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Related Bible reading(s): Matthew 22.34-46

Question trap

Discussion about having to think quickly on your feet (for adult and all-age groups)

Trap questions are a common literary device. Retell a story about a question, e.g. Rumpelstiltskin or The Hobbit (see below). Just as Jesus needed to have all his wits about him, so we sometimes need to think quickly when put on the spot. Try to identify together one good question about Christian faith, and one question that will not really lead to deeper understanding.


The story of Rumplestiltskin is widely available on the internet and in collections of folk tales. There is a beautifully illustrated version in Classic Fairy Tales, Berlie Doherty, illustrated by Jane Ray, Walker Books, 2000, ISBN 978-0744561159.


The Hobbit by JRR Tolkien is readily available in paperback but is probably best known among young people from the film/DVD – the scene referred to is in Part 1.

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