Discussing the Bible in a group can help you figure out its meaning.
Provoke thoughts and wonder with creative Bible study questions that require your Bible study group to engage their minds. Even lifelong Christians have much to learn from the Bible, and by asking questions, believers can decipher scripture and interpret its meaning for modern followers of God.
Abraham and the Egyptians
After reading Genesis 12, ask, "Why was Abraham afraid the Pharaoh and Egyptians would kill him? Why did he lie and say his wife, Sarah, was his sister?" Once you've posed this question to the group, look at the verses in Genesis 12 concerning this question. Pay particular attention to the impact of Sarah, her position in God's plan and her future role in other stories of the Bible.
Love Thy Enemy
Following a reading of Matthew 5:43-44, present these questions: "What should we do when we are hurt, or feel pain because of someone else's actions? In a modern world of media and technology we can even lash out on the Internet and commit slander. How should a Christian handle bullying?" In Matthew 5:43-44, Jesus states what we can do for those who forsake us and wound our hearts. Remind your Bible study group of Christians' responsibility toward others by having them fill in the blanks: _____thy neighbor, _____thy enemies, _____them that curse you, _____for them that spitefully use you.
Creation of Adam
Sometimes members of a study group will ask questions that are not answered in the Bible. Follow 1 Corinthians 15:45 with the questions: "What age was Adam when God created him? Was he created to look older or young and virile?" While there is no direct answer in the Bible, questions such as these will make your group engage in thoughtful discussion. Compare references made in scriptures and history outside of the Bible to Adam's age. Consider Michelangelo's painting of the Sistine Chapel and depiction of Adam.
The Power of Prayer
Study instances in the Bible where God has answered prayers; for instance, in Isaiah 38:2-8, Hezekiah prays and is answered by God. Examine 2 Corinthians 7:6-7; what did Paul consider a comfort? Then, examine the seriousness of your own prayer or prayer as a group, even among the church as a whole. Ask the group, "Do you pray for others? Or yourself? When praying for others, is it because the pastor reminded you or told you to? How much time do you spend on yourself versus others?" The ultimate question can be, "Why do we pray for others?"
