FUMCL: Disciple Bible Study

First UMC will again offer Disciple Bible study beginning in late August. Disciple study groups are small groups of approximately twelve persons who meet weekly to study God's word. These studies are for anyone seeking an in-depth Bible study, from those who have never studied the Bible before to those who have studied the Scriptures extensively.

We offer five Disciple study programs at First UMC:

Disciple I - Becoming Disciples through Bible Study, is a 34-week study that covers the entire Bible. This course lays the foundation for the other courses and must be completed before taking the other studies.

Disciple II - Into the Word, Into the World, is a 32-week study that concentrates on Genesis, Exodus, Luke, and Acts. This 32-week study emphasizes the rhythm of coming to God and going for God, of being in the Word and in the world individually and corporately.

Disciple III - Remember Who You Are, is a 32-week study that focuses on the Letters of Paul and on the Prophets. It calls clergy and laity to disciplined Bible study that will result in a ministering community nourished by Scripture.

Disciple IV - Under the Tree of Life, is a 32-week study that focuses on the Writings of the Old Testament and the New Testament books of John; 1, 2, and 3 John; James; Jude; and Revelations.

Jesus in the Gospels is a 30-week study that focuses on the portraits of Jesus found in the four Gospels. It is the first in a series of new studies called Disciple Second Generation. The Gospel of Mark provides the framework for the study and in most lessons provides the lead passage to which are added accounts of the same story or event from the other Gospels and supporting Scriptures from the Old Testament and other parts of the New Testament.

All sessions are lead by one or more experienced lay persons. Students spend about 30 minutes each day, six days each week, reading the Bible and other assigned material. Study groups also meet weekly for about 2-1/2 hours where participants view and discuss a short video and participate in discussions or exercises, drawing from their readings.

If you make my word your home, you will indeed be my disciples. (John 8:32)