Impossible Conversations

Impossible Conversation – Week Three

***It is mentioned before the interview that within the church, 64% of Christian men and 15% of Christian women watch porn at least once a month.

Pastor Josh Amstutz interviews Pastor Josh Broome about the pervasive issue of pornography and its impact within the church, revealing that a significant percentage of Christian men and women are affected. The interview with Pastor Broome, who transitioned from a porn star to a pastor, highlights the potential for transformation through faith and community support. He emphasized the importance of understanding this struggle as a reality that requires open discussion and accountability, leading to healing and freedom. They both encourage viewers to take proactive steps towards recovery by confessing their struggles, seeking accountability, and utilizing available resources for freedom from addiction.

Josh Broome shared that shame kept him isolated, saying “if the enemy can distract you and isolate you from God and community, then you’ll stay where you are.” How does shame play a role in preventing people from seeking help for their struggles? How have you experienced the difference between guilt (which can lead to positive change) and shame (which keeps us stuck)?

What steps can a person take to replace unhealthy habits with positive ones, particularly when dealing with addictions?

According to Hebrews 12:2, why is it significant that Jesus endured the cross with joy set before Him, and how does that relate to our struggles?

Josh Broome mentioned that when breaking free from addiction, “a habit needs to be replaced with a habit.” What are some healthy habits or practices you’ve found helpful in redirecting your life when facing temptation of any kind? What are some new habits you should consider implementing?

Joshua said “doing the right thing for the wrong reason is always going to be the wrong thing” and emphasized that behavior modification alone doesn’t give God glory. How do you distinguish between trying to change your behavior through willpower versus allowing God to transform your heart?

It was emphasized how critical it is to “tell somebody” rather than struggling alone. What makes vulnerability and confession so difficult in the church context? How can we create safer spaces for people to share their struggles?

Impossible Conversation – Week Two

Understanding Ideologies: The sermon mentioned “expressive individualism” as a cultural force. How do you see this idea influencing society’s views on gender and identity? How might a Christian worldview offer a different perspective?

Scriptural Interpretation: The sermon emphasizec that we are created in the image of God as male and female. (Gen. 1:26-27) How can we reconcile this biblical view with the experiences of those who struggle with gender dysphoria? What does it mean to honor God’s design while showing compassion?

Mental Health and Science: The sermon references studies showing high rates of suicide post-transition. How should we approach discussions about mental health and gender dysphoria with sensitivity to both scientific findings and the emotional realities faced by individuals?

Hermaphrodite & Birth Defects: The term “hermaphrodite” (intersex) and discusses birth defects in relation to gender. How do we reconcile the existence of these biological variations with the idea of God’s perfect design? What are your thoughts on the pastor’s statement that we don’t use birth defects to inform God’s design in other areas?

More Scriptural Interpretation: How does the idea that our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19-20) challenge or support the way we view our own bodies?

Internal Conflict: The sermon mentions that Christians also experience internal conflicts between mind and body (referencing Romans 7:22-24). How might this shared human experience help us empathize with those struggling with gender identity issues?

Impossible Conversation – Week One

How can we navigate difficult conversations about topics like homosexuality with grace and understanding, as discussed in the sermon?

What does Colossians 3:1-3 mean to you when it talks about our lives being wrapped up in Christ, and how does this perspective influence your identity?

How does John 3:16 play a role in sharing Christ’s love with people even though they may be living a lifestyle that contradicts your biblical beliefs?

How does Romans 2:4 play a role in sharing Christ’s love as well?

The Interview stressed the need for loving conversations about controversial topics and the role of understanding in such dialogues. Identify a person with differing views from yours. How might you initiate a respectful and open dialogue with them?