Watchtower Study for the Week of November 16-22, 2026

We Preach the Good News in “All the Languages of the Nations”

1. Why is it vital to preach the good news in many languages? (Romans 10:13, 14).

Romans 10:13-14 — For “everyone who calls on the name of Jehovah will be saved.” However, how will they call on him if they have not put faith in him? How, in turn, will they put faith in him about whom they have not heard? How, in turn, will they hear without someone to preach?

Answer 1: It is vital because, in order to put faith in Jehovah and call on his name, people first need to know him. And that requires someone to preach to them in a way they can understand. So overcoming language barriers is not simply a convenience—it is part of a lifesaving work.

Answer 2: Jehovah wants to gather a great crowd out of all nations, tribes, peoples, and tongues so that they may survive the great tribulation. So the good news cannot be limited to just a few languages. When we help someone receive the message in his or her own language, we are cooperating with Jehovah’s purpose. This helps us view each person as someone who needs the opportunity to know him.

Answer 3: Since what happened at Babel, mankind has been divided by many languages. But that diversity does not prevent Jehovah from gathering those who want to serve him. We have the honor of sharing in that work. Remembering this can help us not to end a conversation simply because the person does not speak our language, but to look for a way to get the Kingdom message to him or her.

2. What did Zechariah prophesy?

Zechariah 8:23 — “This is what Jehovah of armies says, ‘In those days ten men out of all the languages of the nations will take hold, yes, they will take firm hold of the robe of a Jew, saying: “We want to go with you, for we have heard that God is with you people.”’”

Answer 1: Zechariah announced that people speaking many languages would firmly join those who have God’s support. What would move them would be recognizing that Jehovah is with his people. This prophecy is being fulfilled in our day, and each of us can have a share in its fulfillment.

Answer 2: Zechariah prophesied that people from many nations would join themselves to Jehovah and become part of his people. This shows that Jehovah would not limit his worship to people of one origin or language. When preaching, we do well to remember the broad scope of his purpose and to show sincere interest in everyone we meet, regardless of where they come from or what language they speak.

Answer 3: One especially beautiful detail of the prophecy is that these people want to accompany God’s people because they recognize that he is with his servants. This is not simply a matter of gathering people from different cultures, but of uniting them in worship of Jehovah. Seeing this fulfillment today strengthens our confidence in his promises and motivates us to keep helping others draw close to him.

3. Whom do the “ten men” and the “Jew” represent?

Answer 1: The “ten men” represent humble servants of Jehovah who hope to live forever on earth. They come from many parts of the world and speak different languages. The “Jew” represents spirit-anointed Christians, who have the heavenly hope. Although their hopes are different, all are united in worshipping Jehovah.

Galatians 6:16 — As for all those who walk orderly by this rule of conduct, peace and mercy be upon them, yes, upon the Israel of God.

Answer 2: This passage helps us identify the “Jew” of the prophecy. The paragraph explains that he represents anointed Christians, who are also known as the Israel of God. Therefore, the prophecy is not describing people uniting around a nationality, but their uniting with the servants whom Jehovah has anointed with his spirit.

Answer 3: I am struck by the fact that the “ten men” are humble servants of God who come from many places and speak different languages. What unites them is not their culture, but their desire to serve Jehovah together with the anointed. This helps us value our unity and remember that language differences do not have to divide us in the congregation.

4. What happened after Jesus appointed the “faithful and discreet slave”?

Matthew 24:45 — “Who really is the faithful and discreet slave whom his master appointed over his domestics, to give them their food at the proper time?

Answer 1: After their appointment in 1919, those anointed brothers understood that, in order to provide spiritual food, the Bible’s message had to be translated into many languages and taken to more countries. What had already been done was not enough. This understanding moved them to carry out the work needed so that many more people could come to know Jehovah.

Answer 2: The translation work was expanded. Although the Photo-Drama of Creation was already available in several languages, the brothers saw that more was needed. For example, The Harp of God was published in English in 1921 and was eventually translated into 36 languages. This shows that they were willing to keep working so that the message could reach people who still could not receive it in their own language.

Answer 3: In 1935, it became clear whom the great crowd represents, and this made it possible to appreciate the enormous task that lay ahead. People throughout the earth had to be reached. Thus, Jehovah was preparing the way for the fulfillment of Zechariah’s prophecy. Reviewing these steps helps us value the work that has made it possible for us too to receive spiritual food in our language.

5, 6. How are the words of Isaiah 2:2-4 being fulfilled today? (See also the picture).

Answer 1: The prophecy is being fulfilled as sincere people from many nations learn Jehovah’s ways. The preaching and translation work enable them to receive this instruction in languages they understand. It is not merely a matter of distributing publications, but of helping people to know Jehovah and live as he desires. Each person who accepts this instruction demonstrates the value of all that work.

Psalms 110:3 — Your people will offer themselves willingly on the day of your military force. In splendid holiness, from the womb of the dawn, You have your company of young men just like dewdrops.

Answer 2: The willing spirit of Jehovah’s people contributes to people from many nations learning his ways. Some preach; others translate, print, or ship publications, while still others work on computer tools. The image highlights several of these activities. Although the tasks differ, all of them help Bible instruction reach more people.

Answer 3: Donations for the worldwide work also contribute. The paragraph explains that, thanks to everyone’s contributions, publications are available in more than 1,100 languages and hundreds of thousands are baptized each year. This reminds us that we do not have to know how to translate or work in a print shop in order to share in the work. Our donations are another way to show appreciation for spiritual food and help others receive it.

7. What effect does seeing the fulfillment of Revelation 14:6 have on us?

Revelation 14:6 — And I saw another angel flying in midheaven, and he had everlasting good news to declare to those who dwell on the earth, to every nation and tribe and tongue and people.

Answer 1: Seeing the good news reach people in so many languages strengthens our confidence in the prophecies. In addition, this passage reminds us that we have angelic help. Therefore, we do not view the worldwide preaching work as merely a human work, but as a work that has Jehovah’s support.

Answer 2: It convinces us even more that the other prophecies will also be fulfilled. We are seeing how available tools make it possible to overcome language barriers and take the message to people in many places. If Jehovah is fulfilling these promises, we can trust those that are still outstanding. Thinking about this helps us look to the future with confidence and continue sharing enthusiastically in the preaching work.

Answer 3: It also increases our determination to be loyal to the organization Jehovah uses to proclaim the good news. We see the effort being made to get the message to people of every language and people, and we want to cooperate. One practical way to demonstrate that loyalty is to make good use of the tools we receive instead of allowing a language difference to prevent us from trying to help someone.

8. How did Jehovah counteract what happened at the Tower of Babel in the year 33?

Answer 1: At Babel, Jehovah confused the language of humans, and they were scattered. In contrast, at Pentecost in 33 C.E., he gave the disciples the ability to speak languages they did not know. In this way, people from different nations who were in Jerusalem could hear the message in their own language. Jehovah used his power so that language differences would not prevent them from learning about him.

Acts 2:11 — Cretans, and Arabians—we hear them speaking in our languages about the magnificent things of God.”

Answer 2: The reaction of those people shows the purpose of the miracle: Jehovah wanted them to understand the message about him. It was not merely a demonstration of power. Each one could hear in his own language. This teaches us how important it is to be interested in helping people understand what we share with them, and not simply in saying something to them.

Answer 3: Jehovah counteracted that barrier by miraculously enabling the disciples to speak other languages. Today the paragraph directs us to a different aid: publications can speak for us. Even if we do not know a person’s language, we can offer Bible information that he or she can understand. Thus we continue to give importance to the same thing highlighted by that miracle: people hearing Jehovah’s message in their own language.

9. What can we do so that those who do not speak our language can hear the good news?

Answer 1: We can use publications and videos in a language the person understands. We do not need to master the language in order to bring the Bible’s message to someone. What matters is using the available tools with the person’s needs in mind. A publication that he or she can read or a video that can be understood provides an opportunity to receive the relief and hope that we might not be able to explain in our own words.

Answer 2: The example of a sick person in a foreign country helps us understand this. A doctor’s instructions may be very good, but the patient needs them translated in order to understand them. Similarly, the Bible offers invaluable help to those suffering spiritually or emotionally. By showing them material in their language, we put that help within reach instead of waiting for them first to understand our language.

Answer 3: We can focus on the person’s need, not on our limitation with the language. Perhaps the person is suffering and needs precisely the hope the Bible offers. If we remember that, we will be more willing to look for a publication or video that he or she can understand. This effort demonstrates sincere interest and prevents us from assuming that we cannot help simply because we do not share the same language.

10, 11. What do we learn from Robert’s experience and from the box “A Refugee Finds Hope”?

Answer 1: Robert’s experience teaches us that knowing our publications well enables us to use them even in languages we do not speak. He spoke only English, but he knew the brochure and was able to indicate to the Turkish man which paragraphs to read. This encourages us to become familiar with our preaching tools. The better we know their contents, the easier it will be to use them to help someone who does not understand our language.

Answer 2: We also learn that a digital tool can help us answer real questions. When the man asked about the world situation, Robert used JW Library to show him Bible answers in Turkish. By the end, the man had greater respect for the Bible and understood its message better. So we do not have to limit ourselves to offering a publication; we can use these tools to address the person’s concerns.

Answer 3: A small gesture can put Bible hope within someone’s reach. The picture of the woman with a tract in Hmong highlights the value of receiving information in one’s own language. We can apply the invitation in paragraph 11 by resolving to show an article or give a tract in a language understood by the next person we meet who does not speak ours. Let us not underestimate that opportunity.

12. What effect has the New World Translation had on Jehovah’s people, and why?

1 Corinthians 1:10 — Now I urge you, brothers, through the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that you should all speak in agreement and that there should be no divisions among you, but that you may be completely united in the same mind and in the same line of thought.

Answer 1: The New World Translation has contributed to the unity that Paul urged Christians to have. In every language, it conveys the same message clearly and reliably. Thus, although we live in different countries, we share the same beliefs and teach the same truths. Our unity is based on Bible teaching.

Answer 2: In addition to uniting Jehovah’s people, it has helped many strengthen their friendship with him. An elder in Nepal explained that reading it in his language made Jehovah more real to him and strengthened his faith. This shows that understanding the Bible well does more than increase our knowledge. It can also help us feel closer to Jehovah and trust him more.

Answer 3: Its availability, in whole or in part, in more than 300 languages allows countless people to benefit from it. Most important, the clarity and reliability of the message are maintained regardless of the language. This moves us to appreciate the translation work and to make personal use of this tool. Reading it attentively enables us to benefit from what has so greatly strengthened and united our brothers.

13. Why do very few Bibles contain Jehovah’s name today?

Answer 1: As the paragraph explains, many leaders of religions that claim to be Christian are increasingly opposed to using Jehovah’s name or making it known. That opposition has been reflected in their Bible translations. Therefore, although about a hundred years ago many versions included the divine name, especially in the Hebrew Scriptures, today very few retain it.

Answer 2: The paragraph points out that the name has been removed from Catholic translations and from most translations of Protestant denominations. This helps explain why many people do not find it in the Bible they use. When speaking with them, we should keep this circumstance in mind and respectfully explain why we value a translation that enables people to know God’s name.

Answer 3: The reason highlighted by the article is religious opposition to retaining and making the divine name known. In contrast with that trend, the New World Translation has restored it to its proper place in every language in which it is available. This contrast helps us value this translation: it not only enables us to read the Bible’s message, but also to know the name of its Author and honor him.

14. How does the Bible show that knowing and using God’s name is important?

John 17:26 — I have made your name known to them and will make it known, so that the love with which you loved me may be in them and I in union with them.”

Answer 1: Jesus attached great importance to his disciples’ knowing his Father’s name, and he expressed his determination to continue making it known. He also connected this teaching with love. Thus, using Jehovah’s name is not an unimportant detail; it is part of following Jesus’ example and helping others draw close to his Father.

Answer 2: The Bible emphasizes its importance both in praise and in prayer. The psalmist encourages God’s servants to praise his name, and Jesus taught his disciples to ask that it be sanctified. This shows that Jehovah’s name should occupy an important place in our worship. Knowing it enables us to address him personally and speak to others about him.

Romans 10:13 — For “everyone who calls on the name of Jehovah will be saved.”

Answer 3: Paul connected calling on Jehovah’s name with salvation. That is why it is so important for people to find this name in their Bible and learn who bears it. If they do not know it, how will they be able to call on it in faith? Making it known is an essential part of the spiritual help we offer, not a secondary matter in our preaching.

15. How do we feel about Jehovah’s name?

Answer 1: We feel deep love for Jehovah’s name because we have learned to love and know the One who bears it. The Bible has helped us trust him and understand the importance of using and praising his name. Therefore, we do not view it simply as a fact we know, but as the name of our beloved God.

Proverbs 18:10 — The name of Jehovah is a strong tower. Into it the righteous one runs and receives protection.

Answer 2: This proverb shows why Jehovah’s name inspires such confidence in us. We associate it with the protection he offers to those who turn to him. Thus, our love for his name is connected with the security we feel when we know him. When we need help, we want to draw close to Jehovah and continue trusting in him.

Answer 3: We also feel grateful to have access to a Bible that conveys the importance of God’s name. Thanks to it, we have come to know Jehovah better, trust him, and grow to love him. That gratitude can be seen in the way we use his name—with respect, praise, and the desire that others too may come to know the God we love so much.

16. Why is it urgent that we come to know Jehovah? (John 17:3).

John 17:3 — This means everlasting life, their coming to know you, the only true God, and the one whom you sent, Jesus Christ.

Answer 1: It is urgent because our everlasting life depends on coming to know Jehovah and Jesus Christ. In addition, the paragraph reminds us that the war between the kings of the earth and Jehovah is approaching. We now have the opportunity to draw close to him as our Father and God. We do not want to postpone something that is so important for our future.

Answer 2: The paragraph presents a very serious contrast: we can know Jehovah as a friend or be forced to know him as an adversary. He will make himself known to the nations, but those who know him and honor his name will have his protection. Therefore, it is worthwhile to spend time now strengthening our friendship with him. We want to be among those who seek him and trust in his care.

Psalms 9:10 — Those knowing your name will trust in you; You will never abandon those seeking you, O Jehovah.

Answer 3: This psalm gives us a positive reason to act without delay: Jehovah does not abandon those who seek him. The urgency comes not only from knowing what is ahead, but also from appreciating the friendship and protection he offers. The better we know him, the more reasons we will have to trust him and honor his name.

17. What privilege do we have?

Zechariah 8:23 — “This is what Jehovah of armies says, ‘In those days ten men out of all the languages of the nations will take hold, yes, they will take firm hold of the robe of a Jew, saying: “We want to go with you, for we have heard that God is with you people.”’”

Answer 1: We have the privilege of contributing to the fulfillment of this prophecy. By helping people who speak different languages to come to know Jehovah, we share in a work that he announced long ago. Although our contribution may seem small, it is part of the worldwide effort to gather those who want to serve him.

Answer 2: We can work unitedly with our brothers and count on the angels’ help in the worldwide preaching work. This makes our work a tremendous honor. In addition, Jehovah provides tools that enable us to reach people of many languages. Making good use of them is a way to show that we value this privilege and want to help as many people as possible draw close to him.

Answer 3: We have the opportunity to help others discover that Jehovah is impartial, merciful, and patient. Our goal is not simply for them to receive information, but for them to draw close to him. We can continue sharing in this work until his name is sanctified before all creation. Thinking about that goal gives great meaning to every effort we make to speak about Jehovah.

Whom do the “ten men” and the “Jew” of Zechariah 8:23 represent?

Zechariah 8:23 — “This is what Jehovah of armies says, ‘In those days ten men out of all the languages of the nations will take hold, yes, they will take firm hold of the robe of a Jew, saying: “We want to go with you, for we have heard that God is with you people.”’”

Answer 1: The “ten men” represent humble servants of Jehovah who hope to live forever on earth. The “Jew” represents spirit-anointed Christians, who have the heavenly hope. The prophecy describes people speaking many languages joining them when they recognize God’s support.

Answer 2: The “ten men” are people who hope to live forever on earth and who come from different nations and languages. The “Jew” represents the anointed, not one individual. What stands out most is the unity between the two groups. Although they do not all have the same hope, they serve the same God and cooperate in taking the good news to people around the world.

Answer 3: The prophecy unites anointed Christians, represented by the “Jew,” with God’s servants who have an earthly hope, represented by the “ten men.” The latter recognize that Jehovah is with his people and want to accompany them. Remembering this meaning helps us appreciate our unity and gladly cooperate in the preaching work without allowing language differences to divide us.

What is helping people who speak many different languages learn about Jehovah?

Answer 1: Publications, videos, JW Library, and our website enable many people to receive Bible instruction in a language they understand. Behind these tools is the volunteer work of brothers who translate, print, distribute, and develop computer resources. We complete that effort by using them in the preaching work. Even without speaking someone’s language, we can put information within reach that helps the person come to know Jehovah.

Acts 2:11 — Cretans, and Arabians—we hear them speaking in our languages about the magnificent things of God.”

Answer 2: At Pentecost, Jehovah miraculously enabled people to hear the message in their own languages. Today we can use publications to speak for us. The means is different, but it remains essential that the person understand. Therefore, selecting material in the person’s language can open the opportunity to learn about Jehovah.

Answer 3: It also helps when publishers know the tools well and know how to use them. Robert was able to guide a Turkish man in reading a brochure because he knew its contents, and afterward he showed him Bible answers in JW Library. His experience encourages us to prepare ourselves to use these aids. It is not enough for them to exist in many languages; we can take the initiative to get them to those who need them.

Why is it very important for people to know and use Jehovah’s name?

Romans 10:13 — For “everyone who calls on the name of Jehovah will be saved.”

Answer 1: Because the Bible connects calling on Jehovah’s name with salvation. To do so in faith, people need to know who he is and come to know him. That is why making his name known is a fundamental part of our preaching. We want them to have the opportunity to draw close to Jehovah, trust him, and honor him.

Answer 2: Knowing and using Jehovah’s name is part of the worship taught in the Bible. The Psalms encourage us to praise him, and Jesus made his Father’s name known and taught his disciples to ask that it be sanctified. Thus, when we help people know that name and use it respectfully, we help them follow Jesus’ example and teachings.

Answer 3: It is important because coming to know Jehovah enables people to develop love and trust in him and is connected with everlasting life. The article emphasizes that those who know him and honor his name will be protected. So we do not want people merely to learn what God is called, but to discover what he is like and draw close to him. That is the valuable goal of preaching the good news in so many languages.