How People Change, Chapter 2

Chapter 2 – Counterfeit Hopes

1. The opening stories of Craig and of John and Cindy show their ways of coping in the world. The author says of John and Cindy that when a crisis came, suddenly ignoring or sidestepping the problem was no longer possible. He says of Craig that one tiny problem on top of everything else put him over the edge (p. 17-18). Do you have experiences of crisis or culmination forcing problems to the surface? Why does this happen?
As you read the chapter, consider the real problem in the above scenarios.
2. Read Colossians 2:6-8. For this week, memorize these verses, read them each day, or write them in a paraphrase personal to you. Comments on verses?
3. The author states that the Colossians verses apply both to big decisions and to little ones. He states, ”It is in the little moments of life that battles are lost or won”(p. 19). Explain and given an example.
4. There are many deceptive theories that “masquerade as biblical wisdom”. List these five common perspectives. For each consider why it seems plausible and seductive, why it doesn’t work, and what the real solution is (p. 21-25).
5. Read Colossians 2:9-15. As you read through the remainder of Chapter 2, write your thoughts on each verse in this Colossians passage.
6. Now, what are the real issues with Craig and with John and Cindy?
7. What is the main thing you learned from this chapter?
8. Action point. (What are you going to do about it?)