long as we have time favorable for it, let us work what is good toward all, but especially toward those related to us in the faith.” (Gal. 6:10) As we give them this continued assistance, we will be pleased to see them shoulder their responsibility as Christian witnesses and become capable teachers of the truth. They will take hold of added privileges of service, seeking first the Kingdom and God’s righteousness.

Expanding Our Ministry

1. What responsibility falls upon those learning the truth, and how did Jesus show this?

WHEN an individual studies the Bible he soon learns that a true Christian does not keep his belief to himself. The truth has enlightened his mind, filled his life with hope, and proved to be ‘a light to his roadway’ so that he is able to walk in Christian integrity. If he appreciates the light he is not selfishly going to keep it to himself. “You are the light of the world,” said Jesus. “A city cannot be hid when situated upon a mountain. People light a lamp and set it, not under the measuring basket, but upon the lampstand, and it shines upon all those in the house. Likewise let your light shine before mankind, that they may see your right works and give glory to your Father who is in the heavens.”—Ps. 119:105; Matt. 5:14-16.

2. (a) In what way did Jesus and Paul set the example for us in service, and what is it that makes one want to have a share in the preaching work? (b) How did the psalmist describe the activity of Jehovah’s people, and how can they improve their ability?

² When Jesus was with his disciples on earth he trained them to be preachers of the truth, and after they had learned the truth and observed how he carried on the ministry, he sent them out to preach to others. Before ascending to heaven Jesus told his disciples: “You will be witnesses of me . . . to the most distant part of the earth.” The apostle Paul appreciated the privilege that was open to him and he said: “I did not hold back from telling you any of the things that were profitable nor from teaching you publicly and from house to house.” And he urged others: “Become imitators of me, even as I am of Christ.” So those who pay attention to the counsel of God’s Word do not hold back the truth or keep it to themselves. As soon as they see the work that has to be done, love of God causes them to talk about him and about his loving purposes. When they realize that this old world of wickedness is going to go down in destruction at the battle of Armageddon but that those who conform to the divine requirements will survive into the new world, love of neighbor makes them feel an urgent need to get out and tell others about it and point them to God’s provision for preservation. The psalmist accurately described them when he said: “About the glory of your kingship they will talk, and about your mightiness they will speak.” They are witnesses of the things that they know;