How do you start one? How do you announce it? Do you invite just anyone, even someone who may bring division among the lessons and group? Strangers, yes or no? Or do you only invite those who already are saved that attend your church, whether recent born again Christians or mature aged ones? Surely not right?; Because after all God calls us to reach beyond the church, to the unsaved, the lost, the lonely.....Luke 10:2
My husband and I have contemplated beginning a Bible study (often referred to as 'Small Groups'), but are currently just having me attend one that my sister is starting up in February, with a study book by Max Lucado, which I look mighty forward too. Then today I discovered a friend of mine also leads a Beth Moore Bible Study, but how does one begin this? Where did you start? Did you ask your Pastor/Priest/Church Leadership Team for permission?
The Baptist church that we belong to does not have 'home study groups', however at a church I attended years earlier (before my husband and I were joined by God) I did belong to a bi-weekly Bible study group, which I loved and miss dearly. Being part of that group meant I was able to learn more from the members, they learned from me, and there was an intimate setting that you just don't get at a big church, such as ours. To me, I don't understand why big churches don't have 'Home Cell Bible Groups' because to me why would this matter? What is the fear? Maybe they are afraid leaders would go off course causing confusion against what the church teaches?....I'm really not sure of the answer, but I don't understand it.
Our church does have an 8 AM Adult Sunday School for members to attend before 'real' church starts, however I went to one of these and it was not at all what I expected. It was more or less like going to church within the church; one person led the class while the rest of us just sat and listened, sometimes taking notes, sometimes not. There wasn't group participation or involvement of any kind, that is until the last five minutes when she announced 'If any of you have any questions I'll be here for another 5-10 min. before the regular church worship center begins.'
Yes, I love church, learning about God, and being held accountable to His word, but I really, really love and deeply miss Biblical home study groups. That, in my opinion, is where you become bonded and blessed by uniting in deeper depth with those around you who share your same faith. So why do some churches have this and other's don't offer it? Does anybody know? I don't understand this. Aren't 'Bible study small groups' for the betterment of fellowship within the church?
Not sure either but here is my guess.
ReplyDeleteAs a church, you have to be willing to give up an element of control to allow a small group structure to be effective.
Not everyone is comfortable with, preferring centralized command and control structures.
Y'know...I think a bible study has a purpose. I'm in one that is inductive and indepth and designed for more mature Christians. Others are about topics and they can be used for mature and new and non-christians. They can be invited individually, through the church, through e-vite, flyers...whatever!
ReplyDeleteMy opinion is that God reveals knowledge and wisdom throughout a study. Even something we perceive as too difficult for some, may indeed open their eyes anyway because God revealed something to them. It's fun to watch wisdom well up within people. We can be so busy trying to "save the world for Christ" that we forget that he's actually saving the world for Himself...we get to watch it happen as we serve Him. I think the question we should be asking is "What Is Jesus Doing?" (WIJD) instead of "What would Jesus Do?" as if He's not already doing. That mindset alone will transform the way you work and give you confidence in places you once doubted.
God Bless You
That's awesome; WIJD....What IS Jesus Doing? I love that....
ReplyDeletesarah,
ReplyDeleteI think you should follow your heart. A bible study is great. It helps you grow as a christian. I used to go to a big Baptist church and we had small groups. Maybe you can talk to your pastor that you want to start a small bible study. If a non-christian comes maybe it is Gods way of planting the seed. Let me know how it turns out.
Becky
Are you in a Southern Baptist church? I've been in SBC, well, forever. It is a well structured organization that has "worked" for many many years. Many SBC chruches are forming small home groups now, but it has taken a while for the idea to catch on. I love home groups. They can add a lot to a body of believers, but yes, saddly when they are led by the wrong people, they can cause trouble for a body of believers as well. I think some church leadership is afraid of this happening. Some pastors are really concerned that as an overseer, they can't do a good job of overseeing a home group. It would be wise to talk your desires over with your pastor. If you are open with your pastor about your desire to start a group, you will ease some of his worries or fears right off the bat. No pastor likes to have things done behind his back. If you get your pastor on your side, you will have his help in getting the group up and going. That is wroth a lot.
ReplyDeleteGod bless your dreams and efforts. I hope it works out well for you.
Sarah,
ReplyDeleteThe best way to start a Bible study ... is to start one!
Four years ago, I knew I needed structured time in God's Word, so I decided to start a Beth Moore Bible study. I put notices in the church bulletin, and in our local grocery store, community building, etc. I sent a few emails to friends.
I wasn't concerned how many came along for the journey -- only that I didn't have to do it alone.
I figured I'd maybe have 8-10 women along for the ride. That first night, 45 women walked in the door!
We represent many different denominations, ages, backgrounds, etc. It has been a great community outreach, reaching across denominational lines. What a blessing.
Four years later, we're still meeting - though the women who attend change session to session.
This particular study wouldn't work well in a home, because of the size of the groups. But I've been involved in other in-home couples' Bible study with just a few couples, and that has been a blessing as well.
I pray that you find something that fits for you!