Group Bible Study Guidelines
I.
The Importance of the Bible
A.
The Bible is the word of God (II Tim 3:16; II
Pet 1:20-21).
B.
The bread of spiritual life (I Pet 2:2; Jer 15:16, Amos 8:11-13; Is
55:1-2).
C.
Guides the way to eternal life (Jn 5:39, 46; II Tim 3:15-16; Is
8:20).
D.
Guidelines for our way of life (Ps 119:9, 15; I Cor 10:11; Jam 1:2-3; Heb 4:12).
E.
The weapons of war (Eph 6:17; Rev 12:11; Rom
15:4; Gal 4:4,7,10).
II.
Procedure of Reading the Bible
To understand the will of God, we must read the
Bible. Reading the Bible is the best way
to study the words of God. Believers
should have the habit of reading the Bible daily, to absorb the spiritual food,
and to stimulate spiritual growth.
A. Set
aside time to study the Bible everyday.
We can also invite other brothers and sisters or our family members to
study the Bible with us.
B. Pray
to the Lord before proceeding to read the Bible. Ask God for His guidance and wisdom that we
may understand His words. (Jn 16:13; I Cor 2:10).
C. Beginner
of Bible reading can start by reading Matthew in the New Testament. Start reading the Old Testament after
completing the New Testament. If we read
three chapters daily, we can complete reading the Bible in one year. Select special scriptures for further
studies.
D.
While reading the Bible, take note of the
repetition of words or phrases, events concerning God’s deeds, promises, and
commands, the cause and effect of sin, important characters, miracles and the
teachings it brings.
E.
Use high-liter to mark down the main
points. Keep a journal of daily reading,
writing down a favorite verse or difficulties encountered while reading. Share your opinion with other brothers and
sisters. Inquire pastors and other holy
workers about questions concerning the Bible.
III.
Purpose of
Studying the Bible
A.
To understand the words of God.
B.
To understand the theme and views of the Bible.
C.
To keep on the way of the truth.
IV.
Formation of Bible Study Groups
A.
One can study the Bible individually, but can be
easily distracted. If we study in
groups, we can obtain encouragement from others increasing its effect.
B.
Groups range from five to fifteen members, with
ten members being ideal.
C.
Set up time and a place for study for the
convenience of the group members.
D.
Elect a leader for the group to gather members
and to appoint other officers.
E.
Content and style of the study may vary for each
group, depending on needs.
V.
Guidelines for Group Leaders
A.
Group leaders should arrive at the place of
study early to prepare the place and to pray in preparation.
B.
Control the time accordingly. Studies lasting one hour are ideal.
C.
Set up an agenda for study, an ideal agenda will
consist of:
1.
Hymn singing and prayer (approx. 10 min.).
2.
Reading the scripture out loud, the host should
state the main points and explain the meaning (approx. 10 min.).
3.
Discussion (approx. 30 min.).
4.
Conclusion by the host; hymn singing, and
prayer.
D.
Before studying the Bible, read the scripture
thoroughly and pray. The host should be
fully prepared.
E.
The host should briefly introduce the topic to
give sufficient time for members to discuss the topic.
F.
When the opinions of members are not in
accordance with the Bible, it is improper to rebuke them making the situation
awkward. Instead, refer to the Bible for
correction.
G.
The host should make a conclusion according to
the opinions expressed in the discussion, and include a teaching to be learned.
H.
The host should monitor the discussion to make
certain that the discussion is in agreement with the topic.
I.
After the discussion, examine the attendance,
and the discussion. Notice any flaws and
make improvement.
VI.
Methods of Studying the Bible
A.
Sectional Bible study.
B.
Biblical character study.
C.
Biblical events study.
D.
Special Topics.
VII.
Other Guidelines
A.
The place of study should not be
over-crowded. Seats should be arranged
for ease of discussion.
B.
Interpret the Bible with the words of the
Bible. Do not interpret the Bible
according to one’s own opinion.
C.
Speak with humility and kindness. Do not speak to rebuke others.
D.
Do not argue over the truth with one’s own
opinion.
E.
Encourage members to participate in the
discussion but do not force them.