Small Group Bible Study
INTRODUCTION
Small Group Bible Study
INTRODUCTION
Small Group Bible Study is a productive and scriptural way to further the Gospel of Christ. Perhaps your personal, in-depth study of the Life of Jesus Christ has now produced in you a growing desire to invite others to join you in serious considerations of Holy Scripture. Small Group Bible Study is one title for just such a gathering. However, it is not the name of the group that matters most, but drawing closer to Jesus Christ. If you do begin such a Bible study, we pray you find it a blessing in the furtherance of the good news of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
Basic Elements Required
1. God’s Holy Word (2 Tim. 2:15). Bible study is the most important component in the life of a balanced and healthy Small Group Bible Study.
2. Group Building (Col. 3:12-17). The bonding process of “becoming a group” requires time, effort, and commitment.
3. Outreach (Matt. 25). Reaching out in love to others is essential for the health and growth of the group.
Possible Format
1. Gather together; enjoy fellowship and perhaps snacks
2. Small Group Bible Study Lesson
3. Share needs, concerns and pray for them
Important: Protect against turning Small Group Bible study sessions into long, seemingly unending marathons. Children have school the next day; others have to work; while some might have personal plans following the group Bible study. In short, each person in your group is depending on you to be the guardian – a good steward – of their time. Hopefully, your group will always look forward to meeting, not dread it.
Suggested Organization
1. Start on time
2. Finish on time
3. If you have food, keep it simple
4. The host family should have only one responsibility, to host
5. Identify your organizer. The person who will make phone calls, set up the meetings, etc.
6. Identify your study leader, who will start the discussion of the Lesson material.
Where the Early Church Met
(36 names & places from Acts 12, 16, 18, 28; Romans 16; 1 Corinthians 16)
Rhoda’s Gate
Jerusalem
Iconium
Bythynia
Neapolis
Syria
Phillippi
Phrygia
Antioch
Syracuse
Achaia
Lystra
Mysia
Melita
Apiiforum
Rhegium
Rome
Samothracia
Thyatira
Troas
Corinth
Cenchrea
Caesarea
Galatia
Athens
Ephesus
Macedonia
Alexandria
Stephanas
Publius’ House
Lydia’s House
Jailor’s House
Justus’ House
Narcissus’ House
Priscilla & Aquila’s House
Puteoli
Judea
Ephesus
Crispus’ House
