Central United Church - Bethel Bible Study

	Bethel Bible Study

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And God said to Abraham, " I will make you into a great nation and I will bless you. I will make your name great, and you will be a blessing. I will bless those who bless you. "- Genesis 12: 2-3 " Think Hebrew" The Bethel Bible Study Series uses an historical approach to the Hebrew-Christian heritage of faith with an overview of the Old and New Testaments. Hermeneutics, the study of the Scriptures in the context of the period in which they were written, brings a great understanding of the biblical narrative. The Bethel Bible Series is a unique approach to the study of the Bible which so far has enlightened more than a million people in 6,500 congregations, and 47 denominations, including our own, in over 40 countries, for over 40 years. This approach seeks to acquaint students with the message of the Bible as a whole by a study of its major themes. It develops not only Biblical knowledge, but also a greater sense of confidence in the Christian faith and in living it. It has been very popular here at Central with close to 70 graduates. While we are not offering a new course presently, we do welcome enquiries at any time. Two members of our church, Mark & Pat Ono, are our Bethel co-ordinators and are well qualified to teach this Bible Study. They can be reached at mpono@rogers.com Many of you are acquainted with parts of the Bible or have your favourite Bible stories. Do you often wonder how it is all tied together ? Perhaps you are seeking a broader understanding of the unity of the Bible and the totality of its message ? Do you want to feel confident in talking about your faith with your children, your parents, your siblings, and your friends ? This study approach helps you to grow in understanding and in faith, and using the historical approach shows how events are linked, and how God fulfills his covenant through such leaders as Moses, and Joseph,and David, and Solomon, and Nehemiah, and Isaiah and Ezekiel, and on to Jesus, and Paul and Timothy and Peter.,and many more. The study series gives you a general familiarity with the content of the Scriptures, explores major themes, introduces principles of how to understand and interpret the Bible, and relates events of history to help you put the events of the Bible in context. It consists of a two year commitment, with the first year devoted to the Old Testament, and the second year focused on the New Testament. There is time spent on how the Biblical writers thought and how their thinking influenced their writing , a key to understanding the Bible. There is a fascinating study of the Inter-testamental period ( What happened during this time ?) What some recent graduates have said about the study series: " What this study has done is confirm and reaffirm my faith. I loved the new and expanded knowledge gained ". " I feel better equipped to discuss Christianity and the Christian faith ". " Bethel gives an order, a plan to draw together all the fragments of our belief. It has given a focus to one's yearning towards the divine ". " Because of the knowledge I gained through Bethel came a great awareness and overwhelming trust in God that has led to a deep growing faith". "The Bethel Series ... increased my desire to learn more ... and to teach others the great truths of the Bible." The Bethel Series is not just another series of Bible classes. It is a carefully planned program which will enable you to apply the Word in your daily lives for years to come. *BLESSED TO BE A BLESSING* FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS How long is the course ? The study series is broken into six segments of seven weeks each with a recess between each segment. It is spread over 2 years.- so 21 weeks each year. The first year looks at the Old Testament, and the second year looks at the New Testament. How much does it cost ? The overall two year registration fee is $100, payable in two yearly installments of $50 each. The fee covers the cost of the materials for each participant of the Bethel Study Series. Do the trainers get paid ? No, it is a volunteer ministry What do I need to bring ? Your Bible, a notebook, a pen, and lots of enthusiasm How long is each class ? We like to refer to each class as a "study". Each study will be between 2 and 2 ½ hours investment of your time each week. What is the style and format of teaching ? It is very participatory and interactive, with group discussions and some FUN things, too!! Is there "homework" ? We would prefer to say that for you to get value from the study, investing your time in preparation will give you more confidence to participate. We believe that this greater interaction between you and us( the trainers) will lead to greater learning and understanding. Are there " tests " ? It is important to check progress and celebrate accomplishments. So if you call these things tests, then the answer is " yes", What if I miss a week ? The group will miss the benefit of your participation. The best approach is that if you know in advance of your absence, that week’s study material can be given in advance. If you had an unplanned absence, you can obtain that week’s study from us, and catch up on your own, and we will be glad to answer any questions you have. Can I join once it has started ? Yes, there are logical entry points.