Making Jehovah’s Name Known in All the Earth

¹ When Jesus commissioned his disciples to be witnesses “to the most distant part of the earth,” he had already set the example for them to follow. (Acts 1:8) Whenever and wherever he found people, he talked about God’s purpose for humankind. In imitation of Jesus, the faithful slave class is using a great variety of ways to make Jehovah’s name “known in all the earth.”​—Isa. 12:4, 5.

² What Was Done in Former Days: In years gone by, sermons were published in newspapers; the “Photo-Drama of Creation” was produced and shown to millions; sound cars were used; and extensive use was made of the phonograph and, for a time, radio​—all to preach the good news. Of course, primary emphasis has always been placed on making personal contact with people so that the interest found can be cultivated. Consequently, the house-to-house ministry has proved to be a very effective means of making Jehovah’s name known everywhere.​—Acts 5:42.

³ What Is Being Done in Our Day: With changing times the world is moving at a hectic pace, and in many places people are seldom found at home. Few are inclined to spend time reading and meditating on spiritual things. We must therefore adapt our ministry accordingly. In addition to continually covering the territory from house to house, we have been encouraged to go where the people are and to be “always ready” to make a defense for the hope within us. (1 Pet. 3:15) This means endeavoring to preach to workmates, to schoolmates, to people on the street and in the park or parking lot, from store to store, and anywhere else that people may be found. Having Jehovah’s backing, our efforts meet with good success. Are you having a share in reaching people wherever they are?

⁴ May we individually leave no stone unturned when it comes to making Jehovah’s name known in our territory. We can find great satisfaction in fully accomplishing our ministry, as we look to Jehovah to draw righthearted ones.​—John 6:44.

Will You Be There?

¹ A longtime Witness once said: “If you miss the first day of the convention, why, you have just missed too much!” Why did he feel that way? Because the first day is the beginning of a rich spiritual banquet that Jehovah’s organization has prepared for us. (Isa. 25:6) Our being there right from the start shows that we agree with the psalmist’s sentiments: “I rejoiced when they were saying to me: ‘To the house of Jehovah let us go.’”​—Ps. 122:1.

² Last year at some of the “God’s Prophetic Word” District Conventions, however, the attendance on Friday was substantially less than on Saturday and Sunday. This means that a large percentage of our brothers lost out on hearing convention parts that presented vital information about the prophetic word. They also forfeited delightful association with fellow believers.

³ Do Not Let Secular Work Interfere: Concern about jeopardizing one’s employment may be the reason why some did not attend on Friday. However, many Witnesses have found that their employers are willing to cooperate with them in this matter if they ask for time off well in advance. One employer was so impressed by a pioneer sister’s firm determination to attend all congregation meetings and assemblies that he spent an entire day at her convention!

⁴ You should not assume that your employer is not disposed to grant you time off, nor should you conclude that missing a day of the convention will not matter. With heartfelt conviction, prepare to show your employer tactfully from the Scriptures why attending the convention is an important part of your worship. (Heb. 10:24, 25) Then put your full confidence in Jehovah’s promises, recognizing that whatever you require materially will be provided if you keep spiritual needs foremost in your life.​—Matt. 6:33; Heb. 13:5, 6.

⁵ The key factor is appreciation for “the more important things.” (Phil. 1:10, 11; Ps. 27:4) This moves us to make plans to benefit fully from this vital provision from Jehovah. Start making your definite plans now, and be determined that you will be there all three days!