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Witnessing Made Easy for the Layman

Session 10: Handling Objections





Prayer
For those to whom we witness
That the Lord prepare the way and direct in the visits

Review
Write from memory "The Instructions" and 1 scripture for each point

Lecture: Handling Objections
The number one rule is to never argue. Don't display anger or irritability. Do show love and patience. Be happy for the objections your prospect gives sa it gives you insight into his inner feelings. You might even say, "I'm glad you mentioned that."

If he asks a question which will be answered later in the presentation, tell him that you'll be coming to that soon.

Don't be sidetracked from the gospel. Show a willingness to discuss whatever objections he raises but at a later time. Let him know your concern for the present time is for him to know how to have eternal life.

Examples of common objections and possible answers:
Objection One: There are so amny deonminations. How do I know which one is right?
Answer One: I'm glad that you mentioned that. No two people see everything exactly the same. We're so fortunate to have God's inspired Word, the Bible, to direct us. Later I'd like to discuss the problems of denominations with you, but right now may I continue to show you how to obtain this outstanding gift of eternal life?

Objection Two: What about the heathen that doesn't hear about God?
Answer Two: That is a good question and I'm sure you may have some interesting thoughts on that subject. I'd be glad to hear them at another time. However, tonight my primary concern is that you know for certain that you have eternal life.

Objection Three: I don't believe in the Bible.
Answer Three: You don't believe in the Bible? It certainly is your privilege. However, if the Bible is true, you must accept the consequences. May I ask you something? The Bible has been unquestionably the most important literary work in history. Its main message is how one may obtain eternal life. Do you understand what the Bible teaches about this matter? It would not be intellectual to reject the world's most important book without understanding its main message, would it? Won't you allow me to share with you what the scripture teaches about eternal life, and then you can make an educated decision to reject or accept it?
Another Answer Three: In view of the many prophecies that have come true hundreds of years later, it is difficult to disregard these inspired words. May I share with you Is. 53:4-11? (It is easy then to make the transition back to the gospel message)

Objection Four: I live by the ten commandments and follow the golden rule. Isn't that enough?
Answer Four: Wouldn't it be great if everyone obeyed them? However, there are other scriptures we must consider to receive eternal life. May I share them with you?

Objection Five: God is a good God. I don't believe in Hell.
Answer Five: Read scriptures from the Outline relating to God's justice and Hell. God is loving and He doesn't want anyone to go to hell. That's why He sent Christ into the world, to provide for us a way into heaven. Luke 13:3; John 5:36; Rom. 2:4,5

Objection Six: I am a universalist -- everyone will be saved.
Answer Six: Read Math. 25:41,46 and John 5:28,29

Objection Seven: You're right. I agree with you and what you've said, but I'm not ready.
Answer Seven: Read 2 Cor. 6:2. There's no way of knowing when you'll be called from this world. It's dangerous to put off your decision.

Some other objections to be prepared for are:
It's no fun -- I'd have to give up everything -- All the churches want is my money -- Church people are hypocrits -- My clothes aren't good enough -- Sunday is my only day to sleep -- I have to clean up my life first -- I'm too busy -- I got too much religion when I was young -- My health isn't good enough to go to church -- the preacher never comes to visit --I'm not interested -- I believe it, but I can't live it.

Remeber to avoid hitting the objections head on. They are to sidetrack you from presenting the gospel. In many cases avoid discussion of the objection. Graciously and quickly direct the thinking back to the gospel presentation. If the prospect doesn't want to continue with the presentation, don't push. If you can't answer their objection at that time, promise to look up the answer and get back to them with it.

Assignment
Memorize 1 Peter 3:18; John 10:10,28; Luke 13:3

Prayer
Whom to visit, Guide in all that's said and done, Prepare the hearts

Visitation

Sharing Time


Go To Session 11: Objections II