Discussion Jumpstarter
Study leader reference - not a definitive answer
Question 7
He says we need “thoughtful responses, not canned answers,” illustrated by the child who says, “I know the answer is Jesus, but it sure sounds like a squirrel”—where do you see Anabaptists using religious reflexes that avoid listening, and how would a commitment to two days of listening (his marriage-counseling story) confront our impatience to instruct, correct, or “get to the point”?
Another way to ask: Where do you see Anabaptists giving quick “church answers” instead of really listening? How would practicing deep listening—like two days of listening before talking—challenge our need to correct and “get to the point”?
Discussion Jumpstarter
Direct Answer
The speaker suggests Anabaptists sometimes rely on reflexive “Jesus answers” and a small “repertoire” of phrases instead of hearing what seekers truly mean and need. Practicing extended listening—like the counselor who waits “two days of listening”—would slow us down, build trust, and make our words more connected to real pain and real questions.
- He critiques formulaic talk: “We need thoughtful responses, not canned answers.”
- The squirrel story exposes a reflex: “I know the answer is Jesus, but it sure sounds like a squirrel.”
- He says we often don’t listen: “we have a repertoire of about four things we say to seekers, and we don’t even listen.”
- He explains why listening matters: “people need to feel heard first.”
- Marriage counseling example: counselor “purposed… to not give any advice… until two days of listening have gone by… Until they are completely heard… they’re not willing to listen.”
- He ties this to posture: “Genuine concern and empathy… Love that is larger than advice.”