Were we to define Jesus’ ‘method’ for engaging with people, we see that he (1) asked questions (2) with an ear open to the Spirit. It was a conversational approach, and a Spirit-led approach. To define the conversational dynamic further, he asked questions, told stories and made intriguing statements. To note it also, every conversation was different because every person was different! A study of Jesus’ conversations can reveal much.

Many people feel lost or stuck within their witness to others. Some, not knowing what to say, talk too much – while others remain silent. Both responses can be a problem. The key to great conversations is great questions. It is also possible to talk through questions with very little need for statements. This can be useful where views differ.

In considering Jesus’ conversations, it’s surprising to note how many times the Gospel writers (Matthew, Mark, Luke and John) record him asking a question. Given these accounts are brief summaries of the conversations that took place, it reflects he really was a question-asker!

Some questions we could consider are: 1) What do you mean by that? 2) Where did you get that idea from? 3) Have you considered…? These three questions can open a conversation up. This helps investigate another person’s beliefs, after which an alternative way of thinking can be suggested. Many across our nation can already testify how learning in this area led to a new confidence in their witness.

What if we were to make an intentional choice as Christian believers and church leaders to become ‘experts’ in conversational skills suiting witness in our nation?

Equipping God’s people to engage in their own nation is at the very core of what a church leader is there to do.