Bethel Bible Study Series
Use the Bethel Bible Study Series to provide new and existing members alike with high-quality, in-depth Bible study. Grow in discipleship by growing in knowledge of the Word of God.
BEST SUITED FOR: Any Size Congregation
WHAT'S INVOLVED?
 | Decide that indepth Bible study training is a priority for your congregation. |
| "Free-up" time in your pastors schedule so that he/she may provide leadership for the Bethel series. |
| Pastor (or another staff member) attends a 10-day orientation session. |
| When Pastor returns from this training, he or she selects a group of lay persons to serve as teacher-trainees. |
| Pastor works with these teacher-trainees over an extended period of time, preparing them for their teaching responsibilities. |
| The lay-teachers then lead adult classes in weekly 1 hour meetings. The 40 lesson course consists of six 7 week sessions, spaced through a 2 year period. |
| This overview study meets adults where they are in their understanding, not where the church wishes they were. Students see each part of the Bible as it relates to the whole, and the entire Bible as it relates to each part. The Bethel approach concentrates on concepts rather than stories. |
| The Bethel Series provides administrative follow-through, including a full day's seminar prior to enrollment of the congregational classes. |
DO'S AND DON'TS
| DO......consider the "selling" points of the Bethel materials/approach: |
- over 800,000 men and women have taken part in the program with over 80,000 lay members trained to lead the series.
- it is adaptable and effective in churches of all sizes, from 50-5,000 members.
- as a result of the Bethel Series experience, leaders develop who can organize and lead future adult study and training opportunities.
| DON'T......shortchange the program by abbreviating the teacher training phase. It will lessen the impact of the sessions for the congregation. It takes a major commitment from all involved, but its worth the sacrifice. |
RESOURCES NEEDED
Further information, training and Bible study materials from the Adult Christian Education Foundation (The Bethel Series).
COST
| Varies from year to year. |
| Travel and training costs for the pastor at the beginning of the program. |
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONSULT:
Bethel Series, PO Box 8398, Madison, WI 53708-8398 or telephone (608) 241-9220
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