Comments You Will Not Hear at the 12-28-03 WT Study
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Quotes from other sources will be in blue
(S) Snippet, (C) Citation, (Q) Quotation HELP OTHERS TO ACCEPT THE KINGDOM MESSAGE " Agrippa said to Paul: ?In a short time you would persuade me to become a Christian.?"?Acts 26:28 And Agrippa said to Paul, "In a short time would you persuade me to be a Christian?" [ 1 ] ?Acts 26:28 (ESV)Footnote?(1) Or In a short time you would persuade me to act like a Christian! Opening CommentsThis second article in a series of three concentrates on the 2 nd step of disciple-making (buzzword). First making an initial contact that results in the second step, return visits. Have you ever worked in field service (buzzword) with the same people on a regular basis? Those who have pioneered will know what I mean. Sister Slug has the same RVs for the last 5 years. Never anyone new. Or there is Sister Broken Hand who never writes them down. Or Brother Drive By who never stops but says "Oh, he?s not home, his car is gone." Then how many ever used their Bible. Some didn?t even realize it wasn?t in their bookbag (buzzword). The WTS has been pushing having the Reasoning Book in your bag. It has scriptures in it conveniently arranged to prove the WT doctrine. Nothing like taking something out of context. If you?re having a problem in a discussion, reach for what?
WT 7/15/88
p. 20 Be understanding, for many people have wrong ideas about Jehovah?s Witnesses. They may say: ?You avoid politics and civic duties,? ?You refuse military service,? or, ?You break up families.? But this attitude is like that of the world toward our fellow believers of the first century. Show householders this, perhaps using quotations under the heading "Neutrality" in the Reasoning book.Kingdom Ministry (Manifesto)
2/00 p. 8 How to Develop Reasoning AbilityThe Reasoning book is a valuable tool that we should always carry with us in service and not hesitate to use when engaging in Bible discussions. (not the Bible?)
Kingdom Ministry 6/00 What do you do when you encounter an individual who raises an unscriptural argument? The Reasoning book often comes to the rescue by providing practical suggestions on how to give a tactful answer. For example, although we view death as an enemy that will be conquered through Christ?s ransom, others are convinced that nothing will eliminate this eventuality, even putting faith in the false idea of reincarnation. Discuss the responses that are offered in the Reasoning book in the feature "If Someone Says?" on pages 103-4 and 321. Encourage everyone to carry the book in the field ministry.START OF ARTICLE
At Caesarea in 58 CE, Roman Governor Porcius Festus was visited by King Herod Agrippa II and his sister Bernice. At the invitation of Governor Festus, they came from Jerusalem. The next day, "with much pompous show," they "entered into the audience chamber together with military commanders as well as men of eminence in the city." At the command of Festus, the Christian apostle Paul was brought into their presence. How did it come about that this follower of Jesus Christ stood before the judgment seat of Governor Festus??Acts 25:13-23 (S)
Note, that here the WTS says that Agrippa is a pompous ass but then later says he should be treated with respect.
What Festus told his guests provides an answer to that question. He said: "King Agrippa and all you men who are present with us, you are beholding this man concerning whom all the multitude of the Jews together have applied to me both in Jerusalem and here, shouting that he ought not to live any longer. But I perceived he had committed nothing deserving of death. So when this man himself appealed to the August One, I decided to send him. But concerning him I have nothing certain to write to my Lord. Therefore I brought him forth before you, and especially before you, King Agrippa, in order that, after the judicial examination has taken place, I might get something to write. For it seems unreasonable to me to send a prisoner and not also to signify the charges against him."?Acts 25:24-27 (Q)
The words of Festus indicate that Paul faced trumped-up charges of sedition?a crime that carried the death penalty. (Acts 25:11)(C) However, Paul was innocent. The charges stemmed from the jealously of religious leaders in Jerusalem. They opposed Paul?s work as a Kingdom proclaimer and deeply resented that he helped others to become followers of Jesus Christ. Under heavy guard, Paul was brought from Jerusalem to the seaport city of Caesarea, where he appealed to Caesar. From there he would be taken to Rome.
Imagine Paul in the governor?s palace before a group that includes the ruler of an important part of the Roman Empire. King Agrippa turns to Paul and says: "You are permitted to speak." As words flow from Paul?s mouth, an extraordinary thing happens. What Paul says begins to affect the king. Indeed, King Agrippa says: "In a short time you would persuade me to become a Christian."?Acts 26:1-28 (S)
Yes, you too can talk to important people. Oh, that?s right, JW Media will do that. Who knows what you might misspeak.
Just think! As a result of Paul?s skillful defense, a ruler was affected by the penetrating power of God?s Word
w95
8/1 p. 16This magazine, The Watchtower Announcing Jehovah?s Kingdom, is the principal instrument employed by the "slave" in the teaching work.
Use the Art of Persuasion
In the Book of Acts, Greek terms for persuasion are repeatedly used in association with Paul. What meaning does this have as far as our disciple-making work is concerned?
Vine?s Expository
http://www.menfak.no/bibel/vines.html
Where did Paul get his scriptural training?as a Pharisee?
In the original language of the Christian Greek Scriptures (New Testament), "persuade" means to "win over" or bring about "a change of mind by the influence of reason or moral considerations," states Vine?s Expository Dictionary of New Testament Words. Examining the root meaning provides further enlightenment. It conveys the idea of trust. Therefore if you persuade a person to accept a Bible teaching, you have won over his (her) trust, so that he (she) puts faith in the truthfulness of that teaching (not the organization). Obviously, it is not enough to tell a person what the Bible says in order for him to believe it and act upon it. Your listener must be convinced that what you say is true, whether that individual is a child, a neighbor, a work associate, a schoolmate, or a relative.?2 Timothy 3:14,15 (C)
How can you convince a person that what you proclaim from God?s Word is the truth? By means of logical reasoning, sound argument, and earnest entreaty, Paul endeavored to bring about a change of mind in individuals to whom he spoke.* (For more information on persuasion, see studies 48 and 49 of the book Benefit From Theocratic Ministry School Education, published by Jehovah?s Witnesses [not the Watchtower Bible & Tract Society?]) Rather than merely declaring that something is true, therefore, you need to supply satisfying evidence to support your statement. How may this be done? Be sure that your statement is based squarely on God?s Word and not on personal opinion.
Sounds like too many people are teaching their personal opinion from door to door. Wouldn?t that make them an apostate?
Also, use corroborative evidence to back up your heartfelt Scriptural statements. (Proverbs 16:23) [C] If you point out that obedient mankind (buzzword implying that not everyone will be in the paradise)(humankind) will enjoy life in a paradise earth (the reason most people become JWs), for instance, back that statement up with a Scriptural reference, such as Luke 23:43 or Isaiah 65:21-25. How can you corroborate your Scriptural point? You may use examples from your listener?s experience. You might remind him (her) of the simple and cost-free pleasures derived from the beauty of a sunset, the sweet smell of a flower, the savory taste of a fruit, or the joy of watching a mother bird feed her young. Help (her) to see that such pleasures are evidence that the Creator wants us to enjoy life on earth.?Ecclesiastes 3:11,12 (C)
Based on that, the fact that people feel pain, get sick and suffer and finally die means that God never intended humans to live forever on earth.
When trying to persuade a person to accept a certain Bible teaching, be careful that your enthusiasm (dogmatism) does not cause you to sound unreasonable, thus closing your listener?s mind and heart. The Ministry School book gives this word of caution: "A blunt (dogmatic) statement of truth that exposes as false a cherished belief of another person, even when buttressed with the recitation of a long list of Scripture texts, is generally not well received. For example, if popular celebrations are simply denounced as being of pagan origin, this may not change how other people feel about them. A reasoning approach is usually more successful." Why make a concerted effort to be reasonable? The textbook says" "A reasoning manner encourages discussion, gives people something to think about later, and leaves the way open for future conversations. It can be powerfully persuasive."?Colossians 4:6 (C)
After telling JWs at 5 meetings a week, that they are the only ones that have "the truth," is it surprising that JWs are dogmatic in the preaching work?
Persuasion That Appeals to the Heart
Let us know take a closer look at Paul?s words of defense in Acts chapter 26. Notice how he began his discourse. To introduce his subject, Paul found a legitimate basis on which to commend Agrippa, even though the king was in a scandalous relationship with his sister Bernice (he married his own sister?is that so hard to say). Paul said: "Concerning all things of which I am accused by Jews, King Agrippa, I count myself happy that it is before you I am to make my defense this day, especially as you are expert on all the customs as well as the controversies among Jews. Therefore I beg you to hear me patiently."?Acts 26:2,3 (Q)
What was Paul thinking though? "This pervert married his own sister and has violated the foundation of the Law. He may know the law but he is a living, breathing walking violation of it."
Did you notice that Paul acknowledge Agrippa?s high office by addressing him by his title, King? This showed respect, and by his choice of words, Paul accorded Agrippa honor. (1 Peter 2:17) (C)
Is this applicable to this scripture? The elders get double honor. So remember that!
1
Timothy 5:17 Let the older men who preside in a fine way be reckoned worthy of double honor, especially those who work hard in speaking and teaching.The apostle recognized Agrippa as an expert on the complex customs and laws of his Jewish subjects and said that he was happy that he could make his defense before such a well-informed ruler, Paul, a Christian, did not act as if he felt superior to Agrippa, who was not a Christian. (Philippians 2:3)(C) Rather, Paul begged the king to hear him patiently. Thus, Paul created an atmosphere in which Agrippa, as well as the other listeners, would be more likely to accept what he was about to present. He was laying a foundation, a common ground on which to building his arguments. But aren?t JWs trained to see themselves as better than the hoi polloi. They are on the road to life. How can JWs find a common ground when all that worldly people do is demonized, something and someone to be avoided at all costs. Life Paul before Agrippa, from the introduction to the conclusion of our presentation of the Kingdom message, let us make an appeal to the heart (living forever in health and happiness on a paradise earth with their resurrected loved ones). We can do this by displaying sincere respect for the person to whom we are preaching and by showing genuine interest in his or her (finally both genders) particular background and thinking.?1 Corinthians 9:20-23. (C) Use God?s Word Skillfully Paul desired to motivate his listeners to act upon the good news. (1 Thessalonians 1:5-7)(C) To that end, he appealed to their figurative heart, the seat of motivation. Returning to Paul?s defense before Agrippa, notice how Paul ?handled God?s word aright? by referring to things stated by Moses and the prophets.?2 Timothy 2:15 (S) Here?s some old light. I remember the inner convention ground had a huge, beating heart. This also tied in with the caution/forbidding of heart transplants.WT 10/1/70 p. 603 Also focusing attention on the heart was the edifying talk "Serving Jehovah with a Complete Heart." When the Bible refers to the heart, it was explained, the literal heart and not the mind or a figurative heart is meant. So, as the Bible says, the heart, yes, one?s literal heart, can impel and incite. (Ex. 35:21, 26, 29) How vital it is, therefore, that we guard the heart by always filling it with good impressions! WT 3/1/71 p. 134 How Is Your Heart? With but few exceptions, the use of the word "heart" in the Bible is limited to the operations of the heart of man as the powerhouse of one?s desires, emotions and affections, the place that comes to include the capacities for motivation. The Bible does not speak of a symbolic or spiritual heart in contradistinction to the fleshly or literal heart, just as it does not speak of a symbolic mind, and thus we do not want to make the mistake of viewing the literal heart as merely a fleshly pump as does orthodox physiology today. Most psychiatrists and psychologists tend to overcategorize the mind and allow for little if any influence from the fleshly heart, looking upon the word "heart" merely as a figure of speech apart from its use in identifying the organ that pumps our blood. Awake 10/22/70 Personality Change According to a report that appeared on United Press International of August 18, 1970, the daughter of Philip Blaiberg said that he had experienced a complete personality change after undergoing a heart-transplant operation. Blaiberg was one of the first to receive a transplanted heart. His daughter observed: "I don?t know if it was the drugs or just the transplant, but he was a different man.""Paul knew that Agrippa was nominally a Jew. Insight Book #1 p. 1090 HEROD The name of a family of political rulers over the Jews. They were Idumeans, Edomites (descendants of Esau, Jacob?s (Israel?s) brother). They were nominally Jews, for the Idumeans had had circumcision forced upon them by the Maccabean ruler John Hyrcanus I in about 125 B.C.E., according to Josephus.Appealing to Agrippa?s knowledge of Judaism, Paul reasoned that his preaching really involved "saying nothing except things the Prophets as well as Moses stated were going to take place" (not what the WT publications said?) regarding the Messiah?s death and resurrection. (Acts 26:22,23)(S) Addressing Agrippa directly, Paul asked, "Do you, King Agrippa, believe the Prophets." Agrippa faced a dilemma. If he said that he rejected the prophets, his reputation as a Jewish believer would be ruined. But if he concurred with Paul?s reasoning, he would be taking a position of public agreement with the apostle and would risk being called a Christian. Paul wisely answered his own question, saying: "I know you believe." How did Agrippa?s heart move him to answer? He responded: "In a short time you would persuade me to become a Christian." (Acts 26:27,28)(S) Although Agrippa did not become a Christian, Paul evidently affected his heart to some extent with his message.?Hebrews 4:12 (S) That?s right, you don?t have to convert everyone. Just affect their heart and you are in the clear, your personal salvation is protected. Have you noticed that Paul?s presentation of the good news consisted of both proclamation and persuasion? Because Paul used that approach as he ?handled the word of God aright,? some who heard him turned from being mere listeners to becoming believers. This was the case in Thessalonica, where Paul sought out Jews and God-fearing Gentiles at the synagogue. Do you remember what is meant by God-fearing Gentiles and why they could be in the synagogue?WT 9/15/98 p. 30 Author Shaye J. D. Cohen, professor of Jewish history, states: "Many gentiles, both men and women, converted to Judaism during the last centuries B.C.E. and the first two centuries C.E. Even more numerous, however, were those gentiles who accepted certain aspects of Judaism but did not convert to it." Both Klausner and Cohen refer to these nonconverts as God-fearers, an expression that appears frequently in Greek literature of the period.What is the difference between a proselyte and a God-fearer? Proselytes were full converts, considered Jews in every sense because they accepted the God of Israel (rejecting all other gods), underwent circumcision, and joined themselves to the nation of Israel. In contrast, Cohen says regarding God-fearers: "Although these gentiles observed any number of Jewish practices and venerated in one form or another the God of the Jews, they did not see themselves as Jews and were not seen by others as Jews." Klausner describes them as "standing in a middle position," for they accepted Judaism and "observed a part of its customs, but . . . did not become complete Jews." (didn?t get circumcised, ouch!)The account at Acts 17:2-4 says: "According to Paul?s custom he went inside to them, and for three sabbaths he reasoned with them from the Scriptures, explaining and proving by references (this is the scripture the WTS uses to prove it can use snippet scriptures out of context/proof texts) that it was necessary for the Christ to suffer and to rise from the dead?As a result some of them became believers." Paul was persuasive. He reasoned, explained, and proved by means of the Scriptures (only because there were not WT publications to use) that Jesus was the long-promised Messiah. The result? A congregation of believers was established. Notice that Paul went to those that already had a belief in the Scriptures. The WTS has followed his example by going where other Christian religions have already preached and taught a large population to accept the Bible. In Islamic countries, India, China, and other Asian countries. Japan is an exception because their only religion Shinto/worship of the emperor got undercut right after WWII and JWs were there on the scene to offer something new. Can you become more adept in the art of persuasion when explaining God?s Word? If so, you will find more personal fulfillment and enjoyment in your work of preaching and teaching about God?s Kingdom (if is your fault then if you are bored in the ministry). This has been the experience of publishers of the good news who have applied suggestions to use the Bible more in the preaching work.For example, a traveling overseer of Jehovah?s Witnesses wrote: "Quite a number of brothers and sisters (both genders, good) are now carrying a Bible in their hand when they witness from door to door. This has helped the publishers to read a scripture to many of the people with whom they come in contact (if you find anyone home that is). It has helped both the householder (buzzword, makes you view that person with love, right, thinking of them as a building owner?) and the publisher (buzzword, what are we book printers?) to associate the Bible, not just magazines and books, with our ministry."(not that they associate them with JWs) Of course, whether we have the Bible visible when we engage in the preaching activity depends on various factors, including local customs (now what could those be, besides not flapping your Bible in public where JWs are under ban?). Nevertheless, we should want to have a reputation for skillful use of God?s Word to persuade others to accept the Kingdom message. Have God?s View of the Ministry Another way to reach the heart of our listeners involves seeing the ministry from God?s standpoint and being patient. God?s will is that all sorts of men (and women) "come to an accurate knowledge of truth." (1 Timothy 2:3,4) (S) Is that not our desire? Jehovah is also patient, and his patience affords opportunities for many to attain to repentance. (2 Peter 3:9)(S) Thus, when we find someone who is willing to lend a hearing ear to the Kingdom message, it may be necessary to call again and again in order to cultivate that interest (assuming you find him or her home again and again). It takes time and patience to watch the seeds of truth grow. (Translation: make your return visits even if you have to try 30 times). (1 Corinthians 3:6)(S) The accompany box entitled "How to Be Successful in Making Return Visits: offers suggestions for developing such interest.- Show a sincere personal interest in people (my salvation depends upon it)
- Select an appealing Bible subject to discuss (not their destruction at Armageddon)
- Lay the groundwork for each successive visit (be sure to give them the magazines)
- Keep thinking about the person after you leave (but forget to write anything down)
- Return soon (right!), perhaps in a day or two (right!!!!!) in order to follow up the interest
- Keep in mind that your objective is to start a home Bible study (Not me, I?m not going to tie myself down; it?s bad enough I have 2 evenings a week and a Saturday morning wasted on this stuff)
- Pray that Jehovah will make the interest grow (he can make it grow for the next JW that calls on them)
No quantity preaching, then the WTS concentrates on quality. It is obvious that people are not making return visits. It is hard to find people today, lives are busy. Yet the majority of the preaching working is done during the day by pioneers and on Saturday mornings when people are already gone by 9:30-10 am. Evening witnessing is an illusion. When was the last time someone suggested making RVs on a Saturday or Sunday evening? And as to being logical. Logic is fluid, parts flow together. JWs are taught in pieces, out of context scriptures, static. Please refer to last week?s lesson on fallacies in logic.
Next week find out how the WTS depicts Aquilla and Prisca expounding the Bible to Apollos. Find out her role. Headings are "Focus on People" (until they?re baptized and then you ignore them); Learn from the Example of Other Teachers (not the elders, they rarely work with the rank and file); Create Opportunities to Make Disciples (yes, hand out brochures at funerals); Keep on Searching for Deserving Ones (tell people they have a 1 in 3,000 chance of being "deserving")
Blondie (who will be sleeping in tomorrow since it is now midnight)
*Ministry School Textbook p 251-254 Study 48 Reasoning MannerWhat do you need to do?
Use scriptures, illustrations, and questions in a logical way and in a manner that encourages people to listen and to think.
Why is it important? A blunt, dogmatic approach tends to close minds and hearts. A reasoning manner encourages discussion, gives people something to think about later, and leaves the way open for future conversations. It can be powerfully persuasive.WE ARE grateful for the changes that God?s Word has brought about in our lives, and we want others to benefit as well. Furthermore, we realize that how people respond to the good news will affect their future prospects. (Matt. 7:13, 14; John 12:48) We earnestly want them to accept the truth. However, our strong convictions and zeal need to be coupled with discernment in order to accomplish the most good.
A blunt statement of truth that exposes as false a cherished belief of another person, even when buttressed with the recitation of a long list of Scripture texts, is generally not well received. For example, if popular celebrations are simply denounced as being of pagan origin, this may not change how other people feel about them. A reasoning approach is usually more successful. What is involved in being reasonable?
The Scriptures tell us that "the wisdom from above is . . . peaceable, reasonable." (Jas. 3:17) The Greek word here rendered "reasonable" literally means "yielding." Some translations render it "considerate," "gentle," or "forbearing." Notice that reasonableness is associated with peaceableness. At Titus 3:2, it is mentioned along with mildness and is contrasted with belligerence. Philippians 4:5 urges us to be known for our "reasonableness." A person who is reasonable takes into account the background, circumstances, and feelings of the one to whom he is talking. He is willing to yield when it is appropriate to do so. Dealing with others in such a way helps to open their minds and hearts so that they are more receptive when we reason with them from the Scriptures.
Where to Begin. The historian Luke reports that when the apostle Paul was in Thessalonica, he used the Scriptures, "explaining and proving by references that it was necessary for the Christ to suffer and to rise from the dead." (Acts 17:2, 3) It is noteworthy that Paul did this in a Jewish synagogue. Those to whom he was speaking recognized the Hebrew Scriptures as an authority. It was appropriate to start with something that they accepted. When Paul was speaking to Greeks at the Areopagus in Athens, he did not begin with references to the Scriptures. Instead, he started with things that they knew and accepted, and he used these to lead them to a consideration of the Creator and His purposes.?Acts 17:22-31.In modern times, there are billions who do not recognize the Bible as an authority in their lives. But the life of nearly everyone is affected by harsh situations in the present system of things. People long for something better. If you first show concern for what disturbs them and then show how the Bible explains it, such a reasonable approach might move them to listen to what the Bible says about God?s purpose for humankind.It may be that the heritage passed on to a Bible student by his parents included certain religious beliefs and customs. Now, the student learns that those beliefs and customs are not pleasing to God, and he rejects them in favor of what is taught in the Bible. How can the student explain that decision to his parents? They may feel that by rejecting the religious heritage they gave him, he is rejecting them. The Bible student may conclude that before trying to explain from the Bible the basis for his decision, he will need to reassure his parents of his love and respect for them.
When to Yield. Jehovah himself, though having full authority to command, shows outstanding reasonableness. When rescuing Lot and his family from Sodom, Jehovah?s angels urged: "Escape to the mountainous region for fear you may be swept away!" Yet, Lot pleaded: "Not that, please, Jehovah!" He begged to be permitted to flee to Zoar. Jehovah showed consideration for Lot by allowing him to do that; so when other cities were destroyed, Zoar was spared. Later, however, Lot followed Jehovah?s original direction and moved to the mountainous region. (Gen. 19:17-30) Jehovah knew that his way was right, but he patiently showed consideration while Lot came to appreciate it.In order to deal successfully with others, we too need to be reasonable. We may be convinced that the other person is wrong, and we may have in mind powerful arguments that would prove it. But at times it is better not to press the matter. Reasonableness does not mean compromising Jehovah?s standards. It may simply be better to thank the other person for expressing himself or to let some wrong statements pass unchallenged so that you can focus the discussion on something that will accomplish more good. Even if he condemns what you believe, do not overreact. You might ask him why he feels as he does. Listen carefully to his reply. This will give you insight into his thinking. It may also lay the groundwork for constructive conversation at a future time.?Prov. 16:23; 19:11.
Jehovah has endowed humans with the ability to choose. He allows them to use that ability, even though they may not use it wisely. As Jehovah?s spokesman, Joshua recounted God?s dealings with Israel. But then he said: "Now if it is bad in your eyes to serve Jehovah, choose for yourselves today whom you will serve, whether the gods that your forefathers who were on the other side of the River served or the gods of the Amorites in whose land you are dwelling. But as for me and my household, we shall serve Jehovah." (Josh. 24:15) Our assignment today is to give "a witness," and we speak with conviction, but we do not try to pressure others to believe. (Matt. 24:14) They must choose, and we do not deny them that right.
Ask Questions. Jesus set an outstanding example in reasoning with people. He took into account their background and used illustrations that they would readily accept. He also made effective use of questions. This gave others opportunity to express themselves and revealed what was in their hearts. It also encouraged them to reason on the matter being considered.A man versed in the Law asked Jesus: "Teacher, by doing what shall I inherit everlasting life?" Jesus could easily have given him the answer. But he invited the man to express himself. "What is written in the Law? How do you read?" The man answered correctly. Did his giving a correct answer end that discussion? Not at all. Jesus let the man continue, and a question that the man himself asked indicated that he was trying to prove himself righteous. He asked: "Who really is my neighbor?" Rather than give a definition, which the man might have disputed because of the prevailing Jewish attitude toward Gentiles and Samaritans, Jesus invited him to reason on an illustration. It was about a neighborly Samaritan who came to the aid of a traveler that had been robbed and beaten, whereas a priest and a Levite did not. With a simple question, Jesus made sure that the man got the point. Jesus? manner of reasoning made the expression "neighbor" take on a meaning that this man had never before discerned. (Luke 10:25-37) What a fine example to imitate! Instead of doing all the talking yourself, in effect, thinking for your householder, learn how to use tactful questions and illustrations to encourage your listener to think.
Give Reasons. When the apostle Paul spoke in the synagogue in Thessalonica, he did more than read from an authority that his audience accepted. Luke reports that Paul explained, proved, and made application of what he read. As a result, "some of them became believers and associated themselves with Paul and Silas."?Acts 17:1-4.Regardless of who may be in your audience, such a reasoning approach can be beneficial. That is true when you witness to relatives, speak to workmates or schoolmates, talk to strangers in your public witnessing, conduct a Bible study, or give a talk in the congregation. When you read a scripture, the meaning may be plain to you but perhaps not so to someone else. Your explanation or your application may sound like dogmatic assertion. Would isolating and explaining certain key expressions in the scripture help? Could you present supporting evidence, possibly from the context or from another scripture that deals with the subject? Might an illustration demonstrate the reasonableness of what you have said? Would questions help your audience to reason on the matter? Such a reasoning approach leaves a favorable impression and gives others much to think about.
HOW TO DO IT
When deciding how to begin your discussion, take into account the background and attitude of your listeners.
Do not challenge every wrong statement.Speak with conviction, but recognize that others have the freedom to choose what they will believe, just as you do.
Instead of answering questions quickly, use other questions or illustrations to help the inquirer to reason on the matter.
Make it a habit to reason on a scripture by explaining key expressions, showing how the context or other scriptures shed light on the meaning, or using an example to show how the scripture applies.
EXERCISES: (1) After you witness to someone who has strong views, analyze the way that you handled the discussion. What evidence did you present? What illustration did you include? What questions did you use? How did you show consideration for his background or feelings? If unable to do this in the field service, try it in a practice session with another publisher. (2) Rehearse how you would reason with someone (a peer or a child) who has in mind doing something that is wrong.Study 49 Sound Arguments Given What do you need to do?Provide satisfying evidence to support statements that you make.
Why is it important?Your listeners will not believe or act on what you say unless they are convinced that it is true.
WHEN you make a statement, your listeners are fully justified in asking: "Why is that true? What is the proof that what the speaker is saying should be accepted?" As a teacher, you have the obligation either to answer such questions or to help your listeners find the answers. If the point is crucial to your argument, make sure that you give your listeners strong reasons to accept it. This will contribute to making your presentation persuasive.
The apostle Paul used persuasion. By sound argument, logical reasoning, and earnest entreaty, he sought to bring about a change of mind in those to whom he spoke. He set a fine example for us. (Acts 18:4; 19:8) Of course, some orators use persuasion to mislead people. (Matt. 27:20; Acts 14:19; Col. 2:4) They may start with a wrong premise, rely on biased sources, use superficial arguments, ignore facts that disagree with their view, or appeal more to emotion than to reason. We should be careful to avoid all such methods.
Based Firmly on God?s Word. What we teach must not be of our own originality. We endeavor to share with others what we have learned from the Bible. In this, we have been greatly helped by the publications of the faithful and discreet slave class. These publications encourage us to examine the Scriptures carefully. In turn, we direct others to the Bible, not with the goal of proving that we are right, but with the humble desire of letting them see for themselves what it says. We agree with Jesus Christ, who said in prayer to his Father: "Your word is truth." (John 17:17) There is no greater authority than Jehovah God, the Creator of heaven and earth. The soundness of our arguments depends on their being based on his Word.At times you may speak to people who are not familiar with the Bible or who do not recognize it as the Word of God. You should exercise good judgment as to when and how you bring in Bible texts. But you should endeavor to direct their attention to that authoritative source of information as soon as possible.
Should you conclude that simply quoting a relevant scripture provides an irrefutable argument? Not necessarily. You may need to direct attention to the context to show that the scripture truly does support what you are saying. If you are merely drawing a principle from a scripture and the context is not discussing that subject, more evidence may be needed. You may need to use other scriptures that bear on the matter in order to satisfy your audience that what you are saying is really solidly based on the Scriptures.
Avoid overstating what a scripture proves. Read it carefully. The text may deal with the general subject that you are discussing. Yet, for your argument to be persuasive, your listener must be able to see in it what you are saying that it proves.
Supported by Corroborative Evidence. In some cases, it may be helpful to use evidence from a reliable source outside of the Bible to help people appreciate the reasonableness of the Scriptures.For example, you may point to the visible universe as proof that there is a Creator. You may draw attention to natural laws, such as gravity, and reason that the existence of such laws presupposes that there is a Lawgiver. Your logic will be sound if it is in harmony with what is stated in God?s Word. (Job 38:31-33; Ps. 19:1; 104:24; Rom. 1:20) Such evidence is helpful because it demonstrates that what the Bible says is consistent with observable facts.
Are you endeavoring to help someone realize that the Bible really is the Word of God? You might quote scholars who say that it is, but does that prove it? Such quotations merely help people who respect those scholars. Could you use science to prove that the Bible is true? If you were to use the opinions of imperfect scientists as your authority, you would be building on a shaky foundation. On the other hand, if you start with the Word of God and then point to findings of science that highlight the Bible?s accuracy, your arguments will be established on a sound foundation.
Whatever you are endeavoring to prove, present sufficient evidence. The amount of evidence required will depend on your audience. For example, if you are discussing the last days as described at 2 Timothy 3:1-5, you may draw the attention of your audience to a well-known news report indicating that men have "no natural affection." That one example may be adequate to prove that this aspect of the sign of the last days is now being fulfilled.
An analogy?a comparison of two things that have important elements in common?can often be helpful. The analogy does not in itself prove a matter; its validity must be tested against what the Bible itself says. But the analogy may help a person to see the reasonableness of an idea. Such an analogy might be used, for instance, when explaining that God?s Kingdom is a government. You might point out that like human governments, God?s Kingdom has rulers, subjects, laws, a judicial system, and an educational system.
Real-life experiences can often be used to demonstrate the wisdom of applying the Bible?s counsel. Personal experiences can also be used to support statements made. For instance, when you point out to a person the importance of reading and studying the Bible, you might explain how doing that has improved your life. To encourage his brothers, the apostle Peter referred to the transfiguration, of which he was an eyewitness. (2 Pet. 1:16-18) Paul too cited his own experiences. (2 Cor. 1:8-10; 12:7-9) Of course, you should use your personal experiences sparingly so that you do not draw undue attention to yourself.
Since people differ in background and thinking, evidence that convinces one person may not satisfy another. Therefore, consider the views of your listeners when deciding which arguments you will use and how you will present them. Proverbs 16:23 states: "The heart of the wise one causes his mouth to show insight, and to his lips it adds persuasiveness."
HOW TO DO ITInstead of merely making assertions, supply satisfying evidence to support important points.
Base arguments firmly on the Scriptures.
Use corroborative evidence to fit your objectives and the needs of your audience.
EXERCISES: (1) Turn to the main heading "Jesus Christ" in Reasoning From the Scriptures. Notice how questions are answered with primary emphasis on the Bible. (2) Examine the opening series of articles in an issue of The Watchtower or Awake! Select several of the main points that are developed. Underscore the key scriptures, and mark the corroborative evidence.