FAQ The Series, Part 5

by | Messages | 0 comments

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 return to the question, why is God so angry in the Old Testament, to dig a little deeper.

Discussion Questions for FAQ: The Series Pt 5 | February 3, 2019 | Click here for printable version.

Key Bible Passages: Deuteronomy 7:1-6, 9:4-6, 20:10-17, Joshua 6:20-21, 10:40, Judges 1, Matthew 19:7-8

Discussion

  1. Generally speaking, what do you think of war (such as those the U.S. has been involved in)? Is war often justified, rarely justified, or never justified in your opinion?
  2. When you about war and violence done in God’s name in the Old Testament, how does it make you feel? What, if any, tensions does it raise?
  3. The message mentioned four thought about war in the Old Testament:
  • War was common in the ancient Near East.
  • The “war” texts were often rhetorical in nature, not precise, journalistic accounts.
  • Herem (total destruction) was limited.
  • Herem was described as God’s judgment on wicked and irredeemable people.

Which of these was most helpful for you and why?

  1. Accommodation is the process of adapting or adjusting to someone or something. Can you think of examples in the Bible where God accommodates to human or sinful realities?
  2. How did God accommodate through Jesus’ life?
  3. Here’s another way of describing God’s accommodation: he meets us where we are. In recent months, when and how have you felt God “meeting you where you are”?
  4. In what ways has God met you and your group as you have explored these tough questions together?

Moving Forward

Read the book of Joshua in the coming week. Take your time, be patient, and try to apply some of the thoughts of this message and discussion. Ask God to reveal one or two key truths, ideas, or messages to you through your reading.

Jesus offers the ideal of loving our enemies instead of violence (Matthew 5:43-48). What is one way you can loving an enemy this week?

 

Podcast: Play in new window | Download