STUDY GUIDE

I am working on a Study Guide for my book on John Stott’s teaching. For those who may find the subject matter a bit daunting I have written some questions for reflection or discussion in a class. Here are some samples for the first four chapters.

INTRODUCTION AND CHAPTER 1: GOD

1. How does the Christian relate to atheists, agnostics and the secular world view which denies or is indifferent to the existence of God?
2. What is the view of those who deny the existence of God and yet regard themselves as spiritual?
3. What is your understanding of the universe as divinely created rather than random mutation?
4. How special is the nature of human beings?
5. What is the practical implication of God as Holy Trinity?
6. What is your idea of the nature of God?
7. What is your attitude to God?

CHAPTER 2: CHRIST

1. How do you resolve the paradox of Christ being both God and man?
2. What claims of Christ do you find most compelling?
3. How do you assess the moral character of Christ?
4. What makes Christ so unique?
5. How is being a Christian solely determined by your relationship with Christ?
6. How is Christ portrayed today?
7. How central to your daily life is your relationship with Christ?

CHAPTER 3: HOLY SPIRIT

1. What is the place of the Holy Spirit in the Old Testament?
2. What are the seven areas of the ministry of the Holy Spirit?
3. What does the New Testament tell us of the baptism and fullness of the Holy Spirit?
4. How does the Spirit lead us into all truth?
5. How does the Spirit convict us of sin?
6. What is the evidence of the indwelling Holy Spirit in the believer?
7. What is the power of the Spirit?

CHAPTER 4: HUMANITY

1. Why do paradoxes or antimonies in the Bible cause you problems, e.g. free will and the sovereignty of God?
2. How do you hold the two views of humanity: dignity and depravity, together?
3. Why do people do evil things?
4. What is the biblical view of human origins? How does it square with scientific views?
5. What is your understanding of sin? What are the consequences of sin?
6. Why is sin so serious?
7. How does this understanding affect your self-image?
8. What is deadness of soul?