Sample Discussion Plan to use with the Story of Mary Jones

Opening questions

1. What was interesting, puzzling or surprising about the story?
2. How does it make you feel/think?
3. What issues and questions does the story raise?

Questions about events

1. What happened?
2. What do you think could have happened?
3. Is this an old or a modern story?
4. Can old stories be relevant today?

Questions about meaning

1. What is the message/meaning of this story?
2. How does this story relate to people today?
3. Do you think this story is true? Why? Why not?

Questions based on characters

1. What do you think Mary would say if you asked her about what she did?
2. How would you describe Mary’s attitude to learning/saving/acquiring a Bible that she could read?
3. Do you think any children would act like this today?

Questions about the theme

1. Have you ever saved for anything special? For how long? What was it?
2. Would children travel that far alone today? Why not?
3. How much does a modern Bible cost? Where can you buy one? How long would it take a child to save for one?
4. Is the Bible still a special book for some children today? Who/why/why not?
5. Is it the same in other countries?
6. Does anyone own a Bible? Where/when did they get it? Do they read it?
7. How do Bibles vary? Does the content vary? Are they easy or hard to read?
8. Why do people read the Bible today?

What the Bible says about itself - these references might might form part of a discussion:

If offers teaching and guidance for life: Psalm 119 v 105
It is an accurate account of what Jesus said and did: John 20 v 30-31
It provides instruction: 2 Timothy 3 v 16-17
It is relevant for all ages: Psalm 78 v 1-7, 1 John 2 v 12-13
It has power and authority: Hebrews 4 v12