What term do you use to describe adherents of a faith? Isn’t ‘believer’ the most common? This is an important concept that goes back to Abraham and even before. I commended faith many times but what did I ask of my disciples? Didn’t I put more emphasis on following me? Do you know those for whom belief comes easily, but you see little evidence of transformation in their lives? Do you know any who struggle with belief, but whose lives are radically and profoundly impacted by my message? Do you remember the story of the two sons and the vineyard?

Have you heard it said that whatever doesn’t kill you will make you stronger? This is an extremely negative expression and not strictly true, but there is an underlying element of truth. Is there a positive way to approach this? You have already seen unpleasant circumstances you would not choose have beneficial effects in your life. Do you see this as a series of random events? I tell you that I take great interest in this and watch over it carefully. You already have my promise that I will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you can bear.

Do you understand that there are two ways to form a group? One is around a common enemy, and the other is around a common interest. You would be correct in thinking that the common interest is better, but common enemy intimacy is the faster and easier method. Can you think of any groups that are animated by what they are opposed to? Most political parties and campaigns? This method is used because it works, but you don’t have to let it work for you. Resist the easy path and put in the effort to build the trust that true solidarity and community require.

Do you see yourself as being tribal? You may think of this as an unsophisticated primitive concept from ancient times, but it is a universal human tendency, so you are not exempt from it even if you don’t use this terminology. There is some level at which you identify with and prefer the company of your own kind. Yet even the solidarity of your group can work against you if it serves to alienate and isolate you from the rest of the human community. Group identification is not bad, but alienation is.