What is Discovery Bible Study?
A Bible passage is looked at together, either in pairs or a small group. Together you seek to discover the truth revealed in the passage and then to act on that truth. This is done by asking 4 questions.
Key is that the person “leading” the discussion avoids dominating. They should endeavour to keep the focus on the passage rather than bringing in other parts of the Bible. The idea is that people learn to read, understand and apply Bible truths for themselves.
Read the passage and then retell as faithfully as you can from the original. This helps with understanding. Do not add your interpretation of the passage or commentary.
When asking questions 1/ and 2/ keep focussed on this passage. If someone deviates, gently ask ‘where do you see that in the passage?’
It is important that when you answer question 3 it is in a specific measurable way wherever possible. E.g. ‘I will pray more’ likely won’t happen. But ‘I will pray for 10 minutes per day for the next week.’ has a much higher chance of being achieved!
The Journey of Jesus
1.Disciples Luke 5:1-11
2.Mission Luke 4:16-21
3.Power Mark 5:21-43
4.Forgiveness Luke 7:36-50
5.Fruit John 15:1-11
6.Humility John 13:1-17
7.Sacrifice Luke 23:26-49
8.Resurrection John 20:1-23
Short-term Discipleship
The Commands of Christ Overview: An Adaptation of George Patterson’s Seven Commands
| 1. Repent & Believe– Command: Matthew 4:17 – Story: Luke 7:36-50 (Sinful Woman) – Additional: Romans 3:23, 6:23 & 10:9-10 2. Be Baptised– Command-Matthew 28:19 – Story: Acts 8:26-40 (Philip & Ethiopian Official) – Additional: Romans 6:3-4, Matthew 3:13-16, Acts 2:38 3. Pray– Command: Matthew 6:9-13 – Story: Matthew 6:9-13 (Jesus Teaches About Prayer) – Additional: Luke 10:2 4. Go.…Make Disciples– Command: Matthew 28:19-20 – Story: John 4:4-42 (Samaritan Woman at the Well) – Additional: Luke 10:1-11 5. Persevere– Command: Matthew 10:22 – Story: Acts 5:27-42 (The Persecuted Believers) – Additional: Matthew 10:16-33, 2 Corinthians 4:5-18,Hebrews 12:1-2, Matthew 5:11-12, Matthew 24:13-14 | 6. Love– Command: Matthew 22:37-39 – Story: Luke 10:25-37 (Good Samaritan) – Additional: John 15:13, 1 Cor. 13, John 13:34-35,Matt. 22:37-39, John 14:15, 21:17 7. Lord’s Supper– Command: Matthew 26:26-28 – Story: Luke 22:7-20 (Jesus’ Last Supper) – Additional: 1 Cor. 11:26-29, Acts 2:42 8. Give– Command: Matthew 6:1-4 – Story: Mark 12:41-44 (The Widow Gives) – Additional: 2 Corinthians 9:6-7, Matt 6:1-4, Acts 4:34-35 9. Gather– Command: Hebrews 10:24-25 – Story: Acts 2:36-447 (The First Church) – Additional: 5:42, 17:5-7, 18:7, 19:9, 20:20; Romans16:1-5; 1 Cor. 16:19; Col. 4:15; Philemon 1:1-2; 1 Cor. 10:31 10. Begin Long Term Discipleship– Gospel of Mark (8-10 verses per week) – Continue 3/3’s meeting format |
Long-term Discipleship
Now that you have completed the short-term discipleship (Commands of Christ), continue on to “Long-term discipleship” using the same format and the discovery bible study. We suggest starting in Mark’s gospel using the schedule listed below.
For additional resources, contact office@hopechurch.co.uk