May

Schedule for Week of May 10

WEEK STARTING MAY 10

Song 131

□ Congregation Bible Study:

cf chap. 4 ¶11-18

□ Theocratic Ministry School:

Bible reading: 2 Samuel 4-8

No. 1: 2 Samuel 6:1-13

No. 2: What Do We Know About Valentine’s Day, Mother’s Day, and Nationalistic Ceremonies? (rs p. 181 ¶5–p. 182 ¶5)

No. 3: Why Greed Is Idolatry (Eph. 5:5)

□ Service Meeting:

Song 25

5 min: Announcements.

10 min: Give Practical Assistance to Those in the Territory. Audience discussion based on the Ministry School book, page 188, paragraph 4, to the end of page 189. Briefly interview someone who was helped to make progress because of the personal interest shown by others.

10 min: A Clean Kingdom Hall Honors Jehovah. Talk by an elder. Jehovah is a holy God, so physical cleanness should be a priority among his people. (Ex. 30:17-21; 40:30-32) By keeping our place of worship clean and in good repair, we bring Jehovah glory. (1 Pet. 2:12) Interview a brother who coordinates cleaning and maintenance regarding local arrangements. Relate local or published experiences showing how the good appearance of a Kingdom Hall resulted in a witness to the community. Encourage all to share in the upkeep of the Kingdom Hall.

10 min: “This Good News Will Be Preached!” Question-and-answer discussion.

Song 118

‘This Good News Will Be Preached’!

1. How do we know that nothing can stop the preaching work?

¹ Absolutely nothing can stop Jehovah from accomplishing his will. (Isa. 14:24) Though Judge Gideon and his 300 men faced seemingly impossible odds against an army of 135,000 Midianites, Jehovah told him: “You will certainly save Israel out of Midian’s palm. Do I not send you?” (Judg. 6:14) What work has Jehovah’s backing today? Jesus said: “This good news of the kingdom will be preached in all the inhabited earth.” (Matt. 24:14) No one will be able to stop this work from being accomplished!

2. Why can we expect Jehovah to help us personally in the ministry?

² Jehovah Helps Us Personally: While we can be confident that Jehovah will make his Witnesses successful as a group, can we expect Jehovah to help us personally? During a time of need, the apostle Paul felt Jehovah’s personal support through his Son, Jesus. (2 Tim. 4:17) We can be confident that Jehovah will likewise bless our individual efforts to accomplish his will.​—1 John 5:14.

3. In what circumstances does Jehovah help us?

³ Do the daily cares of life leave you with little energy for the ministry? “He is giving to the tired one power.” (Isa. 40:29-31) Are you facing persecution or opposition? “Throw your burden upon Jehovah himself, and he himself will sustain you.” (Ps. 55:22) Do you sometimes lack confidence? “Go, and I myself shall prove to be with your mouth.” (Ex. 4:11, 12) Do you have health problems that limit your share in the ministry? Jehovah values and can use your whole-souled efforts, no matter how small.​—1 Cor. 3:6, 9.

4. How will having confidence in Jehovah affect us?

⁴ Jehovah’s hand “is the one stretched out, and who can turn it back?” (Isa. 14:27) Confident of Jehovah’s blessing upon our ministry, may we continue without letup preaching “with boldness by the authority of Jehovah.”​—Acts 14:3.

Schedule for Week of May 17

WEEK STARTING MAY 17

Song 49

□ Congregation Bible Study:

cf chap. 4 ¶19-24, box on p. 45

□ Theocratic Ministry School:

Bible reading: 2 Samuel 9-12

No. 1: 2 Samuel 10:1-12

No. 2: Why Did Jesus Base His Teachings on the Scriptures? (John 7:16-18)

No. 3: What Does the Bible Say About the Making of Images Used as Objects of Worship? (rs p. 183 ¶1-4)

□ Service Meeting:

Song 12

5 min: Announcements.

10 min: Can You Auxiliary Pioneer During the Summer? Audience discussion. Briefly review pages 112-113 in the Organized book, outlining the requirements. Invite those who have used vacation from work or school to auxiliary pioneer to comment on the blessings they enjoyed.

10 min: Methods of Preaching the Good News​—Informal Witnessing. Audience discussion of Organized book, page 101, paragraph 2, to page 102, paragraph 2. Have related or demonstrated one or two outstanding local experiences involving informal witnessing.

10 min: “Christian Ministers Need to Pray.” Question-and-answer discussion.

Song 67

Christian Ministers Need to Pray

1. What is necessary in order to accomplish our ministry?

¹ We cannot accomplish the ministry by ourselves. Jehovah gives us strength to do the work. (Phil. 4:13) He uses his angels to assist us in finding sheeplike ones. (Rev. 14:6, 7) It is Jehovah who causes seeds of truth that we plant and water to grow. (1 Cor. 3:6, 9) How important it is for Christian ministers to rely on our heavenly Father in prayer!

2. What are some things for which to pray?

² For Ourselves: We should pray on each occasion that we preach. (Eph. 6:18) What are some things for which to pray? We could pray for a positive attitude about our territory and for boldness. (Acts 4:29) We could ask Jehovah to direct us to righthearted individuals with whom we may study the Bible. If the householder asks us a question, we can say a brief silent prayer asking Jehovah to help us make a proper reply. (Neh. 2:4) We may also ask for wisdom to keep the ministry our priority. (Jas. 1:5) In addition, Jehovah is pleased when we include expressions of thankfulness for the privilege of being his ministers.​—Col. 3:15.

3. How does praying for others further the preaching work?

³ For Others: We should also “pray for one another,” even mentioning fellow ministers by name when appropriate. (Jas. 5:16; Acts 12:5) Does failing health limit what you can do in the preaching work? Then pray for fellow ministers who are in good health. Never underestimate the force of your prayers in their behalf! It is also proper to pray for the authorities to be favorably disposed toward the preaching work, so that our brothers “may go on leading a calm and quiet life.”​—1 Tim. 2:1, 2.

4. Why should we persevere in prayer?

⁴ Declaring the good news in all the inhabited earth is a daunting assignment. If we “persevere in prayer,” we will accomplish the work with Jehovah’s help.​—Rom. 12:12.

Schedule for Week of May 24

WEEK STARTING MAY 24

Song 37

□ Congregation Bible Study:

cf chap. 5 ¶1-8

□ Theocratic Ministry School:

Bible reading: 2 Samuel 13-15

No. 1: 2 Samuel 13:23-33

No. 2: May Images Be Used Simply as Aids in Worship of the True God? (rs p. 183 ¶5–p. 184 ¶4)

No. 3: Why We Should Not Use the World to the Full (1 Cor. 7:31)

□ Service Meeting:

Song 128

5 min: Announcements.

10 min: Prepare to Offer the Magazines in June. Audience discussion. Take one to two minutes to review the contents of the magazines. Then choose two or three of the articles, and invite audience to suggest questions and scriptures that could be used in a presentation. Demonstrate how each issue may be offered.

20 min: “You Would Make a Good Pioneer!” Question-and-answer discussion.

Song 85

“You Would Make a Good Pioneer!”

1. How did one sister feel about her pioneer ministry?

¹ “I could not have found any other work that could have brought me as much contentment or could have been so spiritually rewarding.” So said Kathe B. Palm. She spent decades as a selfless pioneer minister witnessing from one end of Chile, South America, to the other. Thinking of the rewarding life of those in full-time service, perhaps someone has said to you: “You would make a good pioneer!”

2. Explain why deep satisfaction is gained from spiritual activities.

² A Satisfying Way of Life: Our Model, Jesus, found genuine refreshment in doing his Father’s will. (John 4:34) Therefore, it was with sincerity that Jesus taught his followers that real satisfaction results from engaging in activities related to the worship of Jehovah. We are content when our lives are filled with works that bring Jehovah’s approval. Additionally, as we give more time, energy, and resources to help others, we increase our happiness.​—Acts 20:31, 35.

3. What joy may we experience from spending increased time in the ministry?

³ The more time we spend in the ministry, the more opportunities we have to experience the joy of starting and conducting Bible studies. Even where many householders seem apathetic, we may find that our territory is more productive than we first thought as we gain experience and skill in the ministry. Pioneers can utilize the wealth of education they receive at the Pioneer Service School after pioneering for about one year. (2 Tim. 2:15) As we persevere, we may very well be planting seeds of truth that will produce fruitage at a later time.​—Eccl. 11:6.

4. What should youths nearing graduation consider?

⁴ Youths: While you are finishing your basic education, have you given careful thought to your future? Until now, your schoolwork largely determined your schedule. How will you fill that vacuum after graduation? Instead of pursuing a secular career, why not prayerfully consider the goal of regular pioneering? The skills you will learn​—witnessing to people of different backgrounds, overcoming personal obstacles, cultivating self-discipline, and developing teaching ability—​will benefit you throughout life.

5. How can parents and the congregation encourage pioneering?

⁵ Parents, are you doing your part in pointing your children toward full-time service? Your words and positive example can do much to help them put Kingdom interests first. (Matt. 6:33) Ray, who started pioneering when finishing high school, recalls: “My mom always felt that pioneering results in a most satisfying way of life.” All in the congregation can encourage pioneer service by their words and support. Jose, from Spain, states: “My congregation viewed the pioneer work as the best career for young ones. Their comments and appreciation for the pioneer service along with their practical help made it easier for me to start pioneering.”

6. What may we do if we do not currently have the desire to pioneer?

⁶ Overcoming Obstacles: But what if you say, ‘I do not have the desire to pioneer.’ If that is the way you feel at first, pray to Jehovah about the way you feel and tell him, ‘I do not know if pioneering is for me, but I want to do what is pleasing to you.’ (Ps. 62:8; Prov. 23:26) Then look for his direction through his Word and organization. Many regular pioneers first “tasted” pioneering as auxiliary pioneers, and the joy they experienced moved them to pursue a career in full-time service.​—Ps. 34:8.

7. How may we overcome doubts that we can reach the monthly requirement of 70 hours?

⁷ What if you are not sure that you can meet the monthly requirement of 70 hours? Why not speak to pioneers having circumstances similar to yours? (Prov. 15:22) Then write out several possible schedules. You may find that buying out time for the ministry from nonessential activities is easier than you first thought.​—Eph. 5:15, 16.

8. Why should we periodically reevaluate our circumstances?

⁸ Take a Fresh Look: Personal circumstances often change. It is good to reevaluate your situation from time to time. For example, are you nearing retirement from secular employment? Randy, who retired early, says: “This decision has enabled me to start regular pioneering along with my wife, and it has given us the opportunity to move and serve where the need is greater. I have received innumerable blessings for my decision, but the greatest blessing of all is a good conscience.”

9. What should married couples consider?

⁹ Some couples have found after a careful examination that both do not have to work full-time. True, this may require the family to simplify their lifestyle, but it is worth the sacrifice. John, whose wife recently quit her full-time job in order to expand her ministry, relates: “There is no better feeling than to know that my wife is involved in spiritual things during the day.”

10. What motivates Christians to consider pioneering?

¹⁰ A Demonstration of Love and Faith: Jehovah has made preaching the most important work any of us could do. This old system is soon to be destroyed, and only those calling on Jehovah’s name will be saved. (Rom. 10:13) A heart full of love for him and gratitude for what he has done for us will motivate us to obey the commission from his Son to preach zealously. (Matt. 28:19, 20; 1 John 5:3) In addition, having faith that we are indeed living in the last days will move us to do all we can in the ministry while there is yet time, rather than using the world to the full.​—1 Cor. 7:29-31.

11. How should we view it if someone tells us that we would make a good pioneer?

¹¹ Regular pioneering is more than a response to an organizational arrangement; it is an expression of our devotion to God. So if someone tells you that you would make a good pioneer, view it as a compliment. And give prayerful consideration to joining those who are engaged in this satisfying avenue of service.

[Blurb on page 4]

Parents, are you doing your part in pointing your children toward full-time service?

[Blurb on page 5]

Jehovah has made preaching the most important work any of us could do.

Schedule for Week of May 31

WEEK STARTING MAY 31

Song 114

□ Congregation Bible Study:

cf chap. 5 ¶9-15

□ Theocratic Ministry School:

Bible reading: 2 Samuel 16-18

No. 1: 2 Samuel 17:1-13

No. 2: Why Jesus Is Called “Lord of the Sabbath” (Matt. 12:8)

No. 3: Should We Venerate “Saints” as Intercessors With God? (rs p. 184 ¶5–p. 185 ¶2)

□ Service Meeting:

Song 35

5 min: Announcements.

10 min: “Have You Demonstrated a Study on the Initial Call?” Talk. After explaining the suggestion in the article, have it demonstrated.

20 min: “How to Train New Ones to Preach.” Question-and-answer discussion. After considering paragraph 5, have a demonstration showing an elder working with a new publisher. The new publisher gives his presentation but does not try to read a scripture. After they leave the door, the elder offers a suggestion in a tactful and kind way, encouraging the new one to use the Bible at the door.

Song 22

Have You Demonstrated a Study on the Initial Call?

When offered a Bible study, some householders say that they are not interested or that they have a Bible study at their church. Since they can only compare the concept of a Bible study to their past experience, they have no idea what an enlightening and pleasurable experience it can be. Therefore, rather than simply offering a study, why not take a couple of minutes to demonstrate the Bible study arrangement on the initial call? To illustrate: Do not just tell them that you are a good cook and offer to come back with a meal; give them a taste right away! Here is how you can do that in only a few minutes, based on a suggestion from page 6 of the January 2006 Our Kingdom Ministry:

“Do you think the day will ever come when these words are fulfilled? [Read Isaiah 33:24, and allow for response.] Let me show you something interesting on the subject.” Hand the householder a Bible Teach book, and refer him to paragraph 22 on page 36. Read the question at the bottom of the page, and ask the householder to look for the answer as you read the paragraph. Then ask the question again, and listen to the householder’s comment. Read another of the scriptures together. Raise a question to be answered on the next visit, and make definite arrangements to return. You have just started a Bible study!

How to Train New Ones to Preach

1. How did you feel the first time you engaged in the ministry?

¹ Do you remember the first time you engaged in the house-to-house ministry? Likely, you were very nervous. If you were working with your Bible teacher or another publisher, you were no doubt happy to have his assistance. Now that you have gained experience as a minister, you are in a position to help train newer ones to preach.

2. What do new publishers need to learn?

² New publishers need to learn how to start conversations with the householder, use the Bible at the door, make return visits, and start and conduct Bible studies. They should also learn how to share in different avenues of preaching, such as street witnessing and calling on people at places of business. You can help them to improve in these areas both by your example and by your suggestions.

3. How may we help others by our example?

³ Teach by Example: Jesus demonstrated to his disciples how to preach. (Luke 8:1; 1 Pet. 2:21) When you arrange to work with a newer publisher, prepare a simple presentation that the publisher can imitate, perhaps using a sample found in one of our publications. Then offer to take the first door or two so that the publisher can hear what you say. Between doors, you might ask the publisher for his observations on the effectiveness of your presentation. This will help him see the value of working with others in the ministry and will make it easier for him to accept any suggestions you offer after he gives his presentation.

4. How may we help a new publisher after listening to his presentation?

⁴ Offer Suggestions: Jesus also gave his disciples instructions on how to preach. (Matt. 10:5-14) You can help a new publisher in a similar way. When it is his turn to speak, listen carefully. Then after you leave the door, be generous in giving specific and sincere commendation, even if you observed aspects of his presentation needing improvement. Before offering a suggestion, you may choose to see whether he has improved in that aspect at the next door. Perhaps he was just nervous. Keep in mind, too, that publishers do not all have the same abilities, and there is often more than one correct way to do something.​—1 Cor. 12:4-7.

5. What can we say when taking the initiative to offer suggestions?

⁵ Sometimes a new publisher will ask you for suggestions. But if he does not, take the initiative to help him. How can this be done tactfully? Some experienced publishers simply ask, “May I give you a suggestion?” or, “How do you think that went?” Another option is to say, “When I was a new publisher, I found it a challenge to . . . , but I found this to be helpful. . . .” Sometimes it is beneficial to consult the Reasoning book together. So that you do not overwhelm him, offer suggestions on only one aspect of his presentation.

6. With regard to the ministry, how does ‘iron sharpen iron’?

⁶ Iron Sharpens Iron: Timothy, an experienced evangelizer, was encouraged by Paul to continue applying himself to teaching and to making advancement. (1 Tim. 4:13, 15) Though it may be that it has been years since your first time in the ministry, you should never stop trying to improve your skills. Learn from the publishers with whom you preach, even those who have less experience in the ministry, and be alert to help others kindly, especially newer ones, to become skillful ministers of the good news.​—Prov. 27:17.

Schedule for Week of June 7

WEEK STARTING JUNE 7

Song 48

□ Congregation Bible Study:

cf chap. 5 ¶16-20, box on p. 55

□ Theocratic Ministry School:

Bible reading: 2 Samuel 19-21

No. 1: 2 Samuel 19:11-23

No. 2: How Does God View Images That Are Objects of Worship? (rs p. 185 ¶3–p. 186 ¶2)

No. 3: Ways in Which the Devil Blinds People to the Truth (2 Cor. 4:4)

□ Service Meeting:

Song 60

5 min: Announcements.

10 min: Witness in a Way That Is Understandable. Audience discussion based on the Ministry School book, pages 226-229.

10 min: Local needs.

10 min: Methods of Preaching the Good News​—Working Multilingual Territories. Audience discussion of Organized book, page 107, paragraphs 2-3. Briefly interview the service overseer. What foreign-language congregations are known to be working in the same territory? What arrangements are in place to cooperate with these congregations so that everyone may be witnessed to without unnecessary duplication of effort?

Song 75

Announcements

◼ Literature offer for May: The Watchtower and Awake! magazines. When making return visits on interested people, including those who attended the Memorial or other theocratic events but who are not actively associating with the congregation, concentrate on placing What Does the Bible Really Teach? The objective is to start a Bible study. June: What Does the Bible Really Teach? If householders already have the book, publishers may offer Draw Close to Jehovah, Knowledge That Leads to Everlasting Life, Worship the Only True God, or any other field service publication that the congregation has in stock. July and August: Keep on the Watch! or What Does God Require of Us? If the congregation does not have a supply of these brochures, offer any 32-page brochures that are in stock except How Can Blood Save Your Life?, Jehovah’s Witnesses and Education, and Jehovah’s Witnesses​—Who Are They? What Do They Believe?

◼ A limited supply of the 2010 edition of the brochure Charitable Planning to Benefit Kingdom Service Worldwide is being sent to each congregation. Publishers interested in the options available to support Kingdom interests financially, including some with tax benefits, will find this brochure helpful.

Field Service Highlights

In the United States we have surpassed 125,000 regular pioneers for each of the first five months of the 2010 service year. It is evident that Jehovah is blessing the hard work of those who use their power and energy to honor and glorify him. (Rev. 4:11) Also, for January the Turks and Caicos Islands showed fine increases in hours, return visits, and Bible studies, and 12 were baptized.

What to Say About the Magazines

The Watchtower May 1

“How would the world be different if everyone followed these words of Jesus? [Read Matthew 7:12. Then allow for response.] This article discusses some of Jesus’ teachings to show what is really involved in being a Christian.” Feature the article that begins on page 16.

Awake! May

“Do you think that this economy will get better soon? [Allow for response.] Many are not aware of how the Bible can help us during such difficult times. [Read a scripture found in the article.] This article shows how advice from the Bible can help us cope during economic uncertainty.” Feature the article that begins on page 18.

The Watchtower June 1

“Unlike years past, many churches today do not speak about sin. Do you believe sin is an old-fashioned concept, or is it something we need to be concerned about? [Allow for response. Then read Romans 5:12.] This magazine shows what the Bible says about sin.”

Awake! June

“It seems that life is getting more and more stressful. Would you agree? [Allow for response.] Many feel that these words explain one reason for so much stress. [Read 2 Timothy 3:1.] This magazine discusses how stress affects us. It also gives some tips on how we can keep stress under control.”