JW Watchtower Study: Recent Episodes
Andrew Dag
“Jehovah is a God who requires exclusive devotion.”—NAH. 1:2.
HOW WOULD YOU ANSWER? What does it mean to give Jehovah exclusive devotion?
How is our devotion to God affected by our attitude toward riches?
How is our devotion to God affected by our choice of entertainment?
“God . . . energizes you, giving you both the desire and the power to act.”—PHIL. 2:13.
HOW WOULD YOU ANSWER? How does Jehovah equip us to serve him?
Which person’s example described in this article especially appeals to you, and why?
What desire are young brothers encouraged to develop?
“Love Jehovah, all you who are loyal to him! Jehovah protects the faithful.”—PS. 31:23.
WHAT HAVE YOU LEARNED ABOUT . . . the destruction of “Babylon the Great”?
the need to keep upholding true worship?
the need to strengthen our loyalty, endurance, and courage?
“Be steadfast, immovable, always having plenty to do in the work of the Lord.”—1 COR. 15:58.
WHAT HAVE YOU LEARNED ABOUT . . . the proclamation of “peace and security”?
the urgency of the Kingdom-preaching and disciple-making work?
how to stay clear of false religious organizations?
“Look! a great crowd, which no man was able to number, . . . standing before the throne and before the Lamb.”—REV. 7:9.
HOW WOULD YOU ANSWER? What misconceptions about the great crowd were corrected in 1935?
How has the great crowd proved to be truly great in size?
What evidence do we have that Jehovah is gathering a diversified great crowd?
“Come to me, all you who are toiling and loaded down, and I will refresh you.”—MATT. 11:28.
HOW WOULD YOU ANSWER? How do we “come to” Jesus?
Why is the work that Jesus has given us to do refreshing?
How can we continue to find refreshment under Jesus’ yoke?
“Should we not more readily submit ourselves to the Father?”—HEB. 12:9.
HOW WOULD YOU ANSWER? Why might it be a challenge to submit to Jehovah?
In what ways can elders, fathers, and mothers submit to Jehovah?
What will be the result if we continue to submit to Jehovah?
“They gathered them together to . . . Armageddon.”—REV. 16:16.
HOW WOULD YOU ANSWER? What are some of the main events that will lead up to Armageddon?
Why will the proclamation of “peace and security” be a dangerous lie?
How can we remain faithful to Jehovah as Armageddon draws near?
“Jehovah . . . takes note of the humble.”—PS. 138:6.
HOW WOULD YOU ANSWER? What is humility?
Why should we cultivate humility?
What situations can test our humility?
“God is not unrighteous so as to forget your work and the love you showed for his name.”—HEB. 6:10.
HOW WOULD YOU ANSWER? What can help us to deal with a change of assignment?
How can we help others who have received a new assignment?
How can we keep moving forward in Jehovah’s service?
“Pay constant attention to yourself and to your teaching. Persevere in these things, for by doing this you will save both yourself and those who listen to you.”—1 TIM. 4:16.
HOW CAN YOU SHOW THE FOLLOWING QUALITIES WHEN DEALING WITH YOUR RELATIVES? Empathy
Patience
Tact
“This is what I continue praying, that your love may abound still more and more.”—PHIL. 1:9.
HOW WOULD YOU ANSWER? What are some of “the more important things”?
How can we “be flawless”?
How can we “be filled with righteous fruit”?
“Therefore, we do not give up.”—2 COR. 4:16.
HOW WOULD YOU ANSWER? How does Paul’s example motivate us to press on with our eyes on the goal?
How can we continue running in the race for life in spite of postponed expectations, declining strength, and long-lasting trials?
What moved Paul to exert himself vigorously?
“I have become all things to people of all sorts, so that I might by all possible means save some.”—1 COR. 9:22.
HOW WOULD YOU ANSWER? How can we maintain a positive attitude in our ministry?
How might we reach the hearts of nonreligious people?
Why should we share the truth with everyone we meet?
“Go, therefore, and make disciples of people of all the nations.”—MATT. 28:19.
HOW WOULD YOU ANSWER?
Why is disciple-making important?
Who is involved in making disciples?
Why does disciple-making require patience?
“We cannot stop speaking about the things we have seen and heard.”—ACTS 4:19, 20.
HOW WILL THE FOLLOWING SCRIPTURES HELP YOU TO KEEP WORSHIPPING JEHOVAH WHEN UNDER BAN? Leviticus 26:36, 37
Psalm 39:1
2 Chronicles 32:7, 8
“All those desiring to live with godly devotion in association with Christ Jesus will also be persecuted.”—2 TIM. 3:12.
WHAT DO THESE VERSES TEACH YOU ABOUT PREPARING FOR PERSECUTION? Psalm 116:1, 2
2 Chronicles 20:15
1 Peter 3:14
“All of you have unity of mind, fellow feeling, brotherly affection, tender compassion, and humility.”—1 PET. 3:8.
HOW WOULD YOU ANSWER? What can we learn from the way that Jehovah helped Lot and Job?
What does Naomi’s experience teach us?
How can we give support to those who no longer have a marriage mate?
“I am . . . under great stress.”—1 SAM. 1:15.
HOW WOULD YOU ANSWER? What can we learn from the way Jehovah helped Elijah to cope with stress?
What do three Bible examples show us about coping with stress?
What steps can we take to cope with stress?
“We are overturning reasonings and every lofty thing raised up against the knowledge of God.”—2 COR. 10:5.
HOW WOULD YOU ANSWER? What twofold action is set out at Romans 12:2?
Changing our dominant mental attitude involves what three things?
How can we apply the counsel found at Colossians 2:6, 7?
“Look out that no one takes you captive by means of the philosophy and empty deception according to human tradition.”—COL. 2:8.
WHAT TACTICS HAS SATAN USED TO . . . blur people’s view of Jehovah?
appeal to immoral desires?
appeal to natural desires?
STUDY ARTICLE 22
Improve Your Study Habits! “Make sure of the more important things.”—PHIL. 1:10.
HOW WOULD YOU ANSWER? Why is it important to learn how to study?
What is the connection between our theme text, Philippians 1:10, and our need for personal study?
How can you develop an interest in a Bible subject?
STUDY ARTICLE 21
Do Not Be Fooled by “the Wisdom of This World” “The wisdom of this world is foolishness with God.”—1 COR. 3:19.
CAN YOU RECALL? Why is the world’s view of morality foolishness with God?
How does the Bible’s view of sexual morality dignify humans?
How does the Bible help us to have a balanced view of ourselves?
STUDY ARTICLE 20
Providing Comfort for Victims of Abuse (Part 4 of 4) “The God of all comfort . . . comforts us in all our trials.”—2 COR. 1:3, 4.
HOW WOULD YOU ANSWER? Why may those who endured child abuse need comfort even years later?
Who may provide comfort to those in need?
What are effective ways to offer comfort?
STUDY ARTICLE 19
Love and Justice in the Face of Wickedness (Part 3 of 4) “You are not a God who takes pleasure in wickedness; no one bad may remain with you.”—PS. 5:4.
HOW WOULD YOU ANSWER? Why is child abuse a grave sin?
When they handle instances of serious wrongdoing, what concerns do elders have?
How can parents protect their children from abuse?
STUDY ARTICLE 18
Love and Justice in the Christian Congregation (Part 2 of 4) “Go on carrying the burdens of one another, and in this way you will fulfill the law of the Christ.”—GAL. 6:2.
STUDY ARTICLE 18
Love and Justice in the Christian Congregation (Part 2 of 4) “Go on carrying the burdens of one another, and in this way you will fulfill the law of the Christ.”—GAL. 6:2.
STUDY ARTICLE 17
Accept Jehovah’s Help to Resist Wicked Spirits “We have a struggle . . . against the wicked spirit forces in the heavenly places.”—EPH. 6:12.
HOW WOULD YOU ANSWER? How do wicked spirits mislead people?
How does Jehovah help us resist wicked spirits?
What blessings come from resisting wicked spirits?
STUDY ARTICLE 16
Uphold the Truth About Death “We distinguish the inspired statement of truth from the inspired statement of error.”—1 JOHN 4:6.
HOW WOULD YOU ANSWER? How does knowing the truth about the dead comfort us?
What harm has resulted from Satan’s lies about death?
How may we uphold the truth about death?
STUDY ARTICLE 15
Imitate Jesus and Remain at Peace “The peace of God that surpasses all understanding will guard your hearts.”—PHIL. 4:7.
WHAT ROLE DO THE FOLLOWING PLAY IN OUR MAINTAINING INNER PEACE? Prayer
Preaching
Friends
STUDY ARTICLE 14
Are You Fully Accomplishing Your Ministry? “Keep preaching the good news, fully accomplish your ministry.”—2 TIM. 4:5, ftn.
HOW WOULD YOU ANSWER? Why should we want to accomplish our ministry fully?
How can we keep our life simple and make the ministry our priority?
How can we improve our skills in the ministry?
STUDY ARTICLE 13
Show Fellow Feeling in Your Ministry “He was moved with pity for them . . . And he started to teach them many things.”—MARK 6:34.
HOW WOULD YOU ANSWER? Why is it important for us to show fellow feeling in our ministry?
What example did Jesus set in showing fellow feeling in his ministry?
What are some practical ways that we can show fellow feeling in our preaching work?
STUDY ARTICLE 12
Show Concern for the Feelings of Others “All of you have . . . fellow feeling.”—1 PET. 3:8.
HOW WOULD YOU ANSWER? How has Jehovah shown concern for the feelings of others?
How did Jesus show concern for the feelings of others?
How can we show fellow feeling?
STUDY ARTICLE 11
Listen to Jehovah’s Voice “This is my Son . . . Listen to him.”—MATT. 17:5.
EXPLAIN WHAT YOU HAVE LEARNED FROM JEHOVAH’S WORDS FOUND AT . . . Mark 1:11
Matthew 17:5
John 12:28
STUDY ARTICLE 10
What Prevents Me From Getting Baptized? “Philip and the eunuch went down into the water, and he baptized him.”—ACTS 8:38.
HOW WOULD YOU ANSWER? What do we gain by getting baptized?
What challenges do some face?
What will help us to succeed in serving Jehovah?
STUDY ARTICLE 9
Love and Justice in Ancient Israel (Part 1 of 4) “He loves righteousness and justice. The earth is filled with Jehovah’s loyal love.”—PS. 33:5.
HOW DOES THE MOSAIC LAW REVEAL: Jehovah’s love for his people?
Jehovah’s love of justice?
Jehovah’s view of vulnerable ones?
STUDY ARTICLE 8
Why Express Appreciation? “Show yourselves thankful.”—COL. 3:15.
HOW WOULD YOU ANSWER? Why should we express appreciation to others?
What Bible examples show genuine appreciation in action?
How can we show heartfelt appreciation today?
STUDY ARTICLE 7
Seek Meekness and Please Jehovah “Seek Jehovah, all you meek ones of the earth . . . Seek meekness.”—ZEPH. 2:3. WHAT DID YOU LEARN ABOUT MEEKNESS FROM . . . Moses?
Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah?
Jesus?
Keep Your Integrity! “Until I die, I will not renounce my integrity!”—JOB 27:5.
HOW WOULD YOU ANSWER? What is integrity?
Why do you need integrity?
How can you strengthen yourself to keep your integrity?
What Our Attendance at Meetings Says About Us “Keep proclaiming the death of the Lord, until he comes.”—1 COR. 11:26.
SONG 18 Grateful for the Ransom
HOW DOES OUR ATTENDANCE AT CONGREGATION MEETINGS SHOW . . . humility?
courage?
love?
SONG 126 Stay Awake, Stand Firm, Grow Mighty
What a Simple Meal Teaches Us About a Heavenly King “This means my body. . . . This means my ‘blood of the covenant.’”—MATT. 26:26-28.
SONG 16 Praise Jah for His Son, the Anointed
HOW WOULD YOU ANSWER? What does the Memorial meal teach us about Jesus’ outstanding humility?
How did Jesus display immense courage just after instituting the Lord’s Evening Meal?
In what way did Jesus show exceptional love by this simple arrangement?
SONG 13 Christ, Our Model
How Can You Safeguard Your Heart? “Above all the things that you guard, safeguard your heart.”—PROV. 4:23.
SONG 36 We Guard Our Hearts
HOW WOULD YOU ANSWER? What can the term “heart” mean?
How does Satan try to infect our heart?
To safeguard our heart, to what should we close it and to what should we open it?
SONG 54 “This Is the Way”
Praise Jehovah in the Congregation “In the midst of the congregation I will praise you.”—PS. 22:22.
SONG 59 Praise Jah With Me
CAN YOU ANSWER? What are some reasons why we comment at meetings?
How can we cope with our fear of commenting?
What are some tips to help us give encouraging comments?
SONG 2 Jehovah Is Your Name
“Do Not Be Anxious, for I Am Your God” “Do not be afraid, for I am with you. Do not be anxious, for I am your God. I will fortify you, yes, I will help you.”—ISA. 41:10.
HOW DO THESE ASSURANCES FROM JEHOVAH STRENGTHEN YOU? “I am with you.” “I am your God.” “I will fortify you [and] help you.”
Young Ones, You Can Have a Satisfying Life “You make known to me the path of life.”—PS. 16:11.
SONGS: 133, 89
HOW CAN PSALM 16 HELP YOU TO . . . make Jehovah your “portion”?
choose good friends and set worthwhile goals?
cultivate a love for what is good and a hatred for what is bad?
Young Ones, Your Creator Wants You to Be Happy “He satisfies you with good things all your life.”—PS. 103:5.
SONGS: 135, 39
HOW WOULD YOU ANSWER? Why is there “no wisdom . . . in opposition to Jehovah”?
Why should you recognize your spiritual need?
What other “good things” does Jehovah give you, and how do you view them?
Honor “What God Has Yoked Together” “What God has yoked together, let no man put apart.”—MARK 10:9.
SONGS: 131, 132
HOW WOULD YOU ANSWER? Jehovah and Jesus share what view about marriage?
What is the only Scriptural basis for divorce, but why might some decide not to divorce?
One who is considering separation should weigh what advice?
“See You in Paradise!” “You will be with me in Paradise.”—LUKE 23:43.
SONGS: 145, 139
HOW WOULD YOU ANSWER? How did God’s dealings with Abraham suggest a future paradise?
Regarding prophecies in Isaiah, what suggests that there will yet be a greater fulfillment?
What indicates that Jesus and the criminal next to him did not go to Paradise on the day that they died?
Are You Making Jehovah’s Thoughts Your Own? “Be transformed by making your mind over.”—ROM. 12:2.
SONGS: 56, 123
CAN YOU EXPLAIN? How are Bible study and meditation related to making Jehovah’s thoughts our own?
Jehovah’s thinking should have what effect on our actions?
How can meditating on God’s thoughts help us with future decisions?
Who Molds Your Thinking? “Stop being molded by this system of things.”—ROM. 12:2.
SONGS: 88, 45
CAN YOU ANSWER? Why is Jehovah’s thinking beneficial for us?
Why is Jehovah’s thinking superior to the ideas and values of this world?
To avoid being molded by this system, what must we do?
Trust in Jehovah and Live! “Trust in Jehovah with all your heart, and do not rely on your own understanding.”—PROV. 3:5.
SONGS: 3, 8
DO YOU REMEMBER? Why can we tell Jehovah our concerns?
What should our prayers include?
Why is waiting on Jehovah so important?
“I Will Walk in Your Truth” “Instruct me, O Jehovah, about your way. I will walk in your truth.”—PS. 86:11.
SONGS: 31, 72
HOW WOULD YOU ANSWER? What could cause a Christian to “sell” the truth?
How can we avoid either drawing away from or drifting away from the truth?
What are three ways that we can strengthen our resolve to walk in the truth?
“Buy Truth and Never Sell It” “Buy truth and never sell it, also wisdom and discipline and understanding.”—PROV. 23:23.
SONGS: 94, 96
CAN YOU EXPLAIN? How can we buy truth from Jehovah?
Describe five things that may be included in the price we have to pay for obtaining truth.
How valuable should the truth be to us?
Maintain Inner Peace Despite Changing Circumstances “I have calmed and quieted my soul.”—PS. 131:2.
SONGS: 128, 129
DO YOU RECALL? How can “the peace of God” help us in times of change?
How can we imitate Joseph’s example when our circumstances unexpectedly change?
What important lesson can we learn from Philip the evangelizer?
Put Trust in Our Active Leader—The Christ “Your Leader is one, the Christ.”—MATT. 23:10.
SONGS: 16, 14
DO YOU RECALL? What trustworthy leadership was given to God’s people in Joshua’s day?
What do we learn from the way Christ led the first-century congregation?
What reasons do we have for trusting in Christ’s leadership today?
Be Considerate and Kind in Imitation of Jehovah “Happy is anyone who shows consideration to the lowly one.”—PS. 41:1.
SONGS: 130, 107
IN WHAT WAYS SHOULD WE SHOW CONSIDERATION . . . in the family?
in the congregation?
in the field ministry?
Almighty yet Considerate “[Jehovah] well knows how we are formed, remembering that we are dust.”—PS. 103:14.
SONGS: 30, 10
WHAT CAN WE LEARN FROM THE CONSIDERATE WAY THAT JEHOVAH . . . helped young Samuel?
commissioned Moses to lead Israel?
led Israel out of Egypt and through the Red Sea?
Happy Are Those Who Serve “the Happy God” “Happy is the people whose God is Jehovah!”—PS. 144:15.
SONGS: 44, 125
HOW WOULD YOU ANSWER? What is fundamental to true happiness?
What qualities help us to be happy?
How can we be happy though enduring difficulties?
Keep Displaying Love—It Builds Up “Love builds up.”—1 COR. 8:1.
SONGS: 109, 121
HOW WOULD YOU ANSWER? Why do we need to build up our brothers and sisters?
How do Jehovah and Jesus build us up in love?
What can we do to strengthen others?
“If You Know These Things, Happy You Are if You Do Them” “My food is to do the will of him who sent me and to finish his work.”—JOHN 4:34.
SONGS: 80, 35
HOW MIGHT YOU IMITATE . . . the humility of Paul and Barnabas?
the unselfish spirit of Epaphras?
King David’s self-restraint when provoked by Shimei?
Work With Jehovah Each Day “We are God’s fellow workers.”—1 COR. 3:9.
SONGS: 64, 111
WHAT OPPORTUNITIES DO YOU HAVE TO WORK WITH JEHOVAH . . . by assisting your family and fellow worshippers?
by being hospitable?
by volunteering and by expanding your service?
Generous Givers Are Happy People “There is . . . happiness in giving.”—ACTS 20:35.
SONGS: 76, 110
HOW WOULD YOU ANSWER? Why can we say that humans were made to be generous?
What is the connection between generosity and happiness in the preaching work?
What Scriptural reasons do we have for being generous?
Let God’s Laws and Principles Train Your Conscience “I ponder over your reminders.”—PS. 119:99.
SONGS: 127, 88
HOW WOULD YOU ANSWER? How can your conscience serve as a moral compass?
Why is it important that we grow to love God’s laws?
How is our progress toward maturity related to our conscience?
May We All Be One as Jehovah and Jesus Are One “I make request . . . that they may all be one, just as you, Father, are in union with me.”—JOHN 17:20, 21.
SONGS: 24, 99
HOW WOULD YOU ANSWER? What sort of prejudices did Jesus’ early disciples have to overcome?
What first-century examples prove that people can overcome disunity?
What can we do to promote more unity among God’s people today?
“My Kingdom Is No Part of This World” “For this I have come into the world, that I should bear witness to the truth.”—JOHN 18:37.
SONGS: 15, 74
HOW WOULD YOU ANSWER? How did Jesus show that he had no interest in political movements?
What balanced position on taxation did Jesus recommend?
What is the Christian’s position on the use of violence?
Why We “Keep Bearing Much Fruit” “My Father is glorified in this, that you keep bearing much fruit and prove yourselves my disciples.”—JOHN 15:8.
SONGS: 53, 60
HOW WOULD YOU ANSWER? What Scriptural reasons do we have to keep on preaching?
Why is it important to keep clearly in mind why we preach?
How are we helped to endure in our preaching work?
Jehovah Loves Those Who “Bear Fruit With Endurance” “As for that on the fine soil, these are the ones who . . . bear fruit with endurance.”—LUKE 8:15.
SONGS: 68, 72
CAN YOU EXPLAIN? Why may we feel discouraged when preaching in less responsive territories?
Why can all of us have a fruitful ministry?
What will help us to keep bearing fruit with endurance?
Young People, Are You Focused on Spiritual Goals? “Commit to Jehovah whatever you do, and your plans will succeed.”—PROV. 16:3.
SONGS: 135, 144
HOW WOULD YOU ANSWER? How can young ones benefit from applying Proverbs 16:3?
What goals can young people work toward?
What will help youths not to be distracted?
Encourage One Another “All the More So” “Let us consider one another . . . , encouraging one another, and all the more so as you see the day drawing near.”—HEB. 10:24, 25.
SONGS: 90, 87
HOW WOULD YOU ANSWER? Why did the apostle Paul use the expression “all the more so” when he instructed Christians to encourage one another?
Who are in need of encouragement today?
Who can encourage fellow Christians?
Imitating Jehovah—A God Who Gives Encouragement “Praised be the God . . . who encourages us in all our trials.”—2 COR. 1:3, 4, ftn.
SONGS: 7, 3
HOW WOULD YOU ANSWER? How has Jehovah proved to be a God who gives encouragement?
How did Jesus show himself to be encouraging?
How did the apostles encourage their brothers?
Serve Jehovah, the God of Freedom “Where the spirit of Jehovah is, there is freedom.”—2 COR. 3:17.
SONGS: 49, 73
HOW WOULD YOU ANSWER? In what ways has Jehovah’s spirit liberated us?
How can we avoid misusing our God-given freedom?
What can we do to make wise use of our freedom?
The Way to True Freedom “If the Son sets you free, you will be truly free.”—JOHN 8:36.
SONGS: 54, 36
CAN YOU EXPLAIN? What is relative freedom?
How was true freedom lost?
What freedom did Jesus promise, and how can we gain it?
“Listen to Discipline and Become Wise” “My sons, . . . listen to discipline and become wise.”—PROV. 8:32, 33.
SONGS: 56, 89
HOW WOULD YOU ANSWER? In what ways does Jehovah patiently teach us self-discipline?
How can parents raise their children in the discipline of Jehovah?
How can we benefit fully from any Scriptural discipline we may receive in the Christian congregation?
Discipline—Evidence of God’s Love “Those whom Jehovah loves he disciplines.”—HEB. 12:6.
SONGS: 123, 86
HOW WOULD YOU ANSWER? What has Shebna’s experience taught you about God’s discipline?
When giving discipline, how can we imitate Jehovah and his Son?
We can view discipline as preparing us for what?
The Delightful Course of Hospitality—So Needed! “Be hospitable to one another without grumbling.”—1 PET. 4:9.
SONGS: 100, 87
HOW DO YOU FEEL ABOUT . . . the need for hospitality within the congregation?
opportunities we have to extend hospitality?
overcoming barriers to extending hospitality?
Parents, Are You Helping Your Child Progress to Baptism? “Why are you delaying? Rise, get baptized.”—ACTS 22:16.
SONGS: 51, 135
HOW CAN THESE VERSES HELP PARENTS ASSIST THEIR CHILDREN TO PROGRESS TO BAPTISM? Colossians 1:9, 10
Ecclesiastes 12:1
James 4:17
Baptism—A Requirement for Christians “Baptism . . . is also now saving you.”—1 PET. 3:21.
SONGS: 52, 41
WHAT DO WE LEARN ABOUT BAPTISM FROM THE FOLLOWING SCRIPTURES? 1 Peter 3:20, 21
Matthew 28:19, 20
Acts 22:16
Move Forward as a Spiritual Person! “Keep walking by spirit.”—GAL. 5:16.
SONGS: 22, 75
CAN YOU EXPLAIN? What might we consider when analyzing our spirituality?
What do we need to do to move forward as a spiritual person?
How will having the mind of Christ affect your daily life?
What Does It Mean to Be a Spiritual Person? “May [God] grant you to have among yourselves the same mental attitude that Christ Jesus had.”—ROM. 15:5.
SONGS: 17, 13
HOW WOULD YOU ANSWER? How can we identify a spiritual person?
What can we learn from exemplary spiritual people?
Why should we strive to have “the mind of Christ”?
Do You Know Jehovah as Did Noah, Daniel, and Job? “Evil men cannot understand justice, but those who seek Jehovah can understand everything.”—PROV. 28:5.
SONGS: 126, 150
HOW WERE FAITH AND GODLY WISDOM SHOWN BY . . . Noah?
Daniel?
Job?
Imitate the Faith and Obedience of Noah, Daniel, and Job “Noah, Daniel, and Job . . . would be able to save only themselves because of their righteousness.”—EZEK. 14:14.
SONGS: 89, 119
IN WHAT WAYS WILL YOU TRY TO IMITATE THE FAITH OF . . . Noah?
Daniel?
Job?
See the Difference in People “You will . . . see the distinction between a righteous person and a wicked person.”—MAL. 3:18.
SONGS: 127, 101
HOW MAY WE IMPROVE IN . . . the way we view ourselves?
the way we relate to others?
the way we strive to improve our personality?
What Kind of Love Brings True Happiness? “Happy is the people whose God is Jehovah!”—PS. 144:15.
SONGS: 111, 109
HOW WOULD YOU ANSWER? How can we avoid loving ourselves excessively?
Why are lovers of money not truly happy?
How might we evaluate our pursuit of pleasure?
Why Give to the One Who Has Everything? “O our God, we thank you and praise your beautiful name.”—1 CHRON. 29:13.
SONGS: 80, 50
WHAT DO YOU THINK? Why does Jehovah expect us to use our valuable things to give back to him?
How did faithful ones in the past support the activities of Jehovah’s representatives financially?
How does the organization use the money that is donated today?
Pleasant Unity and the Memorial “How good and how pleasant it is . . . to dwell together in unity!”—PS. 133:1.
SONGS: 18, 14
HOW DOES THE MEMORIAL . . . benefit us personally?
influence the unity of God’s people?
motivate us to promote unity?
“He Gives Power to the Tired One” Our yeartext for 2018: “Those hoping in Jehovah will regain power.”—ISA. 40:31.
SONGS: 3, 47
WHAT BEARING DO THESE SCRIPTURES HAVE ON OUR YEARTEXT? Isaiah 40:26
Matthew 11:28-30
2 Corinthians 12:9, 10
Young Ones—“Keep Working Out Your Own Salvation” “Just as you have always obeyed, . . . keep working out your own salvation with fear and trembling.”—PHIL. 2:12.
SONGS: 133, 135
HOW WOULD YOU ANSWER? Although baptism is a serious step, why should it not be feared or avoided?
How can you work out your own salvation?
Why do you treasure your dedication to Jehovah?
Parents—Help Your Children Become “Wise for Salvation” “From infancy you have known the holy writings, which are able to make you wise for salvation.”—2 TIM. 3:15.
SONGS: 141, 134
WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO . . . know the holy writings?
be persuaded to believe?
become wise for salvation?
“I Have Hope Toward God” “The last Adam became a life-giving spirit.”—1 COR. 15:45.
SONGS: 151, 147
HOW WOULD YOU ANSWER? How does Psalm 118 bear out that a resurrection can occur long after being foretold?
How did Psalm 16:10 find fulfillment?
What does the Bible indicate would happen regarding the resurrection during Christ’s presence?
“I Know He Will Rise” “Our friend has fallen asleep, but I am traveling there to awaken him.”—JOHN 11:11.
SONGS: 142, 129
HOW WOULD YOU ANSWER? What Bible accounts gave Martha confidence in the resurrection?
How can we be sure that there is a basis for a future resurrection?
Like Martha, what joyful event are you looking forward to?
Let Nothing Deprive You of the Prize “Let no man deprive you of the prize.”—COL. 2:18.
SONGS: 122, 139
HOW DO YOU ANSWER? How can we protect ourselves against the enticement of immoral desires?
How can love and kindness protect us from being deprived of the prize?
How can we win the prize as a family?
Reject Worldly Thinking “Look out that no one takes you captive by means of the philosophy and empty deception . . . of the world.”—COL. 2:8.
SONGS: 38, 31
HOW DO YOU ANSWER? What loving counsel did the apostle Paul give about worldly thinking?
What is an example of worldly thinking, and how can we reject it?
How has the information in this article helped you?
Imitate Jehovah’s Justice and Mercy “Judge with true justice, and deal with one another in loyal love and mercy.”—ZECH. 7:9.
SONGS: 125, 88
CAN YOU EXPLAIN? How may we imitate Jehovah’s mercy when others need our forgiveness?
How do we show that we share Jehovah’s view of life?
How should elders reflect divine justice when judging cases of wrongdoing?
Are You Taking Refuge in Jehovah? “Jehovah is redeeming the life of his servants; none of those taking refuge in him will be found guilty.”—PS. 34:22.
SONGS: 8, 54
WHAT DOES THE ARRANGEMENT OF CITIES OF REFUGE TEACH YOU ABOUT . . . the role of the elders in helping a person recover from a serious sin? the need to take decisive action to benefit from God’s mercy? the completeness of Jehovah’s forgiveness?
Make a Joyful Sound! “It is good to sing praises to our God.”—PS. 147:1.
SONGS: 10, 2
HOW WOULD YOU ANSWER? What role does singing play in true worship?
How can you overcome obstacles and sing praises to Jehovah with feeling?
What improvements have been made in the new songbook, and how can you make the best use of it?
Chariots and a Crown Safeguard You “It will occur—if you do not fail to listen to the voice of Jehovah your God.”—ZECH. 6:15.
SONGS: 61, 22
HOW WOULD YOU ANSWER? Of what does Zechariah’s final vision assure God’s people?
How do the two copper mountains and the chariots provide encouragement for us?
How do you feel about the greatest building work going on today?
Visions of Zechariah—How They Affect You “Return to me, . . . and I will return to you.”—ZECH. 1:3.
SONGS: 89, 86
HOW WOULD YOU ANSWER? How does Jehovah view any kind of stealing? How can we live up to our dedication to God “day after day”? How can we do our part in keeping wickedness out of Jehovah’s house?
The Truth Brings, “Not Peace, But a Sword” “Do not think I came to bring peace to the earth; I came to bring, not peace, but a sword.”—MATT. 10:34.
SONGS: 123, 128
HOW WOULD YOU ANSWER? What is the “sword” that Jesus said he would bring? How can you maintain your loyalty to Jehovah if your relatives oppose true worship? What can help you to cope if a family member leaves Jehovah?
“The Word of God . . . Exerts Power” “The word of God is alive and exerts power.”—HEB. 4:12.
SONGS: 96, 94
HOW CAN YOU UNLEASH THE POWER OF GOD’S WORD . . . in your personal life? in the ministry? when teaching from the platform?
“The Word of Our God Endures Forever” “The green grass dries up, the blossom withers, but the word of our God endures forever.”—ISA. 40:8.
HOW HAS GOD’S WORD ENDURED . . . changes in language? political developments? opposition to translation?
Imitate Jehovah’s Compassion “Jehovah, Jehovah, a God merciful and compassionate.”—EX. 34:6.
HOW WOULD YOU ANSWER? Why can it sometimes be a challenge to show compassion? How does Jehovah teach his people to manifest compassion? In what circumstances can you exercise the godly quality of compassion?
Cultivate Self-Control “The fruitage of the spirit is . . . self-control.”—GAL. 5:22, 23.
HOW WOULD YOU ANSWER? What should we learn from God’s reaction to rebellion? What are some Bible examples of self-control and a lack of it? How can Bible study help us to cultivate the godly quality of self-control?
How We Put On and Keep On the New Personality “Clothe yourselves with the new personality.”—COL. 3:10.
HOW WOULD YOU ANSWER? What aspect of the new personality greatly contributes to our unity? In what ways can we display compassion and kindness? How can we demonstrate humility and mildness?
How We Strip Off and Keep Off the Old Personality
“Strip off the old personality with its practices.”—COL. 3:9.
HOW WOULD YOU ANSWER? What makes our worldwide brotherhood unique?
What are some practices that must be put away and kept away?
How can we strip off and keep off the old personality?
“The Peace of God . . . Surpasses All Understanding” “The peace of God that surpasses all understanding will guard your hearts.”—PHIL. 4:7.
HOW WOULD YOU ANSWER? What lessons do we learn from what happened to the apostle Paul in Philippi? What Scriptural examples prove that Jehovah can do the unexpected? How can we with full confidence retain “the peace of God”?
Are You Willing to Wait Patiently? “You too exercise patience.”—JAS. 5:8. SONGS: 114, 79
HOW WOULD YOU ANSWER? What is involved in being patient? What helped men and women of old to be willing to wait on Jehovah? How have both Jehovah and Jesus shown a willingness to wait?
“May He . . . Give Success to All Your Plans” “Find exquisite delight in Jehovah, and he will grant you the desires of your heart.”—PS. 37:4.
SONGS: 135, 81
WHAT DO YOU THINK? What plans can lead to a happy future for you? What does sharing in full-time service teach a young person? What could a life in the pioneer service lead to?
“Praise Jah!”—Why? “Praise Jah! . . . How pleasant and fitting it is to praise him!”—PS. 147:1.
SONGS: 59, 3
HOW DOES PSALM 147 HELP YOU TO . . . appreciate Jehovah’s personal interest in you? have confidence that God will rescue you? see how Jehovah sustains his people with his Word?
“Weep With Those Who Weep”
“Keep encouraging one another and building one another up.”—1 THESS. 5:11.
DO YOU RECALL?
How does Jehovah provide consolation?
Which scriptures can comfort the bereaved?
How can the congregation provide comfort to those who are mourning?
Seeking Riches That Are True
“Make friends for yourselves by means of the unrighteous riches.”—LUKE 16:9.
SONGS: 122, 129
CAN YOU EXPLAIN? How can material possessions be used to strengthen our friendship with God?
How can we avoid becoming slaves of today’s commercial world?
Why are you determined to seek spiritual riches?
Uphold Jehovah’s Sovereignty!
“You are worthy, Jehovah our God, to receive the glory and the honor and the power, because you created all things.”—REV. 4:11.
SONGS: 12, 150
HOW WOULD YOU ANSWER? Why is Jehovah the rightful Sovereign of the universe?
Why is Jehovah’s rulership the best possible?
How can we uphold Jehovah’s sovereignty now?
Keep Your Eyes on the Big Issue
“May people know that you, whose name is Jehovah, you alone are the Most High over all the earth.”—PS. 83:18.
SONGS: 9, 22
WHAT HAVE YOU LEARNED? Why is the vindication of Jehovah’s sovereignty an important issue facing mankind?
How did Job’s integrity under trial support Jehovah’s sovereignty; yet, in what way did Job fall short?
What are some important ways that we show support for Jehovah’s sovereignty?