November · Vegvísir

¹ After witnessing to a Samaritan woman, Jesus told his disciples: “Lift up your eyes and view the fields, that they are white for harvesting.” (John 4:35, 36) A spiritual harvest was under way, and Jesus could foresee the worldwide scope of that work. From his position in the heavens, Jesus remains very involved in the harvest. (Matt. 28:19, 20) What indications are there that this work continues to intensify as it moves toward its climax?

2. What developments show that the worldwide harvest work is intensifying?

² A Global Harvest: During the 2009 service year, there was a 3.2 percent increase in publishers worldwide. Lands where the preaching work is restricted saw a 14 percent increase. The number of home Bible studies reported monthly surpassed 7,619,000—a number greater than the peak of publishers and almost a half million more than the number of studies reported the previous year. As the work rapidly expands in many regions, more requests are received for Gilead-trained missionaries. The foreign-language fields are producing an abundant yield in country after country. It is apparent that Jehovah is speeding up the work during the conclusion of the harvest. (Isa. 60:22) Do you have a positive view of your “fields”?

3. What might some conclude regarding their local harvest?

³ Your Local Harvest: “My territory is not very productive,” some may say. It is true that some territories do not appear to be as productive as others or to be as fruitful as they were in the past. Some Witnesses may therefore conclude that the harvest has peaked in those areas and that now their work is reduced to gleaning a few remaining ones. Is that really the case?

4. What proper attitude toward our ministry should we cultivate, and why?

⁴ From start to finish, the harvest is a time of intense activity. Notice the sense of urgency in these words of Jesus: “The harvest is great, but the workers are few. Therefore, beg the Master of the harvest to send out workers into his harvest.” (Matt. 9:37, 38) Jehovah, the Master of the harvest, is responsible for when and where the yield occurs. (John 6:44; 1 Cor. 3:6-8) What is our assignment? The Bible answers: “In the morning sow your seed and until the evening do not let your hand rest.” (Eccl. 11:4-6) Yes, when the harvest is reaching its climax is not the time to let our hand rest!

5. Why should we continue to preach with zeal in seemingly unproductive territory?

⁵ Keep Harvesting: Even if our territory has been covered repeatedly and seems unresponsive, there is good reason to work with zeal and a sense of urgency. (2 Tim. 4:2) Dramatic upheavals on the world scene cause people to change their attitude and think more seriously about the future. As youths grow older, they may feel the need to find security and peace of mind. Our persistence may impress still others. Yes, those who have not listened in the past may yet respond. Even those who purposely reject our message need to be warned.—Ezek. 2:4, 5; 3:19.

6. If our territory is challenging, what will help us to maintain zeal?

⁶ If our territory is challenging, what will help us to maintain zeal? Perhaps we can supplement our house-to-house preaching with other forms of the ministry, such as business or telephone witnessing. Or we could vary our presentation so as to have a fresh approach. We might change our schedule and engage in the ministry in the evening or at other times when people are more likely to be at home. Perhaps we can pursue learning a new language in order to reach more with the good news. We may be able to expand our ministry by regular pioneering. Or we can move to a place where there are fewer harvest workers. If we have the right attitude toward the harvest, we will endeavor to have as full a share as possible in this important work.

7. Until when should we continue in the ingathering work?

⁷ Farmers have a limited amount of time to gather the crops, so they do not relax or slow down until the work is finished. The spiritual harvest requires the same sense of urgency. Until when should we continue in the ingathering work? Throughout “the conclusion of the system of things” and until “the end.” (Matt. 24:14; 28:20) Like Jehovah’s foremost Minister, we want to finish the work that has been entrusted to us. (John 4:34; 17:4) Let us therefore continue to carry out our ministry with zeal, joy, and a positive attitude until the end. (Matt. 24:13) The harvest is not over!

[Blurb on page 2]

From start to finish, the harvest is a time of intense activity

Schedule for Week of November 15

p. 3

Schedule for Week of November 15

WEEK STARTING NOVEMBER 15

Song 72

□ Congregation Bible Study:

cf chap. 13 ¶9-17

□ Theocratic Ministry School:

Bible reading: 1 Chronicles 26-29

No. 1: 1 Chronicles 29:10-19

No. 2: Why Have There Been Changes in the Teachings of Jehovah’s Witnesses? (rs p. 205 ¶4)

No. 3: Will All Jews Be Converted to Christianity?

□ Service Meeting:

Song 116

5 min: Announcements.

20 min: “The Bible—Accurate History, Reliable Prophecy.” Questions and answers.

10 min: Question Box. Talk by an elder.

Song 37

The Bible—Accurate History, Reliable Prophecy

p. 3

The Bible—Accurate History, Reliable Prophecy

What evidence shows that the Bible is historically accurate? What fulfilled Bible prophecies give us confidence that future prophecies will likewise come true? These questions are considered in the video The Bible—Accurate History, Reliable Prophecy, the third presentation found on the DVD The Bible—A Book of Fact and Prophecy. After watching this video, can you answer the following questions?

(1) Who is the Source of the Bible’s reliable information? (Dan. 2:28) (2) How does the Bible paint an accurate picture of ancient Egypt, and how did the prophecy recorded at Isaiah 19:3, 4 come true? (3) How has archaeology confirmed the Bible’s portrayal of the Assyrians, their kings, and Assyria’s end? (Nah. 3:1, 7, 13) (4) What prophecies involving Babylon have proved reliable? (Jer. 20:4; 50:38; 51:30) (5) What prophecy regarding Medo-Persia came true? (Isa. 44:28) (6) How were Daniel 7:6 and 8:5, 8 fulfilled regarding Greece? (7) How was Daniel 7:7 fulfilled with the emergence of Rome as a world power? (8) Which Caesars are mentioned in the Bible? (9) What happened to Christians under the rule of Nero? (10) How were the prophecies found at Revelation 13:11 and 17:10 fulfilled? (11) What is the identity of the eighth king? (12) What scenes in the video prove the truthfulness of Ecclesiastes 8:9? (13) What future prophecies are you anxiously waiting to see fulfilled? (14) How can you use this video to help convince others that the Bible is of divine origin?

Question Box

p. 4

Question Box

◼ In what practical ways can we assist pioneers?

Around the world during the 2009 service year, nearly 800,000 brothers and sisters served as regular and special pioneers. These full-time servants sacrifice the firstfruits of their time, energy, and material resources in order to spread the Kingdom good news. (Prov. 3:9) How Jehovah must be pleased with their efforts! In what ways can we reflect Jehovah’s view and contribute to their joy and endurance in this avenue of service?

Certainly our well-chosen words may encourage them to continue serving as pioneers. (Prov. 25:11) Could we adjust our weekly schedule in order to work with them in the ministry? When working together, we might suggest using our vehicle instead of theirs. And if we ride in their vehicle, perhaps we could offer a contribution to help cover their expenses. (1 Cor. 13:5; Phil. 2:4) We also demonstrate our loving support by showing hospitality and occasionally inviting pioneers to our home for a meal.—1 Pet. 4:8, 9.

The Scriptures guarantee that Jehovah will provide the necessities for those who seek his Kingdom first. (Ps. 37:25; Matt. 6:33) One way that he does this is by means of our loving Christian brotherhood. (1 John 3:16-18) Of course, pioneers do not expect their financial responsibilities to be cared for by others. And they may not take the initiative to let others know when they experience a need. However, we can help faithful pioneers and “offset their deficiency” in practical ways by being alert and observant.—2 Cor. 8:14, 15.

When Phoebe, a zealous evangelizer in the first-century Cenchreae Congregation, traveled to Rome, Paul encouraged the brothers in Rome: “Welcome her in the Lord in a way worthy of the holy ones, and . . . assist her in any matter where she may need you.” (Rom. 16:1, 2) We have the opportunity to demonstrate the same loving support of those in our congregation who are declaring the good news without letup as regular and special pioneers.—Acts 5:42.

Schedule for Week of November 22

p. 5

Schedule for Week of November 22

WEEK STARTING NOVEMBER 22

Song 6

□ Congregation Bible Study:

cf chap. 13 ¶18-21, box on p. 138

□ Theocratic Ministry School:

Bible reading: 2 Chronicles 1-5

No. 1: 2 Chronicles 3:1-13

No. 2: On What Basis Could Jehovah Forgive Sins Committed in Pre-Christian Times? (Rom. 3:24, 25)

No. 3: Why Do Jehovah’s Witnesses Preach From House to House? (rs p. 206 ¶1-4)

□ Service Meeting:

Song 103

5 min: Announcements.

10 min: The Literature Offer for December. Discussion. Consider features of the publications being offered, and have one or two presentations demonstrated.

20 min: “Can You Reach Out to an Unbelieving Mate?” Questions and answers. Interview a publisher who used to be an unbelieving mate. How did the congregation help him or her to take an interest in the truth?

Song 107

Can You Reach Out to an Unbelieving Mate?

pp. 5–6

Can You Reach Out to an Unbelieving Mate?

1. Why are Christians living in a divided household not the only ones interested in helping their unbelieving mate to accept the truth?

¹ Do some publishers in your congregation have an unbelieving husband or wife? If so, no doubt these publishers desire that their mate join them in true worship. But they are not the only ones. The entire congregation mirrors God’s desire that “all sorts of men should be saved and come to an accurate knowledge of truth.” (1 Tim. 2:4) How may we reach out to the unbelieving mates of publishers in our congregation?

2. How will having insight help us to assist an unbelieving mate?

² First, we should try to see matters from the unbeliever’s viewpoint. Many unbelieving mates love their family and try to be a good marriage mate and parent. Perhaps they have sincere religious beliefs that are different from ours. They may know little about Jehovah’s Witnesses except what uninformed or prejudiced associates have told them. Some resent the time their spouse uses for worship that was formerly spent with the family. Insight will help us to treat an unbeliever kindly and respectfully and avoid being unduly nervous when we are around him.—Prov. 16:20-23.

3. What may be the best way to win over an unbeliever?

³ Personal Interest: The best way to win over an unbelieving mate to the truth, at least initially, may be through our actions, not through a Bible discussion. (1 Pet. 3:1, 2) Important in this regard is showing personal interest. Sisters in the congregation can take an interest in an unbelieving wife, and brothers can do the same with an unbelieving husband. How?

4. How may we demonstrate personal interest?

⁴ If you have not yet met the spouse, perhaps you could do so after consulting with the Christian mate. Do not be disappointed if the unbeliever’s initial response is lukewarm. Our friendliness and personal interest may move him to view Jehovah’s Witnesses more favorably. (Rom. 12:20) Some mature Christians have invited an unbeliever and his family to dinner, with a view to getting better acquainted and breaking down any prejudice that may exist. They have talked about his interests, rather than forcing the conversation toward spiritual subjects. Later, when the unbeliever feels more comfortable, a Scriptural discussion may be possible. Or he may be receptive to an invitation to attend one of our meetings to see what his wife is learning, especially since he already knows some in the congregation. Even if he is not ready to investigate the truth, he can certainly be commended for the support given to his believing mate.

5. How may elders reach out to an unbeliever?

⁵ Elders especially should reach out to unbelieving mates and be alert for opportunities to give a witness. An unbeliever who has not been receptive to a Bible discussion may listen to Scriptural encouragement when he is in the hospital or encounters serious health problems. If a divided household experiences a crisis, such as the death of a family member, the elders may invite the unbeliever to sit in when they give comfort to the family.

6. What reasons are there to reach out to unbelieving mates?

⁶ Imagine the joy that will be experienced by a Christian in our congregation if his or her spouse responds and comes into the truth! Such a happy event would also bring great joy to Jehovah, the angels, and the rest of the congregation. (Luke 15:7, 10) However, if the unbeliever is not initially responsive, we can still rejoice that our continued efforts please Jehovah, who “does not desire any to be destroyed but desires all to attain to repentance.”—2 Pet. 3:9.

[Blurb on page 6]

The best way to win over an unbelieving mate to the truth, at least initially, may be through our actions, not through a Bible discussion

Schedule for Week of November 29

p. 7

Schedule for Week of November 29

WEEK STARTING NOVEMBER 29

Song 82

□ Congregation Bible Study:

cf chap. 14 ¶1-9

□ Theocratic Ministry School:

Bible reading: 2 Chronicles 6-9

No. 1: 2 Chronicles 6:12-21

No. 2: Why Are Jehovah’s Witnesses Persecuted? (rs p. 207 ¶1-2)

No. 3: Ways in Which We Can “Keep Conquering the Evil With the Good” (Rom. 12:21)

□ Service Meeting:

Song 129

5 min: Announcements.

10 min: “Prayerful Meditation—Necessary for Zealous Ministers.” Questions and answers. Invite audience to comment on when they meditate.

10 min: ‘Let Us Present Jehovah’s Offering.’ Talk by an elder based on the November 15, 2010, Watchtower, pages 20-21.

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

Song 132

Prayerful Meditation—Necessary for Zealous Ministers

p. 7

Prayerful Meditation—Necessary for Zealous Ministers

1. What helped Jesus to avoid becoming sidetracked from his primary work?

¹ Jesus had spent the evening healing people and expelling demons. When his disciples found him the next day, they said: “All are looking for you,” urging him to continue his powerful works. However, Jesus would not be sidetracked from his primary work of preaching the good news. He replied: “Let us go somewhere else, into the village towns nearby, that I may preach there also, for it is for this purpose I have gone out.” What helped Jesus to maintain his focus? He had risen early to pray and meditate. (Mark 1:32-39) How can prayerful meditation also help us to be zealous preachers?

2. What could we meditate on to help us maintain zeal for the ministry?

² Meditate on What? Jesus observed that people were “skinned and thrown about like sheep without a shepherd.” (Matt. 9:36) Similarly, we can reflect on how much people need the good news. We might contemplate the urgency of the times. (1 Cor. 7:29) We can ponder Jehovah’s works and qualities, our privilege to be Jehovah’s Witnesses, and the precious spiritual treasures we have learned from God’s Word that are still unknown by people in our territory.—Ps. 77:11-13; Isa. 43:10-12; Matt. 13:52.

3. When might we meditate?

³ Meditate When? As Jesus did, some rise early when it is quiet. Others find it best to meditate in the evening before going to sleep. (Gen. 24:63) Even with a busy schedule, we can find time for meditation. Some do so while taking public transportation. Others use part of their lunch break for undisturbed contemplation. Many find that meditating before sharing in the ministry, even for a few moments, helps them to preach with greater zeal and boldness.

4. Why should we meditate?

⁴ Prayerful meditation will deepen our desire to serve Jehovah, sharpen our spiritual focus, and strengthen our resolve to continue preaching. God’s Chief Minister, Jesus, benefited from meditation, and so will we.

Schedule for Week of December 6

p. 8

Schedule for Week of December 6

WEEK STARTING DECEMBER 6

Song 21

□ Congregation Bible Study:

cf chap. 14 ¶10-16

□ Theocratic Ministry School:

Bible reading: 2 Chronicles 10-14

No. 1: 2 Chronicles 13:1-12

No. 2: How Does Jehovah Guard His Loyal Ones? (Ps. 37:28)

No. 3: If Someone Says: “Why Don’t You Get Involved in Making the World a Better Place to Live?” (rs p. 207 ¶3–p. 208 ¶2)

□ Service Meeting:

Song 102

10 min: Announcements. Invite audience to relate experiences enjoyed when offering the Bible’s Message brochure or when using it to start Bible studies.

15 min: Local needs.

10 min: How to Demonstrate Respect in the Ministry. Discussion based on the Ministry School book, page 190 to page 192, paragraph 2.

Song 128

Announcements

p. 8

Announcements

◼ Literature offer for November: The Bible—What Is Its Message? December: The Greatest Man Who Ever Lived. If there are children in the household, offer Learn From the Great Teacher. January: What Does the Bible Really Teach? If householders already have the book, congregations that have a stock of Knowledge That Leads to Everlasting Life and Worship the Only True God may offer either of these books. Otherwise, publishers may offer any older field publications on hand in the congregation. February: Is There a Creator Who Cares About You? Publishers may also offer The Bible—God’s Word or Man’s? or The Secret of Family Happiness.

◼ Donations for the worldwide work that are sent directly to the branch office should be made payable to “Watchtower.” The branch office’s financial address is Watchtower, c/o Treasurer’s Office, 25 Columbia Heights, Brooklyn, NY 11201-2483.

◼ As of September 1, 2010, Hawaii came under the oversight of the United States branch.

Field Service Highlights

p. 8

Field Service Highlights

In the month of July, 669,568 Bible studies were conducted in the United States, which no doubt contributed to the baptism of 6,906 individuals. Thus far in the 2010 service year, 4.3 million more hours have been devoted to the ministry than in the same period of the previous service year. The Turks and Caicos Islands had their second consecutive all-time peak, with 256 publishers. This is a 12.8 percent increase over the previous service year. Truly, Jehovah’s people are “zealous for fine works”!—Titus 2:14.

What to Say About the Magazines

p. 8

What to Say About the Magazines

The Watchtower November 1

“Do you think that angels are interested in what we do? [Allow for response.] The Bible makes this interesting statement. [Read Luke 15:10.] This article discusses what Jesus said about how spirit creatures affect us.” Feature the article that begins on page 16.

Awake! November

Read 2 Timothy 3:16. Then say: “Do you agree and feel that we can trust everything the Bible says? [Allow for response.] This article discusses whether archaeology and secular history corroborate what the Bible says about ancient Egypt.” Feature the article that begins on page 15.

The Watchtower December 1

“Many people believe that there are intelligent beings in the spirit realm who influence our lives. What do you think? [Allow for response. Then read Revelation 12:7-9.] This magazine shows what the Bible says about those who live in the spirit realm, how they affect us, and whether we can contact them.”

Awake! December

“Have you ever wondered why Christmas is celebrated on December 25 when the Bible doesn’t say when Jesus was born? [Allow for response.] According to this verse, Jesus’ birth could not have happened during the winter. [Read Luke 2:8.] This magazine reveals the origin of some popular Christmas customs.”