August 30, 2007
I was with a group of church leaders not long ago. As we went around the circle introducing ourselves I asked them to talk about what has really made a difference in their lives. It was amazing to discover that nearly all of them named Disciple Bible Study as a life-transforming experience that led them into leadership in the life of the church. Disciple Bible Study seems to have the knack of helping people discover for themselves the gifts that God has bestowed upon them.
The point that I want to make is that DBS has become truly "foundational" in the life of our church. When you attend the youth group or a mom-to-mom group or participate in House on the Corner, you are probably being led by someone who has taken Disciple Bible Study. It is the one program that keeps on giving through all of the other ministries of our church.
How does it work? The keys, I think, are these: it is based in scripture, it demands a reasonably high level of commitment, and it is a small group experience where people grow and learn together. I would guess that almost everyone who has taken DBS has formed a life-long relationship with some, if not all, of their group members. DBS provides a setting where you can ask deep questions, express sincere doubts, and struggle with your basic faith challenges, all the while being supported by others who are growing with you.
Years ago I decided that I wanted to get an instrument rating for my pilot's license, but I was a bit intimidated by the high level of commitment that it required. You know what I did? I asked a friend to do it with me. In fact, we bought an airplane together and we had a ball even while committing to an intensive course of study and practice.
If you want to really grow in your faith but have been hesitant to make the commitment, let me suggest that you do the same: invite a friend to take DBS with you. This year we are encouraging people to "INVITE ONE" to DBS, to double the fun and the learning, and to experience the life-changing journey that is Disciple Bible Study
