Discussion Jumpstarter
Study leader reference - not a definitive answer
Question 7
Chad says he had already decided, if ISIS came, he would “invite him in for lunch”—what do you think early Christians would have heard in that (Romans 12, enemy-love, hospitality), and where does this collide with modern instincts about boundaries, prudence, and “protecting your family”?
Another way to ask: Chad says if ISIS came, he would invite them in for lunch. How do you think early Christians would hear that idea (like loving enemies and showing hospitality), and where does it clash with modern ideas about safety, boundaries, and protecting your family?
Discussion Jumpstarter
Direct Answer
Based on the transcript’s emphasis on non-resistance, early Christians likely would have heard an enemy-love posture that refuses violence and chooses unexpected kindness. The transcript doesn’t address family-protection boundaries directly, but it clearly collides with modern instincts to defend oneself through force.
- Chad describes his pre-decided response if ISIS arrived: “I always told what I’d invite him in for lunch.”
- The host contrasts his own instincts: “I think I’d be rutted for the hills,” showing how unusual Chad’s posture is.
- Chad defines non-resistance as trusting God over weapons: “Which do you believe is stronger, the gun or prayer?”
- He connects faithfulness to active love in war: “Not only do we believe in non-resistance, we go do something active to help fix the problem.”
- The conversation stays focused on personal trust and witness; it does not discuss practical family safety planning or limits of hospitality.