The Open Forum

The Open Forum is an effective tool which can be used as a follow-up to a campus-wide lecture that presents the Christian world view. It is a strategy for inviting non-Christian colleagues and their spouses to join other couples to talk about important issues related to God and life. It is designed to be an open discussion with those who do not agree.

The responsibilities of the host and hostess are to make all the participants feel welcome, to encourage participation, and to keep the discussion moving. The discussion leader is not teaching on the topics raised, but facilitating an open discussion through which people can better understand the issues and one another.

An open forum also may be held on the campus or at some other neutral site rather than in someone's home. Often it is done over the lunch hour with participants bringing their own brown bag lunch.

The purpose is to "open the door" for meaningful discussion. With much prayer, God can and will use the strategy to build bridges to those around us and draw men and women to personal faith in Christ.

A helpful guide{1} is available for anyone interested in being a discussion group leader. The following questions are answered in the guide:

• How do I create an open and supportive atmosphere?
• How do I prevent a defensive atmosphere?
• What are discussion stiflers?
• How do I stimulate discussion?
• How do I enter into conversations about spiritual things?
• How do I develop opportunities that communicate the gospel?

Endnotes

{1}To obtain this information contact Christian Leadership Ministries, 3440 Sojourn Drive, Suite 200, Carrollton, TX 75006-2354. Telephone: (214) 713-7130.

Return to Touching Your World Homepage