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Post by Admin on Nov 4, 2017 5:30:32 GMT -5
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Post by Admin on Nov 4, 2017 5:39:38 GMT -5
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Post by Admin on Nov 4, 2017 5:42:06 GMT -5
9:40 SONG 77: The Divine Pattern of Love Opening Prayer 9:50 Why Is It Difficult to Do What Is Fine?It often difficult to do what is fine, but what is good is better for us than taking the easier route. Who decides what is "fine"? Should we just be content to follow the majority consensus or popular opinion? Most people advocate tolerance but tolerance has a limit; standards are a protection and should be respected for society to function. Who in a family established the standards, the children or the family head? In the same way the Creator has the right to establish what is appropriate behavior Jehovah's standards - are always reaosnablefor us as they are always benefiticial for us - accessible to us all - are always beneficial. We read “So let us not give up in doing what is fine, for in due time we will reap if we do not tire out.” - Galatians 6:9But why is it difficult to do what is fine? For three reason: [1] Satan like a roaring lion, does all he can to make respecting Jehovah's standards difficult (1 Pet 5:8). His tactics worked on Eve, t and many others but not on the Apostles and the first century Christians who obeyed God rather than man despite the pressures. [2] The world, through its publicity, propaganda and other means attempts to mold our thinking, andthus control our actions through entertainment and the advertising industries. However it is possible to conquer the spirit of this world (we have many biblical examples such as Enoch). [3] Our own imperfections ( Rom. 7:21-23). Does the above mean it is impossible to do what is fine? No. Paul went on to say he could be victorious "thanks to God" (Rom 7: 24-25). This assembly will help us to improve in our resolve to respect Jehovah's standards. Brief overview of program and review questions
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Post by Admin on Nov 4, 2017 6:08:38 GMT -5
9:40 SYMPOSIUM: Avoid Sowing to the Flesh - “the one sowing with a view to his flesh will reap corruption” - Galatians 6:8INTRODUCTION: When faced with temptation, do we fight it or do we give in. There is a basic acrigricultural principlal in nature we reap what we sow. Paul applied this principle to our conduct; all acts have consequences ( Gal 6:8). Thinking we can avoid the consequences of our actions effectively results in "mocking God" - like sowing tomatoe seeds and hoping to reap bananas ( Gal 6:7). Take for example like a young who secretly views sexually charged material - compare Mat 5:28 . We will look at four areas where we need to be careful not to sow with a view to the flesh if we want to grow spiritually. PART 1 Use Social Media Wisely Social Media can be very useful however we have to recognize the dangers ( Pro 22:3 ); just a beautiful snow can hide hidden rocks so social media sites can hold hidden potential dangers. - Time management: Overuse of social medial can steal our time. One practical measure is to set a limit on the time we spend on such sites with a timer and disconnect after having spent our allotted time.
- Presumtiousness: Another danger could be violating the privacy of others by posting pictures and comments about them without permission. ( Prov 11:2 ) Also we could lack modesty , assuming everyone is as facinatied with every detail of our lives as we are ( Rom 12:3).
- Bad asscoiation: We should also be aware of the dangers of bad association . Ask yourself would I associate with these people in the real world. Manyhide who they wreally are so we must be careful who we allow to connect with us (see Psalm 26:4)
- become familiar with the privacy settings - avoid any leaving comments that defend witnesses we might find ourselves communicating with apostates or disfellowshipped ones Demonstration: Two sisters discuss negative commments about the witnesses on the internet. They reason that its best not to respond and let wisdom is proved as righteous by our works Matthew 11CONCLUSION Be smart about social media, there is no need to avoid it altogether but avoid the dangers. Avoid media
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Post by Admin on Nov 4, 2017 6:13:07 GMT -5
9:40 SYMPOSIUM: Avoid Sowing to the Flesh ... PART 2 of 4: Choose Wholesome Entertainment - w17 5/15 p. 25 par 14Entertainment and recreation can be positive and refreshing but as Christians we must be selective because much of today's entertainment is degrading, violent and encourages sexual immorality and negative behaviour ( Col 3:6,8 ). - Avoid bad association: We should ask ourselves: what sort of people and what kind of activities are featured in the tv programs and the moves I watch? The influence can be as if we do indeed "associate" with such ones (Prov 13:20).
- Plan ahead: Our hearts and minds can be influenced by unscriptural ideas so like a farmer preparing his field and selecting his seeds and making countless other decisions, we must use forethought and make a conscious decision of what we chose to watch. Use websites that review material so we can make wise decisions (Prov 10:23). Watching programs that glorifys illicit sex can weaken our resolve to do what is right, watching violent entertainment can desenticize our heart to the suffering of others, watching entertianment with spiritistic themes can attract us to things Jehovah hates; these things can mold us rather than help us develop the Christian personality.
Demonstration: Two young brother's reason on an entertainment choice ("Fleshly & Deadly") - Keep entertainment in its proper place. Like a good dessert it should be a supplement, to our lives but should not dominate our lives (1 Cor 6:12 ).
- Parents get involved have the obligation to provide appropriate balanced and wholesome entertainment (Pro 29:15 ). Monitor what your children are looking at on their tablets and telephone when you are not with them. Be careful and be involved with your children's entertainment.
- Be balanced: Too much time spent passively watching tv and movies can promote laziness.
CONCLUSION: If we take our faith seriously and protect our hearts and minds from corrupting influences we will enjoy a good conscience and the peace of God and have the hope of everlasting life (( Phil 4:8,9 ).
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Post by Admin on Nov 4, 2017 7:06:08 GMT -5
9:40 SYMPOSIUM: Avoid sowing to the flesh ... PART 3 of 4 Fight the Spirit of Envy ( Jam 4:5 ) Envy is dangerous and erodes our spiritual qualities no matter how many positive qualities we have and can ultimately completely destroy us. What is the difference between envy and jealousy; the jealous person wants what others have, the envious person wants to deprive others what they have. Neither emotion should have a place in a Christian heart but since we are imperfect we must battle to maintain a Christian view ( Rom 12:15). We can be helped by examining warning and positive examples in the scritpure. - Cain was envious of his brother and this lead to violence. Jehovah told him to turn from bad and do good (Gen 4:6, 7 )
- do good to others helps counteract envy - Asaph needed to adjust his thinking finding himself envious of the wicked (Ps 73:15)
- seek wholesome upbuilding association
- draw close to Jehovah (Gal 5:19 ) - The religious leaders envied the position that Jesus had with the people. They viewed jesus as competition.
- we are in a race for life not in a race or a competition with our brothers and sisters
Demonstration: Young pioneer couple speak about another pioneer couple that have comfortable lifestyle. They decide to contemplate their own privileges of service instead of being envious of others. CONCLUSION
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Post by Admin on Nov 4, 2017 7:06:39 GMT -5
9:40 SYMPOSIUM: Avoid Sowing to the Flesh ... PART 4 of 4: Invest in a Secure Future - What kind of investing are we talking about? We are talking about investing our time and our energy - what we devote ourselves to . Granted most of us have to uses a large preporortion of our time and energy to provide for ourselves and our family but to have more than a the basics we need to invest wisely
- what is the source of a truly secure future? God' kingdom" is the only source of a truly secure future for only this can provide us with ever lasting life. Jesus encouraged us to put kingdominterest first in our lives and Mat 5:12-14 ) and encouraged us to store us treasures in heaven Mat 6:19-20). Investing in this commerical system is investing without security run by Satan.
- How can we invest in a secure future? By puting the kingdom first in our lives especially in the kingdom preaching if we do we will have a fine foundation for the future 1 Tim 6:18, 19)
Interview: Sister burdened by needless material pursuits. CONCLUSION We are every day faced with choices regarding education, use of free time, employment so let us put the kingdom first and invest in the real life. 11:05 Song No. 45 and Announcements
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Post by Admin on Nov 4, 2017 7:07:01 GMT -5
11:15 Keep working good towards allTHEME : “Let us work what is good towards all, especially those related to us in the faith” - Gal 6:10 In the world we live in today genuine acts human kindness are so rare they makes a real impression. The bible encourages Christians to " work good towards all" and this for as long as it is possible ( Gal 6:10 compare Mat 22:36) We understand that good works are essential if we are to please Jehovah, ineed he views it as " lending" to him ( Prov 19:17) lending to Jehovah we imitate who lends to wicked
i) Our Neighbours: Showing true love means acting mercifully. Mercy is not only the withholding "consideration that brings relief or assistance to others" this would include helping them material needs that arise as a result of illness, natural desaster or a financial setback. We should be mindful of the need to provide food, clothing and other practical material aid (Jam 2:16 ). The primary way to "work good" to help others is to teach them the truth (see series "Teach the truth" (Workbook) provides techniques; also midweek meeting) We must always be gracious no bible truth can help our neighbour if we provide it in an untactful way, "seasoned with salt" (Col 4:6)
ii) Our family members Are we fully satisfying our family's spiritual needs? This world and its attitudes is destructuve to the family. Are we taking full addvantage of a family worship evening to strengthen our familiy bond of love. We should say something encouraging each moring to our children before they face the challenges at school and communicate more frequently and more tenderly our love and appreciation to our mates? Could we do this every singel day?
iii) Our spiritual brothers and sisters: Why not make a point of giving specific commendation to our elderly ones, single parents. We can provide practical help to our brothers and sisters? can we also share with new ones or those outside our close firends and associates.
How do we benefit if we work "good towards others"?- We please God Heb 13:16 - We are happy Act 20:35 CONCLUSION: Let us use the opportunity to work what is good towards all in good works in a practical way or giving attention to our family that confirms our love for them and builds them up or giving loving commendation to our spiritual brothers and sisters and sharing the good news that cn mean everlasting life to the listening. With all such sacrifices Jehovah is well pleased.
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Post by Admin on Nov 4, 2017 7:16:23 GMT -5
11:35 Dedication and Baptism INTRODUCTION: The world oftentimes many believe "Promises are made to be broken" whether that be marriage vows, business arrangements or promises to their children. But Jehovah's people are different, we are determined to honour our vows and promises (read Psalm 61:8b)). Our dedication is the most important solomn promise or vow we will ever make. It is our loyal love for Jehovah that moved us to dedicate our lives to Jehovah and it is this same loyal love that will keep this promise and pay that vow "day after day" staying loyal to Jehovah no matter what our circumstances. We will examine three biblical example of individuals who kept their vow and displayed loyal love: - David: David and Jonathan loved each ther and Jonathan swore his allegiance to David. David in turned vowed to Jonathan that he would work good towards Jonathan's offspring (1 Samuel 20:13, 14, 17)) Even when circumstances changed and he was in a favorable position David honoured his vow, for example seeking out Mephibosheth: Never allow your heart to drift from Jehovah (1 Samuel 9:7))
[/u] Never allow physical comforts to cause you to forget your loyalty to Jehovah and exclusive devotion to him. Always remain loyal to Jehovah and give him exclusive devotion. [li] Jephthah: Giving up his only unmarried daughter put an end to his family line. Jephthah and is daughter were determined to keep that promise. Jephthah did not seek to compromise on his vow) but paid regardless of the personal cost. LESSON Do not abandon your course, even if life takes sudden and unexpected turns. [illustrate: Hitting an unexpected storm in a small aircraft flown by an experienced pilot: Don't panic, don't give up and don't get out![/li] [li] JEHOVAH himself was the finest example of someone who keeps his promises. Jehovah promised Abraham the land of Canaan and He kept that promise despite the fact that the Israelites were often disobedient ( Gen 15:18; Josh 21:43, 45) LESSON: Do not let the foolish example of some cause you to abandon your loyalty to Jehovah. Learn to deal effectively with our own imperfection or those of others. Keep human imperfection in check by building our own personal relationship with God. Act quickly when problems with fellow worshippers arise. Use only Jesus as a role model. Jehovah promised to destroy Satan and repair the damaged he caused ( Gen 3:15; Jam 1:17) He has remained patience over the thousands of years this has taken to accomplish. LESSON Do not allow time to erode our concern for the big issues. If the end of this system doesn't come as soon as hoped, remember our dedication vow is to Jehovah not to a rewards [/li][/ul] INTERVIEW publishers: A younger one and an older one. Ask each to speak of challenges they faced to their loyalty and what bible examples helped them. CONCLUSION Our dedication promise lasts for all eternity. We have promised to do Gods will now but also into the paradise where we will learn the wonderful new requirements of our maker. Never allow Satan to minimalize that our dedication to Jehovah. Jehovah will keep his promise because he is righteous and loyal and has great love for us (Psalms 89:33). Jehovah will never abandon you, may you never abandon the one who promises to never abandon you.12:05 Song No. 63 |
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Post by Admin on Nov 4, 2017 7:31:17 GMT -5
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Post by Admin on Nov 4, 2017 7:49:51 GMT -5
1:10 Musical interude song # :: No. 73, 76, 126, 1:20 Song No. 127 and Prayer1:30 Public Bible Discourse: Avoid Mocking God—In What Sense? INTRODUCTION: "You reap what you sow" is a fundamental truth that applies to our conduct, this is an unchangable, inescapable principle ( Gal 6:10). To "mock" God would involve attempting to evade this principle and prove God wrong. Now is no time to attempt to "mock god" with the permissive moral standards of the world. Any that wish to have a good relationship with Jehovah must have the same view of morals Jehovah. Jehovah as our Creator is in the best position as to how to best lead our lives. He is both our Creator and our Father and friend and is in the proper position to dictate standards to have a successful and happy life ( Isaiah 48:17, 18). Jehovah's standards help us to be stable and happy and evading those same standards lead to disaster as a society and as individuals:
Sexual morality: protects us from diseases, allows us to have a clean conscience and gives us a feeling of dignity and self worth. It stabalizes famlies and strenthens communities. Ignoring these standards leads to problems, diseases and instablility
Honesty: leads to having a good relationship with Jehovah Heb 13:18 It leads us to us having piece of mind and a good reputation. Dishonesty damages personal relationships and destabalizes societ, it costs societies millions.
Avoid abuse of alcohol Those that control their use of alcohol avoids addiction, is employable and avoids the problems associated with alcoholism. Pro 23:20a Society pays a very high price when it comes to alcohol cost of medical services and impaired productivity and alcohol related crime
Some have been mislead one into mocking God because the effects are delayed. It should however be noted that although the effects of our decisions may take time to manifest we will pay for ignoring Jehovah's moral decisions. Paul reminds christians that are eternal consequences all will pay 1 Cor 6:9,10. Human nature demands repeated reminders not to be mislead (Gal, 1 Cor 15:44). Jehovah wants us to obey Him out of love and is patiently appealing to us to learn the value of his standards to our eternal benefit (compare 2 Pet 3:9). Merely knowing Jeohvah's standars or even of the impending judgement, what will help us? - 1 John 5:3: Grow in your knowledge and love of Jehovah. - Prov 2:10-12: Use your thinking ability (the ability to give wise consideration to a matter) reflect on the benefits of obeying God - Prov 3:5, 6 Focus on pleasing God and not on evading 2:00 Summary of The Watchtower2:30 Song No. 59 and Announcements |
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Post by Admin on Nov 4, 2017 8:05:04 GMT -5
2:40 SYMPOSIUM:THEME : “Keep Sowing to the Spirit” - Gal 6:8INTRODUCTION: Sowing with a view to the spirit is the key to continue doing what is fine. This refers to living n a way that allows holy spirit to freely operate in our lives. PART 1 of 3: Develop Good Study Habits Good habits allows can help us stay safe and healthy. Good spiritual habits can help us but this will require effort. Study refers to using our mental capacity in an extended effort Prov 2:3-5-
- Analyze your routine where you can find more time for study.
- Making bible reading enjoyable, benefitial and practical (w17 1 p. 4-6)
- pray to understand the deep things of God, to appreciate the truth in its full dimensions ( Eph 3:17-19 (compare Mary's prayer)
Parents, help your children by love and example develop good study habits and develop the essentials of study. Interview: Sister that has a good family study sessions; she explains how she keeps the study practical, enjoyable and benefitial.
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Post by Admin on Nov 4, 2017 8:10:13 GMT -5
2:40 SYMPOSIUM: Keep Sowing to the Spirit ... PART 2 of 3: Use bible principles to Guide Your Life [ Hebrews 5:12-14 ] Bible principles are timeless and never become outdated, bible principles help us stay in Jehovah's favor. Understanding the principle makes it easier to obey the related law. Principles are superior to law because they are timeless and can always be found to any particular situation Bible principles that are benefitial cover use of alcohol, relationships ( Prov 14:30) ...). When they are applied, they serve as a voice saying " this is the way" ( Isaiah 48:17, 18); Bible laws test our obedience, bible laws test our love. In order to benefit from bible principle we have to be diligent in study. Hebrews 5:14 implies a continuous effort is needed. If we appply bible principles to whatever problem we face it "trains" our minds. We have the good exaple of David wo poured out the water from Bethlehem because he grasped the principle ofthe sanctity of blood. Demonstration: Two brothers reflect on some bible principles regarding a gathering (alcohol, association, music ...) The bible principles the brothers reflected on, such as 1 Tim 3:1 Tit 2:7 Gal 5:21, Gal 6:3, helped them make a wise decision.
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Post by Admin on Nov 4, 2017 8:15:10 GMT -5
2:40 SYMPOSIUM: Keep Sowing to the Spirit ... PART 3 of 3: “Do Not Let Your Hand Rest” [ Ecc 11:6] THEME: “do not let your hand rest ” -Ecc 11:6 We show faith in Jehovah every time we preach the kingdom news. But just as a garden requires more than erratically scattering seeds, its important to work hard and do our best. We have the excellent example of someone who did not let his hand rest the Apostle Paul who reasoned with both Jews and non Jews ( Acts 17:17)
- Work hard, speaking to different types of person, perhaps adapting schedule (Acts 17:17)
- Adjust to changed circumstances (Act 28:30-31)
- Flexible, adapting to different cultures (1 Cor 9:xx)
- Rely on Jehovah's holy spirit for the courage to accomplish our ministry (Acts 20:24)
Interview: A pioneer that has overcome challenges to fully accomplish his ministry
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Post by Admin on Nov 4, 2017 8:17:22 GMT -5
3:40 What We Will Reap if We Do Not Tire Out INTRODUCTION: Life today in these "critical times" are hard to deal with and physically and emotionally exhausting ( 2 Tim 3:1). Many are feeling the pressure to "tire out" spiritually (not engaging in meetings or ministry). Causes of fatigue:
- our constant struggle with the fallen flesh
- the pressure from the system of things
Spiritual fatique is not however inevitable ( Gal 6:7). We gain strength from ... [/i] "gives us power beyond what is normal" to endure constrant struggle with the fallen flesh which would otherwise be exhausting ( 2 Cor 4:7) - God's Approval : Knowing we have Jehovah's approval. Jesus knew this and was infused with power and maintained balance and emotional stability Mat 3:17; - As long as we put forth effort we will always have the strength we need ( Romans 8:31) Satan is an opportunist and attacks us when we are at our most vulneraberbale, he tries to convince us we can never have God's approval or love. - Preaching: Our preaching work, which infuriates Satan, vindicates Jehovah's name and empowers us. [/ul] Blessings
- Benefiting from the ransom (1 john)
- Joy (Phil 4:4)
- A loving spiritual brotherhood enfuses us with power, we are energized by their record of faith.
- The ability to associate with those that have put on the new personality (Eph 4:24)
- Jehovah's personal attention; we are never alone, Jehovah will always supply the energy needed if we turn to him for spiritual and emotional support (Col 1:11)
In the future paradise we will enjoy " the real life". Meditating on what Jehovah has done and will yet do in the future kingdom blessings gives us the energy needed to endure ( Micah 5:4, 5, Job 14:14-15, Ez 36:23). Commendation to all that continue to fight the spiritual fight. 4:15 Song No. 126 and Prayer
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