Season 1, Episode 4 - Jesus was a *really* busy guy... — The Episcopal Diocese of Central New York

Discussion/Journaling Questions

Understanding Soteriology:
1. Personal Perspective: Reflect on your understanding of how Jesus saves. Does the concept of atonement resonate more with you, or do you find meaning in the idea of incarnating the life and teachings of Jesus in your own life? How does this shape your daily actions and interactions?
2. Present vs. Future Salvation: The episode discusses salvation as both a present reality and a future promise. How do you see these two aspects playing out in your own life? Do you feel more motivated by the idea of living a holy life now, or by the hope of eternal life after death? Why?
The Role of Forgiveness:
1. Forgiveness as Healing: Bishop DeDe speaks about forgiveness not as condoning harm but as a means of releasing oneself from the impact of the situation. Reflect on a time when you’ve experienced or offered forgiveness. How did it affect your sense of peace or wholeness?
2. Forgiveness in Relationships: How does the concept of forgiving others—while still acknowledging the need for accountability—align with your understanding of justice and healing within relationships?
The Ascension and Its Significance:
1. Jesus’ Ascension: The ascension of Jesus is described as an event that brings all of humanity into closer relationship with God. How does this idea of wholeness and unity with the divine resonate with you? In what ways do you seek to close the divide between your earthly life and your spiritual aspirations?
2. Healing the Divide: The episode suggests that the ascension heals the separation between earth and heaven. Reflect on how you experience or strive for unity in your own life—whether in relationships, work, or personal growth.
Exploring the Baptismal Covenant:
1. Who is Jesus to You? The episode repeatedly asks, “Who do you say Jesus is?” Reflect on your personal relationship with Jesus. How has your understanding of who Jesus is evolved over time? Where do you see this relationship growing in the future?
2. Dynamic Faith: The conversation emphasizes that faith is dynamic, not static. How does this perspective encourage you to approach your own faith journey? Are there areas where you feel called to explore or deepen your understanding of God, Jesus, or the Holy Spirit?
Practical Application:
1. Faith as a Home: Bishop DeDe uses the metaphor of faith as a house where God becomes more present over time. Where is God in the “home” of your life right now? What steps might you take to invite God more fully into all areas of your life?
2. Living Faith Daily: How do you live out your faith in everyday actions? Are there particular teachings of Jesus that you find yourself returning to as guides for how to navigate your daily life? How might you integrate these teachings more deeply into your routines and decisions?