What Jesus Did

VIDEO: Jesus and the Woman at the Well

1. Watch the VIDEO, or read John 4:6-9. Then consider the following questions:

1. What did Jesus observe about the woman before starting a conversation?

2. Jesus said: “Give me a drink.” Why was this an effective way to begin the conversation?

What Do We Learn From Jesus?

2. We are more likely to have a good conversation if we start with a topic that interests the other person.

Imitate Jesus

3. Be flexible. Do not insist on starting a conversation on a topic you had in mind. Start with something that others are thinking about today. Ask yourself:

1. ‘What is in the news?’

2. ‘What are my neighbors, coworkers, or classmates talking about?’

4. Be observant. Ask yourself:

1. ‘What is the person currently doing? What might he be thinking about?’

2. ‘What do the person’s clothing, appearance, or home tell me about his beliefs or culture?’

3. ‘Is this a good time to talk to the person?’

5. Listen.

1. Don’t talk too much.

2. Encourage the other person to express himself. When appropriate, ask questions.

What Philip Did

VIDEO: Philip Preaches to the Ethiopian Eunuch

1. Watch the VIDEO, or read Acts 8:30, 31. Then consider the following questions:

1. How did Philip start the conversation?

2. Why was this a natural way to start the conversation and share a new truth with the man?

What Do We Learn From Philip?

2. If we allow a conversation to develop naturally, it is more likely that the other person will feel at ease and be open to discussing our message.

Imitate Philip

3. Be observant. A person’s facial expressions and body language can reveal a lot. Does the person seem willing to speak with you? You might introduce a Bible truth by simply asking, “Did you know that . . . ?” Avoid forcing a conversation with someone who does not want to talk.

4. Be patient. Do not feel that you must introduce a Bible truth immediately. Wait for the right opportunity so that you can bring it up naturally. Sometimes, this may mean waiting until the next conversation you have with the person.

5. Be adaptable. A conversation may go in an unexpected direction. So be willing to share something that is relevant to the person, even if that means discussing a different Bible truth than the one you had in mind.

What Jesus Did

VIDEO: Jesus Heals a Blind Man

1. Watch the VIDEO, or read John 9:1-7. Then consider the following questions:

1. What did Jesus do first​—heal the blind man or share the good news with him?​—See John 9:35-38.

2. Why might Jesus’ approach have made the man more responsive to the good news?

What Do We Learn From Jesus?

2. A person will be more likely to listen to our message if he senses that we care about him.

Imitate Jesus

3. Empathize with the person. Try to imagine how he feels.

1. Ask yourself: ‘What may he be concerned about? What might he find helpful and appealing?’ Doing so will help you to show kindness in a natural and sincere manner.

2. Show that you care about what matters to a person by listening. If he tells you how he feels about something or mentions a problem he is facing, do not change the subject.

4. Speak kindly and respectfully. When you feel compassion for the person and truly want to help him, it will come through in the way you speak. Choose your words and tone of voice carefully, and avoid saying things that could offend.

5. Be helpful. Look for appropriate opportunities to help the person in practical ways. Acts of kindness can open the door to a conversation.

What Paul Did

VIDEO: Paul Preaches to King Agrippa

1. Watch the VIDEO, or read Acts 26:2, 3. Then consider the following questions:

1. How did Paul show humility in the way he spoke to King Agrippa?

2. How did Paul draw attention to Jehovah and the Scriptures rather than to himself?​—See Acts 26:22.

What Do We Learn From Paul?

2. Our message is more appealing when we present it humbly and respectfully.

Imitate Paul

3. Do not be condescending. Avoid giving the impression that you know everything and that the other person knows nothing. Speak with him in a respectful way.

4. Make clear that the Bible is the source of the truths you share. God’s Word contains thoughts that touch people’s hearts. When we use it, we are building their faith on the right foundation.

5. Remain mild. Do not insist on making a point. We do not want to argue. Show humility by staying calm and knowing when to leave. (Prov. 17:14; Titus 3:2) A mild response may leave the door open for a productive conversation in the future.

What Paul Did

VIDEO: Paul Preaches to the Athenians

1. Watch the VIDEO, or read Acts 17:22, 23. Then consider the following questions:

1. How did Paul feel about the false religious practices he saw in Athens?​—See Acts 17:16.

2. Rather than condemn the Athenians, how did Paul tactfully use their beliefs as a way to share the good news?

What Do We Learn From Paul?

2. People are more likely to listen to us if we carefully choose what we say as well as how and when we say it.

Imitate Paul

3. Choose appealing words. For example, when speaking with someone from a non-Christian background, you may need to adjust the way you introduce the Bible or how you refer to Jesus.

4. Do not be quick to correct a person. Allow him to express himself freely. If he says something that conflicts with Bible teachings, resist any urge to argue. (Jas. 1:19) By listening to him, you gain insight into his viewpoint.​—Prov. 20:5.

5. Agree with and commend the person where possible. He may sincerely believe that his religious beliefs are correct. Build common ground first, and then progressively help him understand what the Bible teaches.

What Jesus Did

VIDEO: Jesus Preaches to Zacchaeus

1. Watch the VIDEO, or read Luke 19:1-7. Then consider the following questions:

1. Why might some people have avoided Zacchaeus?

2. What moved Jesus to share the good news with him anyway?

What Do We Learn From Jesus?

2. We need boldness to preach the Kingdom message impartially.

Imitate Jesus

3. Rely on Jehovah. God’s spirit empowered Jesus to preach, and it can empower you too. (Matt. 10:19, 20; Luke 4:18) Ask Jehovah for boldness to preach to those you might find intimidating.​—Acts 4:29.

4. Do not prejudge people. We may hesitate to approach some people because of their physical appearance, social or economic status, lifestyle, or religious beliefs. But remember:

1. Jehovah and Jesus can read hearts; we cannot.

2. No one is beyond the reach of Jehovah’s mercy.

5. Balance boldness with tact and caution. (Matt. 10:16) Avoid arguing. Politely end the conversation if the person is unreceptive to the good news or if you feel unsafe.​—Prov. 17:14.