Bible Study: Proper 19 (A) – 2011
September 11, 2011
Genesis 50:15-21
Joseph talks about forgiving his brothers for the things that they did in order to follow his father’s wishes. How difficult must it have been for Joseph to forgive them when they had personally attacked him?
Romans 14:1-12
Most of us have very strong memories of 9/11. Take some time to share what the day and the aftermath was like. Then read the epistle aloud. How does this teaching of Paul help us address our feelings around the day?
- How do you deal with the challenge of turning over judgment to God? Think about times when you have personally judged the actions or beliefs of others. Does it help to turn this over to God?
Matthew 18:21-35
The subject of the readings today is very appropriate for the 10th anniversary of 9/11. During this time of remembering those who were lost in the tragic events of the day, we can take this opportunity to discuss the importance of forgiveness.
Read the gospel aloud. Some of the points that Jesus makes are difficult to hear. What aspect of forgiveness is the most challenging for you to address? Is it the fact that you are expected to show mercy, even when you feel you are right? Is it being able to genuinely forgive “from your heart”? Or is there another aspect that challenges you?
In the gospel reading, both slaves ask for patience and mercy. Is it easier or harder to forgive someone who shows remorse? Talk about how different you might feel about the actions of both the king and the first slave if they had not been asked to forgiveness. Does God still expect us to forgive someone if they do not ask for it?
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