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Offering the Book Knowledge That Leads to Everlasting LifeKingdom Ministry—1995 | December
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Offering the Book Knowledge That Leads to Everlasting Life
1 We were delighted when the new book, Knowledge That Leads to Everlasting Life, was released! It is designed to help people to come quickly to an accurate knowledge of the truth. In December we will have the first opportunity to offer this book in our territory. What can we say to stimulate interest?
2 Here is a presentation that might appeal to the person whose faith in God has become weak:
◼ “Many people grew up believing in God, but now they have found that their faith is not what it used to be. What do you think may be the reason for that? [Allow for response.] Our faith in God is strengthened by considering the marvels of the universe. [Read Psalm 19:1.] The One whose laws govern these heavenly bodies has also provided valuable direction for us. [Read Psalm 19:7-9.] These verses stress how important it is to learn all we can about God and his purposes. [Call attention to the illustration on pages 4 and 5, and read the caption.] If you would like to benefit from this special knowledge, I would be pleased to leave this book with you.”
3 Having some recent distressing news event in mind, you might say:
◼ “Likely you heard about [mention the event]. Have you ever wondered if God is really concerned about the injustice and suffering that we see about us or even experience ourselves? [Allow for response.] The Bible assures us that God loves us and that he will help us through times of distress.” Read portions of Psalm 72:12-17. Open the book to page 70, and point out that this book, Knowledge That Leads to Everlasting Life, answers a question that millions have asked, Why does God permit suffering? “You will find the Bible’s answer to that question very comforting. I would like to leave this book with you so that you can read about it yourself.”
4 If you meet a parent, you might focus on the family:
◼ “Most parents agree that there are many problems in trying to maintain a happy family life. What do you observe to be serious obstacles? [Allow for response.] Most of us do the best we can, but we usually appreciate assistance that will help us achieve better results. The Bible gives excellent advice. [Read portions of Colossians 3:12, 18-21.] The Bible has a lot more to say on this subject, as outlined in chapter 15 of this book, entitled ‘Building a Family That Honors God.’ It reviews counsel given in the Bible showing how to relieve marital stress and how to cope with the problems facing our children. I am sure you would enjoy reading it.”
5 If you prefer something brief, you might try this:
◼ “Have you ever wondered why we grow old and die? Chapter 6 in this book explains the cause of death and how God will remove it. The Bible tells us that God has promised everlasting life for those who love him. [Read John 17:3.] If you would like to read about this, you will find the book most enlightening.”
6 If we are well prepared, we may be able to use this book to ‘open up the Scriptures’ to others in a way that will bring them great joy!—Luke 24:32.
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Return to Those Who Showed InterestKingdom Ministry—1995 | December
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Return to Those Who Showed Interest
1 When releasing the new book, Knowledge That Leads to Everlasting Life, the convention speaker explained that “honesthearted students should be able to learn enough through a study of it to take a stand for Jehovah and get baptized.” The book is designed to teach the truth quickly. It concisely provides specific information that can motivate students to make spiritual progress. It presents the truth in a positive way without dwelling on false doctrines. To have success in using this new instrument, we must make return visits on those who showed interest.
2 If you spoke to a person who lacked faith in God yet demonstrated some interest, you might begin by opening the book to the illustration on pages 4 and 5 and saying:
◼ “When I was here previously, we looked at this lovely illustration of beautiful surroundings. The caption asks, ‘What must you do to enjoy them?’ How would you answer that? [Allow for response.] The Bible clearly identifies one of the basic requirements. [Read John 17:3.] Knowledge is essential to our faith in God. An excellent way we can learn what we need to know is by systematically studying the Bible.” Turn to chapter 1 and point out some of the encouraging thoughts in paragraphs 1 to 5. Explain how a Bible study is conducted, and offer to return for more discussion.
3 If you return to continue your discussion on why God permits suffering, you might say:
◼ “The last time I was here, we talked about [whatever the event was]. The question came up as to why God permits so much suffering in the world. What conclusion did you come to? [Allow for response.] It is encouraging to know that God is not responsible for such distressful conditions.” Turn to pages 71-2 in the book Knowledge That Leads to Everlasting Life, and discuss some of the Scriptural thoughts covered in paragraphs 3 to 5. Offer to return again to explain why we can be sure that God’s permission of suffering will soon come to an end.
4 If you are returning to visit a parent who is concerned about family problems, you might say this:
◼ “I know that you, as a parent, want the best for your children. Since it is impossible to shield them from everything that is bad, you have to teach them how to cope with life’s problems. How do you think that can be done? [Allow for response.] One of the most important things a parent can provide is training.” Turn to pages 145-6 in the Knowledge book, and call attention to the Bible’s practical counsel, emphasizing its importance and how following it can be a blessing. Offer to return again to demonstrate how to use this book to learn more about acquiring a happy family life.
5 If you are making a call where you used a brief presentation, you could say:
◼ “It was never God’s purpose that we grow old and die. He intended that we live forever in a paradise earth.” Display the illustration on pages 188-9. Read paragraph 11 on page 184. Make arrangements for another return visit.
6 Surely this new book is another provision from Jehovah to ‘speed up’ the ingathering work in these last days. (Isa. 60:22) If we use it effectively, we can impart knowledge that may help someone toward gaining everlasting life.
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