on development issues

Introduction

This is a collection of 101 Bible studies adapted from Footsteps, PILLARS guides and ROOTS publications. They all follow themes relating to development and encourage group study and discussion. The studies can be used in group meetings or during workshops and seminars. Developing skills in participatory study and group discussion can prove stimulating and help build confidence and vision for the future.

At the end of the book are suggestions for leading Bible study groups and preparing new material for use in this way.

Contents

Leading participatory Bible studies
Our environment
Stewardship
Development
Advocacy
Spiritual challenges
The church’s role
Spiritual growth
Nutrition
Water and sanitation
Health
Disasters
Planning and management
Money and finance
Family values
Loving our neighbours
Living in unity
Leadership
Preparing new Bible studies
Bible study preparation sheet

Leading participatory Bible studies

There is great value in learning about what the Bible teaches, in small groups. God does not need experts to help us make  ense of the Bible. When people discover truth and new meaning from studying the Bible together, they are far more likely to take action as a result. 

Small groups of people who regularly meet together to study and discuss the Bible can be an excellent way of developing disciples. As people build relationships, they can pray together, discuss personal concerns and gain advice, fellowship and friendship. Being part of a small study group can also help each church member feel part of the wider family.

If a church wants to form Bible study groups, the leadership should place people into small groups which should usually mix ages, abilities, men and women. A leader who can facilitate and encourage discussion is important. Once people gain confidence, leading the studies can be shared by different members.

Many people are not used to participatory Bible study. They expect to sit quietly and learn through preaching and teaching by leaders. It is really important to show people how to use these studies, otherwise a leader may simply continue to use them to teach others. Here are some tips to help people start to study the Bible in a participatory way…

Encourage people to pray and ask for God’s help before they begin to read. Finish by thanking God for what has been learned and ask for help in applying the learning in everyday life.

Try to ensure that people keep to the subject. Sometimes the facilitator may need to summarise discussion and ensure people return to the subject.

The facilitator should be aware of the need to prevent dominant people from talking too much whilst encouraging shy people who lack confidence to share their views.

In a larger meeting or workshop setting, the larger group could read the passage and introduction together and then break into smaller groups. Write out the discussion questions on small pieces of paper and share these between the different small groups so that each group looks at a different aspect. Then draw them together and invite a representative to share their learning.

If possible, help people gain skills in leading and facilitating small groups. Encourage each leader to train up another assistant leader within the group.