Negative Mindsets & Do's and Don'ts

Negative Mindsets/Do’s & Don'ts

What most unsaved people see or believe are “caricatures” or negative mindsets of Christianity rather than the real thing. What is your definition of the “Real Church?” Here are some common mindsets.

1. I must “try harder” if I am to be a Christian. Explain that Christianity is a relationship with a person (Jesus Christ), not a religion or an organization. Explain to them that it is the Holy Ghost who has the power in one’s life to operate inside of his ways and heart.

2. I will have to give up everything I am and I own, as well as everything I enjoy. This mindset conveys the idea that Christians have no fun and are negative. We can be the key in destroying this negative mindset by just being friends and allowing them to enjoy our life in Christ. Inviting them along to the bowling alley or a picnic at the park could be the beginning of eliminating this mindset.

3. In becoming a Christian I will have to stop everything I enjoy and waste all my time at church and church functions, etc. These examples can go on and on. We can no longer be a part of building up and reinforcing these mindsets, but be a part of destroying them. Jot down some “christian caricatures” of your own during one of your study sessions.

Do's and Don’ts

1. Do be sensitive to other's needs as you go out in Groups or during personal evangelistic situations.

2. Do be sensitive to others’ schedules. Be on time and leave at an appropriate time.

3. Do be careful to be tidy and hygienic. Dress casually but neatly. Also, no bad breath. Strive to eliminate all “offenses” and appearances of evil.

4. Do be sensitive about the hour of the day or night that you visit or call upon prospects.

5. Do be friendly, gentle and humble.

6. Do be all things to all people.

7. Do go out in “Three's” when going door to door and in public places. In today's society, it is too dangerous for two women to go out alone. They should always have a man with them for Group Visitation and in public arenas. Also, three men are on the heavy side. Teams should be two men and one woman or two women and one man.

8. Do make plans for following up on the visitation. After each visitation, there should be a “Follow-Up” session back at the church. Fill out the “Follow-Up Form” as a Group, along with the “Group Follow-Up Report.”

9. Do take your Bibles (we suggest a pocket size if at all possible), copies of the appropriate forms (see Appendix) when you go out as a Group, along with some supplemental materials and tapes. Be prepared in advance.

10. Do use the Word of God, as it is quick and powerful!

11. Do pray during the week for your contacts and group visitations.

12. Do have two members of the church be “Prayer Partners” on every “Group Visitation Team.” Keep them involved and have them meet you at the church for the follow-up sessions each week after visitation, if at all possible.

13. Do adapt your “Gospel Presentation” to each person's needs.

Don’ts

1. Don't visit or call on the telephone before 10:00 AM unless they specifically requested you to do so.

2. Don't visit or call on the telephone after 8:45 PM

3. Don't coerce them to respond to your questions/statements.

4. Don't argue about anything.

5. Don't let rejection/offenses stop your efforts at soul winning.

6. Don't be critical of other’s ways or culture.

7. Don't be “pushy” or haughty.

8. Don't overstay your welcome. Sixty minutes at the most in a home during Group Visitation is plenty. Be led by the Spirit.

9. Don't preach---be natural!

10. When asking questions, wait for their reply. Don’t jump the gun and offer a response for them.