A few years back I was feeling a lot like what I’ve described above. I felt a desire and connection to the idea of becoming a deeply committed follower of Christ and yet at the same time was so very ignorant of what the Bible was really about, or even much of what it actually said. Having been raised to be skeptical of religion, Christianity, and the Bible, I knew very little of what it actually said and had certainly never read it from cover to cover.

 

Enter Disciple Bible Study – a 34-week exploration and study of the Bible with 8-10 other student adventurers. The time seemed right and I dove in. During Disciple, I had the chance to read over ¾ of the Bible and then discuss it with others each week as we journeyed together. What can I say? It was thrilling, surprising, eye opening, convicting, deeply-satisfying, and often challenging while at the same time inspiring. The WORD of God, the story of God and His people was alive! Sure I’d heard that term before – a “living word”, but it never really made sense to me. Yet now each time I read Scripture it was like finding buried treasure; rich with meaning and depth, grace and compassion, intrigue, adventure, humor, emotion, wisdom, and most importantly each lesson brought me pictures of what God, whose primary mode of operation is love, is like and how much love and purpose there was for me and for humanity through our Lord & Redeemer. I felt that finally I understood what it was to be a disciple, a learner and a follower, of Jesus Christ. Then the icing on the cake – not only was this becoming part of my “head knowledge” but it was seeping into my heart and my spirit, and finally coming out in Spirit-led expressions of service and care for others – WOW – was what I kept thinking and feeling. Now when I read the Disciple promotional materials it makes perfect sense to me when it says, Disciple bible study is “about transformation, not just information”.

 

So, are you ready for some transformation? Ready to read the Bible from cover to cover in 34 easy lessons J? Ready to be part of a small group of folks that want to become deeply committed followers of Christ and get into God’s word like never before? Disciple Bible studies are forming now, during August, and classes begin the first week of September. Look for more information coming your way on the website, during worship, in the church lobby, and via email. Even better, email me at disciple@cityonahillumc.org today and I would love to answer your questions, tell you more about Disciple, and get you plugged into a class.

 

With the great love of Christ,

 

Teresa Cook

COAH Disciple Bible Study Champion