Read: Mark 9:14-29, Hebrews 11:1, Psalm 9:10, Psalm 73, James 1:3-4

Reflect:

1. In Mark 9:14-29 we witness a helpless father who brings his demon-possessed son to Jesus. Put yourself in his shoes. How would you feel? What do you see in the story?

2. What doubts get in the way of your faith?

3. In James 1:3-4 we read that the "testing of your faith produces perseverance." Have you experienced that before?  How has the community you surround yourself impacted that?  Have you ever struggled with isolation with struggles and doubt?  How so?

4. What do you make of the concept of the "prototypical Christian?" In what ways do assumptions we make misguide people or give the wrong impression about what it means or looks like to follow Jesus?  In thinking of Beethoven's smudged manuscripts, how do you see your own life of faith?

5. Dr. Ryan mentioned three buckets that relate to the process of deconstruction: 

a) Culture - Christians are an out-of-step people with culture

b) Confessional - Christians profess and confess truths that are often at odds with others' beliefs

c) Conduct - Christian hypocrisy leads to confusion over whether God is trustworthy

Do:

Come join us for BSQ (Big Scary Question Night) - text BSQ to 48099 register!

Go Deeper:

Read and reflect on Psalm 77, another one penned by Asaph.  What resonates with you?