Conclusion of What Do We Owe Our Neighbor?

Remember, though, that such statements refer to the world in general  that is alienated from God, not to individuals. Christians do not presume to prejudge how any individual will respond to the preaching work.  They do not have a basis for describing any individual as goats. It is not for us to say what the outcome will be when Jesus comes to separate "the sheep" from the "goats." (Matthew 25:31-46)  Jesus is the appointed judge; we are not. Besides, experience has shown that some who were deeply involved in even the worst conduct have accepted the Bible's message, changed and have become clean-living Christians.  Hence, while we may not seek association with certain individuals, we do not hesitate to speak to them about the Kingdom hope as the opportunity presents itself.  The Scriptures speak of certain individuals who, while still unbelievers, "were rightly disposed for everlasting life." They eventually became believers. (Acts 13:48) We can never know who is thus rightly disposed until we have offered a witness-perhaps many times. With this in  mind, we hear those who have not yet accepted the message of salvation with "mildness" and "deep respect," hoping that some among them may yet respond to the message of life. -2 Timothy 2:25; 1 Peter 3:15. 

Developing skills as teachers will enhance our eagerness to declare the good news.  To illustrate: An exciting game or sport may be uninteresting to a person who does not know how to play it.  But to one who plays it well, it is enjoyable. Similarly, Christians who develop  the "art of teaching" increase their joy in the ministry.  (2 Timothy 4:2; Titus 1:9)  Paul advise Timothy: "Do your utmost to present yourself approved by God, a workman with noting to be ashamed of, handling the word of the truth aright." (2 Timothy 2:15)   How can we develop our teaching skills? 

One way is by taking in additional accurate knowledge .  The apostle Peter encourages us:  "As newborn infants, form a longing for the unadulterated milk belonging to the word, that through it you may grow to salvation." (1 Peter 2:2) A healthy baby instinctively longs for milk. However, a Christian may need to "form a longing" for Bible knowledge.  This can be done by cultivating good study and reading habits.  (Proverbs 2:1-6) Effort and discipline  are required if we are to become skillful teachers of God's Word, but such efforts bring rewards.  The delight that  comes from examining God's Word will make us aglow with God's spirit, eager to share with others the things we learn.  

Christian meetings also play a virtual role in our skillful use of God's Word. When Bible texts are read during public discourses and other Scriptural discussions , we do well to follow along in our own Bibles. We are wise  to pay close attention  to meeting parts, including those  that deal specifically  with our preaching work. Never should we underestimate  the value of demonstrations, perhaps allowing ourselves to become distracted. Again, self-discipline and concentration are needed.  (1 Timothy 4:16)  Christian meetings build up our faith, help us form a longing for God's Word, and train us to be eager  proclaimers of the good news.

Next time: We Can Count on Jehovah's Support

From the Watchtower magazine, 2000