RMPFC Chaplain Bible Study - Digging Deeper
Click Here to download a PDF
Purpose – To help Emergency Responders grow in their personal relationship with Christ and understanding of Scripture
Co-lead – It is encouraged that the Bible study be co-led so that as conflicting appointments or vacations arise, the Bible Study can maintain consistency. There may be a primary leader to help with discussion/facilitation.
Location – a neutral location (i.e. not a church) that participants can come to. This provides an environment that welcomes different denominations and/or the unchurched. This could be a coffee shop (with a private room if possible and not too noisy), a home, or even a room at the gun range.
Process – To begin the Bible Study:
Commit with your Co-leader the frequency of meeting (weekly is best).
Secure a location, many locations will allow you to meet for free.
Determine if you will provide coffee or food at the gathering. Not necessary but can be helpful.
Determine day/time of week that will work best. Friday mornings work well for the front side of the week officers/investigations. Monday mornings work well for the back side of the week officers.
Determine length of the study each week. 1.5 hours is a good length for discussion. The first 15 minutes are spent catching up from the past week, what has gone well, hard calls, family updates. About an hour spent on the study. The last 15 minutes reserved for a long discussion, prayer requests, and prayer.
Personally invite individuals to participate. Explain the format and purpose.
As the study continues, invite others to join as the Lord leads.
Keep the study at no more that 12 participants that consistently attend weekly. You could have 20 people that are part of the study, but as schedules go, only 12 participants are there each week.
If the study grows beyond more than 12 consistently, consider multiplying the group and making more room.
Format
A book at a time, section by section, verse by verse. This allows Scripture to be studied in context. An introduction to the book is good to help the group understand the audience the Scripture was written to, the circumstances surrounding the Scripture, and a summary of what is written about.
As Scripture is read, allow the group to comment on what stands out to them or what questions are raised after reading the section of Scripture. Start with a shorter book, which will still probably take a month or two to make your way through. The book of James is a great book to start with as it has many life applications. The book of John is a great book to start with if the group is very new to the faith or unchurched.
If a participant has studied a book of the Bible in the past and has questions, it could be beneficial to go through the book as a group for discussion.
Generally no curriculum. This is group dependent but many will not participate if there is homework. If there is homework and they don’t have time to complete the homework, they may not attend because they feel guilty.
Communication
Be consistent and clear. Group texts are helpful to keep everyone on the same page for the upcoming week or any other circumstance that arises.
Don’t over text, especially in group context. You can break off separate discussions with individuals or a few that are engaged in the discussion.
Follow up with those that miss the weekly discussion. A simple text of, “Missed you this morning, please let me know if there is anything I can do for you this week.” is a great way to check in, let them know they are cared for, and keep them engaged.
If appropriate, a follow up communication on additional Scripture that was discussed or that helps expand the Scripture/topic discussed.
Fellowship
Do things outside of the study together
Golf, meals, hiking, hunting, fishing
Whatever interest there is in the group…