The Big Questions
The hardest questions people ask about Christianity — Does God exist? Why does evil exist? Is there only one way to heaven? What happens after death? This study engages them honestly.
How to use this guide
Read the linked article for each session before your group meets. Then work through the discussion questions together — or use them as personal journal prompts. One session per week works well for most groups.
Session 1 — Does God Exist?
The cosmological argument, fine-tuning, the moral argument, and the evidence from human experience — examined together.
Read: Is there evidence that God exists?Discussion Questions
- 1.Which argument for God's existence do you find strongest — and which do you find weakest?
- 2.Is atheism really the "default rational position," or is it also a faith commitment?
- 3.How would you answer someone who says there is "no evidence" for God?
Session 2 — Why Does God Allow Suffering?
The problem of evil is the most powerful objection to Christianity. What can honestly be said in response?
Read: Why does God allow suffering?Discussion Questions
- 1.Does the existence of suffering make you doubt God, or is your faith shaped differently by it?
- 2.What is the difference between an intellectual answer to suffering and a pastoral one?
- 3.How does the Cross change the way Christians engage with the question of suffering?
Session 3 — Is There Only One Way to Heaven?
Jesus's claim to be "the way, the truth, and the life" is one of the most controversial statements ever made. Is it credible?
Read: Is there only one way to heaven?Discussion Questions
- 1.Why does the exclusivity of Christianity feel offensive to many people today?
- 2.How do you distinguish between religious arrogance and genuine conviction that something is true?
- 3.What is the most honest and respectful way to hold this belief in conversation with people of other faiths?
Session 4 — Can You Trust the Gospels as Historical Documents?
The Gospels are the primary sources for Jesus's life. Are they credible history or religious propaganda?
Read: Can you trust the Gospels as historical documents?Discussion Questions
- 1.What criteria do historians use to assess ancient documents — and how do the Gospels perform?
- 2.Why does the criterion of "embarrassment" actually increase confidence in the Gospels?
- 3.How does the early dating of the Gospels affect the case for their reliability?
Session 5 — What Does God Say About Other Religions?
Do all religions lead to God? What does the Bible say about truth, other faiths, and the uniqueness of Christ?
Read: What does God say about other religions?Discussion Questions
- 1.What is the difference between saying all religions are equally valid and saying all religions contain some truth?
- 2.How can Christians hold to the uniqueness of Christ while genuinely respecting people of other faiths?
- 3.What role does love play in how we engage with this question?