How Frequently Do Jehovah's Witnesses Engage in Preaching?

At one time, Jehovah's Witnesses were expected to dedicate significant time to preaching, with a goal of ten hours each month. Failing to dedicate this time could lead to accusations of spiritual weakness, particularly for men who hoped to take on positions of responsibility within the organization. Today, however, the expectations have shifted, and the primary form of preaching seems to involve standing by a literature cart with a smartphone.

Current Expectations and Practices

According to recent data, a more average estimate for preaching hours is around nine to ten per month. While some Jehovah's Witnesses may put in significantly more time, this is often due to their personal commitment rather than an organizational mandate. Currently, the organization focuses more on systematic preparations, such as standing by literature carts and occasionally engaging in brief interactions with passersby.

Organizational Roles and Responsibilities

As an organization, Jehovah's Witnesses emphasize the importance of daily preaching, teaching, and making new "Disciples." This reflects their dedication to fulfilling what they believe to be a crucial aspect of their faith. Each member is encouraged to contribute to this effort, not just through preaching but also through other forms of outreach and evangelism.

These activities are seen not just as a personal decision, but as a divine commandment from Jesus Christ. According to Matthew 28:18-20, this "Great Commission" requires believers to engage in continuous Bible study and preaching, preparing to share this message with people from all walks of life.

The Importance of Preaching According to Biblical Teachings

The Bible places a high value on the responsibility of preaching and warning others of the coming judgment. This is exemplified in Ezekiel 3:17-21, which outlines the watchman’s responsibility:

Ezekiel 3:17-21

“Son of man I have appointed you as a watchman to the house of Israel and when you hear a word from my mouth you must warn them from me.
18 When I say to someone wicked, 'You will surely die,' but you do not warn him and you fail to speak in order to warn the wicked one to turn from his wicked course so that he may stay alive, he will die for his error because he is wicked but I will ask his blood back from you. Or, 'I will hold you accountable for his blood.'
19 But if you warn someone wicked and he does not turn back from his wickedness and from his wicked course he will die for his error but you will certainly save your own life. Or, 'soul.'
20 But when someone righteous abandons his righteousness and does what is wrong or 'does injustice' I will put a stumbling block before him and he will die. If you did not warn him he will die for his sin and his righteous acts will not be remembered but I will ask his blood back from you. Or, 'I will hold you accountable for his blood.'
21 But if you have warned the righteous one not to sin and he does not sin he will surely keep alive because he was warned and you will have saved your own life. Or, 'soul.'

This biblical text emphasizes the importance of warnings and the consequences of failing to fulfill this responsibility.

Salvation and the Role of Preaching

It is crucial to understand that while preaching is an essential part of the faith, it is not a guarantee of salvation. Salvation, according to the New World Translation of the Holy Scriptures Study Edition, is achieved through enduring to the end and living according to the commandments set forth by Jehovah and Jesus. As stated in Matthew 24:13-14:

Matthew 24:13-14

But the one who has endured to the end will be saved.
14 And this good news of the Kingdom will be preached in all the inhabited earth for a witness to all the nations and then the end will come.

For Jehovah's Witnesses, this means not only proclaiming their message but also living a life that exemplifies their beliefs. Faithful adherence to the will of Jehovah and Jesus, along with enduring to the end, are what truly guarantee salvation according to their understanding.

In summary, the frequency of preaching among Jehovah's Witnesses reflects a deep commitment to fulfilling their religious duties, rooted in both biblical commandments and personal faith.