1. How does commodifying individuals in society and in the church go against the principles of valuing people beyond their societal roles and consumption patterns?
2. In what ways do you see the dangers of reducing people to their purposes and activities in today’s culture?
3. How do you think fame intersects with the concept of significance in the church and in society? How does this differ from God’s perspective?
4. What examples can you think of where individuals or groups have been demonized or dehumanized, either in politics, race, religion, or everyday life?
5. How can the story of the prodigal son teach us about the acceptance and unconditional love shown by Jesus? How does this challenge the way we perceive and treat others?
6. How do you personally evaluate your own significance and worth? Are there external factors that influence your sense of worth, such as material possessions or popularity?
7. Can you relate to the idea of living in a culture of demonization and dehumanization? How have you experienced or observed this mindset in your own life or in society at large?
8. How can we avoid treating people as things and instead affirm their identity and worth? What practical steps can we take to value individuals beyond their societal roles and consumption patterns?
9. How can the concept of being present with individuals who have been violated, rather than providing quick fixes or claiming to understand their experiences, be applied in our own relationships and interactions?
10. As a pastor or ministry leader, how can you ensure that you are treating people as persons, rather than reducing them to their purposes or activities? What resources or strategies can you employ to promote a healthy, person-centered approach in your leadership?