“For where two or three are gathered in my name, there am I among them.”

Matthew 18:20

What is the Discovery Bible Study (DBS) method:

  • The Discovery Bible Study (DBS) method is a simple yet powerful approach to studying the Bible and making disciples. It typically involves a small group of people coming together to read a passage from the Bible, discussing what it means, and reflecting on how it applies to their lives. The DBS method emphasizes discovery and discussion rather than formal teaching, allowing participants to engage with the text and learn from each other. It often includes asking a set of predetermined questions to guide the discussion and encourage deeper reflection. The ultimate goal of the DBS method is to foster spiritual growth, encourage obedience to God’s word, and empower participants to share their faith with others.

Practical Application:

  • The Discovery Bible Study method aligns closely with Anabaptist values by prioritizing community engagement and collaborative interpretation of Scripture. It encourages participants to come together in a community setting, allowing for diverse perspectives to enrich the understanding of biblical passages. Through open discussion and dialogue, individuals can explore spiritual truths within the text and consider how they apply to contemporary contexts through the lens of Jesus teaching and life. Additionally, the method facilitates reflection on the implications for discipleship and Christian living, inviting participants to consider the question “What Would Jesus Do?”, WWJT(think), WWJF(feel), etc. Overall, the DBS method provides a framework that resonates with Anabaptist values of community interpretation, inclusivity, and active engagement with scripture.

Firstly the group:

The DBS approach is deliberately straightforward, designed to be adaptable to any setting. Here’s an overview of the key steps:

  • Spot individuals in your circle who show an interest in spiritual matters.
  • Extend an invitation for them to explore what insights the God might offer on life’s questions.
  • Utilize the provided discovery prompts (see below). The emphasis is on communal exploration rather than formal instruction.
  • Trust in the Simplicity of the word and the guidance of Holy Spirit for profound insights and personal growth. Acknowledge that divine teaching surpasses human capacity.
  • Encourage the expansion of the group by empowering participants to initiate new gatherings with their own acquaintances and relatives.

Study Outline – “A.B.C.” and “H.O.P.E.”

Note:
A.B.C. for the Whole Study (Ask, Bible, Commit)
H.O.P.E. for the Bible Study component (Hear, Observe, Practice, Encourage)

  • ASK (A.B.C.)
    • Ask each other questions to help build relationships.
      • What are you thankful for? What’s a challenge you’re facing right now?
      • How did you do with your last “I WILL” statement? Did you share with others?
      • Ask God (Prayer) for guidance and help.
    • Ask God (Prayer) for guidance tonight.
  • BIBLE – Discovery questions (H.O.P.E.)
    • HEAR the word
      • Read the story out loud. – Hear from God through the Scripture passage.
      • Retell the story – Have someone re-tell it in their own words.
    • OBSERVE what it says.
      • What stands out to you?
      • What does this story tell us about God?
      • What does this story tell us about people?
      • Discuss the spiritual truths of the passage that stand for all time and culture.
      • How does this fit in light of Jesus Christ life and teachings?
    • PRACTICE.
      • How can be applied to contemporary contexts.
      • How can we be disciples of Jesus in the modern world eg. WWJD (Think, Feel, etc)
      • How can you personally and specifically live out what God is showing you in this text?
    • Encourage
      • Be gracious in your encouragements to each other
      • Encourage one another in their walk, remembering each one of us comes from different background and influences, but the goal remains the same, to be more like Christ.
  • Commit
    • Write down an “I WILL . . . ” statement for the week ahead.
    • Commit to encourage someone. – Who are you going to tell about what you discovered this week?

Helpful Hint

  • Make sure everyone gets a chance to contribute to the conversation.
  • Allow time for everyone to write down their “I will” statements and make notes about who they plan to talk to in the week ahead.

And that’s it! Plan for the next time you’ll gather to share your experiences from the week and to examine another Scripture passage together.

More resources can be found here: https://novouk.org/discovery-bible-study

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