14. Why should we not be hesitant about being open in our worship?

¹⁴ In many places Jehovah’s Witnesses are becoming more and more the center of media attention. Similar to what happened to the early Christians, they are often misrepresented and placed in the same category as questionable religious cults and secret organizations. (Acts 28:22) Might our openness in preaching make us more subject to attack? It certainly would be unwise, and not in keeping with Jesus’ counsel, to thrust ourselves into the midst of controversy unnecessarily. (Proverbs 26:17; Matthew 10:16) However, the beneficial work of Kingdom preaching and helping people to improve their lives is not to be hidden. It glorifies Jehovah, lifting him on high, directing attention to him and to his established Kingdom. The recent gratifying response to Bible truth in Eastern Europe and parts of Africa has partially been because of the increased openness with which the truth can now be preached there.

15, 16. (a) What purposes are served by our openness and spiritual prosperity, but is this a cause for concern? (b) Why does Jehovah put hooks into Satan’s jaws?

¹⁵ It is true that the openness with which Jehovah’s Witnesses preach, the spiritual paradise they enjoy, and their prosperity—both in human resources and material assets—do not go unnoticed. While attracting honesthearted ones, these factors may repel opposers. (2 Corinthians 2:14-17) In fact, this may eventually serve to lure Satan’s forces into attacking God’s people.

18. (a) To what realization are many people now coming, and why? (b) How does the reaction to Kingdom preaching serve as a powerful motivation?

¹⁸ In modern times Jehovah’s Witnesses have been very open in expressing their Bible-based views, even though this has not been popular. For decades they have warned of the dangers of smoking and drug abuse, the shortsightedness of permissive child training, the bad effects of entertainment saturated with illicit sex and violence, and the risks of blood transfusions. They have also pointed out the inconsistencies of the evolution theory. More and more people are now saying, “Jehovah’s Witnesses are not wrong after all.” Had we not been so open in making our views public, they could not react this way. And do not overlook the fact that by making such a statement, they are taking a step in the direction of saying, “Satan, you are a liar; Jehovah is right after all.” What a powerful motivation for us to continue following Jesus’ example, publicly speaking the word of truth!—Proverbs 27:11.