As you read (or review) this chapter, please make notes on anything that stands out to you . . . whether you agree, disagree, feel confused, or have an “aha!” moment, mark the things that McLaren says that speak to you the most.

Elizabeth’s ideas for discussion:

1.  McLaren talks about what he wants from the Bible and what modern Western Christians want from the Bible.  (pp. 177-178)

  • Do you share his perspective of the Bible’s role or purpose in the lives of Christ-followers?
  • Do you think he is accurate in his list of what we (“modern, Western, moderately educated people” want from the Bible?
  • What do you want from the Bible?

2.  McLaren gives a “dual origin” perspective of the origins of Scripture (pp. 179-181).  What do you think of his ideas?  How does this compare with your own understanding of the Bible’s source(s)?  What impact do these ideas have on how we respond to Scripture?

3.  Early on (p. 177) McLaren states his belief that the purpose of the Bible is to equip believers “so that we can play our part in the ongoing mission of God.”  Near the end of the chapter (p. 185), he deals with his inner conflict over passages that portray God and those who follow him as barbaric by saying, “We need to reclaim the Bible as narrative.” 

  • What do you think of his second statement?
  • Do you see any conflict or disconnect between these two perspectives?
  • Does any of what McLaren says help you to reconcile the “God of the Old Testament” with the “God of the New Testament”?
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