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“All who had the right attitude to gain eternal life became believers” (ACTS 13:48).
1. In what ways do people react when we preach to them? (Acts 13:47, 48; 16:14, 15).
Just as in the first century, people today react in different ways to the message. Some accept the truth with joy from the first time they hear it, as happened with those who had “the right attitude” to obtain eternal life. Others, though seemingly indifferent at first, later open their hearts, like Lydia, who heard and was immediately baptized.
Therefore, we shouldn't judge too quickly. The important thing is to be attentive to recognize when someone demonstrates sincerity and a desire to learn. In those cases, it's advisable to act immediately, offering spiritual help and lovingly guiding them along the path that leads to eternal life.
2. In what sense can preaching be described as tending a garden?
Preaching is much like tending a garden, because in both cases you have to sow, cultivate, and harvest at the right time. The farmer observes his land and recognizes when a plant is ready to bear fruit. In the same way, the attentive Christian notices when a person is ready to accept the message.
Some people need more time to grow spiritually, while others already show maturity and willingness. Therefore, we must be observant, patient, and sensitive to the Spirit. If we notice that someone has a good attitude, we should act immediately to help them, without missing the opportunity to start a Bible study or invite them to meetings.
IF THE PERSON IS INTERESTED IN THE MESSAGE
3. If we are preaching and we find a person interested in the message, what can we do? (1 Corinthians 9:26).
When we see that someone shows genuine interest in what we have to say, there's no reason to postpone it. It's best to offer them a Bible study right away and also invite them to our meetings, just as 1 Corinthians 9:26 advises, where we are encouraged to act purposefully and not uncertainly.
That promptness can make a big difference, because the person's heart is receptive. If we wait too long, the enthusiasm can cool.
So we must seize this moment of spiritual openness, making sure to lovingly guide her and help her take her first steps toward the truth. It is a sign of love and wisdom to act immediately when someone has the right attitude.
4. What experience shows that there are people willing to accept a Bible course from the very beginning?
The experience of a young woman in Canada illustrates this perfectly. She approached a cart, picked up the Enjoy Life brochure, and upon learning that it offered a free Bible course, immediately expressed interest. She even asked to start the next day and, shortly thereafter, attended her first meeting.
That immediate willingness shows that there are people with sincere hearts, ready to learn. When we find someone like that, we should act quickly and not let the moment pass us by. Perhaps, for that person, that encounter is an answer to their prayers. Jehovah draws those with the right attitude, and we are his instruments to help them draw closer to him.
5. What should we keep in mind when offering a Bible course? (See also the images.)
Not everyone will be willing to study from the first contact, so we must be realistic and patient. Sometimes it will be necessary to first discuss a topic that sparks their interest or addresses a personal concern.
However, if we maintain a positive attitude, show genuine interest, and explain the benefits of studying the Bible in simple terms, we will soon be able to start a course.
Some brothers mention that the important thing is to be natural, convey enthusiasm, and adapt our words to the type of person we are speaking to. Every heart is different, but if we reflect Jehovah’s love and the Kingdom hope, many people will be motivated to learn more.
ILLUSTRATION
Series of images: 1. Two brothers preach to an elderly man sitting outdoors in his driveway. 2. Two sisters preach to a woman at her front door and give her the booklet “Enjoy Life.” The woman is holding her youngest child and her older child is standing beside her.
What would you say to the people in these pictures to encourage them to learn more about the Bible? (See paragraph 5.)
6. What can we do to get the person to allow us to return and continue talking about the Bible?
A good strategy is to use friendly and natural expressions, avoiding words like course or study, which may sound formal or intimidating to some.
We can say, “We could continue this conversation another day” or “The Bible offers very practical answers; we could read something together.” This opens the door for a second visit without being pushy. It’s also helpful to emphasize the value of the information, mentioning that they can learn something useful in just 10 or 15 minutes.
There's no need to talk about weekly appointments from the start, as that might seem like a big commitment. If we show simplicity and respect, the person will see our genuine desire to help and will likely want to talk again.
7. When do some people realize that they have found the truth? (1 Corinthians 14:23-25).
In Paul's day, some people realized they had found the truth when they attended their first Christian meeting. The same is true today. Many feel peace and harmony when they see the order and love at the Kingdom Hall.
Therefore, we shouldn't wait long to invite someone. From the very first conversation, we can encourage them to attend by mentioning the topic of the talk or an interesting point from the Watchtower study.
The meetings are a powerful tool for strengthening the faith of those who are beginning to draw closer to Jehovah. If a person attends early on, their spiritual progress will likely be much faster.
8. If we invite someone to a meeting, what can we explain to them? (Isaiah 54:13).
We can explain that our meetings are very different from traditional religious ceremonies. They are not rituals or formal speeches, but educational and family-oriented gatherings where we all learn from the Bible.
We meet to worship Jehovah, encourage one another, and strengthen our faith. Everything is done in an orderly and respectful manner, without debates or political topics, because we are neutral.
It's also helpful to know that Kingdom Halls are simple, well-lit, and welcoming places where no one is judged by their clothing or social status. To help you visualize this, we can show you the video "What Are Our Meetings Like?" so you'll know what to expect when you attend.
ADDITIONAL COMMENT
We can tell you that our meetings are educational and family-oriented, not ceremonial. They focus on learning from the Bible and strengthening faith in an orderly, respectful, and politically neutral environment. Everyone is welcome, and no one is judged by their appearance.
9, 10. If we invite someone to a meeting, what can we say to help them overcome their possible fears? (See also the image.)
Many people feel nervous before going to the Kingdom Hall for the first time, perhaps because they fear being pressured or because they don't know what to expect. We can reassure them by explaining that everyone is welcome and that no one will force them to become one of Jehovah's Witnesses.
We can also mention that no collections are taken or money is asked for, that families sit together to learn, and that no special clothing is required, because Jehovah looks at the heart.
Upon arrival, it's a good idea to introduce them to some of the brothers and sisters, help them follow the program, and make them feel comfortable. If they perceive this atmosphere of love and simplicity, they are very likely to want to return and continue learning.
ILLUSTRATION
The brothers at the Kingdom Hall give a warm welcome to the woman in the previous picture. She is holding her youngest child while her older son talks to another child.
The sooner a person attends meetings, the sooner they will progress. (See paragraphs 9 and 10.)
IF WE START A BIBLE COURSE
11. How do we show that we respect the person's time?
We respect students' time by being punctual and keeping our promises. If we said we would arrive at a certain time, we must do so, even if punctuality is not common in the local culture.
Furthermore, it's best to keep the first few lessons brief so as not to overwhelm the student. Experienced brothers recommend not going beyond the agreed-upon time, even if the student wants to continue, because this shows consideration and leaves them wanting to continue next time.
We should also allow him to speak and express his thoughts, following the advice at Proverbs 10:19. In this way, we show respect, patience, and love—qualities that reflect the way Jehovah treats people.
12. What should our goal be from the first class?
From the very first lesson, our goal should not be merely to impart information, but to help the student come to know and deeply love Jehovah and his son Jesus. Therefore, everything we teach must be based on the Bible, not on our own opinions.
Paul set the example by focusing on Jesus Christ and the message of salvation. He also reminded us that spiritual qualities such as faith, discernment, and wisdom are more valuable than gold or precious stones. So let us help our students cultivate a strong faith and a close friendship with Jehovah that will sustain them throughout their lives.
13. How can we be patient and understanding with the student? (2 Corinthians 10:4, 5; see also the picture.)
We can imitate Jesus by being patient and understanding in our teaching. If a student struggles to grasp a point or accept a lesson, let's not pressure them. Let's move on and revisit the topic later.
Some false beliefs are so deeply ingrained that they are like mental fortresses that must be torn down over time. That is why it is important to give yourself time to reflect and allow Jehovah’s spirit to work in your heart.
Furthermore, let's avoid asking questions that might make him uncomfortable. If we treat him with tenderness and empathy, he will come to see Jehovah as his safe haven and trust him more and more.
ILLUSTRATION
The man in the previous image is studying the book "Enjoy Life" with two brothers. In the background, on a shelf, two military medals can be seen.
Let us allow time for the truth to reach the heart. (See paragraph 13).
IF THE PERSON ATTENDS A MEETING
14. How should we treat those who come to our meetings?
We must treat them with love and without discrimination, just as Jehovah does. Their culture, economic status, or nationality doesn't matter. Every visitor is someone Jehovah might be reaching out to, so they deserve respect and warmth.
We can greet them warmly, help them find their seats, and show them they are welcome. Our behavior in the classroom should reflect the spirit of a Christian family, where everyone is valued.
If we treat them with genuine interest, they will feel the love that distinguishes Jehovah's servants. And that, more than any talk, can touch their hearts and motivate them to keep attending to get to know God better.
ADDITIONAL COMMENT
We must welcome everyone with love and without favoritism. No matter their background or appearance, let us treat them with respect and warmth, showing the Christian family spirit that distinguishes Jehovah's servants.
15, 16. What can we do to make new people feel comfortable?
When someone new arrives at the Kingdom Hall, a simple gesture can make all the difference. Greeting them with a smile, offering them a seat, or sharing our publications are all ways to show Christian love.
One visitor recounted that he felt nervous about his clothing, but a brother kindly told him not to worry, that Jehovah's Witnesses are just ordinary people. That comment encouraged him so much that he ended up getting baptized.
Furthermore, we must be tactful when discussing other religions or beliefs, avoiding potentially offensive language. Our speeches should be clear and understandable to everyone, explaining any terms that visitors may not be familiar with. Being kind, considerate, and respectful will encourage them to return and continue learning.
17. What should our goal be if we find someone who has “the right attitude”?
Our goal should be to help him act without delay, offering him a Bible study and encouraging him to attend meetings. The preaching work becomes more urgent every day, and Jehovah continues to attract people with the right attitude to gain everlasting life. If we are diligent, we can guide them to “the road leading to life.”
It's not just about leaving posts or making occasional visits, but about showing genuine love and helping these people come to know Jehovah. The sooner we support them, the sooner they can begin their spiritual transformation and enjoy a lasting friendship with their Creator.
WHAT WOULD YOU ANSWER?
What can we do during the first conversation if we see that the person has "the right attitude"?
We can offer her a Bible course right away and encourage her to attend meetings. Acting quickly shows that we value her willingness and follow the example of Jesus, who never missed an opportunity to teach.
If we start teaching someone the Bible, what suggestions can we apply from the very first lesson?
We must be punctual, respect the student's time, allow them to participate, and above all, help them to know and love Jehovah and Jesus. The goal is to strengthen their faith, not just impart knowledge.
What can we do to make people who come to our meetings feel comfortable?
We can greet them warmly, be kind and judicious in our words, and treat them with respect regardless of their appearance or background. In this way, we reflect Jehovah’s impartial love.
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