| dc.description.abstract | For many adult confirmation students, in-depth study of the Bible ends when they
complete the final pages of their Bible Information Class. During multiple weeks and months
these new members are instructed in the truths and teachings of the Bible. Each week they get
into the Word personally, see its meaning in their lives, and grow in faith and knowledge. But at
the end of the course personal growth in the Word stagnates and all the momentum of consistent
study of the Word is lost. What can pastors and new members do to keep the momentum going?
How can pastors help new members transition from directed study to personal Bible study? How
can they help new members, who turned the pages of Scripture throughout many weeks of study
at church, keep the pages turning at home? This paper is a study of how to help new members
read the Bible on their own.
Current thought and countless pages of research provide practical tips on how to begin
personal Bible study. The challenge is found in the lack of specific guidance and instruction for
new members on this topic. There is a one size fits all approach to personal Bible study.
Therefore, this paper seeks to evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of current thought and
research, highlight which tools and methods are best for new members and identify gaps that
need to be filled.
Upon discovery of these gaps, this paper then attempts to offer solutions which address
those needs. It further explores areas in which pastors can better educate, equip and encourage
new members in their personal reading. This study is a tool for helping to meet the personal
needs of new members that will set them up for successful study of the Word. | en_US |
