Author: Jordan Elder

Questions – Adults 1) Jesus shows intentional love toward Judas and Peter. What does this reveal about the nature and limits of Christian love? Contrast this with the motives of other religions. 2) Love is “despite, not because.” Where do you see yourself only loving those who are easy to love? What would it look…

Questions – Adults Q. Some believed while others reported Jesus. What does this reveal about the relationship between evidence and faith? Where do you see this dynamic today? Q. The religious leaders feared losing their position and influence. What are the positions or comforts we tend to protect that might blind us to truth? Q.…

Adult Questions Q. How does the concept that “sin is in our DNA” challenge or deepen your understanding of human nature and the fall? Q. In John 6, many followers walked away when Jesus’ teaching became difficult. What are some “hard sayings” of Jesus that you and our society struggle with? Q. Peter said, “Lord,…

Adult Questions: 1) In what ways do we care more about appearances or reputation than surrendering our hearts to God? 2) The Jewish leaders focused on rules instead of the miracle. How does that legalism show up in churches today? What’s the difference between honoring God’s commands and idolizing religious rules? 3) When has God…

1) How is John’s Gospel different from Matthew, Mark, and Luke in the way it introduces Jesus and his ministry?2) C.S. Lewis said Jesus must be either a liar, lunatic, or Lord. Which of those three do you think most people around you assume—and why?3) Who is Jesus to you—liar, lunatic, or Lord? How would…

1) How should we balance conviction with compassion when addressing controversial issues in interfaith dialogue?2) Do you agree with the strategy of avoiding emotional or moralistic arguments when initially engaging Muslims? How can you bring those up after a relationship is established?3) What makes an argument weak or ineffective in religious dialogue? Can you think…

1) Give examples of positive aspects of Islam. What would benefit Christians to practice? Could we benefit from borrowing rituals or principles of Islam? 2) How does viewing Islam as an identity, rather than just a belief system, change the way we approach conversations with Muslims? What parallels can we draw with how Christianity shapes…

1) For the married folks – how did you meet, when did you fall in love, and when did you realize you were ready for marriage? 2) What is one of your favorite memories and why? If you’re comfortable sharing it, give examples of lows or significant challenges in your life and marriage. 3) If…

1) Is the Bible still relevant today? Are we substantially unlike the churches Paul wrote to? 2) What are examples of the winds or storms in your life that stress your roots? 3) What is something you acutely struggle with that others don’t and vice versa? 4) Backing up to Colossians 2:4, Paul says “I…

The line separating good and evil passes not through states, nor between classes, nor between political parties either but right through every human heart and through all human hearts. – Aleksandr Solzhenitsyn