DESCRIPTION: Why is it so few laypeople study the Bible on their own? Why does
the "professional" in the ministry seem to find it difficult to apply the
Scriptures to his/her ministry and life? What causes some people to become
enthusiasts of the Word seeing new truth? What does it take to teach others how
to see the Scriptures as practical and a tool for bringing understanding? This
course is to equip you to do more effective Bible study on your own, and to
teach you how to teach someone else to study the Scriptures from the English
text. It is built around an inductive study of the NASV English text of the
Gospel of Mark. The course stresses direct observations of the text, seeking to
determine significant facts which combine to give probable meaning and then
application of those facts in a practical way to the student's personal life.
The experience gained in this study is preparation for leading others into
Scripture in the same way. This is a course designed to teach you to become
adept at studying the Word of God for realizing and responding to Truth in
everyday life.
COURSE OBJECTIVES/LEARNING OUTCOMES: Existentially, learners will become
persons who read and find meaning for personal formation from studying the
English text of Scripture. This means they will be equipped to (1) know and
become fluent in principles of observing, interpreting, relating, and applying
the text; (2) commit to interacting with Scripture, utilizing the above for the
purpose of formation in life; (3) implement this formational process in their
own study and teaching of the Bible, designing studies and equipping persons
with the above concepts and motivation for experiencing the dynamic reality of
God's Word.
RELEVANCE FOR MINISTRY: For evangelicals the Bible has always been a norm for
practice, a guide for knowledge and process, and a means for knowing God's
character and ways. The written Word must always lead us to the Living
Word--Christ himself. The study of the Word of God is essential to the growth
of persons who have committed themselves to discipleship, following the One who
is truth. Enabling persons to love the truth as expressed by God in the
Scriptures starts with correctly understanding it, with relating it to life
circumstances, and committing oneself to put such understanding into practice
in those circumstances is inherent in living as a Christ follower and
ministering in his name. This course seeks to equip persons to discover that
Truth that leads to transformation from having met God in the text and opening
one's life to obeying his desires (as revealed in Scripture) in life.
COURSE FORMAT: Two-hour sessions twice weekly for ten weeks. Each class period
will include group discussion on a section of the text, demonstration of
principles, lecture, and application of principles to learning the inductive
method of study. Each student will be expected to participate in a one-hour
small group discussion of the text outside of the regular class meetings, times
to be arranged to fit schedules. This is considered a part of class preparation
time and is required for eight weeks.
REQUIRED READING: