How to Have a Spirtual Conversation

This fall, almost 300 churches across Austin, TX are going to engage in Explore God, a campaign that seeks to answer spiritual questions people have in our 92% unchurched city.  The campaign will produce a series of videos that will equip believers to discuss God with their unsaved friends, co-workers, and associates.  This is the first video:


Explore God Training Session 1: How to Have a Spiritual Conversation from Hill Country Bible Church Austin on Vimeo.


Highlights:

• A spiritual conversation is always two ways
• Not a lecture
• NOT a sales pitch

• Attitude - Accepting, Listening, and Loving
• Not confrontational or harsh

• Don't interrupt

• The Holy Spirit is ALWAYS the third party in the conversation

• People are more open to spiritual conversations than you'd think.
• Don't like arrogance or condescension.

• Our part is planting and watering; not forcing change.

• While people are open to spiritual matters, they lack Christian vocabulary and Biblical knowledge.
• Jesus spoke in everyday language; that's why he used parables.

• Be bold, but graciously so.

• Let the conversation start naturally.

• Walk, don't wave -- Talk to folks with whom you interact regularly about their lives

• Icebreakers -- Anything that turns the conversation towards spiritual matters
• "Did you grow up in Church?!?"
• "What is your spiritual background?!?"
• "How do you get through tough times?!?"
• "Do you ever hope there's more than this?!?"
• "How do you deal with uncertainty?!?"

• Jesus asked questions and listened.

• Next step -- Lunch or Coffee
• Invite them to Church
• Send them info