Jesus used everyday things people were familiar with to communicate and teach. For my suburban group of adults, I may have to unpack some of the background of sheep and shepherds, but Jesus’s original hearers readily understood the significance of His words, “I am the gate for the sheep” (John 10:7).
I am always looking for contemporary items and illustrations that will communicate as clearly to a group in the 21st-century as Jesus used in the 1st century. One great way to connect God’s Word to our lives is by connecting God’s Word to the daily news. Bible Studies for Life offers that connection through the online site Extra!
EXTRA is not a replacement for the group plan you’ll find in the Leader Guide; it is a supplement. Here’s what you’ll find at this free resource:
- Get Into the Study. You’ll find a current news story that connects to the opening icebreaker question and “The Bible Meets Life” section. This is a great way to show how the Point of the session and the issue being addressed in the study is as current as today’s news.
- Study the Bible. Another current news story is provided that connects to some aspect of the Bible passage. You are provided instructions on when and how to incorporate this story into your group study and discussion.
- Additional Questions. The strength of Bible Studies for Life is found in each session’s five questions that call for discussion (not just answering a question). These questions are sufficient in themselves to generate discussion, but if one of the questions doesn’t quite fit your group, we’ve got you covered. We provide other questions to consider.
- For Those in Your Group. An additional, devotional thought is provided. You can share this with your group as a follow up to the group discussion.
- A weekly podcast overviews the Bible study, giving ideas for leading and points to ponder. You can also access this podcast through any podcast platform by searching “Bible Studies for Life Adult Podcast.”
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