From Anger to Peace this Christmas · Group Guide

Discussion Questions

1. 1

   Read Matthew 5:21-24 out loud. James pointed out that Jesus keeps saying "you have heard it said... but I say to you," and moves the issue from the hand to the heart. What does Jesus put in the same category as murder here, and why do you think he does that?

2. 2

   Verses 23-24 tell you to leave your gift at the altar when your brother has something against you — even, James noted, when you are convinced you did nothing wrong. His own first reaction was "I'll take responsibility for me, but I can't deal with crazy over here." What is Jesus actually asking for?

3. 3

   James held up the Advent peace candle next to a match: one glows and lights the room, the other bursts into flame and burns you if you keep hold of it. Where does that difference show up in how you handle being wronged?

4. 4

   James described a soldier at Fort Bragg who had been unfaithful to his wife and told him, "I'm a good person. This wouldn't have happened if she hadn't done this." What does a sentence like that do for the person saying it?

5. 5

   James was so angry at his father that when a counselor told him "you've got to handle your sin," he was furious. He started praying "Lord, I forgive this person as you forgave me," and then "would you please bless them" — long before he meant either one. Who would be hardest for you to pray that second prayer for?

6. 6

   James gave three practical steps: pause and pray first, step away before you step in, and release and forgive quickly. Which of the three is your weak spot, and what is the specific conversation this week where you will use it?