Today is the fifth Sunday of our seven-week series, Advent: Against the Powers of this Dark World. This week, we look at the story of the woman caught in adultery and discuss the dark power of shame in our world.
Discussion Questions for Advent 2019 Pt5 | December 8, 2019 | Click here for a printable version of the discussion questions.
Key Passages: John 8:2-11, 3:17
Discussion Questions
- Brene Brown says that shame is an epidemic in our culture. In what ways do you see this?
- As a kid or teenager, what were you ashamed of?
- Brene Brown shares this distinction between guilt and shame: “Guilt is ‘I did something bad.’ Shame is ‘I am bad.’ Guilt is ‘I made a mistake.’ Shame is ‘I am a mistake.’” In light of this understanding, how can guilt be productive while shame is destructive?
- Take a few moments to think about what you are ashamed of in your life. Practice vulnerability and grace by sharing one thing with the group.
- Which statement do you feel like you hear more from Jesus: “Neither do I condemn you” or “Go now and leave your life of sin”? What would more balance look like?
- How does a community (such as a family, group of friends, D-Group, or church) become a place where people are not afraid to hide their sources of shame?
- How does being more vulnerable with others challenge or scare you most?
Moving Forward
- Take some time this week to consider what you do with your shame. Most people hide shame by withdrawing or escaping through an indulgent habit. What is it for you? Spent some time reflecting on this with another person or quietly on your own.
- Is there something you’ve been hiding that you need to confess to another person? Resolve to do it as quickly as possible this week before you lose courage or the power of shame tempts you to keep it hidden.
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