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Post by Admin on Jul 24, 2013 23:47:47 GMT -5
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Post by Admin on Jul 24, 2013 23:50:43 GMT -5
Chairman's Address: How do we know God's Word is Truth? (1 Thess 2: 13)Truth, like our Creator never changes. (Ps 31: 5, Mal 3:6) No one, not even Satan, can change the truth. (2 Cor 13:8). What does change is our perception of the truth as light is progressively revealed in the bible (see Proverbs 4:18 (Dan 12:4). Jehovah the God of Truth as a loving Creator and caring Father Jehovah has provided his word the Bible as the only message that is in fact Communication from him (Math 6:9). How do we know the bible is the word of God?[1] Matthew 5: 45: It reflects his impartiality by being available to all peoples; More than 6 billion copies 2,400 different languages. [2] Exodus 3: 15, 16: It bears the hallmarks of the Divine Name Jehovah [3] Scientifically and historically accurate (Job 26: 3, Isaiah 40: 22, Nums 19: 13, Ecc 1: 7 ) [4] Accuratte prophecy- Destruction of Babylon
- Destruction(s) of Jerusalem
- The appearance of the Messiah (Daniel 9)
- The last days since 1914 (Matthew 24; 2 Tim 3: 1 - 5
[4] The Practicality: How to live and enjoy life (overcome family, racial and social problems)1 Thess 2: 3
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Post by Admin on Jul 24, 2013 23:51:47 GMT -5
SYMPOSIUM How did you learn the truth? [1] Informal Witnessing: "if opporutunity doesn't Knock, build a door" so create opportunities. Jesus did not hesistate to informal witness (John Chapter 4) - Use Every possible Opportunity (Eccle 11: 6)
- Use Tools and suggestions (see KM Aug 2004 p. 2) (Eccle 11: 6)
- Pray: Prayer turns hopes into realities
Demonstration Sister in Hospital Waiting room (2 Cor 1: 3, 4)[2] Raised by Christian Families: Parents have a responsibility to make disciples of their Children (Mat 28: 19, 20). In order to be truly happy and have happy and successful lives need moral and spiritual instructions. Being raised in the truth is NOT a disadvantage. Jesus himself was "raised in the truth" (Prov 8: 22). It is a privilege and a blessing from Jehovah. Proverbs 10: 22 explains spiritual prosperity without painful conséquences is the guarantee for those that follow the path of righteousness. - Good spiritual routine
- wholesome recreation
- Good example
Interview of a Sister raised in the truth Skit: Father uses nature to teach his sonCONCLUDING COMMENTS "God thinking must be evident in the family if children are to make God's thinking their own" Eph 6:4 Parents must inclucate (teach by repetition until it is fixed firmly in mind). Efforts must be consistent and not sporadic. Don't harvest your neighbours field neglecting your own, "parents seize every opporutunity to teach your children" [3] Formel Witnessing: Making a systematic search for every person that lives in our territory (house to house, return visits, bible studies). Informal witnessing does not replace these time honoured tested methods. This method reflects Jehovah's fairness (Acts 20: 20; Math 10: 11) - Use appropriate greetings (Matthew 10: 12)
- Show warmth
- Use the traing Tools
- Use the bible
- Be inpartial
- Don't overlook minorities (deaf,immigrants)
Interview of a Sister contacted in the door-to-door ministry CONCLUDING COMMENTS Have specific goals (one nice person each week). Formal Witnessing works! [4] Relatives: Cornelius spoke about the truth to his relatives [Acts 10: 24] Reaching the hearts of Unbelieving Relatives [w14 3/15 p. 3]- Never give up
- Respect your relatives opinions (col 6:4)
- Don't be "preachy"
- Be patient and don't overwhelm with information
- Be a good example of Christian Living
- Pray
Interview of a Brother who came in the truth by means of his wife (15 years later)CONCLUDING COMMENTS Have specific goals (one nice person each week). Formal Witnessing works [5] Publications : Our publications unlike many in the world are valuable (Ecc). Watchtower society publication provide lifesaving spiritual food, they help interested one to get to know Jehovah and help Christians strengthen their faith. Millions have come to see the value of the bible by their positive influence and clear publications in our own language. The Witness website is being used to present literature in over 430 languages. [/i] Reenactment of a publishers morning in the ministry[li]Offers bible Teach book at the door[/li] [li]Magazines at a petrol stations[/li] [li]Shows a video to a Young person (uses tablet)[/li][/ul] CONCLUDING COMMENTS The Etheopian eunich appreciated Philips biblical explanations. The "faithful and discrete slave" the publications are the principle means by which explanations are provided. Make the best possible use of them. The angels assist us but we must do our part.( Rev 14:6) [6] By searching for God: People of all ages are unknowingly or knowingly "seeking" to satisfy their spiritual need through seminars, university courses, book stores, mediation and different groups as well as various religions. Only the fine pearl of the truth can however, produce satisfying results. [/i] [li]Ask pertinent questions in the ministry[/li] [li]Reach out to healthworkers, members of the military, youths...[/li] [li]Shows a video to a Young person (uses tablet)[/li][/ul] Demonstration of Witnesses that do / do not approach a new one visiting the Kingdom Hall for the first timeCONCLUDING COMMENTS The Etheopian eunich appreciated Philips biblical explanations. The "faithful and discrete slave" the publications are the principle means by which explanations are provided. Make the best possible use of them. The angels assist us but we must do our part.( Rev 14:6)
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Post by Admin on Jul 24, 2013 23:52:04 GMT -5
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Post by Admin on Jul 24, 2013 23:52:38 GMT -5
While the ransom is God's greatest gift to all mankind, how has Jehovah shown his love specifically to his own people? By giving us the truth. True love is associated with truth which is a source of rejoicing (1 Cor 13:6). For example the clearer understanding over the circumcission issue lead to much peace and joy (see Acts 15: 28, 29), indeed new understanding was a source for joy for the first century congregation which lead to many benefits in faith and in increase(Acts 15: 30, 31; Acts 16: 4, 5). Today we to benefit from increased understanding [/u] [li]1896 - Hell is not a place of torment [/li] [li]1912 - The hope of a paradise eath [/li] [li]1935 - Great Crowd identified (John 10: 16) [/li] [/ul] Sanctified by the Truth (John 17: 17, 19)The bible is the basis of our worship. When we apply righteous principles in our lives we are sancified (set us apart/make holy) we are postively changed free from bloodguilt. The publication of the NWT (1951)lead to greater understanding of important issues. - 1952 (?) - Understanding of Rom 13 (Superior authorties)
- 1971 - Theocratically appointed body of Elders
- 1921/1939 - Understanding of neutrality (Micah 4:3)
- 1973 - Use of tobacco
Interview of how a brother responded to theocratic changes (Superior authorities & relative subjection) Benefits comes from knowing and applying the truth?- Freedom from ignorance, superstition, fear, sin and death
- We remain spiritually clean and free from bloodguilt
- Increasing light from Jehovah continues to illuminate and refine our lives
- We enjoy a spiritual feast
CONCLUDING COMMENTS: We belong to a progressive organization and we should expect new understandings of the truth which are indeed an expression of love (Psalms 97: 11).
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Post by Admin on Jul 24, 2013 23:55:50 GMT -5
**(Release: Online Research Guide)**[/b] << Temple of Artimus >>The Pillar of the truthPaul speaks of the "congregation of God" being a pillar of the truth (1 Tim 3: 15). The truth refers to the entire body of Christian teachings that have become part of the written word of God, including the good news of the kingdom. The congregation of God "holds" it up by preserving its purity and defending and upholding it in an immoral world. The support of the Christian congregation transports lifegiving waters, advancing kingdom interests is its priority. How does the congregation support the truth by (a) Stands as a wall/ defense against false teachings (b) by advancing kingdom interests by spreading the good news. Adjustments to Advance Kingdom Interests
In the first century the congregation made whatever adjustments necessary to advance kingdom interests. For example in there were adjustments in administrative matters and the results were positive Acts 6:7. Organisational Refinesments [10]- The publication of the Study Edition of the Watchtower
- Monthly public Issues -leading to more time to be comfortable présentations)
- Reduction of the Public edition - facilitating translation
- January 2009 Family Worship Evening - More time for personal study (Have we responded to this loving adjustments
- Possibility for pioneers to attend school twice
- Bible schools (Christian couples, single brothers, gilead ...)
- Greater use of Audio visual material (benefits for youths, deaf...)
- Redesigned Website - One third of the earths populations use net
- Special Metropolitan Witness programs
- Research Guide for Jehovah's Witnesses (cd-rom/online version in English) 150 languages rather than the current 55
How can we personally support the truth?- wholeheatedly cooperating: "A progessive spirit will help us to adjust" (Ezekiel Chapter 1)
- Maintaining fine conduct:2 Cor 4: 2 shows we have a personal responsibility to "recommend ourselves" by our fine conduct (We might for example use the Tools to research subject such as dress and grooming and choice of entertainment (1 Tim 2: 9, 10)
- Zealously preaching - by being skilled in our ministry
CONCLUSION How thankful we are to be used by Jehovah to support the truth.
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Post by Admin on Jul 24, 2013 23:56:08 GMT -5
Jesus promised his followers the holy spirit, the "spirit of the truth". Do we appreciate the role of the spirit in our lives The roles of the holy spirit- It is our "helper" (John 14: 16)ftn parakalete gr. someone called in to help in a time of distress or trouble (compare Acts 4: 29, 31; Eph 3: 20). When overwhelmed with anxiety or facing a personal decision, pour out your concerns to Jehovah and He will "superabundantly" make us equal to any challenge we may be facing
- It is our "teacher" The holy spirit will teach us what we need to know to accomplish our ministry. (compare Exodus 35: 31, 34) Holy spirit enhances, instructs and gives the ability to teach effectively. (Act 2)
- Helps us "remember" (John 14: 26b) Example the Aposle's gospel 65 years after the events. The Holy spirit will help us after we have read. It will not implant thoughts we have not put there so we must meditate2 Pet 3: 1, 2
- It is a guide (John 16: 13) Like a map, we need to consider it and follow its direction. Example Paul guided or prevented from certain areal. Are we sensitive to the guidence of holy spirit in areas of employment, friends, marriage mate... We may not have time to recover from bad décisions where we ignored the HS's guidance.
- List item 5
[/i][/ul]
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Post by Admin on Jul 24, 2013 23:56:34 GMT -5
[1] Alienation from God : We were all born slaves of sin and death. Many today see no need and have no desire to break free from this world thoughts and desires. Hope come through the ransom and become a friend of God and enjoy a relative freedom(Romans 5:10). Obtaining freedom James 1: 25 refers to "the perfect law that belongs to freedom", this refers to everything that Jehovah requires of us. Just as we don't complain about being oppressed by the physical laws this perfect law allows us to satisfy our proper desires without encroaching on the rights of others. It leads to freedom from being dominated by sin and it's conséquences(John 8: 32; Psalms 34:8) [2]A Bad Conscience : The inherent inner sense of right and wrong (Romans 2:14, 15). Some have dulled or rendered their conscience insensitive while otheres are moved by it to learn about Jehovah God (see Acts 2: 37, 41). Today some recognize the need to reject wrong practises but only Jehovah's people are set free from a "wicked " or bad conscience (Heb 10:22) Interview of two Brother whose consciences were bothered by their lifestyles even before coming to know Jehovah - What kind of worldly lifestyle were you enslaved to?
- Where you happy with this way of life?
- What moved you to change?
- How can you compare your previous lifestyle to this one ?
- What freedoms have you enjoyed?
CONCLUDING COMMENTS We must hold a good conscience if we are enjoy friendship with God - 1 Peter 3: 16[3] From False beliefs: Satan wants people to be duped by his lies (2 Thess 2:9). We have been freed from lies such as, the Immortality of the soul, evolution, the Trinity ( Ecc 9:5, 1Tim 2:5) Demonstration: Sister witnessing to a trinityCONCLUDING COMMENTS All are encouraged to continue to learn the truth.(Phil 1:9) [4] Bad habits: A harmful routine or practise that enslaves people. - Pray for Jehovah's help
- Replace negative traits with postives ones (Gal 5: 23, 24).
- Enlist the help of others (Iron sharpens Iron)
- Imitate the faith of those that have successfully overcome bad habits
Interview two brothers that have overcome their bad habits- What kind bad habits did you have?
- What movtivated you to change?
- How can you compare your previous lifestyle to this one ?
- What would you say to people presently struggling with bad habits?
CONCLUDING COMMENTS: The key is love for Jehovah, he will help you (1 Jh 5: 19). [5] Hopelessness : Hope changes the way we feel about life often despite our circumstances and is a vital protection for Christians. The in vain turns to politics, science and humanitarian endevors. Mankind cannot solve the problem for two reasons a) Jeremiah 10: 23 b) 1 John 5: 19(compare Eph 2: 12) [/i] CONCLUDING COMMENTS All true Christians have been set free from hopelessness. May each and every one of us hold fast to the truth that sets us free from hopelessness [6] Bad Association : "I have learned from life that whether for good or for bad we share the values and goals of our associates" states one sister. This reflects Proverbs 13: 20. In the bible the term stupid is applied to those that ignore the bible's Wise counsel. The example of Pilate shows that sincerity is not always enough to counteract the peer pressure that often comes into play to do wrong (compare Luke 23). The truth gives us the conviction to turn from wrong. [/i] - What was your association like before you came in the truth?
- Did this association benefit you in life?
- What contrast have you experienced now in the congregation?
- How have you benefited from this fine association?
CONCLUDING COMMENTS The positive influence of the congregation "incite" one another to fine works and enjoy an international family. Always remember who you are and what you stand for and you will, with Jehovah's help be able to control your life instead of let others control it for us. Keep in mind the value of the congregation the "treasure" we have in each other.
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Post by Admin on Jul 25, 2013 0:05:29 GMT -5
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Post by Admin on Jul 25, 2013 0:13:20 GMT -5
- Luke 13: 4 tragedy is not a punishment for sin
- Jehovah doesn't have to explain everything he allows
- While we may not be shielded from tragedy, the faithful are never forgotten
- Spiritual protection is a guarantee (Psalms 91)
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Post by Admin on Jul 25, 2013 0:13:23 GMT -5
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Post by Admin on Jul 25, 2013 0:15:35 GMT -5
[/u]
[li]True Christians always have a choice because we have Jehovah[/li] [li]We must not sell truth buy buying into the notion that money guarantees security[/li] [li]Working abroad can cost a family dear[/li]
[/ul]
CONCLUDING COMMENTS Bother the rich young ruler and the apostle Paul faced comparable “purchase” decisions. ‘Should I pursue wealth and position? Or follow the Christ?’ Paul is now ruling with Christ in heaven. What happened to that rich ruler and all that were his? Who made the better choice? Even if have made some poor choices in the past, it’s not hopeless. Jesus told Laodiceans they needed to “buy” refined gold, eye salve – tested quality of faith and spiritual eye-sight. It may take several wise “purchases” to regain treasure you once sold, but be decisive! Act today! Jehovah will bless all your efforts to “buy truth”!
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Post by Admin on Jul 25, 2013 11:56:28 GMT -5
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Post by Admin on Jul 25, 2013 11:57:00 GMT -5
God's word is the source of inspired truth but 1 John 4:6 (Compare Rev 16: 13, 14). How do we distinguish between the two? By "gaining the knowledge of God" in a continuous action of gaining understanding. Examples of "inspired error" are all around: For example the political propaganda that proposes that politicians can solve mankind's problems. The religious lie that "suffering is God's Will" and any other numbe of unbiblical philosophy - example Elaphaz (Job 4: 18) Jehovah's people are not immune to Satan's propaganda . - Higher Education is the key to happiness (1 Tim 4:1, Math 5: 3, w05 10/1 p.29 par. 12)
- Jehovah can never forgive me for my sins (Isaiah 1: 18)
- Viewing pornography is harmless fun (Romans 12:9)
** Release **
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Post by Admin on Jul 25, 2013 11:57:50 GMT -5
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