chapter 5 Study Guide

Chapter 5 The Gate of RIGHT Thoughts

People use the word “right” in expressions like “That’s right” or “I know, right?” or “Right!”  Each has it’s own connotation, and the meaning can change just by the way they are said.  But Paul is getting at a specific meaning for right with the Greek word he chose.  Write down the meaning and then several synonyms and antonyms to help clarify  the word.

Definition:

Synonyms (similar meanings)

Antonyms (opposite meaning)

What are some of the ways that convictions might be influenced or compromised in the society in which we live?

Milgram’s experiments show that many people are more concerned with obeying authority than following their conscience to do what is right.  How do we see the evidence of that in our history books on down to the present time?  (Give 3 examples)

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Now for each of these examples, can you think of a person or group in that time period who chose to follow the moral imperatives of justice and fairness regardless of personal sacrifice?  Elaborate.

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 What are some  examples from Scripture of people who acted rightly in a difficult situation?

Think about Jesus’ ministry on earth.  How did He demonstrate righteousness and justice in the face of unjust authority?   Record several references to share.

How are we called as believers to stand for what is right?  When might it be appropriate for us to defy authority?  Share from your personal experiences.

How can policing our thoughts to think what is right help us to become people with “righteous character”?  Choose a couple of the promises from p. 52 that are meaningful to you and record them here.  

How will you determine to fill your mind with thoughts of what is right in order to clarify your thinking and be a person who stands against the tide for the sake of what is just?