What is the value of group Bible study?

Answer

Because Christianity was never intended to be a spectator sport, group Bible study is not just valuable, it is invaluable. Small group study is so effective that Jesus used it to train the men who would be known as the apostles (Luke 6:12-16;Mark 4:34).

Christianity is meant to be relational—first, on a vertical axis between ourselves and God and, second, on a horizontal axis between ourselves and those around us. Small group Bible studies move us from being spectators in a weekly church service to active participants in a like-minded community dedicated to spiritual growth.

As we encounter God’s Word together, we have an opportunity to share our different perspectives and insights and are broadened because of the interaction. More information is retained when there is active involvement, so biblical literacy is enhanced. Application and accountability bring understanding that moves God’s Word from the intellect to the heart. Transformation is encouraged «And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God. », (Romans 12:2), and our lives are changed. When our lives are changed, the lives of those around us are changed as well.

Relationships don’t just happen, and we all need a cadre of friends to help weather the storms of life. Friends require an investment of time and a level of vulnerability and trust. Hebrews 10:24–25 says we should “consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another.” Where better to accomplish this than in a group Bible study setting?

A group Bible study is a place where we can grow together, support one another, and deepen our understanding of God’s Word.

Study can be a place to celebrate life’s victories, receive prayer support, be encouraged in challenging times, and hold ourselves accountable in our personal growth. Group Bible studies provide a structured time to focus on topics that cater to our needs or interests. They offer a stimulating environment to help sustain us from Sunday to Sunday and a secure space to address the challenges we encounter.

Believers form the Body of Christ, “so we, being many, are one body in Christ, and every one members one of another.” (Romans 12:5); therefore, we are His hands and feet on earth, the ones who will continue His work. First Corinthians 12:4–12, Romans 12:4–8, and Ephesians 4:11–13 enumerate the gifts bestowed upon the Body. Small group Bible studies are where many individuals begin to recognize and utilize those gifts. As we increase our understanding of the Bible and strengthen our relationship with God and fellow believers “rooted and built up in him, and stablished in the faith, as ye have been taught, abounding therein with thanksgiving.” (Colossians 2:7), we become better prepared to live out and spread the gospel to those in our schools, neighborhoods, and workplaces.

Our dedication to a group Bible study serves as a model to those around us. It demonstrates that we prioritize our spiritual growth enough to dedicate time to it. Our children observe our actions and gain firsthand insight into what it means to be a follower of Christ and respect the Word. They benefit from our commitment as they witness us practicing what we preach, working out our salvation “Wherefore, my beloved, as ye have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling.” (Philippians 2:12).

Some individuals may have concerns about stStepping into a small-group environment can be daunting. Fear of rejection and fear of vulnerability are two obstacles that may hinder us from experiencing the benefits of such a setting. However, participation in a small group could be the antidote prescribed by God for the loneliness that pervades our fast-paced, impersonal world.

God created us to rely on Him and on one another. His message to us is to extend a hand and show love to one another. Colossians 3:16 encourages us to let “the message of Christ [to] dwell among you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts.” What better setting for this than in a small Bible study group?