Ask Questions – Strategic Questions – More Questions
Do you feel like you're walking around on eggshells these days when it comes to engaging people in our mission field?
People seem to be on edge or unnerved about everyday interactions. People tend to be quiet, look down, or look away when you walk by them. Maybe it’s all the noise of outrage, protest, restrictions, or the fear of cancel culture.
How can we open the door to some interaction that could lead to planting some gospel seeds of truth?
Smile at people.
Give people a warm, friendly greeting.
Be kind and courteous in all you do (open doors, offer a helping hand, share compliments).
Ask good, strategic questions. People seem willing to answer caring non-intrusive questions and these can provide a useful transition into planting some gospel seeds.
Here are a few I like to ask when it appears there might be an opportunity to engage someone beyond a “hi” and “bye” moment.
1. “What kind of a faith background do you have?” (This is my favorite question as it works 99% of the time). Some follow-up questions could include:
“How would you describe your overall faith experience?”
“Does your background currently have any influence on your life?”
“Do you mind sharing what changed for you about your faith?”
“Would you consider a re-examination of faith?”
2. “What would you say gives meaning and purpose to your life?” Follow-up questions could include:
“What beliefs or people have most shaped your life?”
“How did you come to this conclusion?”
“How do you know what you believe is really true?”
3. “What do you think about Jesus?” Follow-up questions could include:
“What have you heard about Christianity?”
“What do you like or not like about Christianity?”
“Do you have any questions about Jesus?”
These are just a few starters, and you may have some better questions you like to ask. But questions show you are interested and you care about people. They can help us understand the sticking points or roadblocks that need to be addressed along the way.
If you’d like to explore other questions to ask, please check out this resource, Tips for Telling Someone the Gospel.
Lord willing, our questions can lead to hearing them ask, “What must I do to be saved?”
Pastor Jeff