INTO THE WORD INTO THE WORLD

INTO THE WORD INTO THE WORLD encourages persons to open themselves to hearing what God has to say to them through the Bible and to be guided into service in the world by Scripture and their study of it.

This thirty-two week study selects specific portions of Scripture and delves deeper into them. Depth study of Scripture will be the work both of individual members and of the group in its weekly meeting. Equal attention is given to Old and New Testaments with concentration on four books: Genesis, Exodus, Luke, and Acts (8 lessons on each book). Appropriate connections are made to other parts of Scripture both through reading and study assignments and through commentary in the study manual. Participants will read familiar passages, see them in fresh ways, and anticipate that God will speak through them. 

INTO THE WORD INTO THE WORLD is prepared for those who have completed DISCIPLE: BECOMING DISCIPLES THROUGH BIBLE STUDY. This study proclaims the transforming power of Scripture while teaching Bible study skills that take participants deeper into the Scripture. The importance of keeping Bible study related to witness is reinforced while participants are encouraged to practice spiritual disciplines arising out of Scripture. The purpose is to change habits and transform lives. The study also emphasizes the rhythm of coming to God and going for God, of being in the Word and in the world individually and corporately. This study understands the growing Christian as under discipline in community and in ministry to the world. INTO THE WORD INTO THE WORLD approaches all experiences of life as opportunities for faithful witness and service. 

The Basic Resource Library
DISCIPLE: INTO THE WORD INTO THE WORLD has a component unique to the study – the Basic Resource Library. This library consists of a set of books that will be used weekly by group members for reading, study, and research. Some of the books will provide historical, cultural, and geographical information; some will enhance Bible study skills; some will explore topics related to the Scripture being studied; and some will aid personal spiritual growth. Each week the books in the library will be circulated among group members, and specific assignments will be made. Not every person in the group will have a special assignment every week, but those who do will report on the assignment in the next weekly group meeting. Instructions and assignments related to the Basic Resource Library will appear in the teacher helps and the study manual.

The Basic Resource Library is a basic component for INTO THE WORD INTO THE WORLD; it is not optional. Each group will need its own Basic Resource Library for use throughout the thirty-two weeks.