The Spiritual Conversation
(also called the FORM or FARM conversation)
This is a simple tool that reveals a person's willingness to converse, openness to a spiritual discussion and readiness to respond to an invitation to know more about Jesus. It is easy, fun, respectful, and effective. There is no limit to the number of questions that can be asked. Feel free to ask follow-up questions. Enjoy the experience.
Depending on the situation, the conversation may take place in seven minutes, seven weeks for seven months. While it is good to share common interests, do so in a limited fashion. Remember this is about the other person, not you. The goal is to eventually inform the person about Jesus and invite him or her to know more.
Depending on the situation, the conversation may take place in seven minutes, seven weeks for seven months. While it is good to share common interests, do so in a limited fashion. Remember this is about the other person, not you. The goal is to eventually inform the person about Jesus and invite him or her to know more.
F = Family: This step involves asking questions having to do with a living situation or children—for example, “Do you have a family?” or “Are you from this area?”
O = Occupation: This step involves asking questions having to do with work—for example, “What work do you do?” or “What do you do for a living?” For students, the O becomes A (which stands for academics), and it becomes the FARM conversation—for example, “What are you studying?” or “What are your academic interests?”
R = Recreation: This step involves asking questions having to do with hobbies or special interests—for example, “What do you like to do for fun?” or “Do you have any hobbies?”
M = Message: Here is where the conversation becomes spiritual. You might say something like, “It has been fun to get to know you personally. Do you mind if I ask you a spiritual question?” If the person is Okay with this, you might say, “The Bible says God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life. This means God loves you, He sacrificed His Son for you, and He can change your life."
You can personalize the presentation by adding two short phrases that describe how Jesus has changed your life. You might say something about two of the following: love, hope, joy, peace, power or purpose. Something like, "He invites to a you a life of healing love and fulfilling purpose."
Then ask the question, “Is that something you would like to know more about?” By asking this way, you combine the last two parts of Tell (Inform and Invite) into one question.
You can personalize the presentation by adding two short phrases that describe how Jesus has changed your life. You might say something about two of the following: love, hope, joy, peace, power or purpose. Something like, "He invites to a you a life of healing love and fulfilling purpose."
Then ask the question, “Is that something you would like to know more about?” By asking this way, you combine the last two parts of Tell (Inform and Invite) into one question.