• Introductions for Use in the Field Ministry
    Reasoning From the Scriptures

    • 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.)’

  • How You Might Respond to Potential Conversation Stoppers
    Reasoning From the Scriptures

    • How You Might Respond to Potential Conversation Stoppers

      Comments: The life prospects of people depend on their attitude toward Jehovah God and his Kingdom by Christ Jesus. The message of God’s Kingdom is thrilling, and it points to the only dependable hope for humankind. It is a message that transforms lives. We want everyone to hear it. We realize that only a minority will receive it appreciatively, but we know that people at least need to hear it if they are to make an informed choice. Yet not everyone is willing to listen, and we do not try to force them. But with discernment it is often possible to turn potential conversation stoppers into opportunities for further discussion. Here are examples of what some experienced Witnesses have used in their efforts to search out deserving ones. (Matt. 10:11) Our recommendation is not that you memorize any of these replies but that you get the idea in mind, put it in your own words and express it in a manner that conveys your genuine interest in the person to whom you are speaking. As you do so, you can have confidence that those whose hearts are