In view of conditions in the world today, do you feel that we need something other than what men have produced? . . . (Matt. 6:9, 10; Ps. 146:3-5)’

LAST DAYS

● ‘We’re calling to discuss the meaning of what’s happening around us in the world today. Among many people there has been a decline in interest in God and in his standards for living as set out in the Bible. This has greatly influenced the attitude of people toward one another. Please let me share with you this description recorded at 2 Timothy 3:1-5 and tell me whether you think it fits the world today. (Read) . . . Is there sound reason to expect better conditions in the future? (2 Pet. 3:13)’

● ‘Many people believe that time is fast running out for this world. They speak of our time as being “the last days.” But did you realize that the Bible tells us how we can survive the end of the present world and live on an earth that will be made a paradise? (Zeph. 2:2, 3)’ (See also pages 234-243, under the main heading “Last Days.”)

See also “Current Events” in this list of suggested introductions.

LIFE/HAPPINESS

● ‘We’re visiting our neighbors to find people who are deeply concerned about the meaning of life. Most people experience some happiness. But they face a lot of problems too. As we get up in years, we realize that life is very short. Is this all that life is meant to be? How do you feel about it? . . . (Comment on God’s original purpose as reflected in Eden; then John 17:3 and Revelation 21:3, 4.)’ (See also pages 243-248, under the main heading “Life.”)

● ‘Today we are asking our neighbors what they think when they read in their Bibles the expression “everlasting life.” It is of special interest because that expression appears in the Bible some 40 times. What might such life mean for us? . . . How can we get it? (John 17:3; Rev. 21:4)’

● ‘We’re speaking with people who are truly concerned about the quality of life today. Most of us are glad to be alive, but many wonder, Is a genuinely happy life possible? How do you feel about that? . . . What would you say is one of the biggest obstacles to happiness today? . . . (Ps. 1:1, 2; further texts to fit what concerns the householder)’

LOVE/KINDNESS

● ‘We have found that many people are quite concerned about the lack of real love in the world. Do you feel that way too? . . . Why do you think this is the trend? . . . Did you know that the Bible foretold this situation? (2 Tim. 3:1-4) It also explains the reason for it. (1 John 4:8)’

● ‘My name is ——. I’m one of your neighbors. I’m making just a brief visit to talk with my neighbors about something that concerns me a great deal, and I’m sure you’ve noticed it too. Kindness does not cost much, but it seems to be so rare today. Did you ever wonder why that situation exists? . . . (Matt. 24:12; 1 John 4:8)’

OLD AGE/DEATH

● ‘Have you ever wondered why we grow old and die? Some sea turtles live for hundreds of years. Certain trees have lived for thousands of years. But humans live just 70 or 80 years and then die. Have you wondered why? . . . (Rom. 5:12) Will that situation ever change? . . . (Rev. 21:3, 4)’

● ‘Have you ever asked: Is death the end of it all? Or is there something else after death? . . . The Bible clears up any question we might have about death. (Eccl. 9:5, 10) It also shows that there is a real hope for persons who have faith. (John 11:25)’ (See also pages 98-104 and 118, under the headings “Death” and “Encouragement.”)

WAR/PEACE

● ‘Just about everyone these days is concerned about the threat of nuclear war. Do you think we will ever see real peace on this earth? . . . (Ps. 46:8, 9; Isa. 9:6, 7)’

● ‘I’m looking for people who would like to live in a world free from war. In this century alone there have been hundreds of wars, including two world wars. Now we are faced with the threat of a nuclear conflict. What do you feel is needed if such a war is to be avoided? . . . Who can bring about a peaceful world? . . . (Mic. 4:2-4)’

● ‘We find that just about everyone says he wants world peace. Most of the world leaders also say that. Why, then, is it so hard to attain? . . . (Rev. 12:7-12)’

WHEN MANY PEOPLE SAY: ‘I HAVE MY OWN RELIGION’

● ‘Good morning. We are visiting all the families on your block (or, in this area), and we find that most of them have their own religion. No doubt you do too. . . . But, regardless of our religion, we are affected by many of the same problems—high cost of living, crime, illness—is that not so? . . . Do you feel that there is any real solution to these things? . . . (2 Pet. 3:13; etc.)’

WHEN MANY PEOPLE SAY: ‘I’M BUSY’

● ‘Hello. We’re visiting everyone in this neighborhood with an important message. No doubt you are a busy person, so I’ll be brief.’

● ‘Greetings. My name is ——. The purpose of my coming is to discuss with you blessings of God’s Kingdom and how we can share in them. But I can see that you are busy (or, about to go out). May I leave you with just a brief thought?’

IN TERRITORY OFTEN WORKED

● ‘I’m glad to find you at home. We’re making our weekly visit in the neighborhood, and we have something more to share with you about the wonderful things that God’s Kingdom will do for mankind.’

● ‘Hello. It’s good to see you again. . . . Is everyone in the family in good health? . . . I stopped by to share with you a thought on . . . ’

● ‘Good morning. How are you? . . . I’ve been wanting another opportunity to talk with you. (Then name the specific subject you want to discuss.)’