Discussion Jumpstarter
Study leader reference - not a definitive answer
Question 9
The peer-pressure example (men comparing cars/boats; women comparing clothing/accessories; talk of vacations/homes) describes covetousness spreading through normal socializing; what boundaries, “escape plans,” or friendship choices would you need to make so that fellowship doesn’t quietly disciple you into discontent?
Another way to ask: How can normal conversations about cars, clothes, vacations, and homes quietly push us toward greed and discontent? What limits or friendship choices would help your fellowship build contentment instead?
Discussion Jumpstarter
Direct Answer
The speaker’s counsel is to prepare ahead of time with an “escape plan” for tempting situations and to choose peers who pull you toward serious obedience to Christ rather than constant upgrading. Fellowship stays healthy when it is shaped by Jesus’ teachings, not by comparison talk that stirs dissatisfaction.
- He defines peer pressure: wanting to be accepted by “a herd of your peers,” and notes even congregations can exert it.
- He cites Scripture warning: “Evil company can corrupt good habits. Awake to righteousness and do not sin.”
- He gives a concrete example: gatherings where men discuss “newest car…truck, boat,” and women compare “clothing…purses…shoes,” leading to discontent.
- He says this kind of talk makes people “very discontent and dissatisfied with what they have.”
- His “best defense” is “to follow Jesus and look at his teachings,” plus (1) decide ahead of time “what will we do?” and (2) ensure peers “are people who are pointing us in the right direction.”
- He warns that being surrounded by “latest this…latest that” will “probably not…help us in our spiritual walk.”