Connecting with Seekers who may be learning about Christianity for the first time or have a limited understanding requires building a foundation of trust. Asking open-ended questions that invite the Seeker to share their story, background, and perspective helps create a safe environment where they feel heard and valued. Here are some questions that can help foster this welcoming atmosphere:

Building Trust

1. Open with an affirming statement to put the Seeker at ease, then ask about what prompted them to reach out. This shows you are interested in their unique situation. "What made you reach out to us today? We're here to listen and support you on your spiritual journey."
2. Acknowledge any language barriers upfront, reassuring them that you are happy to clarify or rephrase as needed. This builds trust and demonstrates patience. "I noticed you mentioned English is not your first language. Please feel free to take your time and let me know if you need any clarification as we talk."
3. Inquire about their prior experiences with Christianity or religion to understand their frame of reference. This provides helpful context. "What has been your experience with Christianity or religion so far? I'm interested to learn more about your background."
4. Invite them to share any questions or uncertainties they have. This signals your willingness to address their concerns thoughtfully. "What are some of the questions or uncertainties you have about faith and spirituality? I'm happy to address those to the best of my ability."
5. Offer to pray for them, which demonstrates care and a desire to support them on a personal level. "Is there anything specific you'd like prayer for as we get to know each other? I'm honored to lift you up."

More Building Trust Examples:

• What is your family like?
• What do you do for fun?
• What is the most important thing in your life?
• What are some skills or hobbies you have?
• What is your country like?
• How was your week?
• What is your experience with religion?

Note: these questions are meant as a starting place to help build relationship as you go deeper into their faith journey.

Assessing Their Faith Journey

Asking thoughtful questions to discern where a Seeker is on their spiritual path can help guide the conversation and identify next steps. These questions invite the Seeker to reflect on and articulate their current understanding and relationship with God.

1. Start by gauging their self-assessed spiritual status. This provides a baseline for where they see themselves. "What are some words you'd use to describe God?"
2. Inquire about meaningful experiences that have shaped their views. This reveals important personal context. "What has been the most meaningful or impactful part of your life so far?"
3. Explore their perspectives on God, Jesus, and Christianity. This uncovers their current beliefs and misconceptions. "Do you have any experiences that have shaped your views on God, Jesus, or the Christian faith?"
4. Understand what they see as important in a relationship with the divine. This highlights their priorities. "What do you think are the most important aspects of a relationship with God?"
5. Discern their grasp of salvation and eternal life. This indicates their level of biblical knowledge. "How would you describe your current beliefs about salvation and eternal life?"

• What do you want most out of life?
• Did you grow up practicing a religion? What was that like?
• What do you think happens when we die?
• Have you ever felt like God was telling you something?
• One of my favorite verses is _________. What do you think it means? If this verse is true, what does that mean for you?
• What do you think is the most important thing in life?
• What is confusing to you about Jesus?
• Do you think it's possible to have a personal relationship with God?

Going Deeper

Once trust is established and the Seeker's faith journey is understood, questions that invite deeper exploration can help facilitate spiritual growth. These questions encourage self-reflection and a more profound consideration of faith.

1. Begin by sparking their imagination and curiosity about God. This engages their heart and mind. "If you could ask God one question, what would it be?"
2. Probe their understanding of a personal relationship with Jesus. This uncovers their conception of discipleship. "What do you think it means to have a personal relationship with Jesus?"
3. Inquire about their current spiritual practices. This reveals the state of their walk with God. "How do you currently grow in your spiritual life (e.g. prayer, reading the Bible, fellowship)?"
4. Identify any perceived barriers to growth. This allows you to address their specific challenges. "What is preventing you from taking the next step in your faith?"
5. Invite them to consider areas where they desire God's transformative power. This opens the door for meaningful change. "Is there a particular area of your life where you'd like to see God's transforming power?"

More Going Deeper Questions:

• How would you describe God?
• What keeps you from connecting with Jesus?
• If God asked you why you should get into heaven, what would you say?
• How do you think someone grows closer to God?
• Have you ever felt there was a higher purpose for your life?