Tuesday, January 16
A student is not above his teacher, but everyone who is perfectly instructed will be like his teacher.—Luke 6:40.
As a teacher, Jesus reached hearts because he loved Jehovah, God’s Word, and people. (Luke 24:32; John 7:46) Similar love will help parents reach the hearts of their children. (Deut. 6:5-8; Luke 6:45) So parents, be good students of the Bible and of our study aids. Take an interest in creation and in articles in our publications that discuss this topic. (Matt. 6:26, 28) Your doing so will broaden your knowledge, deepen your appreciation for Jehovah, and better equip you to teach your young ones. When your heart is filled with Bible truth, you will want to discuss it with your family. Do this not only when preparing for Christian meetings or during family worship but at any time. Moreover, such discussions should not be forced but should be natural and spontaneous—a part of your everyday conversation. w16.09 5:6, 7
January 15-21
MATTHEW 6-7
Song 21 and Prayer
Opening Comments (3 min. or less)
TREASURES FROM GOD’S WORD
“Keep On Seeking First the Kingdom”: (10 min.)
Mt 6:10—The Kingdom was among the first things mentioned in the model prayer, which shows its importance (bhs 178 ¶12)
Mt 6:24—We cannot slave for God and for “Riches” (“slave” study note on Mt 6:24, nwtsty)
Mt 6:33—Jehovah will fill the needs of faithful servants who put Kingdom interests first in their lives (“Keep on . . . seeking,” “the Kingdom,” “his,” “righteousness” study notes on Mt 6:33, nwtsty; w16.07 12 ¶18)
Digging for Spiritual Gems: (8 min.)
Mt 7:12—How can we apply this verse when preparing introductions for the ministry? (w14 5/15 14-15 ¶14-16)
Mt 7:28, 29—How were the crowds affected by Jesus’ teaching, and why? (“were astounded,” “his way of teaching,” “not as their scribes” study notes on Mt 7:28, 29, nwtsty)
What has this week’s Bible reading taught you about Jehovah?
What other spiritual gems have you discovered in this week’s Bible reading?
Bible Reading: (4 min. or less) Mt 6:1-18
APPLY YOURSELF TO THE FIELD MINISTRY
Initial Call: (2 min. or less) Begin with the sample conversation. Respond to an objection that is common in your territory.
First Return Visit: (3 min. or less) Begin with the sample conversation. The person you spoke with before is not at home, but a relative answers the door.
Second Return Visit Video: (5 min.) Play and discuss the video.
LIVING AS CHRISTIANS
“Stop Worrying”: (15 min.) Discussion. Begin by playing the video Lessons From Jesus’ Word Pictures—Observe the Birds and the Lilies.
Congregation Bible Study: (30 min.) jy chap. 4
Review Followed by Preview of Next Week (3 min.)
Song 132 and Prayer