St. Paul’s Adult
Forum
Fall 2011
The Good Book, by Peter Gomes
October 23. 2011
Chapter 6: The Bible and Anti-Semitism
This chapter examines the anti-Semitism
that has sometimes stemmed from certain interpretations of the Bible.
Gomes begins with the story of the singer who came to him in conflict over
singing the St. John Passion.
• What was your reaction to this story?
• Have you ever had a negative reaction to the depiction of “the Jews” in the
passion stories?
• What did you think of the response of the choirmaster regarding why they did
not sing it in English?
Then Gomes discusses the controversy over covering the cross for the Jewish High
Holy Day services.
• How did you react to this story? How would you have resolved the controversy?
• Are there images that have a significant impact on you?
What was your reaction to the quote from Rev. Bailey Smith?
Do you think of the Bible as anti-Semitic? Why do you think anti-Semitism
was/has been seen as justified by the Bible?
How has the Holocaust forced us to face this question?
Gomes addresses specific issues found in John’s gospel and Romans by working to
understand the context in which they were written. How does understanding the
context help us with the problem of anti-Semitism? How does it affect how we
interpret those texts now?
Gomes shares a quote by Krister Stendahl in which he said that anti-Semitism is
“the most persistent heresy of Christian theology and practice.” (p. 112). Why
is it persistent? What does Stendahl mean when he calls it a “heresy”?
What are some overarching biblical principles that would condemn anti-Semitism?
FOR OCT. 30: Read Chapter 7