Making a difference

There are a variety of ministries

It has been said that if you rest, you rust. For us as Christians this truly does apply. Do we  really “seek first the Kingdom of God and his Righteousness?” (Matthew 6:33) How, and in what ways can we do so? Must it always entail a formalized, door to door preaching effort?

A mature brother has given me some helpful counsel on this, reminding me that “cold calling” does not really work very effectively, and the facts bear this out in the statistics of Jehovah’s Witnesses in their yearly report. Yes, billions of hours are recorded. But the conversion rate between hours-spent to new-converts-acquired comes out in the thousands of hours. What does this mean? It means that to bring one new person “into the truth” and baptize them as one of Jehovah’s Witnesses, it takes each publisher over 40 years of preaching on average [1]. Does this strike anyone as an efficient way to “fully accomplish [their] ministry”? (2 Timothy 4:5) And sadly, the vast majority of these hours are spent not in actual speaking and teaching to non-religious people, but driving around in a loaded mini-van visiting with each other, then occasionally getting out and knocking on an empty house. Interspersed with this  is the running of errands, and the taking of a variety of breaks for the bathroom, the post office, donuts, coffee, etc.  The unscriptural practice of reporting field service time to an elder whose job is to monitor the formalized ministry of each publisher in his congregation creates a number of problems. Instead of performing “holy acts of conduct and deeds of godly devotion” (2 Peter 3:11) out of a heartfelt desire to do so, it has become a clock-punching exercise. The announcement of names during the weekly service meeting and the emphasis on reaching certain numeric goals such as 10, 30, 50, or 70 hours per month has turned the very personal act of “letting our light shine” (Matt 5:14-16) into a mere form of Godly devotion. (2 Timothy 3:5) Hitting these numeric goals adorns the Witness with the status of “exemplary publisher”, “auxiliary pioneer”, “regular auxiliary pioneer”, and the highest of all, “regular pioneer”. We realize though that running the Christian race has only one requirement, and that is that we finish. (Matthew 24:13)

 

God makes it growSince many of us can no longer go out “in service” and teach people things that we have learned to be false, what are we to do then? We want to “magnify our ministry” (Romans 11:13, HCSB) as Paul did. He felt so strongly about telling others about his Lord Jesus he said this:

For if I preach the gospel, I have no reason to boast, because an obligation is placed on me. And woe to me if I do not preach the gospel!” (1 Corinthians 9:16, HCSB)

 

So then, we want to share what we have been learning! We want to preach and we want to have a vibrant ministry in the Lord’s work. Perhaps since we have awakened to TTATT we have studied our Bible more fervently than ever before. That was certainly the case with myself. But yet still this obligation to go “door to door”, lingers in our mind. The Witness way of thinking is that “We are the only ones preaching. We are the only ones proclaiming God’s Kingdom!” But is that really true? Are there not hundreds of thousands of missionaries and Christian groups that go out all over the earth to every nation letting their light shine as well? How did the Bible get translated into over 2,000 different languages? By people like Rochunga Pudaite, [2]  a lovely, modern-day example of a selfless one that spent nearly his entire life in the effort to bring Bible truth to those that had no way to hear it.

Enduring to the endAdmittedly, we cannot all singlehandedly translate the Bible into an unpublished tongue. But sharing encouragement with our friends and family members is one way. Co-workers and neighbors also can become receptive ears and appreciaters of our fine works. (Matthew 5:16) Notice also what Paul brought out here:

“Now there are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit; and there are varieties of service, but the same Lord; and there are varieties of activities, but it is the same God who empowers them all in everyone.” (1 Corinthians 12:4-6, ESV)

So what form might your Christian ministry take? Do you enjoy writing and deep research? You could do Bible commentary, or even start your own blog. It is very easy, free, and confidential. Go to wordpress.org and within five to ten minutes you can have your own blog, online and ready to go. And if you need any technical help just email me and I will be happy to help you- I have some experience in stumbling around in ignorance getting one started!

In line with this there is something new that I would like to mention. Perhaps it will resonate with you and the Spirit will move you to want to support it. A telephone voicemail number and pin has been setup, and it is:

(641) 715-3900 extension 480604#

Feeding the poorThe reason this was started is that there are some who do not have easy internet access, or are not able to confidentially go to a website like this without fear that they will be ostracized by family members. The phone number can be used in several ways. Someone can leave their email or phone number and request help, a prayer, or answers to their questions. It also contains a brief message that may be of some encouragement to them to listen to. If any want to advertise this number either through small classified ads in their local paper, or by means of this PDF flyer, they are welcome to do so.

 

We want to glorify our ministry, and through prayer and Christian activity may the Father bless our efforts to do just that. (Galatians 6:18)

 

Your fellow worker in Christ’s service,

JJ

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SOURCES

[1] JWFacts.com under annual statistics:

http://www.jwfacts.com/watchtower/statistics.php

 

[2] The life story of Brother Pudaite can be found in book form as well as a full length film of his life.

Book:

http://www.amazon.com/Beyond-next-mountain-Rochunga-Pudaite/dp/0842301542

Movie:

http://www.christiancinema.com/catalog/product_info.php?products_id=616#

 

 

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17 Comments on Glorifying Our Ministry – How?

  1. Anonymous says:

    Wow… I was just thinking about this yesterday. Saturday I was driving around and getting coffee and counting my time. I was hating it, the only refreshing thing were the people I was with. I wondered to myself, ” If I think much of what we preach is inaccurate, then what do I do?”. I have to preach, I cant just chat on-line with others who agree with me, is that a ministry?
    I thought about getting a letter writing territory, and just seeing what people think about life, the world, are they wondering about the future? Or just writing a nice letter about all the wonderful things our Creator has done for us, and asking for feedback. I could do this without offering any publications or even mentioning any denominations. I just have not worked out the specifics yet. Plus I dont know who in my congregation would get in my business, so to speak. Thanks for the post JJ, definately food for thought. Our Heavenly Father will bless the efforts of everyone seeking his will.

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  2. Anonymous says:

    Thanks JJ, nice article. I appreciate the point that the “witnesses” think they are the only ones who are preaching the good news. There are many Christians in many denominations who are preaching and teaching the Gospel. Yes, we can talk to family and friends. I’m talking to an active JW right now who is questioning and doubting the org. I’m trying to point out that you can have a relationship with Jehovah without the org.
    Interesting point is that she was raised as a JW, and complains that she does not feel God’s spirit in the congregation and sees a serious lack of love. I pray she wakes up to ttatt.

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  3. jojo says:

    sorry JJ, that first comment was from me. Seriously though, this is a great subject. Thanks.

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  4. Wakeupwitness says:

    After reading this post it reminded me of when I was a regular pioneer and would meet with the C.O. on Saturday when he visited. There was one C.O. in particular by the name of Antrum Smith who after the meeting for service lolly gagged around at 7-11 in the parking lot killing time, wanted to hit all the RV’s, and drive far away from the hall. Needless to say we didn’t catch one person at home and you could tell he just loved it.
    Field Service….well let’s just say I always hated it as I think most witnesses do. You: burn your own gas, put wear and tear on your car, knock on peoples door, put your life at risk, fight off dogs, and for what?
    A FALSE ORGANIZATION!

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  5. DanielB says:

    Dear Anonymous :

    She has already awakened to the truth about “the truth” . Help her further with a mildness that she will appreciate as being light in weight , mild rather than confining . This is the way that Jesus is with his sheep .

    Nice experience .

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  6. JJ says:

    JoJo

    May God’s blessing be on your new ministry. The very fact that we have this yearning to talk about his will and his word shows that we DO want to “preach”. The definition of that word is key, as some among the Witnesses can only see door knocking as the meaning, when it can be so much more.

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  7. Scepticalone says:

    Thank you for that encouragement.

    I do not support the ministry of the JW’s anymore. A Witness friend of mine asked me since I don’t go out from house to house anymore what am I doing to spread the word about Jehovah, his Son, and especially the Good News of the Kingdom. Quite honestly, I could not come up with a suitable answer for myself since quitting the “house to house” ministry of the JW’s. It, quite frankly, has left a hole in my desire to share what I have learned in my present state as a Christian

    Once again thank you JJ for that article. I think more has to be said on this most important subject.

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    • Amos says:

      Guess what it reads at Colossians 1:23;

      “if indeed you continue in the faith firmly established and steadfast, and not moved away from the hope of the gospel that you have heard, WHICH WAS PROCLAIMED IN ALL CREATION UNDER HEAVEN, and of which I, Paul, was made a minister.” NASB

      “If you continue in your faith while your foundation is true, and you are not moved from the hope of The Gospel which you heard, WHICH HAS BEEN PREACHED IN ALL CREATION UNDER HEAVEN, that of which I, Paulus, have become a Minister.” Aramaic Bible in Plain English

      Most other translations give the essence of these two.

      Of course, this is not an excuse to stop spreading the Gospel, but a reminder to keep it in perspective.

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      • DanielB says:

        And Jesus’ prophesy in the Gospels about this had a prime fulfillment in the 1st century BEFORE Jerusalem’s destruction ; just as the prophesy said it , and as historians acknowledge . One thing is for sure : We have quite an extensive field to witness in if we are close to the 7 or 8 million who don’t exactly consider themselves brothers of Christ . Friends , they truly need help . . .

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  8. Disappointed says:

    There is someone here in my town who is doing some kind of ministry and it’s beautiful. They take some verses from the bible, verses about God’s love, how he cares for each one of us even if we feel unloved. The things he’s done for us, how he has shown his love, how he is close to each one of us and draws us to him and watches over us in a loving way. The verses are upbuilding, encouraging and heartwarming. All it is, is one piece of paper, the effect is lasting. This person, whoever it is, is going round our town leaving this message… a simple message… God loves you and he is there for you…

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    • JJ says:

      That’s wonderful- thanks for relating that. Would it be possible to take a pic or scan it? Or perhaps just summarize it and put it into a comment if you had the time? It might be something more of us could use in our own ministry.

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  9. man oh man says:

    I have been sharing the TTATT as well as the new things I have been learning studying the Bible on my own with someone at work, he is a Christian here in town and he has been very excited about these things as he feels he is learning along with me. The funny part, I turn this time in on my field service report. Hows that for glorifying your ministry!! And yes this has made the ministry very enjoyable. I wish I could witness this way door to door with fellow witnesses. Could you imagine the look on their faces?

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  10. JohnS says:

    There are different types of ministries.A nurse in an intensive-care unit of a hospital,of which there is a severe problem nation-wide of filling these positions , certainly ranks high on the list of “fine works” toward our fellowman(neighbor).
    John the Baptit’s ministry,was of repentance from sins,”…he will go before him with Elijah’s spirit and power,to turn back the hearts of Fathers to children and the disobedient ones to the practical wisdom of righteous ones to get ready for Jehovah a prepared people.”(Luke 1:17) He worked among his brother Israelites,and turned their errant ones back to the Father’s thinking,but first trying to get them to stop doing fleshly,materialistic things,and rededicate themselves to God,and join the group of his followers,getting baptized,and become a student of his,follow his teachings,and ministry.They were all getting ready to enter into the next phase of service to God,following the Messiah,LISTENING to him,being trained,taught what to say,and learn about something brand new,the new Kingdom of God,Jesus’ many illustrations,changes to love and mercy,instead of the Mosaic Laws and the Temple worship.There was so much to learn at first. Then later on,after they were instructed,he empowered them with ability to heal the sick,and two by two, seventy went out and preached the Kingdom of God.
    At this time,many are still Jehovah’s Witnesses,and much-conditioned to the “gotta get out in service this week-end” mode.Reporting time hours to Watchtower should be one of the first things analyzed in their waking-up process.Who are we serving?To whom to we give our worship? Who’s “eyes” do we wish to please?This is where the expression “eyeservice” comes into view.””…not by way of eyeservice,as men pleasers,but as Christ’s slaves,doing the will of God,whole-souled.Be slaves with good inclinations as to Jehovah,and not to men.”Eph.6:6
    If you are reading this,there are two things extremely important you are well aware of;that there are 1000’s “roving about” the internet,crying,literally in many cases,about their many afflictions of the mind and spirit.In DESPERATE NEED of comforting truths,not doctrines and do’s and don’t’s of WT,but as the scripture says,learning about Christ,and needing to become his disciples,listen to his words,grow in knowledge of what he taught,and then slave for him by teaching his way,as the gospels explain it.It is staggering how “white the fields” of this ministry are,many,possibly millions just in the English language,let alone Hispanic,and Asian,Russian,Portuguese (Brazil),and other huge language groups.This field is easy to reach,and witnessing to the truth can be done without leaving your home,start early in the morning,before breakfast,or when you wake up in the middle of the night.I’m having my coffee,and witnessing right now,and my dog “family” is snoring all is snoring loudly here in the living room,all is quiet,it’s Sunday morning 6:45.I witness for Christ,and so do you,all hours of the day,and night,every day,and every night.If I was still keeping time,I’m sure,I would easily have pioneer hours,but Christ said,”don’t let your left hand know what your right is doing “,but keep our gifts of mercy a secret.How many emergency-room nurses you know that would get on the phone or write down and report how many lives they had saved that month? What would you think was wrong with their heart if they were to boast about their work of saving lives,and how what their work schedule was,report to the newspaper their hours per month?If you really want to continue seeing it for what it really is,You have to realize something;you yourself are MEDICATING YOURSELF on the words of Christ,I hope.You yourself must get well,as you are afflicted with a severe need.To turn back to the teachings of Christ,learn what real Christianity is.When you get this sorted out,and feel strong enough to go minister to other JW’s who desperately need ecnouragement and Christian truth,then go to the myriad of sites,starting right here,and speak delightful words of TRUTH(Ecc.12:10)to these lost folk,many of whom are teen-agers,getting involved in every sort of Satan-trap that will destroy their lives. I recommend you publish an essay here on the forum of an important Bible truth of Christ,or on the get-to-know each other part,about your life experiences and trials.Many look at these sights every day,seeking encouraging words,like this sister KITTKATT.She’s so afflicted,in her 60’s,taking care of her elderly relatives,no money to go anywhere,loaded down with worries,no money,no association to uplift her,too embarrased to reach out for help,until her water pump to their house broke,….now the last of their money is gone,and still have to go through a whole month with no money for food for these old people.Where can she turn for help? She finally spoke up.Can anyone who has means give a little?Can we all-together give a little each?Here is a worthwhile cause.
    If it helps you to get things in true perspective,keep up with the thing you are doing,speaking about God and Christ on the web,and turn that in.If this isn’t Witnessing,(and I know what witnessing is,after 40 years of doing this),what is?That will keep some who are really in need of “emergency spiritual care”themselves off your back for a while.Call it “letter writing” or phone witnessing if you want.That will be some purposeful time turned in,not driving around bothering people who really know all about Jehovah’s Witnesses,and really dread even talking to you about it.

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  11. use 2 b a dub says:

    hi jj,
    For years I had thought, how does it glorify God and our ministry when, as a JW, we are preaching and teaching things that later we are told is ‘old light’ which simply means “is not truth.” I have many non-JW friends and relatives who have asked me, “Is that what you have always believed?” It got old trying to defend what we were told is the ‘truth’ that is now the ‘untruth’.
    My wife and I were with our very best friends, of over 43 years, a few days ago. Our friends like us are in their early to mid sixties.
    My friend was lamenting to us that they will never be able to retire and will have to work into their late 70’s. He mentioned that we were taught back in the 60’s that we would never get old in this system and basically we need not concern ourselves with a career nor worry about retirement. He sounded a bit resentful at following that advise. It causes my heart to ache to see them staring at the future with nothing but hard work to look forward to in retirement. I wonder how many are like our best friends and now find themselves ‘old’ and broke because they really ‘listened’ and believed that they would never get old in this system?
    Did following such wonderful advise glorify God and our ministry? I remember well teaching others, including my own children, that this system will end long before we need to worry about getting old. Sad that the “truth” has led to so many of our dear brothers and friends to being so unprepared for their old age.

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  12. Freethinkerinjah says:

    Greetings of love to all my brothers and sisters may Jehovah give you courage and christ’s teaches on love forgiveness and mercy prove to be a necklace upon your neck. We are living in critical times and we are getting a taste of what is was like to live in Christ day when the Pharisees also were governing peoples minds by countless laws and traditions. I highly recommend studying up on what Pharisees were all about. In the insight on the scriptures a book by jw is quite revealing on Pharisee practices and you might see some very strong similarities in comparison to GB. A great book which help me to understand what spiritual is is the book the shuttle power of spiritual abuse. It really gives insights on the Pharisees and all organization that spiritually abuse in GOD’ name the cool thing this book does not attack any religion but exposes the leven for what is is using actual scriptural references by Christ. It is a real eye opener. The book is by Jeff Vonderen he has written other great books that really help healing the soul you can his books on amazon books. May this information help the beaten and downpressed sheep love you all freethinkerinjah

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    • Freethinkerinjah says:

      Oh yes this is a way to wittness by sharing information to help others on their spiritual jounerny as I always was more comfortable with informal witnessing. And I always thought it was very import to do internal witnessing to build one another up in love. Any way thanks for reading this sorry for the spelling errors because my brain works faster than my mind and I am lazy when it comes to spelling freethinkerinjah

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