The Spiritual Conversation
(also called the FORM or FARM conversation)
The Spiritual Conversation is a simple tool that reveals a person's willingness to converse. It determines their openness to a spiritual discussion and readiness to respond to an invitation to know more about Jesus. It is easy, fun, respectful, and effective. It includes all three steps of Tell (Engage, Inform and Invite). There is no limit to the number of questions. Feel free to ask follow-up questions. Enjoy the experience.
Depending on the situation, the entire conversation may take place in seven minutes, seven weeks, or 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 engage in conversation, inform the person about Jesus, and invite him or her to know more.
Depending on the situation, the entire conversation may take place in seven minutes, seven weeks, or 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 engage in conversation, 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 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 special interests—for example, “What do you like to do for fun?” or “Do you have any hobbies?”
O = Occupation: This step involves asking questions having to do with work—for example, “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 special interests—for example, “What do you like to do for fun?” or “Do you have any hobbies?”
M = Message: This is where the conversation becomes spiritual. You can take a gradual or direct approach. The gradual approach consists of first asking about a person's spiritual background— for example, "It's been fun to learn about your personal background; what is your spiritual background?"
The direct approach follows the gradual approach or begins outright. It consists of asking a question—for example, "Do you mind if I ask you a spiritual question?" If the person agrees, then slowly share John 3:16, make three summary statements, and issue an invitation. See sample below.
The direct approach follows the gradual approach or begins outright. It consists of asking a question—for example, "Do you mind if I ask you a spiritual question?" If the person agrees, then slowly share John 3:16, make three summary statements, and issue an invitation. See sample below.
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 invites you to experience a life of love, hope, joy, peace, power, and purpose. Is that something you would like to know more about?" |
If the person says yes, show them how to do a One Thing Study. If they say no, and they still seem interested in conversing, consider asking a more open-ended question. The right question can generate further meaningful conversation. For instance;
- "Do you have any questions for us?" It seems so simple but this question has produced significant dialogue.
- "If you had one question about life, God, or faith, what would it be?"