Prodigal God, Chapter 6

Chapter 6 – Redefining Hope

1. What positive images come to your mind when you hear the word, ‘home’?
2. Why is the concept of home so powerful, but so elusive? (p. 90).
3. Have you experienced homesickness or a longing for home? How do you handle the fact that sometimes holidays or special days don’t live up to your expectations?
4. Describe some of your longings for a place, a time, a circumstance that you can’t get back to. The author says on page 96, “we have been living in a world that no longer fits our deepest longings.” How does this help you understand your experience?
5. What are some of the examples of exile in the Bible? According to the author, what are the reasons that none of the homecomings of the Israelites in the Old Testament really worked? (p. 99). Comments?
6. What were the Israelite people longing for as Jesus came on the scene? What did Jesus give them? (p. 100,101).
7. How is our longing for home explained by the biblical narrative of:
a. Creation (p. 95-96)
b. Fall (p. 96)
c. Redemption (p. 101-102)
d. Restoration (102-103)
8. In ancient times, a feast had more dimensions to it that eating. It was a time to sing, dance, reunite with long-last friends, renew relationships, celebrate community, and so on. What joys do you anticipate at the feast of the Father?
9. What was the most significant point in this chapter for you?
10. Action Point: