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Four Simple Questions to Ask in Leading an
Investigative Bible Study
Here is a profoundly simple but effective approach for getting people to
investigate the Scriptures. This method can be used either for evangelistic
or discipleship purposes.
With our society moving toward secularism and the
so-called post-Christian era, increasing numbers of people will find less and
less common ground with Jesus Christ. That being true, asking them to
'accept Christ' will become increasingly meaningless and unrealistic.
Perhaps another approach to consider might be along
these lines: "Graham, would you take 45 minutes to an hour with me for
several weeks – say during a lunch hour – where we can investigate this
person Jesus Christ, to determine whether or not he has any relevance to our
lives today?" The idea is to expose him to cameos of Christ’s life in order
to prepare him to make an intelligent response to Christ.
During those study times carefully select passages that
graphically depict the person of Christ. One passage could be Colossians
1:15-20.
He is the image of the invisible God, the
firstborn over all creation. For by him all things were created: things in
heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or
rulers or authorities; all things were created by him and for him. He is
before all things, and in him all things hold together. And he is the head
of the body, the church; he is the beginning and the firstborn from among
the dead, so that in everything he might have the supremacy. For God was
pleased to have all his fullness dwell in him, and through him to reconcile
to himself all things, whether things on earth or things in heaven, by
making peace through his blood, shed on the cross.
Utilize a modern translation (or paraphrase) of the
Bible. Read over the passage and then ask these four questions:
1) What does it say?
Most people will read the passage and then look to the leader for the answer.
Do not allow this luxury. Walk them through the process of digging out the
meaning. Their realization of the fact that they can discover the meaning of
a passage could prove to be life-transforming. Don’t settle for sloppy
freelance interpretation. Do your homework ahead of time so that you, in
fact, know the intention of the writer as to the meaning of the passage.
2) What questions do you have?
No question asked is stupid. Respond to his/her questions, by pointing them
back to the Scriptures. Don’t be afraid to admit you don’t know the answer to
a question. 3) What does it mean?
That is what is the relevancy or significance of the passage to our lives? Or
what is the meaning behind the words? 4)
How does it connect with your life?
Without seeking for application to our lives, the study may well be an
exercise in futility. Realize that creating an
environment of grace where people are free to explore, struggle with truth
and share their doubts and honest questions, presents a potent dynamic for
people in allowing them to begin the process of discovering or growing in
Christ. Other passages for study could include
John 1:1-5; 3:1-8,14-21; 8:1-11; chapter 9.
Source: Facts of
the Matter. |
