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Skillfully Wield “the Sword of the Spirit”The Watchtower—2010 | February 15
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Use It With Persuasion
14. What does it mean to persuade our listeners?
14 Using the Bible effectively in the ministry is not just a matter of quoting scriptures. Paul spoke with “persuasion,” and so should we. (Read Acts 19:8, 9; 28:23.) To “persuade” means to “win over.” The one persuaded is “so convinced that [he] puts confidence in someth[ing].” When we persuade a person to accept a Bible teaching, we are winning him over to place his trust in that teaching. To accomplish this, we need to convince our listener of the truthfulness of what we say. We can do this in the following ways.
15. How can you direct attention to the Bible in a way that creates respect for it?
15 Direct attention to God’s Word in a way that creates respect for it. When you introduce a scripture, focus attention on the importance of knowing God’s thinking on the subject. After posing a question and getting the householder’s response, you may want to say something to this effect, ‘Let us see how we can get God’s mind on the matter.’ Or you might ask, ‘What does God have to say about this situation?’ Introducing the text in this way emphasizes that the Bible is from God and helps build high regard for it in the mind of the listener. Doing so is especially important when we are witnessing to someone who believes in God but is unfamiliar with what the Bible teaches.—Ps. 19:7-10.
16. What will help you to explain scriptures properly?
16 Do more than just read scriptures; explain them. It was Paul’s custom to ‘explain and prove by references’ the things he taught. (Acts 17:3) A Scriptural text often contains more than one point, and you may need to isolate key expressions that apply to what you are discussing. You may do this by restating the thought-conveying words or by asking questions that will help the householder to recognize them. Then, explain the meaning of that part of the scripture. Once that is done, help your listener to see how the text applies to him personally.
17. How can you reason from the Scriptures in a way that is convincing?
17 Reason from the Scriptures in a way that is convincing. Using heartfelt entreaty and sound logic, Paul convincingly ‘reasoned with others from the Scriptures.’ (Acts 17:2, 4) Like him, endeavor to reach the heart of your listener. ‘Draw up’ what is in it by using kind questions that reflect personal interest in the individual. (Prov. 20:5) Avoid being blunt. Present arguments in a clear and logical manner. They should be supported by satisfying evidence. Your statements should be solidly based on God’s Word. It is better to use one text well by explaining and illustrating the point than to read two or three scriptures in rapid succession. Using corroborative evidence can also ‘add persuasiveness to your lips.’ (Prov. 16:23) At times, it may be necessary to do research and provide additional information. The 93-year-old woman mentioned earlier needed to know why the teaching of an immortal soul (or spirit) is so prevalent. Understanding where that doctrine originated and how it entered most religions of the world was essential to persuade her to accept what the Bible teaches on the subject.b
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Skillfully Wield “the Sword of the Spirit”The Watchtower—2010 | February 15
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[Box/Picture on page 12]
How to Use God’s Word With Persuasion
▪ Create respect for the Bible
▪ Explain the Scriptures
▪ Reason convincingly so as to reach the heart
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