Bible studies can make a significant impact on people’s lives. After all – we gather to read not any ordinary book, but the inspired Word of God!
As Scripture itself attests, “For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and spirit, of joints and marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart” (Heb 4:12). The Scriptures have an incredible ability to open hearts and impact those who read them, even today.
But that’s not all. Participants in a Bible study not only encounter God in his Word. They also encounter God in their fellowship with each other.
Hearing how others are applying Scripture to their lives can be very encouraging, reminding us that we’re not alone in our faith journey; there are others striving to live the Christian life as well. Below, we’re sharing three important fruits that come from small group bible studies.
Three Fruits of Small Group Bible Studies
A lot can be accomplished within a Bible study. That’s why, as you begin to lead one, you need to know your goals. What exactly are you trying to accomplish? We encourage you to focus on these three goals: divine intimacy, authentic friendship and clarity and conviction for the Little Way of Evangelization.
1. Divine Intimacy
The purpose of a Bible study is not simply to learn information or be part of a club, but to facilitate a deeper encounter with God that changes people’s lives.
2. Authentic Friendship
Your participants can learn about God’s Word by themselves. Nevertheless, the power of a small group is the experience of learning from one another. The friendships formed within a Bible study are crucial for transformation and accountability, and the insights shared between participants can uncover even deeper understanding.
3. The Little Way of Evangelization
Bible studies also provide a setting to guide others to become missionary disciples themselves. As good as it is to form friendships and grow closer to God, don’t let your study stop there. Be on the lookout for others whom God may be calling you to form as missionary disciples who will go on to evangelize and lead other small groups of their own.
Nervous about getting started? ‘Be Not Afraid!’ we have a Catholic Bible study guide to help you start your first Bible study step-by-step.
You don’t have to be a Scripture scholar or have an electric personality to be an effective Bible study leader. Anyone who is following Jesus in divine intimacy, who is willing to build authentic friendships and who is committed to Christ’s method of winning, building and sending, can be effective.
Additional Resources
Looking for some Catholic Bible study guides to help you get started? For any and all Catholic resources, check out FOCUS Bible Study Materials on FOCUS Equip.
For more inspiration, check out SEEK Replay, which features tons of talks like Monsignor Shea’s keynote from SEEK25 and other amazing content on evangelizing through Bible Studies, growing your prayer life, engaging the Sacraments, and more.
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