Suggestions for Using Good News From God!—On DVD
1 Where People Are Skeptical About God and the Bible: In some areas, publishers find that the words “God” and “Bible” are conversation stoppers. In that case, on the initial visit, it may be best to discuss topics that are of local concern, such as the need for good government, where to get practical help for families, and what the future holds. Perhaps Good News—On DVD can be introduced after we have had several conversations considering how we know that God exists and why the Bible is trustworthy.
2 When Going From House to House: “I’m calling to show you how easy it can be to find out what God has in mind for mankind’s future. Have you ever wondered whether God will relieve us of suffering? [Allow for response.] This DVD shows where in the Bible you can find the answer to that question. [Show him lesson 1, paragraph 1, and watch Jeremiah 29:11.] From this, does it seem reasonable to you that God wants us to have a better future? [Allow for response.] If you like, you may keep this copy. Next time, we can consider the second paragraph to find the Bible’s answer to this question, ‘How will God relieve mankind of the causes of suffering?’” If the householder seems to have more time on the initial visit, you may be able to discuss the second paragraph and its three Bible texts. Show him the question for paragraph 3 and arrange to return to discuss that subject further.
3 “Many people like to pray, especially when they have problems. Do you pray sometimes? [Allow for response.] How do you think we should pray to God? [Allow for response.] I have here a DVD that shows the Bible’s answer to this question. [Show lesson 12, paragraph 2.] So, you can see that God wants us to express to him in prayer what is in our hearts. Isn’t it marvelous that God is willing to listen to us? But to benefit fully from prayer, we need to know God well. [Turn to lesson 2 and watch the title.] If you wish, I can leave this DVD with you, and at another time, we can discuss the Bible’s answers to these fascinating questions.”
4 “I’m here because people are concerned about where this world is heading. Do you think conditions will ever improve? [Allow for response.] Many people are surprised to learn that the Bible contains good news that can give us hope. Here are some of the questions that the Bible answers.” Hand him the DVD, and invite him to choose a lesson from the back cover that interests him the most. Then go to the lesson, and demonstrate the study. Make arrangements to return and to consider the next lesson.
5 Try the Direct Approach: “I stopped by to tell you about a new Bible study course. This DVD has 15 lessons that show where in your Bible you can find answers to vital questions. [Show him the front and back covers.] Have you ever tried to understand the Bible? [Allow for response.] Let me show you how easy the lessons are. [Consider lesson 3, paragraph 4 and watch Revelation 21:4, 5. If appropriate, consider the next paragraph and the signed scriptures.] If you wish, I can leave this DVD with you. We recommend that you try studying the Bible at least once. If you like it, you can continue. Next time, we can consider the first lesson. Notice it is not too long.”
6 Introduce It on a Return Visit: When returning to visit someone who has shown interest, we might say: “It’s nice to see you again. I brought you this DVD that gives the Bible’s answer to many interesting questions. [Hand him a DVD, and invite him to look at the back cover.] Which of these pictures interests you the most? [Allow for response. Then turn to the lesson he chose.] Let me show you how this DVD can be used to find the Bible’s answer.” Demonstrate the study by discussing a paragraph or two and the signed scriptures. You have just started a Bible study! Leave the DVD with the householder, and make arrangements to return. When you complete the lesson, you can discuss another lesson chosen by the householder or start at the beginning of the DVD.