“Aren’t Christians supposed to be kind and loving? Then why do they have such a hard time getting along with each other? Our church has been going through a conflict over some things that probably aren’t important, and I’m not sure we’ll ever get over it. ”
“Maybe God will forgive me for some of the things I’ve done, but I’ll never be able to forgive myself. I’ve done so many bad things and hurt so many people along the way that I’ll always feel guilty. I wish I could live my life over again, but I can’t. Is there any hope for me?”
“My sister and I had a falling out a few years ago and haven’t spoken since. But this Christmas we ran into each other at a party, and she said it was silly for us to keep on like this. However, she also made it plain that she wasn’t going to apologize, and I’m certainly not going to, either. What would you say to us?”
“I think I’ve gotten involved in a cult, and I don’t know how to get out. I was lonely after my husband died, and cult members were very sympathetic and welcoming. But now our leader says I’ll go to hell if I leave. I’m afraid to leave. What should I do?”
“I admit I had a good time in college and didn’t work very hard, but now all I can find is a dead-end job. I don’t have a question, but maybe you could urge people headed for college not to waste the opportunity like I did. ”
“I think it’s wrong for any religion to claim that it’s the only way to God. In my view, all religions lead to the same place. Don’t you think we ought to be more tolerant toward people of different religions?”
“I had to go to church when I was young, but I always resented it and quit once I got older. Now, I’m married with two small children, and my wife thinks we ought to start going to church for their sakes. But what’s to keep them from resenting it like I did?”
“Why is my faith so shaky? Sometimes I feel very close to God, but then something happens and it feels like God is a million miles away. Is there any way out of this? ”
“I know you believe God loves us, but why should He? After all, the human race certainly isn’t very lovable—not if you read the headlines or look at the way most people live. If I were God, I think I’d just give up on us. ”
“No one likes to invite my aunt to family gatherings because all she does is talk about herself. She never listens or shows any interest in what’s happening to anyone else, and it’s hard having her around. What can we do about this?”
“I get confused by all the different beliefs among churches (which is why I’ve never joined one). Shouldn’t they all believe the same things if they’re sincerely following Jesus?”