SOAR Discussion Questions  |  9 February 2020

Romans 8:35-39; John 9:1-7; Matthew 25:31-40

• What is the key message of this passage? Explain why you think so?
• What does this passage tell us about God?
• Are there truths in this passage that contradicts your own thinking about God, self or the world?

Everyday life is complex.  It is made up of frustrations, conflicts, responsibilities, and demands all in the midst of joy, love, hopes and expectations.  In addition, sometimes crises can intrude upon this everyday, rhythm of life.  In these times life can become confusing.  As people of faith it is often hard to relate our faith to our everyday life especially in the midst of private or public crises such as the outbreak of the Coronavirus that has resulted in so many deaths and much pain.  Yet, the Bible and Christian tradition through the ages have insisted that our life must be viewed and lived through the lens of the Bible.  This is not an easy thing to do but must be grappled with if we claim to be people of a God who makes a claim on the totality of our lives.

Discuss one or more of the following questions:

1. What are some indicators that show we have gone beyond wise precautionary measures to being controlled by fear?
2. Read Romans 8:35-39.  What is one of your greatest fears in regard to your life (illness, loss of a loved one, loneliness, death etc.)?  What would living a conqueror’s life look like in regard to overcoming this fear?  What could be your first step towards this?
3. Name a situation or relationship issue that you need wisdom to navigate through.  Is your past or current response to this issue spreading fear or love?  Is it hindering or spreading the gospel?  How can you learn from the past and do better in the future?
4. How might Jesus’ response in John 9:1-7 change the way we deal with others or even our own physical sufferings?

OR

What type of person(s) would you really enjoy seeing come under the punishment of God?  In view of John 9:1-7 how can you allow God to change your attitude or feelings toward these type of people?  What are some practical things you could do to respond by showing the grace of God?

5. Spend some time praying for the families and loved ones of those who have died or are sick from the Novel Coronavirus.  Pray that Christians in the infected regions will respond in ways that will help spread the love of the gospel.  Even pray for those who have persecuted the Christians in the past (Matthew 5:43-48).

• Is there a truth that God wants you to obey?
• Is there someone you can share this message with?
• What is one thing you can do this week in obedience? (I will…)