Class Description:

This class is designed to introduce members to reading, studying, interpreting, and applying the Scriptures using the Inductive Bible Study Method. We will reflect biblically and theologically on John 5:1-15 (NIV) – The Healing at the Pool of Bethesda, as well as other selected scriptures, seeking the Holy Spirit’s guidance. Through study, prayer, and discussion, we will explore God’s biblically grounded vision, faith strategies, and victory steps for the Greater Bethesda Missionary Baptist Church.

Class Objectives:

1.      To equip the membership with a basic method of Bible Study designed to deepen members’ understanding of Scripture as well as enrich their ability to apply biblical learnings to everyday life.

2.      To enrich the learning experience through discussion, interactive exercises, and bonding opportunities.

3.      To enlighten the participants on God’s vision for the future of Greater Bethesda Missionary Baptist Church as revealed in Scripture.

4.      To encourage participants to fully engage in the church and kingdom building work of Jesus Christ.

Basic Assumptions / Principles:

·         God is always ready to communicate with us and speaks to us through Scripture, tradition, community, relationships, events, and experiences.

·         All Christians are theologians (yes, you too!)

·         Most Christians form their faith, opinions, and actions before consulting the Scripture and get most of their understanding of the Scriptures from other trusted sources.

Class Format and Outline:

The class will meet during Sunday School (9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.), every other week, unless otherwise stated below. Assigned readings (from Scripture and other materials) will be required to prepare for class.  Additionally, personal reflection and class discussion will be expected.

                               I.            Gathering and Devotional (15 minutes)

                            II.            Teaching, Discussion/Exercises (40 minutes)

                         III.            Reflection / Evaluation (5 minutes)

Class Schedule (Subject to Change)

Session 1:        Preparing Bethesda - Discerning Our Journey                  Sun., May 3, 2009

Objective: Lay the foundation for our study together

·         Introduction / Expectations

·         Class Exercise: “What is Our Vision?”

·         The Life Cycle of a Church / The Importance of Vision

·         Generating Energy for Change – Climate, Identity, Vision

·         Reading Assignment(s): Proverbs 29:18, Joel 2:28-29; John 5:1-17, Acts 2:1-21)

Session 2:        Revisiting Bethesda – Reviewing Our History                    Sun., May 17, 2009

Objective: Explore the historical roots of our church and the importance of

“coming to terms” with history

·         Where have we been? Is history a blessing or a burden?

·         Class Exercise: “The Autopsy of a Dead Church”

·         Reading Assignment(s): Revelation 3:1-6, Session 1 Handouts, Four Questions Assignment due

Session 3:        Encountering Bethesda – Assessing Our Climate              Sun., May 31, 2009

Objective: Compare and contrast the geographical, emotional, and spiritual

location of the Pool of Bethesda with our church  

·         Where are we now? “Location, Location, Location”

·         Class Exercise: “Put Yourself In My Shoes!!”

·         Reading Assignment(s): John 5:2-5, Session 2 Handouts, Characteristics of Growing Churches Due

Session 4:        Being Bethesda - Exploring Our Identity                           Sun., June 14, 2009

Objective: Explore the meaning of Bethesda. Compare and contrast the identity

and reputation of the biblical Bethesda with Greater Bethesda Missionary Baptist Church

·         Class Exercise: “What Makes Us Bethesda?”

·         Living Up to Our Name

·         Reading Assignment(s): John 5:6, Session 3 Handouts

Mission Survey due; Word Puzzle

Session 5:        Doing Bethesda – Discerning Our Mission/Ministry          Sun., June 21, 2009

Objective: Explore how Jesus changed the life of a “Bethesdan” and the impact on the community

·         A New Model of Ministry – The Way of Jesus

·         Class Exercise: “Take Up Your Mat and Walk…WHERE?”

·         Reading Assignment(s): John 5:6-9, Session 4 Handouts

Session 6:        Becoming Bethesda – Discerning Our Vision                     Sun., June 28, 2009

Objective: Explore the biblical, practical, Holy Spirit led implications of being

Greater Bethesda Missionary Baptist Church

·         Putting it All Together

·         Class Exercise: “Becoming Committed”

·         Reading Assignment(s): Habakkuk 2:2, John 5:9-17, Luke 17:11-19