GNRS 506 Spiritual Care
Discussion Questions: Bruce Shelley’s “Church History in Plain Language”
Cha. 1: Away with the King: The Jesus Movement
Which of the competing views of who Jesus was (page 4) is least familiar to you?
Did anything surprise you in the summary of Jesus’ ministry, message and death in the chapter?
Cha. 2: Wineskins: Old and New: The Gospel to the Gentiles
What have you experienced (or observed in another’s life) of something “new” (for example, emotional or intellectual growth, or spiritual awakening or insight) which cannot be contained by the “old” of how things have always been?
Chapter 3: Only Worthless People: Catholic Christianity
Which of the reasons given for the spread of the gospel (pp. 35-36) impacts or “grabs” you most? Why?
Chapter 4: If the Tiber Floods: The Persecution of Christians
Have you ever had the experience of standing up for what is right, and being judged, criticized or ostracized in any way for doing so?
What would your reaction be if your attendance at a place of worship were to be documented by someone in authority (local, state, federal)?
Cha. 5: Arguing about the Event: The Rise of Orthodoxy
What is your first reaction to the mention of the word theology?
What sources (if any) of instruction/information about your spiritual beliefs have been most helpful to you?