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Everyone in the world... in the WordRecently I went to my normal weekly church Bible study meeting (we are studying Romans) and had an enjoyable time of fellowship and study. The next day I was due to sit in on a Bible study run by Community Bible Study International, and I have to admit to wondering what it would offer that would be distinct from my normal group. Of course, the fundamentals were similar — such as prayer and a focus on studying the Bible to understand it and apply it to one’s own life. There were however, differences about this ministry, and I found myself firmly convinced of the high value it has as a way of reaching people and strengthening their faith by grounding them ever more in the Bible. In depthCBSI is a non-denominational, independent Christian ministry dedicated to providing accessible, in-depth Bible study in a supportive group setting. The programme is open to everyone, men and women of all ages. Although many of the classes meet on church premises, it is community-based and there is a strong emphasis on enabling and encouraging people of all ages, backgrounds and beliefs to study the Bible. The study I attended met at a local church, but about half of those attending came from outside the church. There is a well-developed structure that serves to move things along and focus attention on what the Bible teaches with a view to transforming people’s lives. Having prepared for and attended a study myself, I was given a good insight into how effective the material is. It follows a four-fold pattern of study, including individual work at home, discussion of questions in a relaxed small group environment where one is cared for and supported, a teaching slot which serves to bring out truths and life applications from the passage, and finally a double-sided page of commentary which is read at home. It is well-structured so that the material is manageable for the average person’s busy life, but of high quality. I was particularly struck by the commentary material, which I think many people would appreciate being linked to their personal study of the Bible. Certainly there are people I know who hunger for a deeper knowledge than is provided in the average study material, but don’t have the time themselves to wade through numerous commentaries. Along with providing this well-worked material, CBSI’s national leadership provides training for the class leaders who run the local groups. Those who are interested in starting a group can contact CBSI and are given a Bible study to work through as they prayerfully consider whether they would like to be involved in this ministry. Although it is obviously no small commitment, a great deal of support is provided for those involved. Doctrinal stanceAn important question arises as to CBSI’s doctrinal stance. Here I would refer to their values as described in their mission statement: ‘We make every effort to stand in the centre of the mainstream of historic Christianity. We concentrate on the essentials of the Christian faith, not on individual church doctrine. As we learn to love and respect one another, we learn that followers of Christ can hold different views on matters that are not essential to salvation. We learn to ‘agree to disagree’ and still love and care for each other as we grow in the knowledge and love of Jesus Christ.’ The programme welcomes people with any level of biblical knowledge. Its aim is to make all welcome to join in and grow in their faith. One member notes: ‘As a young mum, CBSI is a lifeline for me. It gives me a place to be stimulated in my faith and to ask my questions.’ Another comments: ‘Being a new Christian, this study programme has helped me get to know God better through his Word and apply his truths to my daily life.’ BackgroundThe first CBSI UK class was established in London in 1979, and now there are 35 classes in the UK, as well as 131 classes in Western Europe. Internationally, the group has classes in 57 countries, and the directors have a real passion for making their vision a reality: ‘Everyone in the world . . . in the Word’. I met with Grace Wort, who is in charge of training and development in the UK. She has an infectious enthusiasm for the way people’s lives are changed by God’s Word as they participate in this programme. Her commitment to the organisation stems from seeing people grow in their love for God and his Word — some even coming to know Christ as their personal Saviour for the first time. She enjoys seeing the amazing ways God uses ordinary people to accomplish his plans. As well as . . .It should be stated that CBSI studies are in no way meant to take the place of the local church and should be a complement to it. Class members are encouraged to belong to local churches and be active servants there — indeed, it is hoped that through what they learn they will be better equipped to do so. If you are interested in learning more about CBSI, please contact Grace Wort (020 7351 5525, gmwgal220@aol.com) or visit its website: www.communitybiblestudyuk.com. Alicia Felce,
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