ST NICOLAS, NEWBURY

HOME GROUP QUESTIONS

GLOBAL FINANCE IN CRISIS - A CHRISTIAN PERSPECTIVE

For home groups that would like them, here are some questions based on what we thought about on Sunday. There's no need to answer them all - just tackle the ones you have time for. You don't need to stick to the areas mentioned here - feel free to discuss any other issues that arise for you.

1. We discussed the considerable turmoil that there has been recently in the world of global finance. From your perspective, what has been happening and why?

2. Do you think that what has happened has been inevitable?

3. Why should we, as ordinary Christians in Newbury, be concerned about all this? How do you think it will affect us?

4. Have a look at 1 Timothy 6:17-19, where the apostle Paul writes this: 'Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment. Command them to do good, to be rich in good deeds, and to be generous and willing to share. In this way they will lay up treasure for themselves as a firm foundation for the coming age, so that they may take hold of the life that is truly life.'

5. What practical steps do you think we can we take to put our hope in God rather than in wealth?

6. What would you say to someone under financial pressure? Would it make a difference if the person was a Christian?

7. What do you think we as a church can do to help? Suggestions, please!

A prayer from the Church of England's website: Lord God, we live in disturbing days: across the world, prices rise, debts increase, banks collapse, jobs are taken away, and fragile security is under threat. Loving God, meet us in our fear and hear our prayer: be a tower of strength amidst the shifting sands, and a light in the darkness; help us receive your gift of peace, and fix our hearts where true joys are to be found, in Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

David Stone
22 September 2008