Week+3+Discussion

1) Why do you think Bilbo is reluctant to tell the dwarves about his magic ring? What might this reluctance tell us about him? What would you do?

2) Read [|John 14:12-24]. Though Jesus has given spiritual providence to his disciples, what limits, or conditions, does he place on that promise? Why does he put conditions on his promise? Consider Gandalf's parting words to his companions and the events of Chapter 8.

3) Gandalf chooses to leave the group at what might be considered a very poor time- right when they are about to enter one of the most dangerous parts of their journey. What reason does he give? Would you be satisfied with his explanation, or would you be upset and complain like the dwarves? Similar to question 2, how does this incident parallel our Christian journey?

4) In chapter 8, we begin to see some of the changes that have been taking place in Bilbo since the beginning of the novel. Describe his character in chapter 1 versus his character in chapter 8. How did this change take place? What events in chapter 8 show how he has grown?