FOR PROF XAVIER ONLY

1.  We’ll start off with some basic reflection questions:

a.  To the best of your understanding, why do Christians read the Bible?

b.  To the best of your knowledge, what sorts of things did Jesus do during his life (i.e., between birth and crucifixion)?

c.  Why do you think Jesus did the sorts of things you mentioned in part b?

2.  Look at 2 Peter 3:14-18. This passage refers to the letters of Paul, which are also found in the New Testament (see Romans – Philemon), and interestingly, refers to Paul’s letters as ‘scripture’. Based on this passage, what might you conclude is the purpose for Christians reading scripture? In other words, what is it supposed to accomplish, in light of what is explicit in this passage?

3.  Look at 2 Timothy 3:16-17. Based on this passage, what are the primary purposes for the reading of scripture (here, presumably, referring to the texts of the Old Testament) in Timothy’s church?

4.  Read Romans 12:14-21. What sorts of concrete behaviors might this passage prompt in today’s Christians? You don’t need to hit every point in the passage. Rather, think of a few, specific examples of how it might look in typical, mundane situations?