Questions for Individual Reflection or Group Discussion

  • Can you think of a conflict or rivalry in your own family where you could be a peacemaker like Joseph, willing to forgive and to forget?
  • Are you surprised by the specific qualities of healthy human relations described in the Bible? Do you see these biblical insights as helpful guidelines for how you live? What qualities stand out in your opinion? Which will be more helpful to you personally?
  • Do you agree that summarizing our faith with the words “act justly,” “love mercy” and “walk humbly with your God” is a helpful reminder of God’s expectations for us, especially as we relate to others? What do these three phrases mean to you?
  • In Athens, the Apostle Paul emphasized that all of us have a common origin – we are descendants of Adam – and that God has created us and, as a result, “we live and move and have our being” because of this. How can this help us develop a vision for being peacemakers?
  • Divisions among Christians are in sharp contrast to what the Apostle Paul says about the “spirit of unity” in the church. What can we do to bring healing and true friendship between Christians with opposing views?
  • Not growing weary or “tired of doing good” is a helpful encouragement, because we can often feel this way. What are some ways to deal with these feelings of exhaustion?