1. How does his attempts to find the parents go at first and what gives him his first break through? Do you think him "stumbling" onto the front door of the father is an amazing coincidence?

2. What was Dave trying to do at the beginning of Chapter 4 and why? Do you think he was being unrealistic?

3. What does Dave think would give the gang members the best chance at change? What does he think the gang members need to do? Do you agree with his thoughts?

4. What happens when Dave returns to the jail with his signatures? What would you think the chaplain's motivation might be besides what he said?

5. What kind of prayer did Dave's grandfather believe in and what was one example of it that Dave saw as a young boy? Do you think that event was a major influence on Dave's own life?

6. How did Dave feel on his journey to New York and what did he fear? Was his fear appropriate?

7. What happened when Dave left the courthouse? Why do you think Dave felt the way he did?

8. What does the author describe at the beginning of the book and what does he feel he should do? Do you think he seemed ignorant about the circumstances?

9. What does Dave's grandfather tell him about a snake? Explain how this story could be symbolic.

10. What idea is formed after Dave talks to Ortez's congregation? Do you think it was a good idea?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

In Chapter 12, one of Wilkerson's earliest success stories was forcibly "drafted" back into the gang and subsequently involved in a violent confrontation that resulted in his being imprisoned. Wilkerson writes that he learned he has to follow up with the gang members he converts. Discuss one of the following:

1. How does Wilkerson go about following up with gang members? Is his method successful? How long do you think follow-up might be necessary in these kind of circumstances? If you were making a suggestion to Wilkerson about follow-up, what would it be?

2. Often, follow-up is crucial to the success of any change. Discuss a situation that is ongoing in at the end of the first decade of the 21st century which requires more follow-up and how it should occur. (Hint: Nature disaster aid, wars, etc.).

3. Most of us are usually desirous of a quick cure for almost anything. Why is the quick cure not usually a cure? Give examples and show how persistence and follow-up could make the difference.

Essay Topic 2

The author of THE CROSS AND THE SWITCHBLADE is still alive today and still involved in Christian evangelism. Sometimes when reading a somewhat autobiographical piece, it is useful to learn more about the author. Discuss one of the following:

1. Compare/contrast David Wilkerson's growing up with that of one of the most prominent members of the street gangs.

2. Discuss some of the major beliefs that Wilkerson holds. Analyze and respond to these beliefs.

3. What is Wilkerson doing today? Are there any surprises? How do you feel about how his ministry has evolved? Discuss thoroughly.

Essay Topic 3

Wrapping it all up: Discuss one of the following:

1. What is your overall evaluation of what Wilkerson accomplishes as stated in this book? Use detailed examples to illustrate your points.

2. Do you think Christian evangelism has an overall positive or negative track record? Discuss thoroughly.

3. Discuss an experience in your own life when you "converted" to something with a great deal of enthusiasm (not necessarily religious) and how it turned out.

(see the answer keys)

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