We all have tough questions. Especially when we watch the news, read the Bible, or try to believe in a good God. In this series, we’ll explore the hardest questions that challenge our journeys of faith. This week we explore the question, why is God so angry in the Old Testament?

Discussion Questions for FAQ: The Series Pt 4 | January 27, 2019 | Click here for printable version.

Key Bible Passages: Isaiah 13; 28:21; Lamentations 3:31-33; Exodus 34:6-7

Discussion

  1. Share a time from your childhood when a parent was angry with you. How did you parents usually deal with their anger?
  2. Does it help to compare God to a parent who sometimes loses their patience and gets angry? Why or why not?
  3. What is lost if God never gets angry, judges people, or lets them suffer the consequences of their hurtful actions?
  4. Reread Exodus 34:6-7. Which part of this description of God do you tend to focus on, the loving or punishing parts?
  5. What emotions do you think God feels toward you most of the time? Just pick an average week or day and list the feelings you believe God has toward you.
  6. The message discussed the idea of asymmetry in God’s character. Is this idea reflected in the list of emotions you made? Why or why not?
  7. How might the idea of asymmetry in God’s character affect your perception of him this week? How might it affect the way you feel toward and treat others?

Moving Forward

Memorize Psalm 145:8-9 over the next week. It is a variation on the description of God in Exodus 34. Take the time to memorize each word and repeat it to yourself throughout each day. Notice how it comforts or challenges you and why.

Are you angry about something right now? Is there a person or situation that is provoking your anger. How has this study of God’s wrath challenged you in this particular situation? Be transparent in sharing with your group what you think God is telling you, what you will do about it, and how the group can hold you accountable.