has changed lives. Only those countries affected by the Gospel have seen any real social progress—the guarantee of human rights, fair treatment of children and women, medical advances, and freedom from slavery, among other things.
The Bible is the only book ever written which gives satisfactory answers to life's ultimate questions: Who am I? Where did I come from? Why am I here? Where am I going? What is the purpose of life?
Helping Strategy
Never argue! If the inquirer is open-minded enough to listen, present as much of the "Background" as you can.
1. A person's acceptance of the Bible is directly related to his or her willingness to accept its Author. At some convenient point during the conversation, ask the inquirer if he or she has ever received Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior. Share "Steps to Peace with God," page 11.
2. Suggest that he or she obtain a recent translation of the Bible to read and study. Approaching it with an open mind and asking God to reveal Himself, His will, and His eternal purposes should be a rewarding experience. Offer to send Living in Christ to foster the beginning of serious Bible reading and study.
3. Recommend finding a Bible-teaching church for worship, Bible study, and fellowship with others who take the Bible seriously.
4. Pray with the inquirer for spiritual illumination, for faith, and for fulfillment in life through the power of the Word: "And now, brethren, I commend you to God and to the word of His grace, which is able to build you up and give you an inheritance among all those who are sanctified" (Acts 20:32). Additional Suggestions
1. If the inquirer admits to not having read much of the Bible, challenge him or her to get started at once, following the same method as with any experiment: Approach the Bible impartially and give it a chance in his or her thinking. Suggest starting with the Gospel of Luke, then going to Acts, then wherever he or she might choose.
2. Answers to some common objections:
• "The Bible says that humans have been on the earth for only approximately 6,000 years."
Answer: Nowhere does the Bible state that people have been here only