Based on the writings of Ellen White, tailoring messages for visitors or those unaware of your beliefs centers on demonstrating love, building personal relationships, and exercising wisdom, rather than leading with arguments or complex doctrines. The counsel is to first win confidence and break down prejudice through a Christlike life and genuine interest in others. Here are key principles for tailoring your approach: ### 1. Live a Consistent, Approachable Life Your personal life is the most powerful message. It's recommended to prioritize demonstrating the truth through actions over debating it with words. > "The best way in which you can recommend the truth is, not by argument, not by talk, but by living it daily, by leading a consistent, modest, humble life as a disciple of Christ." (3T 334.1) ### 2. Build Personal Relationships and Show Genuine Interest Avoid keeping a distance from those who don't share your beliefs. The first step is to show personal care and love for them as individuals. > "We hold too much at a distance those who do not believe the truth... we must show a personal interest and love for their souls, and take hold of them in earnest." (LS 211.2) > "Visit your neighbors and show an interest in the salvation of their souls. Arouse every spiritual energy to action." (9T 38.3) ### 3. Find Common Ground Before Introducing Unique Beliefs When you do speak, begin with points of agreement to build a foundation of trust. Avoid leading with potentially controversial or "peculiar" doctrines, especially with those who may be prejudiced. > "In order to reach those who are in the darkness of error and false theories, we must approach them with the utmost caution and with the greatest wisdom, agreeing with them on every point that we can conscientiously." (3T 462.1) > "When you meet those, who, like Nathanael, are prejudiced against the truth, do not urge your peculiar views too strongly. Talk with them at first of subjects upon which you can agree." (HS 149.5) ### 4. Share Your Personal Testimony Personal experience is often more convincing than theological arguments. Share the joy and peace you have found in your own spiritual journey. > "Tell them how you found Jesus and how blessed you have been since you gained an experience in His service. Tell them of the gladness and joy that there is in the Christian life. Your warm, fervent words will convince them that you have found the pearl of great price." (9T 38.4) ### 5. Work with Love, Patience, and Tact Your attitude is crucial. Approach people with kindness and sympathy, never with impatience or harshness. > "Work disinterestedly, lovingly, patiently, for all with whom you are brought into contact. Show no impatience. Utter not one unkind word. Let the love of Christ be in your hearts, the law of kindness on your lips." (9T 41.3) > "When thrown into the society of unbelievers... we should, as we have opportunity, introduce the subject of religion... We should not do this abruptly, but with tact." (GW92 393.3) ### 6. Invite Them to "Come and See" Often, the most effective method is a simple invitation to experience the community and worship for themselves, allowing the Holy Spirit to work. > "There are many in the same condition as was Nathanael. They are prejudiced and unbelieving because they have never come in contact with the special truths for these last days or with the people who hold them... Our work is to say, as did Philip: 'Come and see.'" (6T 38.1) In summary, the recommended approach is not about crafting a perfect doctrinal presentation, but about reflecting the character of Christ. By living a consistent life, showing genuine love, finding common ground, and sharing your personal experience with patience and tact, you can create an environment where people become open to learning more.