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Active Dimension

Discussion Questions, Chapters 3 & 4

If you are discussing these questions in a group, you may want to refer to the Discussion Ground Rules for guidance.

1. The author depicts contempt as incompatible with Jesus Brand Spirituality [see pp. 41–44]. What are some experiences you’ve had on the giving and the receiving side of contempt over matters of spirituality or religion?

2. What do you think of the author’s view that a concern for justice is at the heart of Jesus’ message? Does this differ from your impression or understanding of the Christian message?

3. Why do you think care for the environment is consistent or inconsistent with the teaching of Jesus?

4. The author describes coming to a point of eagerness to follow Jesus without understanding or accepting doctrinal formulations that many would consider essential for authentic faith [see pp. 61–66.] What do you think of this? Is it possible to be a disciple of Jesus while remaining unsettled about what many consider core issues of faith?

5. The author describes an experience of awakening to a sense of God’s nearness as a father [see pp. 68–73]. Have you ever felt a sense of God’s nearness, and if so, what was it like?

6. If you or someone you know has experienced help from a twelve-step recovery program and wish to share about it, how did it affect your/their understanding of spirituality?

Download a PDF of these Discussion questions here.