Use of Bible Encouraged

OUR desire is to direct the attention of everyone to God’s Word, the Bible. That sacred book is the basis for the message that we preach, and we want people to realize that what we say is, not of our own originality, but from God. People need to develop confidence in the Bible.

In the Field Ministry. When preparing for the field ministry, always select one or more scriptures to share with people who are willing to listen. Even if you are planning to make a relatively brief presentation of Bible literature, it is often beneficial to share an appropriate Bible text. The Bible has greater power to direct sheeplike people than anything that we might personally say. Where it is not possible actually to show a scripture from the Bible, you may choose to quote from it. In the first century, copies of Scripture scrolls were not widely available. Yet, Jesus and his apostles quoted extensively from the Scriptures. We too should make an effort to memorize scriptures and use these appropriately in our ministry, sometimes just quoting them.

When you are able to share a thought from the Bible, hold your device so that the householder can follow along. Make sure that light is not reflecting off the screen, since this makes it difficult to see. If the householder has his own printed Bible, encourage him to get it. As mentioned in Study 18, you may be able to isolate an important word or phrase in his Bible that will contribute to the point under discussion and a more favorable response. You could also use the opportunity to compare the scripture in his Bible with the New World Translation in sign language.

You must realize, however, that some Bible translators have taken liberties with God’s Word. Their renderings may not conform in all respects to what was in the original Bible languages. A number of modern translations have eliminated God’s personal name, obscured what the original-language text says regarding the condition of the dead, and concealed what the Bible says about God’s purpose for the earth. In order to show a person what has been done, you may need to compare key texts from a variety of Bibles or from earlier translations in the same language. Anyone who loves truth will be grateful for knowledge of the facts.

At Congregation Meetings. All should be encouraged to watch as Bible verses are shown at congregation meetings. Whenever possible, talks should show the sign-language edition of the New World Translation when quoting scriptures. At times, a speaker may wish to paraphrase a Bible verse or sign it himself, even though it is recorded in sign language. This is acceptable as long as it is done accurately and in harmony with the organization’s sign-language presentation. However, it would generally be best for speakers to show the scriptures from the New World Translation on-screen. Seeing the recorded Bible verses usually makes a more powerful impression than having them signed by a speaker. This accomplishes good in a number of ways. It helps to keep the attention of the audience on what is being discussed. It adds visual impact to the instruction given by the speaker. And it impresses on the minds of newly interested ones that the Bible is, indeed, the source of our beliefs.

Whether those in your audience actually follow along as the scripture is shown will depend to a great extent on the encouragement that you give. Direct invitation is one of the best methods.

It is up to you, the speaker, to decide which texts you want to emphasize. It is best to show scriptures that will help you develop your main points. Then, as time permits, add a few others that support your argument.