- Which speakers from the film made the most impression on you and why?
- Bongani – the man in the film – explains how growing up during the apartheid years shaped his vision of masculinity and violence. How are you shaped by the culture in which you were raised? What attitudes have you had to change, recognising that they were destructive both to others and to yourself?
- Social and cultural conditioning define what individuals and communities recognise as ‘abuse’. Can such conditioning ever excuse violence? Is there a clear Christian understanding of what ‘abuse’ and ‘violence’? Do these definitions work across all cultures?
- It is unclear whether Bongani is still in touch with his own children. How can families and communities recognise genuine transformation in those who have admitted abuse?
- What special responsibilities do men have when dealing with male violence in society?
- What do you think of the classroom where they attempt to teach “positive masculinity”?
- What role, if any, do you think local churches can play in addressing the serious issue of violence against women in South Africa?
Bible Study Questions
- What images of ‘ideal’ humanity (male and female) have you found helpful in the Bible? Which biblical images of masculinity and femininity have you found challenging?
- Do the ideal characteristics of a Christian ‘man’ and ‘woman’ differ? If so , how and why?
- Is there a way that we can begin to reclaim the image of God, in both women and men?
- Which of the 21 characteristics listed do you think you have the most of? Which one the least? Which ones do you struggle with the most? Do any come “easy” to you?
- Are there any “fallen” images of man that you apply to “God”? Which ones? How?
- How can you change your path so that you will be creating a redeemed image of yourself, those around you, and God?
