Engaging With Scripture

Please take some time to reflect upon the passage and the questions. Why not share your thoughts with friends or family?

Matthew 18:1-5

"At that time the desciples came to Jesus and asked, " Who is the greatest in the kingdom of  heaven?" He called a little child and had him stand among them. And he said:"I tell you the truth, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Therefore whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven. And whoever welcomes a little child like this in my name welcomes me".

1. What is the diffence between being childish and being child-like?

2. How can churches show the same respect for children that Jesus had?

3. Is it wise or foolish to treat children as the future of the church rather than as a full part of the present reality of the church?

4. I humility a word that you readily associate with yourself? If not, what can you do to change this?

5. Is our job simply to teach children oor to learn from them?

6. Do you feel like a child of God? Why is it important that we should?

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Jeremiah 30: 10

"My people, do not be afraid, do not be dismayed, Israel," sayas the LORD. "For I will bring you home again from distant lands, and your children will return to a life of peace and quiet, and no one will make you afraid,"

1. Even in exile in Babylonia, the people hope in God's faithfulness. Do you think the church can be described as being in exile?

2. Do you ever feel the church has been abandoned?

3. How should you deal with such emotions?

4. Should we follow the example of those in exile, and pray fervently to be led back to a place of security and strength?

5. Those in exile became more prayerful and worshipful in their darkest time. What will you do this week to follow their example which led to the restoration of Israel?

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"You have heard it said, "An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth." But I tell you, do not resist an evil person. If someone strikes you on the right cheek, turn to him the other also. And if someone wants to sue you and take your tunic, let him have your cloak as well. If someone forces you to go one mile, go with him two miles"

1. Why do people often quote "An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth?"

2. Was "an eye for an eye" an approval of revenge or a limitation on mankind's behaviour?

3. Why do we find it so hard to do as Jesus says?

4. when nations seek revenge, who suffers?

5. when individuals seek revenge, who suffers?

6. How hard do you resist ths temptation to seek revenge?