99 Wondering Questions

 Download the 99 Wondering ?'s

Download the best article I've ever read on why good  questions lead to great conversations.

Wondering Your Way Into Another Culture

"Wondering” into another culture requires a willingness to be out of control, an inquisitive explorative nature, the patience to listen, and the desire to learn from others. The following exercise will help you better understand how to do that.

1. Before you arrive in the country, read the article on “Wondering” and look through the 99 “Wondering” ?’s. Discuss the big ideas that you found helpful as it relates to your trip.

2. Read through the list of 20 questions below. Begin a brainstorming time of things you are wondering about the country you will be traveling to. Appoint someone to keep a running list of these questions.

3. After some time of reflection, go back through and prepare your best wondering questions.

4. As soon as you get in country, pair up and “wonder” around asking the ?'s you put together.

5. Come back together and share what you learned about the people in this country.

6. Take some time to talk through how to live out Colossians 4:5 in light of what you've learned. (Suggestion: Purchase the IE Pocket Card to serve as your guide.)

Stir up Your Wonder In Another Culture

1. What kind of government do they have?

2. Who are the country’s national heroes and heroines?

3. What languages are spoken?

4. What is the predominant religion? Are they tolerant of otherreligions?

5. What are the most important religious observations and ceremonies?

6. How are animals treated? Are there household pets?

7. What are the most common forms of marriage ceremonies and celebrations?

8. Do women work outside the home?

9. Is the price asked for merchandise fixed or are customers expected to bargain?

10. How do people organize their daily activities? What is the normal meal schedule?

11. What foods are most popular? What do meal times look like?

12. What is the usual dress for women? For men?

13. If you are invited to dinner, should you arrive early? On time? Late?

14. How do people greet and leave one another?

15. What are the favorite leisure and recreational activities of the culture?

16. What kinds of television programs are shown? What social purposes do they serve?

17. How are the children disciplined at home or at school?

18. Are the largest newspapers generally friendly toward the UnitedStates?

19. What is the history of the relationship between this country and the United States?

20. How is evangelism / proselytizing perceived in this culture?