Effective Conclusions in the Field Ministry
Nowhere will you be confronted with the need for conclusions more often than in the field ministry. With preparation and loving interest in people, you can accomplish much good. The counsel set out on the preceding pages can be applied beneficially even when adapted to one-on-one conversation.
A conversation may be very brief. The person may be busy. Your entire visit may last only a minute. If appropriate, you might say something like this: “I understand. But let me leave you with one encouraging thought. The Bible shows that our Creator has a wonderful purpose—to make this earth a place where people can enjoy life forever. We can be in that Paradise, but we need to learn God’s requirements.” Or you might simply offer to call back at a more convenient time.
If the call is cut short because the householder is abrupt—even rude—much good can still be accomplished. Keep in mind the counsel found at Matthew 10:12, 13 and Romans 12:17, 18. Your mild response could possibly change his view of Jehovah’s Witnesses. That would be a fine accomplishment.
On the other hand, you may have had a satisfying conversation with the householder. Why not restate the main point that you want him to remember? Include motivation for him to do something about it.
If you see the opportunity for further discussion at another time, give the person some reason to look forward to it. Ask a question—perhaps one discussed in Reasoning From the Scriptures or a publication designed for conducting home Bible studies. Keep in mind your goal, as set out by Jesus and recorded at Matthew 28:19, 20.
Are you concluding a home Bible study? Restating the theme will help the student to remember what was discussed. Use of review questions will help to impress key points on the student’s mind, especially if that review is not rushed. A question regarding how the material studied might benefit the student or how he might share it with others could help him to think in terms of making practical use of what he has learned.—Prov. 4:7.
Remember—your conclusion influences the effectiveness of your entire discussion.