Week 1: Introduction — Rethinking the Conversation

1.Koukl opens by describing the uncomfortable feeling many Christians get when faith comes up in conversation — a kind of verbal deer-in-the-headlights moment. How honestly does that description fit your own experience? When was the last time you felt caught off guard in a conversation about your faith?

2.Koukl introduces the image of the Christian as an 'ambassador' for Christ. What does that image suggest about the posture — not just the content — of a faith conversation?

3.Koukl sets a deliberately modest goal: not converting anyone, but simply 'putting a stone in someone's shoe.' Why do you think he lowers the bar this way? Does it feel like a cop-out, or does it actually relieve pressure? Explain your reaction.

4.The introduction distinguishes between 'the message' (the gospel, which is not negotiable) and 'the method' (how we communicate it, which can be adapted). Why is that distinction important? Where have you seen Christians confuse the two?

5.Koukl frames apologetics as a 'game plan' — something strategic but not manipulative. How do you currently feel about the word 'strategy' in the context of faith conversations? Does it feel appropriate, awkward, or something else?

6.Who is one person in your life — a friend, coworker, or family member — with whom you'd love to have a more confident conversation about faith? Keep that person in mind as you work through this study guide. What is the main thing that holds you back from engaging them more directly?

7.How does the ambassador image connect to Paul's description of Christians as 'Christ's ambassadors' in 2 Corinthians 5:20? What does it add to your understanding of everyday evangelism to see it through that diplomatic lens?