RECEIVE LEARNING FROM THE HIVE
Scientists studying bumblebees have discovered that individual bees can solve complex puzzles through social interaction with their peers. In a recent issue of Nature, lead researcher Dr. Alice Bridges reported that a complicated two-step puzzle task, in which the bee had to perform two actions to gain access to a sugar solution, could be taught by “demonstrator” bees who knew how to do it. But bees without training could not figure out how to break the code. “This is an extremely difficult task for bees,” said Bridges, that “opens exciting possibilities” for further study. Lars Chittka, another scientist who reviewed the findings, said that it “challenges the traditional view that only humans can socially learn complex behavior” from peers.
RECEIVE WISDOM FROM THE SPIRIT
In today’s passage, Stephen, a deacon in the newborn church in Jerusalem, found himself debating with learned Jewish scholars who revered the temple. None of his opponents could refute—or even stand up against—the wisdom given to Stephen by the Holy Spirit. This infuriated them, much as it had done when they had debated Jesus. So they hatched a similar plan to get rid of him.
Questions
- What’s an example of insects or animals learning something that was not instinctual (for instance, kittens learning to use the litter box or crows crafting twigs as tools)?
- When have you been given instruction or guidance from the Holy Spirit?
- Why do you think the Jewish religious leaders didn’t take Stephen to Pilate with their false accusations?
