Are You Using These DVDs?
The Bible—What Is Its Message?—On DVD
Designed to appeal to those who know little about the Bible, especially those who belong to non-Christian religions
How to offer it: “We would like to get your opinion on what is stated here in this scripture. [Show Revelation 21:4, which is referred to in lesson 26.] How do you think this prophecy will be fulfilled? [Allow for response. Show the title picture of lesson 26, highlighting Jesus on his throne above the earth.] This sign-language DVD explains how God’s purpose will be fulfilled.”
Another idea: “If you were given a legal document explaining what you had to do to receive a large inheritance, and you found the document difficult to understand, what would you do? [Allow for response.] Many people view the Bible this way. Notice, however, what you could inherit. [Show John 17:3.] This sign-language DVD gives an overview of the Bible so that you can easily understand God’s purpose and inherit life.”
You might try this: If you are conducting a Bible study using Bible Teach—On DVD with a person from a non-Christian religion, take a few minutes at the beginning or end of each study to consider one section of Bible’s Message—On DVD to give him an overview of the Bible.
Would You Like to Know the Truth?—On DVD
Designed to have wide appeal
How to offer it: Show the householder the DVD’s opening questions. Then ask: “Which question interests you the most?” Allow for response. Then consider together the answer from the DVD, and offer it to the householder.
Another idea: “The videophone is a wonderful tool for the deaf, isn’t it? [Allow for response.] Do you think we can communicate with God? How is this possible? Does he listen to us?” Show the fifth question on the DVD and discuss the answer together.
An additional idea: “Hello. My name is _____. What is your name? [Allow for response.] Where did you attend school? [Allow for response.] Many deaf people are concerned about deaf schools closing across the country. [Mention this issue or another that affects the deaf community.] How do you feel about this? Do you think God cares? Notice what he says in his Word, the Bible.” Show 1 Peter 5:7 and discuss the first question.
You might try this: Before leaving, ask another question from the DVD. Return later to discuss the question. Make it a goal to cover all of the questions over a six-week period.
Another option: Make arrangements to return and continue the discussion using Bible Teach—On DVD.
You Can Be God’s Friend!—On DVD
Designed to appeal to those with limited education or reading ability
How to offer it: “Hello. My name is ______. What is your name? [Allow for response.] Did you know that God has a name? It’s found here in the Bible at Psalm 83:18. [Show scripture.] This sign-language DVD shows us how we can become friends of God.”
Another idea: “Have you ever misplaced your keys or wallet, only to find out the object was right in front of you? [Allow for response.] This is similar to knowing God. How so? [Show Acts 17:27.] As you can see, God is actually near to us. This sign-language DVD shows us how we can find God and become his friend.”
Another idea: “In talking with others, we have noticed that deaf people place high value on communication. This can be seen by their use of videophones, text messaging, and other means. These enable them to keep in contact with cherished friends. Do you think we can be friends of God? [Show James 2:23.] This DVD in sign language shows how God communicates with us today, enabling us to have a friendship with him.” Then discuss lesson 4 of God’s Friend—On DVD.
You might try this: Either on the initial call or the return visit, demonstrate a Bible study by discussing together all or part of lesson 1.
Spirits of the Dead—Can They Help You or Harm You? Do They Really Exist?—On DVD
Designed to appeal to those who are concerned about death and the spirit realm
You might say: “There seems to be a growing interest in vampires, witches, and sorcerers. Do you think that involvement in the occult is harmless? [Allow for response.] Notice this warning God gave in the Bible. [Show Deuteronomy 18:10-12.] This DVD shows what the Bible says about the occult.”
How to offer the DVD to a person who expresses concern about death and the spirit realm: “I can understand your concerns. This sign-language DVD explains who wicked spirits are, how we can protect ourselves from them, and what happens to a person when he dies.” Offer the DVD.
You might try this: On a future return visit, after cultivating the householder’s interest in the Bible, direct his attention to the paradise picture on the back cover of Spirits of the Dead—On DVD. Then show him Bible Teach—On DVD. Mention that this DVD explains how we can enjoy eternal life in paradise on earth as seen in the picture—free of death and wicked spirits. Consider a paragraph or two in lesson 1 that explains our hope.
When Someone You Love Dies—On DVD
Designed for people who have lost loved ones in death
You might say: “I am doing a public service in behalf of all who have lost a loved one in death. Since this may be one of the hardest things any of us will ever have to cope with, this DVD, When Someone You Love Dies—On DVD, has been prepared. It has helped millions of people. I would like to show you what it says about an exciting promise made by Jesus Christ. [Show John 5:28. Then show the picture in lesson 5 of Jesus raising Lazarus from the dead.] Lesson 5 on this DVD explains more. If you would like to learn more about this comforting hope, I will be glad to leave this DVD with you.”
If someone has recently lost a loved one in death and it is not a good time to talk, you could say: “I am very sorry to hear about your loss. Perhaps I could stop by another time.” Use your judgment on whether or not it is appropriate to leave the DVD. When you return, you could say: “How are you? [Listen to response.] Truly, death is an enemy. Did you know the Bible shows that one day we can be reunited with our loved ones who have died? Jesus showed this is possible when he was here on earth. May I show you an encouraging passage from the Bible? [Show John 11:38-44.] Lesson 5 of this sign-language DVD shares this wonderful hope.”
You might try this: If you have funeral homes or public libraries in your area, ask if you may leave some copies of When Someone Dies—On DVD for those who are deaf.