What is your basis for connecting with people? Do you find that common beliefs form the strongest bond? Is this true of your closest friends? This can make strong attachments, but it limits the number of people in the circle. How do you connect with people with whom you do not share common beliefs? Do you find a sense of common humanity even with those with whom you disagree? I did. Consider how many of the people who came to me were outsiders, the rejected and marginalized, the least of these. Did I reject any for failing to hold the same doctrine I did?

What is the basis of your faith? Is it the Bible and the historical record and evidence, or is it based on your own experience of encounter with me? The first case involves persuasion of the validity of some truth claims given to you. This is a basis for belief, and it is valid, but have you had those truth claims challenged by those outside the faith? Is it easier to remain steadfast if you also have firsthand experience? You do not have to choose one approach or the other. The first case can be too detached and academic. The second one can be too dependent on subjectivity.

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.