Historically, the list (often called the Catalog of Public Talk Outlines) included specific titles with unique outline numbers. A classic entry might look like this:
However, the current list is dynamic. The organization retired many "legacy" outlines (using older New World Translation references) and replaced them with new "Digital Only" talks. As of 2025, the active list is maintained on the JW S-99 form (Application for Public Talk Privileges).
Over the years, the organization updates the outlines. An outline might be retired (discontinued) and replaced with a newer one on a similar topic but with updated scriptures and reasoning. If you are looking for an older outline (e.g., from the 1980s or 90s), it may no longer be used in current meetings, but archives are sometimes available through congregation elders for reference purposes. list of jw public talk outlines free
Speakers are typically assigned outlines based on the needs of the congregation or the interest of the public audience. They generally fall into these categories:
If you are an appointed brother, here is exactly where to get the updated list for free: Historically, the list (often called the Catalog of
Let’s say you are a householder (non-Witness) who wants to understand exactly what the brother will speak about next Sunday. You cannot get the outline, but you can get the scripture list.
Here is the ethical, simple method:
Some brothers look for older outlines (pre-1990) that are no longer under active restriction. These are not official for current use but can be studied for research. Titles include:
These are often found on Internet Archive but are not approved for delivery in the congregation today. However, the current list is dynamic
If you are a baptized brother looking for approved congregation public talk outlines, the official source provides them at no cost. Below is a categorized list of available outlines, along with guidance on how to access them legally and freely.
Important Note: All current public talk outlines are copyrighted by Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society. They are provided free of charge to qualified publishers via the official JW Library app and the congregation account on jw.org.