Read Introduction, Above the Surface, and Chapter 1 - Serving Two Masters
Discussion Questions
Introduction & Above the Surface
1. How ready are you to remove some cultural blinders and better read the text (scriptures)? Keep in mind Axiom 3 of our Discipleship Plan: Don't teach people what to think, teach them how to think
2. What should we keep in mind as we read this book? Suggestions:
Be a FAT student (Faithful, Available, & Teachable). This requires that we remain Humble, Hungry, and Smart (Lencioni).
Don't blindly accept what the author is suggesting; think for yourself while keeping a posture of learning
Ask Holy Spirit to guide us into all truth
John 16:13 & 14 - "When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all truth. He will not speak on his own but will tell you what he has heard. He will tell you about the future. 14 He will bring me glory by telling you whatever he receives from me." - Jesus
3. "Language is perhaps the most obvious difference between cultures." Discuss this concept together as a group thinking through why the authors would make this suggestion.
4. Discuss the "Famine-Forgetters" illustration by Dr. Allen Powell found in the introduction. What blinders may we have without knowing "what we do not know"as western readers?
Chapter 1 - Serving Two Masters
1. What is an example of a family saying that you grew up with that has influenced you even still today? e.g. "Don't smoke, drink, cuss or chew or run around with girls that do." - from the authors ; or "A bushel and a peck, and a hug around the neck." - from Robbie's Grandmother
2. What are mores as defined in the chapter? What mores can we identify here on the campus?
From the book: Mores are often generational. How do you think differently about specific cultural mores (such as drinking alcohol, dancing or sexual behavior) than your parents or grandparents? What role does culture play in the way these three generations view mores?
3. The authors use celibacy as a point of conversation and understanding about spiritual dedication in other cultures. In the western world, celibacy is viewed more in a negative light, or as something not to be sought after. Do you think about celibacy differently now that you heard a different perspective?
4. Have you ever been in another city, country, or culture where your personal mores were violated? If so, how did you feel about it, and what was your response? e.g. Not being allowed to shake the hand of a woman in a predominantly Muslim country.
5. What should we do differently this week when reading the next chapter of the book?
Prayer Points
Pray that the Holy Spirit help us see clearly the truth of scriptures as the original authors intended
Pray that each student has a renewed hunger for the word of God and to want to abide with Jesus daily
Pray for new students to be reached with the good news of the Gospel during the start of this semester
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