In our last article, we wrote about a resource called Discovery Bible Studies designed to invite Christians AND seekers into experimenting with the teachings of Christ even as they are weighing whether or not they believe in Christ. In a sense, they are “acting their way into a new way of thinking.” This is a very different paradigm than we have been given in most American churches. In fact, it is a very old way of training – reaching all the way back into ancient biblical cultures.
Think for a moment about the disciples and other followers of Jesus Christ. Although they listened to his teaching and changed their life radically to follow him, they weren’t completely ready to believe in Christ or consider him ‘Lord’ until after his resurrection; after they had followed Christ for three years!
But whether you are a seeker or a faithful follower of Christ, this very simple method of exploring God’s Word can be meaningful. Recently, one of our brothers and co-workers in the Lord, Kerry Holton, wrote a fantastic series on how Discovery Bible Studies have blessed his relationship with God in incredible ways. Check out his 3-part reflections here: part 1, part 2, and part 3.
As we continue to plant churches and make disciples in Chicago, we see the core value of establishing each church with simple resources for a vibrant spiritual health. Anyone can incorporate the values and practices of Discovery Bible Studies into (1) your personal prayers and devotions, (2) into your relationship with their spouse or with a spiritual friend, (3) with your house church, (4) and with your seeking friends.
As we’ve done in our previous article, we are posting PDFs of David Watson and City Team Ministries’ material into this post as a resource for you and your faith community. Please tell us the stories of success (and failure) of incorporating this resource into your group!
Process:
- Present the idea of a Discovery Bible Study with your house church.
- Your house church chooses from one of the Bible Study documents below.
- Each week, read one selection of Scripture listed in the study (starting on or around page 15)
- Rotate who facilitates the discussion each week to promote shared leadership and learning.
- Follow up the following week with the “I will” statements you committed to the Lord the previous week.
Choose a Bible Study below to begin!
Godgrown – Discovery Bible Study Process*
2008 Obedience Based Discipleship v1.5
2008 Discovering Leadership v2.2
2008 Discovering Church Planting v4.2
2009 DBS Prayer Scripture List
*adapted from City Team Ministries
