Scripture Discussion Guides

These scripture discussion guides will help your group explore violent-sounding passages from the Hebrew Bible, New Testament, and Quran. In the process, you will hone your skills in engaging with scriptural texts, and practice responding to common concerns expressed about them.

We’ve designed the guides to be accessible even for groups who don’t know much about the scriptures in question. We’ve also provided extra notes for leaders or facilitators, to help you feel confident leading discussion.

Check out these suggested event plans for ideas about how to use these discussion guides at your online or in-person event.

 
 

Scripture Discussion Guides

Hebrew Bible / Old Testament

Deuteronomy 21:18-21 (On stoning a wayward and defiant son) - Participant Pack (pdf 🗎); Leader Pack (pdf 🗎)

Deuteronomy 20:16-18 (On the conquest of the Land of Canaan) - Participant Pack (pdf 🗎); Leader Pack (pdf 🗎)

Exodus 1 (On violence and civil disobedience) - Participant Pack (pdf 🗎); Leader Pack (pdf 🗎)

New Testament

Matthew 27:20-31 (On the connection between Gospel stories and anti-Jewish violence over the centuries) - Participant Pack (pdf 🗎); Leader Pack (pdf 🗎); introductory slideshow for event

Acts 5:1-11 (On the deaths — or execution? — of Ananias and Sapphira) - Participant Pack (pdf 🗎); Leader Pack (pdf 🗎)

Colossians 3 (On family and household relationships) - Participant Pack (pdf 🗎); Leader Pack (pdf 🗎)

Revelation 19:11-18 (On a New Testament passage with bloody battle imagery) - Participant Pack (pdf 🗎); Leader Pack (pdf 🗎)

Quran

Quran 9.1-6 (On the so-called “Sword” verse) - Participant Pack (pdf 🗎); Leader Pack (pdf 🗎)

Quran 42 (On what actions should be taken against those who harm or oppress others) - Participant Pack (pdf 🗎); Leader Pack (pdf 🗎)

Quran 24 & Quran 5 - Hudud Punishments (On punishments for theft and forbidden sexual behavior) - Participant Pack (pdf 🗎); Leader Pack (pdf 🗎)

 

Interested in a different passage?

We can tailor materials specifically for your group or event. We can also work together with you to develop new resources on scriptural passages not covered by our current offerings. Contact us to find out more, or to share your ideas.