We hope you’ve found our series of articles on using a literature table helpful so far. In this final article, Josh Williamson shares four practical tips on using a literature table effectively.
1. Don’t Scare Away the Fish:
When someone goes fishing, they try to avoid doing anything that scares away the fish. The same is true when using a literature table. Once you’ve set up the table, give it some space. Don’t stand right next to it (or worse, sit on a chair behind it). Let the table stand on its own. This allows people to stop and browse without feeling pressured by a high-pressure sales pitch. If someone stops, let them look at the materials before walking over to greet them. Emphasise that everything is free and ask if there’s any topic that interests them. The way they respond will indicate whether they’re open to a gospel conversation or if they’re simply happy to browse. If they don’t want to talk, gently remind them that it’s free, and step away again.
2. Keep it Neat and Tidy:
I’ve seen tables so disorganised that it was impossible to know what was on offer. Keep your table well-ordered and tidy, with the materials clearly visible (and the right way up). Throughout the day, straighten the literature to make it easy for people to browse. It’s essential that people can see the titles of the booklets so they feel encouraged to take them.
3. Don’t Use the Table for Storage:
A personal pet peeve of mine is when a well-meaning Christian uses the table to store their drink or lunch. The table isn’t there for you to eat at! Cluttering the table with personal items makes it look untidy and uninviting. Similarly, if someone is preparing to preach, the table shouldn’t be used to hold a Bible or notes. Find a bench or another location for that. Keep the table clean and functional.
4. Less is More:
Over the years, I’ve discovered that sometimes less is more when it comes to literature tables. Try to limit the resources you display. Aim to have a full table, but leave some space between the booklets. Avoid overloading the table to the point where people feel overwhelmed by too much choice and don’t know where to begin.
The use of a literature table is an effective way of reaching the lost. Even if someone doesn’t approach the table, it serves as a silent reminder to all who pass by that Christians are out sharing the good news. In time, those who initially ignore the table may end up stopping to chat.
I’m reminded of one lady in Australia who hated our literature table. Every time she walked past, she would curse at us and tell us to leave. We remained pleasant and polite towards her. One week, we had free Bible colouring books for children. As she walked past cursing, she noticed the colouring books, stopped, and asked if she could take a couple for her kids. We gladly gave her some, and she left with a few less curses. The following week, she passed by without saying a word. A week later, she stopped to ask for a Bible. From that point on, she was very friendly.
You never know how the Lord will use a literature table. I encourage everyone to consider this effective form of gospel outreach.
If you would like a comprehensive guide on open-air evangelism, why not get hold of a copy of our Handbook on Open-Air Evangelism