[Note: APDF downloadable version of this resource is available here.]
This is an invitation to simply enjoy getting to understand one another better…and growing in the ability to have such conversations.
In our current culture, it has become very difficult to talk about spiritual beliefs. There are resentments about being “preached at” … fears of raising conflict… and perhaps various issues we’ve simply avoided. This guide for spiritual “conversation partners” is an opportunity to simply enjoy reflecting on some of the most fundamental questions related to life… and to listen and learn about one another’s beliefs. Many who have been associated with the Christian Faith, have been particularly poor at such genuine conversations. We appreciate the opportunity to grow in restoring a better way.
It is important to embrace that the fundamental purpose of these conversations is not about changing one another, but rather understanding one another.
There are questions which can guide four conversations. While you can adapt plans for unique circumstances, you are encouraged to try and have four conversations, with each being at least 30 minutes and no more than 60 minutes focused on the topics / questions provided.
A few helpful guiding principles…
This is not a process of proving anything… but rather sharing our process regarding beliefs.
Don’t presume that “what we believe” is something entirely settled. It is healthy to accept that we may still have plenty of questions we haven’t fully resolved yet. Try to enjoy freedom to share both why you may believe something…as well as what is still hard to understand.
Don’t presume that any particular academic knowledge or personal experience by either conversation partner is a greater source of ultimate truth. It is helpful to recognize that we are all finite creatures engaging infinite matters and can draw from different perspectives.
Don’t presume the need to control or correct the other, but welcome influence. No one wants a conversation that has an unspoken agenda of “converting” the other…or “winning” a competition for truth. When we let go of presuming we can control others, we can enjoy the natural gift of influence.
Above all, the purpose of this process as conversation partners, is to grow in the ability to discuss spiritual beliefs with honesty, mutual regard, and a desire for understanding one another.
Conversation 1 – Influences: Reflecting on what has influenced our beliefs
· Think through your life… from the most initial people and surroundings… to those that emerged over time. What influences on your spiritual beliefs, whether formal or informal, do you identify?
· Do you identify any seasons or moments that had a particular impact on what you believe… either shifting or strengthening beliefs?
· What relationship have you had with people who had a specific belief in God? With those who did not? What experiences have you had talking about beliefs related to God or spiritual truth?
Conversation 2 – Science and Spirituality
· Our current culture often tends to perceive a conflict exists between science and faith. Some suggest that we have emerged from the ignorance of superstitious history and no longer have a need to believe in God or any deeper meaning. Others note that much of science actually arose when the Bible began to shape the western world with a belief that the world was created with order…and that such order reflected a divine good to be gained from. Such a perspective doesn’t see anything found in this order that disproves or dismisses a spiritual dimension or belief in God. How do you see the relationship between material and spiritual truth?
· Some people believe that there is more to life…that there is a larger reality that can transform life as we know it. For those who follow the way of Jesus, this is the reality he revealed and called us to follow him into. It is not simply about the future… but it’s about discovering an eternal reality we were created to belong in… and how we can root our lives in that reality …even now. Some would describe how modern culture has limited our sense of mystery…that the current secularization of life is telling us that “this is all there is.” How do you think about whether there is more to life?
Conversation 3 – Human Nature and Injustice
· One of the core questions that human life is faced with is: Why is human community wrought with injustice, hatred, and indignity? What is your perspective on the problem?
· Is the nature of injustice… of right and wrong… merely subjective or is there an objective source for such a position?
· Human life has tended to be very aware of injustice. We long for justice and call out what we deem unfair. At the same time, if faced with the prospect of perfect justice from a perfect source of life to who we must give account, most would be hesitant to want everything they deserve. This suggests that we actually both long for justice but need mercy. How do you think about the challenge of perfect justice?
Conversation 4 – Grace
· Most would agree that what is central, and arguably most unique, about Christian belief, is its declaration that human life is in need of grace…a need which God has provided for in His own sacrifice…that of Jesus Christ. Such grace is understood as providing for all who will receive it and turn to God’s new work in their lives. How might this be unique from the focus of most religious teaching?
· How might some people misconstrue this with what has been called “cheap grace,” in which one claims to accept God’s forgiveness but receives no actual change to what rules their hearts and leads their lives?
· As you conclude the final planned conversation about spiritual beliefs, what have you valued or gained from this process?