Our Christian Life and Ministry. June 2 through June 8 [Press play below to hear the Meeting Workbook]
[Press play below to hear Proverbs 16]
[Click to read Bible chapter]|[Proverbs 16] A man prepares the thoughts of his heart, But the answer he gives is from Jehovah. 2 All of a man’s ways seem right to him, But Jehovah examines the motives. 3 Commit to Jehovah whatever you do, And your plans will succeed. 4 Jehovah has made everything work for his purpose, Even the wicked for the day of disaster. 5 Everyone proud in heart is detestable to Jehovah. Be assured that he will not go unpunished. 6 By loyal love and faithfulness, error is atoned for, And by fearing Jehovah one turns away from bad. 7 When Jehovah is pleased with a man’s ways, He causes even his enemies to be at peace with him. 8 Better is a little with righteousness Than a large income without justice. 9 A man may plot out his course in his heart, But it is Jehovah who directs his steps. 10 Inspired decision should be on the lips of a king; He must never betray justice. 11 Honest balances and scales are from Jehovah; All the weights in the bag are his doing. 12 Wicked practices are detestable to kings, For the throne is firmly established by righteousness. 13 Righteous speech is a pleasure to kings. They love someone who speaks honestly. 14 The king’s rage is like a messenger of death, But the wise man appeases it. 15 In the light of the king’s face there is life; His favor is like a cloud of rain in spring. 16 How much better to acquire wisdom than gold! To gain understanding is to be chosen over silver. 17 The highway of the upright avoids what is bad. Whoever safeguards his way preserves his life. 18 Pride is before a crash, And a haughty spirit before stumbling. 19 Better to be humble among the meek Than to share the spoil of the haughty. 20 The one who shows insight in a matter will find success, And happy is the one trusting in Jehovah. 21 The wise in heart will be called understanding, And the one kind in speech adds persuasiveness. 22 Insight is a fountain of life to those possessing it, But fools are disciplined by their own foolishness. 23 The heart of the wise one gives his mouth insight And adds persuasiveness to his speech. 24 Pleasant sayings are a honeycomb, Sweet to the soul and a healing to the bones. 25 There is a way that seems right to a man, But in the end it leads to death. 26 The appetite of a laborer makes him work hard For his hunger urges him on. 27 A worthless man digs up what is bad; His speech is like a scorching fire. 28 A troublemaker causes dissension, And a slanderer separates close friends. 29 A violent man entices his neighbor And leads him in the wrong way. 30 He winks his eye as he schemes harm. He pinches his lips together as he carries out mischief. 31 Gray hair is a crown of beauty When it is found in the way of righteousness. 32 The one slow to anger is better than a mighty man, And the one controlling his temper than one conquering a city. 33 The lot is cast into the lap, But every decision by it is from Jehovah. [End of Bible chapter] [Click to close]
Song 36 We Guard Our Hearts. Based on Proverbs 4.23
1. We guard our hearts, it means our life;
We shun the path of sin.
God reads the heart, and there he finds
The person deep within.
Sometimes the heart deceives the mind,
And we begin to stray.
So may our mind direct our heart
And keep Jehovah’s way.
2. Prepared in heart, we search for God
By means of earnest prayer.
Each day we give him praise and thanks,
Revealing ev’ry care.
The things Jehovah teaches us,
We gladly will obey.
We cultivate a loyal heart,
To please him ev’ry day.
3. Our hearts we shield from harmful thoughts,
We dwell on what is true.
We love God’s Word to touch our hearts,
To strengthen and renew.
Jehovah loves his loyal ones;
On this we can depend.
We’ll worship him wholeheartedly
Forever as his friend.
[End of Song. Press Play below to play this song with Audio Description]
Treasures From God’s Word 1. Three Questions That Lead to Good Decisions (10 minutes)
Am I showing trust in Jehovah’s guidance?
[Inserted scripture] Proverbs 16.3: Commit to Jehovah whatever you do, And your plans will succeed. [End of inserted scripture]
[Inserted scripture] Proverbs 16.20: The one who shows insight in a matter will find success, And happy is the one trusting in Jehovah. [End of inserted scripture]
[Reference material Watchtower 2014 January 15th pages 19 and 20 paragraphs 11 and 12] 11. Our greatest happiness comes from serving Jehovah. (Proverbs 16.20) Jeremiah’s secretary, Baruch, apparently forgot that. At one point in time, he was no longer enjoying Jehovah’s service. Jehovah told him: “You are seeking great things for yourself. Stop seeking such things. For I am about to bring a calamity on all flesh, ... and wherever you may go, I will grant you your life as a spoil.”
[Quotation] Jeremiah 45.3: ‘You have said: “Woe to me, for Jehovah has added grief to my pain! I am weary from my groaning, and I have found no resting-place.”’ [End Quotation]
[Quotation] Jeremiah 45.5: But you are seeking great things for yourself. Stop seeking such things.”’ “‘For I am about to bring a calamity on all flesh,’ declares Jehovah, ‘and wherever you may go, I will grant you your life as a spoil.’” [End Quotation]
What do you think? What would have made Baruch happy, seeking great things or surviving Jerusalem’s destruction as a faithful servant of God?
[Quotation] James 1.12: Happy is the man who keeps on enduring trial, because on becoming approved he will receive the crown of life, which Jehovah promised to those who continue loving Him. [End Quotation]
12. One brother who found happiness in serving others is Ramiro. He states: “I come from a poor family living in a village in the Andes Mountains. So when my older brother offered to pay for my university education, it was a big opportunity. But I had recently been baptized as one of Jehovah’s Witnesses, and I had received another offer, a pioneer invited me to preach with him in a small town. I went there, learned how to cut hair, and opened a barbershop to support myself. As we offered to teach people the Scriptures, many responded appreciatively. Later, I joined an indigenous-language congregation that had recently been formed. I have been a full-time minister for ten years now. No other profession could give me the joy I experience as I help people to study the good news in their native tongue.” [End of reference material]
Will my decision make Jehovah happy?
[Inserted scripture] Proverbs 16.7: When Jehovah is pleased with a man’s ways, He causes even his enemies to be at peace with him. [End of inserted scripture]
Am I being overly influenced by what others are saying or doing?
[Inserted scripture] Proverbs 16.25: There is a way that seems right to a man, But in the end it leads to death. [End of inserted scripture]
[Reference material Watchtower 2013 September 15th page 17 paragraphs 1 through 3] 1. All of us are deeply influenced by our upbringing and by our environment. We dress a certain way; we like certain foods; we behave in a certain manner. Why? In part, because of the influence of the people around us and our circumstances in life.
2. There are, however, things that are far more important than our choice of food and style of clothing. For example, we are brought up to view some things as right and acceptable but to reject other things as wrong and unacceptable. Many such matters are personal and vary from individual to individual. Our choices may even reflect the proddings of our conscience. The Bible acknowledges that often “people of the nations that do not have law do by nature the things of the law.”
[Quotation] Romans 2.14: For when people of the nations, who do not have law, do by nature the things of the law, these people, although not having law, are a law to themselves. [End Quotation]
But does this mean that as long as there is no clearly stated law from God, we can just follow the ways and standards that we are brought up with and that are common in our area?
3. There are at least two important reasons why that is not so for Christians. First, the Bible reminds us: “There exists a way that is upright before a man, but the ways of death are the end of it afterward.” (Proverbs 16.25) Because of our imperfect nature, we humans do not have the full ability to determine what is truly beneficial for us to guide our steps perfectly.
[Quotation] Proverbs 28.26: Whoever trusts in his own heart is stupid, But the one who walks in wisdom will escape. [End Quotation]
[Quotation] Jeremiah 10.23: I well know, O Jehovah, that man’s way does not belong to him. It does not belong to man who is walking even to direct his step. [End Quotation]
Second, the Bible shows that trends and standards of the world are manipulated and controlled by none other than Satan, “the god of this system of things.”
[Quotation] 2 Corinthians 4.4: among whom the god of this system of things has blinded the minds of the unbelievers, so that the illumination of the glorious good news about the Christ, who is the image of God, might not shine through. [End Quotation]
[Quotation] 1 John 5.19: We know that we originate with God, but the whole world is lying in the power of the wicked one. [End Quotation]
Therefore, if we want Jehovah’s blessing and approval, we need to heed the admonition found at Romans 12.2.
[Quotation] Romans 12.2: And stop being molded by this system of things, but be transformed by making your mind over, so that you may prove to yourselves the good and acceptable and perfect will of God. [End Quotation] [End of reference material]
Ask yourself, ‘How could these questions help me to make good choices in dress and grooming?’
[Image:] A young brother at a store, being shown a tight-fitting suit by a salesman. The brother asks about a more modest-fitting suit instead.
2. Spiritual Gems (10 minutes)
Proverbs 16.22 In what way are fools “disciplined by their own foolishness”?
[Inserted scripture] Proverbs 16.22: Insight is a fountain of life to those possessing it, But fools are disciplined by their own foolishness. [End of inserted scripture]
[Reference material Insight volume 1 page 629] Results From Heeding and From Ignoring. The wicked, the fools, or the morally worthless ones show their hatred of Jehovah’s discipline by rejecting it completely.
[Quotation] Psalm 50.16 and 17: But God will say to the wicked: “What right do you have to relate my regulations Or to speak about my covenant? 17 For you hate discipline, And you keep turning your back on my words. [End Quotation]
[Quotation] Proverbs 1.7: The fear of Jehovah is the beginning of knowledge. Only fools despise wisdom and discipline. [End Quotation]
The bad results that come from such foolishness constitutes further discipline, often severe chastisement. As the proverb puts it: “The discipline of the foolish ones is foolishness.” (Proverbs 16.22) They may bring upon themselves poverty, disgrace, sickness, and even untimely death. The history of the Israelites illustrates how great the loss can be. They paid no attention to the discipline in the form of reproof and correction expressed through the prophets. They were heedless of the discipline in the form of Jehovah’s withholding his protection and blessing. Finally, they experienced the severe discipline announced beforehand, conquest and exile.
[Quotation] Jeremiah 2.30: I have struck your sons in vain. They would accept no discipline; Your own sword devoured your prophets, Like a marauding lion. [End Quotation]
[Quotation] Jeremiah 5.3: O Jehovah, do your eyes not look for faithfulness? You struck them, but it made no impact on them. You exterminated them, but they refused to accept discipline. They made their faces harder than a rock, And they refused to turn around. [End Quotation]
[Quotation] Jeremiah 7.28: And you will say to them, ‘This is the nation that did not obey the voice of Jehovah their God and refused to accept discipline. Faithfulness has perished and is not even mentioned among them.’ [End Quotation]
[Quotation] Jeremiah 17.23: But they did not listen or incline their ear, and they stubbornly refused to obey or to accept discipline.”’ [End Quotation]
[Quotation] Jeremiah 32.33: They kept turning their backs to me, not their faces; although I tried to teach them again and again, none of them would listen to receive discipline. [End Quotation]
[Quotation] Hosea 7.12 through 16: Wherever they go, I will spread my net over them. I will bring them down like the birds of the heavens. I will discipline them according to the warning given to their assembly. 13 Woe to them, for they have fled from me! Devastation to them, for they have transgressed against me! I was ready to redeem them, but they have spoken lies against me. 14 From their heart they did not call to me for help, Although they kept wailing on their beds. For their grain and new wine they would slash themselves; They turn against me. 15 Although I disciplined them and strengthened their arms, They are against me, scheming what is bad. 16 They changed course, but not to anything loftier; They were as unreliable as a loose bow. Their princes will fall by the sword because of their defiant tongues. For this they will be an object of ridicule in the land of Egypt.” [End Quotation]
[Quotation] Hosea 10.10: I will also discipline them when I please. And peoples will be gathered against them, When their two errors are harnessed on them. [End Quotation]
[Quotation] Zephaniah 3.2: She has obeyed no voice; she has accepted no discipline. In Jehovah she has not trusted; she has not drawn near to her God. [End Quotation] [End of reference material]
What spiritual gems from this week’s Bible reading would you like to share?
3. Bible Reading (4 minutes) Proverbs 16.1 through 20 (Apply yourself to reading and teaching study 12) [Press play below to hear the Bible reading]
Proverbs 16.1 through 20 A man prepares the thoughts of his heart, But the answer he gives is from Jehovah. All of a man’s ways seem right to him, But Jehovah examines the motives. Commit to Jehovah whatever you do, And your plans will succeed. Jehovah has made everything work for his purpose, Even the wicked for the day of disaster. Everyone proud in heart is detestable to Jehovah. Be assured that he will not go unpunished. By loyal love and faithfulness, error is atoned for, And by fearing Jehovah one turns away from bad. When Jehovah is pleased with a man’s ways, He causes even his enemies to be at peace with him. Better is a little with righteousness Than a large income without justice. A man may plot out his course in his heart, But it is Jehovah who directs his steps. Inspired decision should be on the lips of a king; He must never betray justice. Honest balances and scales are from Jehovah; All the weights in the bag are his doing. Wicked practices are detestable to kings, For the throne is firmly established by righteousness. Righteous speech is a pleasure to kings. They love someone who speaks honestly. The king’s rage is like a messenger of death, But the wise man appeases it. In the light of the king’s face there is life; His favor is like a cloud of rain in spring. How much better to acquire wisdom than gold! To gain understanding is to be chosen over silver. The highway of the upright avoids what is bad. Whoever safeguards his way preserves his life. Pride is before a crash, And a haughty spirit before stumbling. Better to be humble among the meek Than to share the spoil of the haughty. The one who shows insight in a matter will find success, And happy is the one trusting in Jehovah. [End of scripture]
[Reference Material] Apply yourself to reading and teaching. Study 12. Warmth and Empathy.
[Quotation] 1 Thessalonians 2.7 and 8: On the contrary, we became gentle in your midst, as when a nursing mother tenderly cares for her own children. So having tender affection for you, we were determined to impart to you, not only the good news of God but also our very selves, because you became so beloved to us. [End Quotation]
Summary: Speak with genuine emotion, and show your listeners you care.
[Press play below for Video: Study 12. Warmth and Empathy. (5:14)]
[Click for Transcript]|[Study 12. Warmth and Empathy]
(Text: Apply Yourself to Reading and Teaching: 12. Warmth and Empathy. 1 Thessalonians 2.7 and 8. Summary: Speak with genuine emotion and show your listeners you care.)
Presenter: The apostle Paul wrote to Christians in Thessalonica: We became gentle in your midst, as when a nursing mother tenderly cares for her own children. So having tender affection for you, we were determined to impart to you, not only the good news of God but also our very selves, because you became so beloved to us. Paul cared, and his fellow believers could sense that by the way he spoke to them. This made his teaching more effective. Likewise, if our audience feels that we genuinely care for them, that we’re not there simply to deliver information or fulfil an assignment, they’ll be more likely to listen and respond. So how can we show genuine warmth and empathy? We need to think about our listeners.
(Text: How to do it: Think about your listeners)
For example, before going in the ministry, reflect on specific problems that people in the territory are concerned about. What are their beliefs? Try to imagine how they feel. When preparing a talk, remind yourself of what your brothers and sisters may be facing and how you can encourage them.
(Text: Choose your words carefully)
Then use expressions that refresh, comfort, and invigorate your listeners. Be careful not to speak disparagingly of people or their beliefs. When conversing with older people or those in authority, use words that show respect. Let’s watch a brother giving a public talk. Do his words show empathy for his audience?
(A brother presents a talk. Silhouette of audience)
Brother: The evolution theory is very popular today. But it’s hard to understand how intelligent people could believe such an illogical theory. Many believe it simply because so-called educated people do, including many scientists. So how can we help them to examine matters for themselves and see how ridiculous evolution is?
Presenter: If someone in the audience believed in evolution, how would he feel? Let’s watch the speaker try again but this time with more empathy.
(The brother presents a talk. Silhouette of audience)
Brother: The evolution theory is very popular today. But why do many people believe it? Perhaps they were taught evolution in school and were offered no other plausible explanation. How can we help people to examine the facts for themselves?
Presenter: This time, the speaker didn’t insult people because of their viewpoint. At the same time, he aroused interest in additional facts that are worthy of consideration. What else can indicate warmth and empathy? Tone, not just what you say but how you say it.
(Text: How to do it: Think about your listeners. Choose your words carefully)
A warm tone of voice along with appropriate gestures and facial expressions shows sincere interest. Let’s watch a publisher in the house-to-house ministry. Does she show interest by the way she speaks?
(At a door, a sister speaks with a woman)
Householder: I’m sorry. I can’t talk to you today. I just lost my mother, and I’m meeting with the funeral director this afternoon.
Sister: I’m sorry. It’s so painful when a loved one dies. When I lost my mother a few years ago, I found some Bible verses to be very comforting.
Presenter: Although there was nothing wrong with what our sister said,
her delivery lacked warmth and empathy. Let’s give her a second chance.
(At a door, the sister speaks with a woman)
Sister: I’m sorry. It’s so painful when a loved one dies. When I lost my mother a few years ago, I found some Bible verses to be very comforting. Some of them are in this tract. But maybe we can discuss them briefly another time.
Presenter: Our sister said exactly the same thing, but this time she spoke with emotion, and so her words were more effective. When we speak with genuine emotion, we show our listeners that we care. But be careful not to force or exaggerate emotions. If you’re reading a scripture, try to express the feelings indicated in the passage, but don’t draw undue attention to yourself.
(Text: How to do it: Think about your listeners. Choose your words carefully. Show your interest)
So, by thinking about your listeners, choosing your words carefully, and showing your interest, you’ll refresh, comfort, and invigorate your listeners.
(Text: Apply Yourself to Reading and Teaching: 12. Warmth and Empathy. 1 Thessalonians 2.7 and 8)
(Logo: Black capital letters JW.ORG inside a white box. Copyright 2019 Watchtower Bible and Tract Society of Pennsylvania) [Click to close]
How to Do It: Think about your listeners. Prepare your heart by reminding yourself of the problems they face. Try to imagine how they feel.
Choose your words carefully. Seek to refresh, comfort, and invigorate your listeners. Avoid expressions that could needlessly offend them, and do not speak disparagingly of unbelievers or their sincerely held beliefs.
Show your interest. With a kind tone of voice and appropriate gestures, show your listeners that you really care. Be mindful of your facial expressions; smile often.
Tip: Do not force or exaggerate emotions. While reading, express the feelings indicated in the passage, but do not draw undue attention to yourself. Since emphasizing consonants can result in a cold, clipped delivery, draw out vowels to warm up the tone of your voice. [End of Reference Material]
Apply Yourself to the Field Ministry 4. Starting a Conversation (3 minutes)
Informal Witnessing. Show a person how he can benefit from jw.org. (Love People Make Disciples lesson 2 point 5)
[Reference Material Love People Make Disciples lesson Naturalness point 5] Imitate Philip. Be adaptable. A conversation may go in an unexpected direction. So be willing to share something that is relevant to the person, even if that means discussing a different Bible truth than the one you had in mind. [End of Reference material]
5. Following Up (4 minutes)
House to House. Offer a Bible study to a person who has refused one in the past. (Love People Make Disciples lesson 9 point 5)
[Reference Material Love People Make Disciples lesson Empathy point 5] Imitate Jesus. Share information that addresses his needs. As soon as possible, demonstrate how a Bible study can answer his questions and can help him in practical ways.
6. Talk (5 minutes)
Bible Verses Explained article 40. Theme: What Is the Meaning of Proverbs 16:3? (Apply yourself to reading and teaching study 8)
[Reference material Bible Verses Explained] Proverbs 16.3 “Commit to the LORD Whatever You Do”
“Commit to Jehovah whatever you do, and your plans will succeed.” Proverbs 16:3, New World Translation.
“Commit to the LORD whatever you do, and he will establish your plans.” Proverbs 16:3, New International Version.
Meaning of Proverbs 16.3. This proverb assures those who worship the true God that their plans will be successful if they place their trust in him by seeking and following his guidance.
“Commit to Jehovah whatever you do.” Before making decisions, worshippers of Jehovah humbly look to him for guidance. (James 1:5)
[Quotation] James 1.5: So if any one of you is lacking in wisdom, let him keep asking God, for he gives generously to all and without reproaching, and it will be given him. [End Quotation]
Why? For one thing, humans often have little or no control over events that affect their life.
[Quotation] Ecclesiastes 9.11: I have seen something further under the sun, that the swift do not always win the race, nor do the mighty win the battle, nor do the wise always have the food, nor do the intelligent always have the riches, nor do those with knowledge always have success, because time and unexpected events overtake them all. [End Quotation]
[Quotation] James 4.13: Come, now, you who say: “Today or tomorrow we will travel to this city and will spend a year there, and we will do business and make some profit,” 14 whereas you do not know what your life will be like tomorrow. For you are a mist that appears for a little while and then disappears. 15 Instead, you should say: “If Jehovah wills, we will live and do this or that.” [End Quotation]
In addition, they may lack the wisdom to carry out their plans. For these reasons, many wisely commit, or entrust, their affairs to God. They do so by praying to him for guidance and by acting in harmony with his will as revealed in his written Word, the Bible.
[Quotation] Proverbs 3.5 and 6: Trust in Jehovah with all your heart, And do not rely on your own understanding. 6 In all your ways take notice of him, And he will make your paths straight. [End Quotation]
[Quotation] 2 Timothy 3.16 and 17: All Scripture is inspired of God and beneficial for teaching, for reproving, for setting things straight, for disciplining in righteousness, 17 so that the man of God may be fully competent, completely equipped for every good work. [End Quotation]
The statement “commit to the LORD whatever you do” literally means “roll your works on the LORD.” According to one reference work, this expression depicts “a man [who] transfers a burden from his own back to one stronger and better able to bear it.” Those who humbly rely on God can be sure that he will help and sustain them.
[Quotation] Psalm 37.5: Commit your way to Jehovah; Rely on him, and he will act in your behalf. [End Quotation]
[Quotation] Psalm 55.22: Throw your burden on Jehovah, And he will sustain you. Never will he allow the righteous one to fall. [End Quotation]
The expression “whatever you do” does not mean that God will approve of or bless every plan that people may have. To merit Jehovah’s blessing, their plans must harmonize with both his standards and his will.
[Quotation] Psalm 127.1: Unless Jehovah builds the house, It is in vain that its builders work hard on it. Unless Jehovah guards the city, It is in vain that the guard stays awake. [End Quotation]
[Quotation] 1 John 5.14: And this is the confidence that we have toward him, that no matter what we ask according to his will, he hears us. [End Quotation]
God does not bless disobedience. In fact, “he thwarts the plans of the wicked.” (Psalm 146:9) At the same time, he supports those who show their submission to him by respecting the standards he has set down in the Bible.
[Quotation] Psalm 37.23: Jehovah guides the steps of a man When He finds pleasure in his way. [End Quotation]
“And your plans will succeed.” Some translations render this expression as “your plans will be established.” In the Hebrew Scriptures, or what is commonly called the Old Testament, the word translated into English as “established” conveys the idea of laying a foundation, and it often refers to the stability of God’s creative works.
[Quotation] Proverbs 3.19: Jehovah founded the earth in wisdom. He solidly established the heavens in discernment. [End Quotation]
[Quotation] Jeremiah 10.12: He is the Maker of the earth by his power, The One who established the productive land by his wisdom And who stretched out the heavens by his understanding. [End Quotation]
God will likewise firmly establish the plans of those who do what is right in his eyes, helping them to lead a more secure, stable, and happy life.
[Quotation] Psalm 20.4: May he grant you the desires of your heart And give success to all your plans. [End Quotation]
[Quotation] Proverbs 12.3: No man is made secure by wickedness, But the righteous will never be uprooted. [End Quotation]
Context of Proverbs 16.3. This proverb was written by King Solomon, who composed most of the book of Proverbs. He was able to speak thousands of proverbs because of his God-given wisdom.
[Quotation] 1 Kings 4.29: And God gave Solomon wisdom and discernment in very great measure and a broadness of heart like the sand on the seashore. [End quotation]
[Quotation] 1 Kings 4.32: He composed 3,000 proverbs and his songs numbered 1,005. [End quotation]
[Quotation] 1 Kings 10.23 and 24: So King Solomon was greater than all the other kings of the earth in riches and wisdom. And people of all the earth sought an audience with Solomon to hear his wisdom that God had put in his heart. [End quotation]
In chapter 16, Solomon begins by extolling God’s wisdom and showing His contempt for inordinate pride.
[Quotation] Proverbs 16.1 through 5: A man prepares the thoughts of his heart, But the answer he gives is from Jehovah. 2 All of a man’s ways seem right to him, But Jehovah examines the motives. 3 Commit to Jehovah whatever you do, And your plans will succeed. 4 Jehovah has made everything work for his purpose, Even the wicked for the day of disaster. 5 Everyone proud in heart is detestable to Jehovah. Be assured that he will not go unpunished. [End Quotation]
The chapter then leads the reader to an important conclusion that is a recurring theme in the book of Proverbs: Humans can be truly wise and successful only if they are humble, allowing God to direct their steps.
[Quotation] Proverbs 16.3: Commit to Jehovah whatever you do, And your plans will succeed. [End Quotation]
[Quotation] Proverbs 16.6 through 8: By loyal love and faithfulness, error is atoned for, And by fearing Jehovah one turns away from bad. 7 When Jehovah is pleased with a man’s ways, He causes even his enemies to be at peace with him. 8 Better is a little with righteousness Than a large income without justice. [End Quotation]
[Quotation] Proverbs 16.18 through 23: Pride is before a crash, And a haughty spirit before stumbling. 19 Better to be humble among the meek Than to share the spoil of the haughty. 20 The one who shows insight in a matter will find success, And happy is the one trusting in Jehovah. 21 The wise in heart will be called understanding, And the one kind in speech adds persuasiveness. 22 Insight is a fountain of life to those possessing it, But fools are disciplined by their own foolishness. 23 The heart of the wise one gives his mouth insight And adds persuasiveness to his speech. [End Quotation]
This basic truth is often repeated in the Bible.
[Quotation] Psalm 1.1 through 3: Happy is the man who does not walk according to the advice of the wicked And does not stand on the path of sinners And does not sit in the seat of scoffers. 2 But his delight is in the law of Jehovah, And he reads His law in an undertone day and night. 3 He will be like a tree planted by streams of water, A tree that produces fruit in its season, The foliage of which does not wither. And everything he does will succeed. [End Quotation]
[Quotation] Isaiah 26.3: You will safeguard those who fully lean on you; You will give them continuous peace, Because it is in you that they trust. [End Quotation]
[Quotation] Jeremiah 17.7 and 8: Blessed is the man who puts his trust in Jehovah, Whose confidence is in Jehovah. 8 He will become like a tree planted by the waters, That sends out its roots to the stream. He will not notice when heat comes, But his leaves will always flourish. And in the year of drought he will not be anxious, Nor will he quit producing fruit. [End Quotation]
[Quotation] 1 John 3.22: and whatever we ask we receive from him, because we are observing his commandments and doing what is pleasing in his eyes. [End Quotation] [End of reference material]
[Reference Material] Apply yourself to reading and teaching. Study 8. Illustrations That Teach.
[Quotation] Matthew 13.34 and 35: All these things Jesus spoke to the crowds by illustrations. Indeed, without an illustration he would not speak to them, 35 in order to fulfill what was spoken through the prophet who said: “I will open my mouth with illustrations; I will proclaim things hidden since the founding.” [End Quotation]
Summary: Enhance your teaching with simple illustrations that appeal to your listeners and teach important points.
[Press play below for Video: Study 8. Illustrations That Teach. (6:04)]
[Click for Transcript]|[Study 8 Illustrations that Teach]
(Apply Yourself to Reading and Teaching: 8 Illustrations that Teach. Matthew 13.34 and 35)
(Text: Summary: Enhance your teaching with simple illustrations that appeal to your listeners and teach important points)
Presenter: Illustrations are powerful teaching tools. They help to explain complex ideas. They also stimulate thinking and can break down prejudice. Illustrations stir emotions and appeal to the heart. They’re also memory aids. It’s no wonder, then, that Jesus made good use of them.
(Text: How to do it: Choose simple illustrations. Keep your listeners in mind. Teach the main point)
Here are three things that will make your illustrations effective: Select simple illustrations, choose them with your listeners in mind, and use them to teach the points that are truly important. Listen to the following illustration and see if it’s effective.
(A brother presents a talk. Silhouette of audience)
Brother: Furthermore, the world is passing away and so is its desire, but the one who does the will of God remains forever.” If the world is passing away and life in this system of things is temporary, shouldn’t that affect how we use our time and energy? For example, imagine you’re going on a seven-day, European cruise. The ports of call are Lisbon, Gibraltar, Barcelona, Monte Carlo, Florence, and Rome. Because the ship will have many activities, you’ve chosen an inside cabin. Although the room is nicely decorated, it’s not exactly your taste. For example, you don’t like the brightly colored carpet and walls that are common on many cruise ships. Also, the bedspread and curtains are not what you would’ve chosen. You have a refrigerator in the room, but it’s small. Would you spend time redecorating the room, maybe put down a new carpet, paint the room a different color, hang new curtains, or purchase a larger refrigerator? Of course not! Your stay is only temporary. Similarly, our stay in this system of things is only temporary. Does it make sense that we would spend time and energy to make our life as comfortable as possible?" Presenter: Although this illustration made a good point, was it as effective as it could have been? Was it simple?
(Text: Review: Choose simple illustrations)
Well, was it necessary for the audience to know the reason for the trip, how long the cruise was, or the cities where the ship was stopping? No. These details actually complicated the illustration. Here’s something else:
(Text: Keep your listeners in mind)
Did the speaker have his listeners in mind? Probably few in his audience have taken a cruise, so it would be hard for them to identify with the situation. Therefore, the point of the illustration could be lost, or their minds might be diverted to the speaker rather than his message. How might the speaker have illustrated the same point more effectively? Let’s watch him try again.
(The brother presents a talk. Silhouette of audience)
Brother: Furthermore, the world is passing away and so is its desire, but the one who does the will of God remains forever.” If the world is passing away and our life in this system of things is temporary, shouldn’t that affect how we use our time and energy? For example, imagine that you’re visiting relatives in another village for a few days. They kindly give you a room. However, the bed is not as comfortable as yours. The walls could use a few more pictures, and there’s no window. Would you purchase a larger bed for your stay and some pictures for the walls? Or would you take time to install a window? Of course not! You’re only staying a few days. We might relocate the chairs and tables and a few simple things to make our surroundings more comfortable during our temporary stay, but we would not go to great effort or expense to redecorate the entire room. In like manner, we keep matters simple during our temporary residency in this old system, giving our main focus to Kingdom interests.
(Text: Review: Choose simple illustrations. Keep your listeners in mind)
Presenter: Jesus’ illustrations were simple. For example: The Kingdom of the heavens is like leaven that a woman took and mixed with three large measures of flour until the whole mass was fermented. It’s just one sentence about baking bread, a situation familiar to his audience. This simplicity made Jesus’ illustrations appeal to the heart. Jesus also used illustrations to teach main points, not minor details. So, use illustrations selectively. If you were to use an illustration to teach a minor detail, your audience may remember the illustration but not the point of instruction.
(Text: How to do it: Teach the main point)
How can you find appropriate illustrations? Be observant. Look at the world around you, study our Christian publications, and listen to skilled teachers. Some experienced teachers save illustrations in a file to use later. If you want to teach like Jesus, enhance your teaching with simple illustrations that appeal to your listeners and that teach main points.
(Text: Apply Yourself to Reading and Teaching: 8 Illustrations that Teach. Matthew 13.34 and 35)
(Logo: Black capital letters JW.ORG inside a white box. Copyright 2019 Watchtower Bible and Tract Society of Pennsylvania) [Click to close]
How to Do It: Choose simple illustrations. Like Jesus, use little things to explain big things, and easy things to explain difficult things. Do not add needless details that complicate the illustration. Make sure that the features of your illustration really apply to the lesson you are teaching so that your listeners are not distracted by mismatched elements.
Tip: Be observant. Look at the world around you, study Christian publications, and listen to skilled teachers. As you do so, take note of illustrations you can use to enhance your teaching. Save these illustrations in a file.
Keep your listeners in mind. Select illustrations that involve activities and interests of your listeners. Be careful that your illustrations will neither embarrass nor offend them.
Teach the main point. Focus on illustrating main points, not minor details. Ensure that your listener will remember not merely the illustration but also the point of instruction. [End of Reference Material]
Living as Christians Song 32 Take Sides With Jehovah! Based on Exodus 32.26
1. Once with confusion our sad hearts were filled,
Drinking the cup false religion distilled;
But with what happiness our hearts were thrilled
When of God’s Kingdom we heard.
Take sides with Jehovah; Make him your delight.
He’ll never forsake you; Walk on in his light.
Tell, tell the glad tidings Of freedom and peace.
His rule by Christ Jesus Will ever increase.
2. Shoulder to shoulder we stand on God’s side,
Preaching the news of his Kingdom earth wide.
Now is the time for each one to decide,
Time to take sides with our God.
Take sides with Jehovah; Make him your delight.
He’ll never forsake you; Walk on in his light.
Tell, tell the glad tidings Of freedom and peace.
His rule by Christ Jesus Will ever increase.
3. We will not fear what the Devil can do.
Trusting Jehovah will carry us through.
Though they are many and though we are few,
God is our strength and our might.
Take sides with Jehovah; Make him your delight.
He’ll never forsake you; Walk on in his light.
Tell, tell the glad tidings Of freedom and peace.
His rule by Christ Jesus Will ever increase.
[End of Song. Press Play below to play this song with Audio Description]
7. Local Needs (15 minutes)
8. Congregation Bible Study (30 minutes)
“Bearing Thorough Witness” About God’s Kingdom, chapter 27 paragraphs 10 through 18
[Press play below for the audio of the Congregation Bible Study]
“It Is Spoken Against Everywhere” (Acts 28.16 through 22)
[Click to read scripture]|[Acts 28.16 through 22] When finally we entered Rome, Paul was permitted to stay by himself with the soldier guarding him. 17 However, three days later he called together the principal men of the Jews. When they had assembled, he said to them: “Men, brothers, although I had done nothing contrary to the people or the customs of our forefathers, I was handed over as a prisoner from Jerusalem into the hands of the Romans. 18 And after making an examination, they wanted to release me, for there were no grounds for putting me to death. 19 But when the Jews objected, I was compelled to appeal to Caesar, but not because I had any accusation to make against my nation. 20 So for this reason I asked to see and speak to you, for it is because of the hope of Israel that I have this chain around me.” 21 They said to him: “We have not received letters about you from Judea, nor have any of the brothers who came from there reported or spoken anything bad about you. 22 But we think it proper to hear from you what your thoughts are, for truly as regards this sect, we know that it is spoken against everywhere.” [End of scripture] [Click to close]
Question 10. What were Paul’s circumstances in Rome, and what did the apostle do soon after his arrival?
10. When the band of travelers finally entered into Rome, “Paul was permitted to stay by himself with the soldier guarding him.” (Acts 28.16) For those in light custody, security against escape usually called for a chain that bound the prisoner to his guard. Even so, Paul was a Kingdom proclaimer, and a chain certainly could not silence him. Hence, after giving himself just three days to recover from the journey, he called together the principal men of the Jews in Rome in order to introduce himself and give a witness.
Question 11 and 12. When speaking to his fellow Jews, how did Paul attempt to break down any prejudice they may have had?
11. “Men, brothers,” said Paul, “although I had done nothing contrary to the people or the customs of our forefathers, I was handed over as a prisoner from Jerusalem into the hands of the Romans. And after making an examination, they wanted to release me, for there were no grounds for putting me to death. But when the Jews objected, I was compelled to appeal to Caesar, but not because I had any accusation to make against my nation.”
[Quotation] Acts 28.17 through 19: However, three days later he called together the principal men of the Jews. When they had assembled, he said to them: “Men, brothers, although I had done nothing contrary to the people or the customs of our forefathers, I was handed over as a prisoner from Jerusalem into the hands of the Romans. 18 And after making an examination, they wanted to release me, for there were no grounds for putting me to death. 19 But when the Jews objected, I was compelled to appeal to Caesar, but not because I had any accusation to make against my nation. [End Quotation]
12. By addressing his Jewish listeners as “brothers,” Paul tried to establish common ground with them and break down any prejudice they may have had.
[Quotation] 1 Corinthians 9.20: To the Jews I became as a Jew in order to gain Jews; to those under law I became as under law, though I myself am not under law, in order to gain those under law. [End Quotation]
Also, he made it clear that he was there, not to point an accusing finger at his fellow Jews, but to appeal to Caesar. Paul’s appeal, however, was news to the local Jewish community.
[Quotation] Acts 28.21: They said to him: “We have not received letters about you from Judea, nor have any of the brothers who came from there reported or spoken anything bad about you. [End Quotation]
Why this apparent lapse in communication on the part of the Jews in Judea? One reference work states: “Paul’s ship must have been among the first that arrived in Italy after the winter, and representatives of the Jewish authorities in Jerusalem could not have arrived, nor could a letter about the case.”
Question 13 and 14. How did Paul introduce the Kingdom theme, and how can we imitate his example?
13. Paul now introduced the Kingdom theme by way of a statement that was sure to arouse the curiosity of his Jewish guests. He said: “For this reason I asked to see and speak to you, for it is because of the hope of Israel that I have this chain around me.” (Acts 28.20) That hope, of course, was bound up in the Messiah and his Kingdom, as proclaimed by the Christian congregation. “We think it proper to hear from you what your thoughts are,” replied the Jewish elders, “for truly as regards this sect, we know that it is spoken against everywhere.” (Acts 28.22)
14. When we have the opportunity to share the good news, we can imitate Paul by using thought-provoking statements or questions to arouse the interest of our listeners. Excellent suggestions can be found in such publications as Reasoning From the Scriptures, Benefit From Theocratic Ministry School Education, and Apply Yourself to Reading and Teaching. Are you making good use of these Bible study aids?
“Bearing Thorough Witness”. A Model for Us (Acts 28.23 through 29)
[Click to read scripture]|[Acts 28.23 through 29] They now arranged for a day to meet with him, and they came in even greater numbers to him in his lodging place. And from morning to evening, he explained the matter to them by bearing thorough witness concerning the Kingdom of God, to persuade them about Jesus from both the Law of Moses and the Prophets. 24 Some began to believe the things he said; others would not believe. 25 So because they disagreed with one another, they began to leave, and Paul made this one comment: “The holy spirit aptly spoke through Isaiah the prophet to your forefathers, 26 saying, ‘Go to this people and say: “You will indeed hear but by no means understand, and you will indeed look but by no means see. 27 For the heart of this people has grown unreceptive, and with their ears they have heard without response, and they have shut their eyes, so that they might never see with their eyes and hear with their ears and understand with their heart and turn back and I heal them.”’ 28 So let it be known to you that this salvation from God has been sent out to the nations; they will certainly listen to it.” 29. [End of scripture] [Click to close]
Question 15. What four things stand out concerning Paul’s witness?
15. On the chosen day, the local Jews “came in even greater numbers” to Paul’s lodging place. Paul explained matters to them “from morning to evening ... by bearing thorough witness concerning the Kingdom of God, to persuade them about Jesus from both the Law of Moses and the Prophets.”
[Quotation] Acts 28.23: They now arranged for a day to meet with him, and they came in even greater numbers to him in his lodging place. And from morning to evening, he explained the matter to them by bearing thorough witness concerning the Kingdom of God, to persuade them about Jesus from both the Law of Moses and the Prophets. [End Quotation]
Four things stand out in regard to Paul’s witness. First, he focused on God’s Kingdom. Second, he tried to appeal to his listeners by using persuasion. Third, he reasoned from the Scriptures. Fourth, he showed a selfless attitude, witnessing “from morning to evening.” What a fine example for us! The result? “Some began to believe,” while others would not. Dissension ensued, and the people “began to leave,” reports Luke.
[Quotation] Acts 28.24 and 25: Some began to believe the things he said; others would not believe. 25 So because they disagreed with one another, they began to leave, and Paul made this one comment: “The holy spirit aptly spoke through Isaiah the prophet to your forefathers, [End Quotation]
Question 16 through 18. Why was the negative response of the Roman Jews no surprise to Paul, and how should we feel when our message is rejected?
16. This response was no surprise to Paul, for it harmonized with Bible prophecy and followed a pattern with which he was familiar.
[Quotation] Acts 13.42 through 47: Now when they were going out, the people pleaded with them to speak about these matters on the following Sabbath. 43 So after the synagogue assembly was dismissed, many of the Jews and the proselytes who worshipped God followed Paul and Barnabas, who, as they spoke to them, urged them to remain in the undeserved kindness of God. 44 The next Sabbath nearly all the city gathered together to hear the word of Jehovah. 45 When the Jews saw the crowds, they were filled with jealousy and began blasphemously contradicting the things Paul was saying. 46 Then Paul and Barnabas boldly said to them: “It was necessary for the word of God to be spoken first to you. Since you are rejecting it and do not judge yourselves worthy of everlasting life, look! we turn to the nations. 47 For Jehovah has commanded us in these words: ‘I have appointed you as a light of nations, for you to be a salvation to the ends of the earth.’” [End Quotation]
[Quotation] Acts 18.5 and 6: When, now, both Silas and Timothy came down from Macedonia, Paul began to be intensely occupied with the word, witnessing to the Jews to prove that Jesus is the Christ. 6 But after they kept on opposing him and speaking abusively, he shook out his garments and said to them: “Let your blood be on your own heads. I am clean. From now on I will go to people of the nations.” [End Quotation]
[Quotation] Acts 19.8 and 9: Entering the synagogue, for three months he spoke with boldness, giving talks and reasoning persuasively about the Kingdom of God. 9 But when some stubbornly refused to believe, speaking injuriously about The Way before the crowd, he withdrew from them and separated the disciples from them, giving talks daily in the school auditorium of Tyrannus. [End Quotation]
Hence, to his unreceptive departing guests, Paul said: “The holy spirit aptly spoke through Isaiah the prophet to your forefathers, saying, ‘Go to this people and say: “You will indeed hear but by no means understand, and you will indeed look but by no means see. For the heart of this people has grown unreceptive.”’”
[Quotation] Acts 28.25 through 27: So because they disagreed with one another, they began to leave, and Paul made this one comment: “The holy spirit aptly spoke through Isaiah the prophet to your forefathers, 26 saying, ‘Go to this people and say: “You will indeed hear but by no means understand, and you will indeed look but by no means see. 27 For the heart of this people has grown unreceptive, and with their ears they have heard without response, and they have shut their eyes, so that they might never see with their eyes and hear with their ears and understand with their heart and turn back and I heal them.”’ [End Quotation]
The original-language term rendered “unreceptive” indicates a heart that was “thickened,” or “fattened,” thus preventing the Kingdom message from penetrating it. What a tragic situation!
17. Unlike his Jewish listeners, “the nations ... will certainly listen,” said Paul in closing.
[Quotation] Acts 28.28: So let it be known to you that this salvation from God has been sent out to the nations; they will certainly listen to it.” [End Quotation]
[Quotation] Psalm 67.2: So that your way may be known throughout the earth, Your acts of salvation among all the nations. [End Quotation]
[Quotation] Isaiah 11.10: In that day the root of Jesse will stand up as a signal for the peoples. To him the nations will turn for guidance, And his resting-place will become glorious. [End Quotation]
Indeed, the apostle could speak with authority on that subject, for he had personally seen many Gentiles respond to the Kingdom message!
[Quotation] Acts 13:48: When those of the nations heard this, they began to rejoice and to glorify the word of Jehovah, and all those who were rightly disposed for everlasting life became believers. [End Quotation]
[Quotation] Acts 14.27: When they had arrived and had gathered the congregation together, they related the many things God had done by means of them, and that he had opened to the nations the door to faith. [End Quotation]
18. Like Paul, let us not take it personally when people reject the good news. After all, we know that comparatively few will find the road to life.
[Quotation] Matthew 7.13 and 14: “Go in through the narrow gate, because broad is the gate and spacious is the road leading off into destruction, and many are going in through it; 14 whereas narrow is the gate and cramped the road leading off into life, and few are finding it. [End Quotation]
Moreover, when rightly disposed ones do take a stand for true worship, let us rejoice and welcome them with an open heart.
[Quotation] Luke 15.7: I tell you that in the same way, there will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over 99 righteous ones who have no need of repentance. [End Quotation]
Song 68 Sowing Kingdom Seed. Based on Matthew 13.4 through 8
1. Come share in the work of our Master;
Respond to his call and obey.
He offers to help and to guide you;
His teaching will show you the way.
The seed of the truth has power to grow
In hearts that are honest and true.
So give of your best as you faithfully share
In the work you’ve been given to do.
2. How much of your work is successful
May often depend much on you.
Those hearing will need your assistance
To learn and to love what is true.
So help them to deal with pressures and doubts
They’re certain to face on their way.
The seed of the truth will bring joy when you see
How it grows in their heart day by day.
[End of Song. Press Play below to play this song with Audio Description]
