It's hard to present the gospel if you don't know how to start the conversation. What do you say, how do you start? Your initial goal is to break the ice, which does not have to be complex. Here are 3 simple ways to break the ice:

1. Comment on the weather.

Talking about the weather is a good neutral topic that everyone can discuss. Did a big storm just blow through? Are you in the middle of a cold front? Just look outside for some good conversation openers like:

• "Lovely day, don't you think?
• "Looks like rain is in the forecast."
• "Do you like this cold weather or do you prefer the heat?"

2. Comment on a current event.

Check out the news on any of the news stations, or search google news for current headlines and you can say something like:

• "I can't believe the damage that the storm had in_ _ _ _ _ _ _ ?
• "Did you see that on the news?"

3. Comment on Something Personal.

You'll find that everyone you meet has something unique about them—an item of jewelry, an unusual shirt, or even a tattoo. These tell a story about a person. When you notice and compliment them or ask a question about it, it can give you a starting point for conversation.

For example, you could initiate a conversation with a person by saying:

•  "Wow that is a beautiful necklace, where did you get it?"
• “Is there a special meaning to the tattoo on your shoulder?”

Tattoos often have special meanings to people. Without condoning them, we can still take an interest in the person by asking about their meaning. You may be surprised by how naturally it opens the door for further conversation.

If they seem open and receptive to talk then you can swing into talking about spiritual things. Here are 3 easy ways you can do that:

1. Ask about Church.

Talking about church is a great way to swing from the natural to the spiritual. Some good questions like:

• "Do you go to church around here?"
• "What is a good church to join?"
• "Have you heard anything about that church downtown?"

2. Ask to pray for them.

This is a great way to see whether someone is open to the gospel when you ask to pray for them personally. They often will stop and focus on the question and sincerely answer you. You can say something like:

• "Is there anything that you would like me to pray for you as I go before the Lord in prayer?"
• "We are about to pray over our meal, and wanted to see if there was anything we could pray for you or your family?"

3. Hand them Something.

I like to carry cross pennies or these million dollar bills gospel tracts I hand it someone and say something like:

• "Did you get one of these?"
• "Would you like a million dollars?"
• "Have you seen one of these before?"

If they respond well and are open to conversation then you can share the Gospel based on their reaction to your question. You can start by saying something like:

• "Have you had a Christian background?"
• "Are you sure that you will you go to Heaven when you die?"
• "Are you a good person? Have you kept the 10 commandments?"

Related: How do I get into Heaven?

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