Gun Lap Ch 7

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Questions and Answers

What is one of the thoughts that the author reflects on regarding dividends from investments?

They are consistent regardless of market changes.

They signify work that has been completed. (correct)

They are always a gift from family.

They come without any effort or investment.

According to the author, what relationship does increased free time have with age?

It decreases significantly as one gets older.

It increases for everyone uniformly.

It depends solely on personal choices made earlier in life.

It tends to increase as one gets older. (correct)

What was Paul's mission before his conversion on the road to Damascus?

To spread Christianity throughout the Roman Empire.

To persecute and destroy the spread of Christianity. (correct)

To financially support the early church.

To establish his own religious sect.

What significant event occurred to Paul on his way to Damascus?

A light from heaven flashed around him. Signup and view all the answers

At what stage in his life did Paul find himself when he wrote his biblical letters?

In his sixties, imprisoned in Rome. Signup and view all the answers

What was Paul's perspective on his imprisonment?

He viewed it as a divine appointment to advance the gospel. Signup and view all the answers

What significant change did the author experience after moving to the new neighborhood?

He developed strong relationships with his neighbors. Signup and view all the answers

What lesson did the author take from his experience of living in a cul-de-sac?

Personal connections enrich life beyond material possessions. Signup and view all the answers

How did the author's inability to interact with neighbors in the past affect his life?

It caused feelings of loneliness and disconnection. Signup and view all the answers

What role did the author eventually take on in his new community?

He was asked to be vice president of the homeowners' association. Signup and view all the answers

What is implied about the importance of knowing your neighbors?

It can lead to cherished relationships. Signup and view all the answers

What is suggested as a critical action for transforming your neighborhood?

Taking the initiative to love and support your neighbors. Signup and view all the answers

What does John Piper say about loving neighbors?

It is a demanding process that can reshape the soul. Signup and view all the answers

What outcome is observed after Bryan's cancer treatment?

His health was restored and celebrated by neighbors. Signup and view all the answers

What does the passage suggest about loving God?

It is an internal passion that manifests through loving others. Signup and view all the answers

How does the author characterize the current social climate in America?

It shows unprecedented animosity and division. Signup and view all the answers

What does the author imply is necessary for community leadership?

Personal interest and care for neighbors. Signup and view all the answers

What is the second greatest command according to Jesus in the passage?

Love your neighbor as yourself. Signup and view all the answers

What was one of the first actions taken after Bobbie's cancer diagnosis?

They visited Bryan and Cindy's house to inform them. Signup and view all the answers

How did Bryan support the author during his cancer treatment?

By sending encouraging texts and sharing his own experience. Signup and view all the answers

What initiative did Nancy and the author take to connect with their neighbors?

They invited them for a potluck dinner. Signup and view all the answers

What did the path created between the author's home and their neighbor symbolize?

An avenue for better communication. Signup and view all the answers

How did Rosaria Butterfield's relationship with her neighbors impact her faith journey?

It catalyzed her conversion to Christianity. Signup and view all the answers

What was the primary motive behind the pastor and his wife's hospitality towards Rosaria?

To demonstrate genuine kindness and love. Signup and view all the answers

What realization did the author have about loving neighbors later in life?

It is a skill that can be easily learned. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

The Gun Lap

Author argues that the "gun lap" (retirement/life after traditional work) is not just free time, but a new assignment.
This time is an opportunity to make a difference and is more valuable than a dividend.
Paul is used as an example of purpose in free time, despite being imprisoned, he continued to preach.

The Electric Garage Door Opener

Author uses the example of his home in Tennessee with electric garage door openers to illustrate how technology can hinder relationships.
He moved to a smaller, close-knit cul-de-sac and enjoyed a sense of community that led to close friendships.
The experience taught him the importance of interaction.

The HOA

Author was elected president of his HOA for 15 years.
Despite initial challenges, he looks back at this experience with no regret.
The experience taught him the value of neighborly involvement.

Loving Your Neighbor

Author emphasizes the importance of loving your neighbor and suggests that this is a commandment from Jesus.
He uses his experience with Bryan, a neighbor he initially had little in common with, to illustrate the benefits of loving your neighbor.
They built a deep friendship despite differences, even sharing support during cancer diagnoses.

The Yellow Brick Road

In Michigan, author and his wife (Nancy) actively engaged with their neighbors, breaking down social barriers and creating strong bonds.
Nancy’s ministry work in the community provided opportunities to be known, but not necessarily appreciated by neighbors.
The author's father, who was cordial but not close with neighbors, serves as a contrast to his personal experience.

The Redeeming Power of a Good Neighbor

Rosaria Butterfield's story is used as an example of the power of neighborly love.
A pastor and his wife showed love and respect, offering hospitality without seeking to convert her at the time.
It ultimately led to Rosaria converting to Christianity, demonstrating the power of love to break down barriers.

Rosaria Butterfield and Hospitality

Rosaria Butterfield practiced hospitality in her neighborhood after converting to Christianity.
She wrote the book, "The Gospel Comes with a House Key: Practicing Radically Ordinary Hospitality in Our Post-Christian World"
The book explores the concept of practicing hospitality in a post-Christian world

Being Intentional with Neighbors

Men approaching their "gun lap" have more time to devote to their neighborhoods.
Reaching out to neighbors can be a new adventure during this time.
Building relationships with neighbors is a worthwhile endeavor.

The Apostle Peter and His Guards

The Bible describes Peter being imprisoned with two guards.
The text suggests the guards were chained to Peter rather than the other way around.
The guards were exposed to Peter's faith and positive influence.

Jesus's Message to Believers

Peter, in prison, wrote about the importance of submitting to authority, even when facing persecution.
He also wrote about the power of God protecting believers.
His message encouraged the soldiers to experience God's grace and peace.

Loving Neighbors Well

The text emphasizes loving neighbors as a key aspect of Christianity.
It suggests that loving neighbors can lead to opportunities for sharing the Gospel.
It encourages being intentional in engaging with neighbors and being a source of support.

Practical Tips for Engaging with Neighbors

Pray for your neighbors by name.
Plan a potluck dinner with your neighbors to foster community.
Offer a short prayer of thanks before the meal.
Ask engaging questions to get to know your neighbors.
Be welcoming and host-like during the gathering.
Text your neighbors afterwards to express appreciation and encourage future interaction.
Greet your neighbors when you see them, ask how they are, and listen.
Be a source of support and encouragement to your neighbors, especially during hardships.

Jesus's Example of Loving Neighbors

Jesus emphasizes the importance of completing God's work.
He highlights the vital importance of actively loving neighbors as a demonstration of faith.

Gun Lap Prayer

The author encourages a prayer of commitment to loving neighbors.
He asks for forgiveness for neglecting them in the past.
He dedicates his extra time in his "gun lap" to being an ambassador for Jesus in his neighborhood.

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Description

Explore the essential lessons on purpose and community presented in various life experiences. From the significance of the 'gun lap' in retirement to the value of neighborly involvement, this quiz delves into how we can foster relationships and find purpose in different life stages. Reflect on technology's impact on community and the greater good of loving your neighbors.