ¶2)

Sept. 15 Bible reading: 2 Corinthians 1-7 Song 58

Speech Quality: Helping Others to Cultivate Godly Fear (be p. 260 ¶2-3)

No. 1: Introduction to 2 Corinthians (si p. 214 ¶1-4)

No. 2: 2 Corinthians 1:1-14

No. 3: God Does Not Foreknow and Foreordain Everything (rs p. 140 ¶3-5)

No. 4: Why True Christians Rejoice When Persecuted

Sept. 22 Bible reading: 2 Corinthians 8-13 Song 12

Speech Quality: Our Conduct Matters to God (be p. 260 ¶4–p. 261 ¶1)

No. 1: 2 Corinthians​—Why Beneficial (si pp. 216-17 ¶18-20)

No. 2: 2 Corinthians 9:1-15

No. 3: Why True Christians Are No Part of the World

No. 4: God’s Ability to Foreknow and Foreordain Events (rs p. 141 ¶1-4)

Sept. 29 Bible reading: Galatians 1-6 Song 163

Speech Quality: Helping Others to Make an Examination (be p. 261 ¶2-4)

No. 1: Introduction to Galatians and Why Beneficial (si pp. 217-20 ¶1-6, 14-18)

No. 2: Galatians 1:1-17

No. 3: Why God Did Not Exercise His Foreknowledge Regarding Adam (rs p. 142 ¶1-3)

No. 4: How Love Can Conquer Fear of Man

Oct. 6 Bible reading: Ephesians 1-6 Song 99

Speech Quality: Promoting Heartfelt Obedience (be p. 262 ¶1-4)

No. 1: Introduction to Ephesians and Why Beneficial (si pp. 220-3 ¶1-8, 16-19)

No. 2: Ephesians 3:1-19

No. 3: It Is Not a Sign of Weakness to Apologize

No. 4: God Did Not Predestinate Jacob, Esau, or Judas (rs p. 142 ¶4–p. 143 ¶2)

Speech Quality: Cooperating With Jehovah in Reaching People’s Hearts (be p. 262 ¶5)

No. 1: Introduction to Philippians and Why Beneficial (si pp. 223-5 ¶1-7, 12-14)

No. 2: Philippians 3:1-16

No. 3: In What Way Was the Christian Congregation Predestinated? (rs p. 143 ¶3–p. 144 ¶1)

No. 4: a Colossians​—Why Beneficial (si p. 228 ¶12-14)

Speech Quality: Achieving Good Timing (be p. 263 ¶1–p. 264 ¶4)

No. 1: Introduction to 1 and 2 Thessalonians and Why Beneficial (si pp. 229-31 ¶1-5, 13-15; pp. 232-3 ¶1-4, 10-11)

No. 2: 1 Thessalonians 1:1–2:8

No. 3: What Is the Scriptural View of Astrology? (rs p. 144 ¶2–p. 145 ¶2)

No. 4: b 1 and 2 Timothy​—Why Beneficial (si pp. 236-7 ¶15-19; pp. 238-9 ¶10-12)

Speech Quality: Effective Exhortation (be p. 265 ¶1-3)

Theocratic Ministry School Review

Speech Quality: Exhorting on the Basis of Love (be p. 266 ¶1-4)

No. 1: Introduction to Titus and Why Beneficial (si pp. 239-41 ¶1-4, 8-10)

No. 2: Titus 1:1-16

No. 3: What Are Some Sound Reasons for Believing in God? (rs pp. 145-6 ¶5)

No. 4: c Philemon​—Why Beneficial (si pp. 242-3 ¶7-10)

Nov. 10 Bible reading: Hebrews 1-8 Song 144

Speech Quality: Exhortation Rooted in Scripture (be p. 267 ¶1-2)

No. 1: Introduction to Hebrews (si pp. 243-4 ¶1-9)

No. 2: Hebrews 3:1-19

No. 3: Wickedness and Suffering Do Not Disprove God’s Existence (rs p. 146 ¶6–p. 147 ¶1)

No. 4: The Differences Between True and False Humility

Nov. 17 Bible reading: Hebrews 9-13 Song 28

Speech Quality: Having Freeness of Speech (be p. 267 ¶3-4)

No. 1: Hebrews​—Why Beneficial (si p. 247 ¶23-7)

No. 2: Hebrews 10:1-17

No. 3: God Is a Real Person With Feelings (rs p. 147 ¶2–p. 148 ¶3)

No. 4: How Forgiveness Promotes Unity

Nov. 24 Bible reading: James 1-5 Song 88

Speech Quality: Why It Is Important to Be Encouraging (be p. 268 ¶1-3)

No. 1: Introduction to James and Why Beneficial (si pp. 248-50 ¶1-7, 15-17)

No. 2: James 1:1-21

No. 3: God Had No Beginning (rs p. 148 ¶4-7)

No. 4: How “Mercy Exults Triumphantly Over Judgment” (Jas. 2:13)

Speech Quality: Calling to Mind What Jehovah Has Done (be p. 268 ¶4–p. 269 ¶2)

No. 1: Introduction to 1 Peter and Why Beneficial (si pp. 251-3 ¶1-5, 11-13)

No. 2: 1 Peter 2:1-17

No. 3: Use of God’s Name Essential for Salvation (rs p. 149 ¶1-4)

No. 4: d 2 Peter​—Why Beneficial (si p. 255 ¶8-10)

Speech Quality: Showing How Jehovah Has Helped His People (be p. 269 ¶3-5)

No. 1: Introduction to 1, 2, and 3 John and Why Beneficial (si pp. 256-8 ¶1-5, 11-13; p. 259 ¶1-3, 5; pp. 260-1 ¶1-3, 5)

No. 2: 1 John 4:1-16

No. 3: Are All Religions Good? (rs p. 149 ¶5-8)

No. 4: e Jude​—Why Beneficial (si pp. 262-3 ¶8-10)

Dec. 15 Bible reading: Revelation 1-6 Song 219

Speech Quality: Showing Delight in What God Is Doing Now (be p. 270 ¶1–p. 271 ¶2)

No. 1: Introduction to Revelation (si pp. 263-4 ¶1-6)

No. 2: Revelation 3:1-13

No. 3: What Kind of “God” Is Jesus? (rs p. 150 ¶1-2)

No. 4: Why Patience and Mercy Have Limits

Dec. 22 Bible reading: Revelation 7-14 Song 21

Speech Quality: Benefit Fully From the Theocratic Ministry School (be p. 5 ¶1–p. 8 ¶1)

No. 1: Revelation​—Why Beneficial (si pp. 268-9 ¶28-34)

No. 2: Revelation 8:1-13

No. 3: Responding to Objections About Belief in God (rs p. 150 ¶3–p. 151 ¶3)

No. 4: What Is Meant by the Phrase “God Is Greater Than Our Hearts”? (1 John 3:20)

Dec. 29 Bible reading: Revelation 15-22 Song 60

Speech Quality: Accurate Reading (be p. 83 ¶1-5)

Theocratic Ministry School Review

[Footnotes]

Announcements

◼ Literature offer for October: The Watchtower and Awake! magazines. Where interest is shown, offer the tract Would You Like to Know More About the Bible? with the objective of starting a Bible study. November: Learn From the Great Teacher. If individuals say they have no children, offer the brochure Keep on the Watch! December: The Greatest Man Who Ever Lived. As an alternative offer, you may use Draw Close to Jehovah or The Secret of Family Happiness. January: Keep on the Watch! Congregations that do not have a supply of such brochures may offer any 192-page book printed on paper that discolors or any book published prior to 1991 with the exception of Creation, Mankind’s Search for God, and Young People Ask.

◼ Since December has five full weekends, it would be an excellent month to auxiliary pioneer.

◼ The video program Transfusion-Alternative Health Care​—Meeting Patient Needs and Rights will be considered at a Service Meeting in January. If needed, copies should be requested through the congregation as soon as possible.

◼ The insert in this issue of Our Kingdom Ministry is the “Theocratic Ministry School Schedule for 2008” and should be kept for reference throughout 2008.

◼ Please note that the brother presenting the last part on the Service Meeting should introduce the closing song. Thereafter, he or another qualified brother assigned in advance will offer the concluding prayer.

◼ The special public talk for the 2008 Memorial season will be given during the week of March 31, 2008. The subject of the talk will be announced later. Those congregations having the visit of the circuit overseer or an assembly that weekend will have the special talk the following week. No congregation should have the special talk before March 31.

◼ At times, questions arise as to whether it is appropriate for the branch office or a congregation to be designated to receive donations from programs that offer to contribute to charitable organizations. The local elders can address such inquiries in accord with guidelines they have received. Publishers should obtain theocratic direction from the elders before deciding to participate in such donation programs.

Theocratic Ministry School Review

The following questions will be considered orally at the Theocratic Ministry School during the week beginning October 29, 2007. The school overseer will conduct a 30-minute review based on material covered in assignments for the weeks of September 3 through October 29, 2007.

SPEECH QUALITIES

1. Why is repetition an important teaching technique? [be p. 206 pars. 1-2, box]

2. In what ways can we highlight the theme of a talk? [be p. 210, box]

3. What are the main points of a talk, and what guides our selection of them? [be p. 212 pars. 1-3]

4. Why should we not have too many main points in a talk? [be p. 213 pars. 2-4]

5. Why is it important that our introduction arouse interest, and how can this be done? [be p. 215 par. 1; p. 216 pars. 1-3, box]

ASSIGNMENT NO. 1

6. How does Psalm 119:89, 90 help us to appreciate that we can depend on God’s word? [w05 4/15 p. 15 par. 3]

7. What does the book of Ezekiel emphasize, and what will result to those who now sanctify Jehovah in their lives? [si p. 137 par. 33]

8. How can “the saying of Jehovah” guard our heart? (Ps. 18:30) [w05 9/1 p. 30 par. 2]

9. How is the Kingdom hope emphasized throughout the book of Daniel? [si p. 142 par. 23]

10. How does the book of Hosea strengthen our faith in Jehovah’s inspired prophecies? [si p. 145 par. 14]

WEEKLY BIBLE READING

11. What did the measuring of the temple in Ezekiel’s vision signify, and what assurance does this provide for us today? (Ezek. 40:2-5) [w99 3/1 p. 9 par. 6; p. 14 par. 7]

12. In the final fulfillment of Ezekiel’s vision, who is “the chieftain”? (Ezek. 48:21) [w99 3/1 p. 16 pars. 13-15; pp. 22-3 pars. 19-20]

13. What is the meaning of Daniel 2:21? [w98 9/15 p. 12 par. 9]

14. What made Daniel “someone very desirable” in the eyes of Jehovah? (Dan. 9:23) [dp p. 185 par. 12; w04 8/1 p. 12 par. 17]

15. In what sense was there no “knowledge of God in the land” of Israel, and how should we personally view those words? (Hos. 4:1, 2, 6) [w05 11/15 p. 21 par. 21; jd pp. 57-8 par. 5; p. 61 par. 10]

An Interchange of Encouragement for All

1. What special opportunities do the visits of traveling overseers provide?

¹ The apostle Paul wrote to the congregation in Rome: “I am longing to see you, that I may impart some spiritual gift to you in order for you to be made firm; or, rather, that there may be an interchange of encouragement among you, by each one through the other’s faith, both yours and mine.” (Rom. 1:11, 12) Modern-day visits of traveling overseers provide similar opportunities for an interchange of encouragement.

2. Why is the circuit overseer’s visit announced in advance?

² The Congregation: The circuit overseer’s visit is generally announced to the congregation about three months in advance. This allows time for us to adjust our schedule so as to benefit to the full. (Eph. 5:15, 16) If you work secularly, perhaps you will be able to request time off to support field service during the week. Some arrange to auxiliary pioneer during the month of the visit. If you have planned to be away, could you make adjustments in order to be present that week?

3. What may we personally do during the visit to obtain encouragement?

³ A primary purpose of the circuit overseer’s visit is to give personal encouragement and training in the field ministry. Could you ask to work with him or with his wife if he is married? The circuit overseer enjoys working with various publishers, including those who may have less experience or lack a measure of skill in the ministry. All can learn from his presentation and apply any suggestions that he may kindly offer. (1 Cor. 4:16, 17) Inviting him to share a meal with you will open further opportunity for encouraging fellowship. (Heb. 13:2) Since his talks are tailored to the needs of the congregation, listen carefully.

4. How may we encourage our circuit overseer?

⁴ The Circuit Overseer: The apostle Paul was no different from the brothers he served in that he experienced challenges and anxieties and he appreciated encouragement. (2 Cor. 11:26-28) When the congregation in Rome learned that Paul, now a prisoner, was finally coming there, some traveled to the Marketplace of Appius to meet him​—a distance of 46 miles [74 km]! “Upon catching sight of them, Paul thanked God and took courage.” (Acts 28:15) You can likewise encourage your circuit overseer. Show him “double honor” by your enthusiastic support of his visit. (1 Tim. 5:17) Express and demonstrate your sincere appreciation for his efforts in your behalf. He and his wife will rejoice as they observe your faith, love, and endurance.​—2 Thess. 1:3, 4.

5. Why do all of us need encouragement today?

⁵ In these “critical times hard to deal with,” who among us does not need encouragement? (2 Tim. 3:1) Decide now to share fully in the special week of activity with the circuit overseer. All of us​—traveling overseers and publishers alike—​can participate in a joyful interchange of encouragement. In this way we will also “keep comforting one another and building one another up.”​—1 Thess. 5:11.

What to Say About the Magazines

The Watchtower Oct. 15

“Many people feel that the future is so uncertain that we are better off living just for today. What do you think? [Allow for response.] Jesus made this interesting comment. [Read Matthew 6:34.] This magazine explains how we can plan for the future but at the same time avoid being unduly anxious about it.”

Awake! Oct.

“All of us have lost loved ones in death. Do you think they are watching us from heaven? [Allow for response.] Notice what Jesus said when Lazarus died. [Read John 11:11.] This article explains whether the dead are alive somewhere or are asleep awaiting a resurrection.” Feature the article that begins on page 28.

The Watchtower Nov. 1

“Do you think the world would be a better place if people demonstrated more humility? [Allow for response.] Note what Jesus said about this quality. [Read Matthew 23:12.] This article discusses the value of cultivating humility, even in this competitive world.”

Awake! Nov.

“In the past, people often looked to the Bible for guidance. But now many say they have doubts. How do you feel? [Allow for response. Then read 2 Timothy 3:16.] This special issue of Awake! gives compelling evidence that the Bible is inspired of God.”