The Discovery bible study is a really simple way to help people connect with the bible in a way that encourages a response. I have been using this for a few years now and it has become my go to place for helping people engage with the bible and respond actively.

It’s only four questions. You might need to nudge people with some more, but I really encourage you to not turn it into a head focused study by adding the safety net of lots of questions. Keep it simple.

Outlined below is the suggested template

Read the passage.

Ask someone to retell the story in their own words, it is amazing what people remember. Then you could get people in pairs and get them to retell the story to each other.

Then ask these questions (Simplicity and consistency are good, people get the pattern quickly)

1. What does this tell us about God?

2. What does this tell us about people?

3. Is there an example to follow or a command to obey?

4. What are you going to do with what you have heard?

Tips: Let people talk, don’t rush, allow the Holy Spirit to do his work through the word.

End with a time of prayer. Encourage people to pray short prayers in response to what they have been reading. (Rather than 10 mins on world peace and Brexit - as important as these things are)

Suggested Bible passages

Luke 15:11-31 Prodigal Son, John 12:1-8 Jesus anointed , John 13:1-17 Jesus washes the disciples feet, John 21:1-14 Jesus cooks breakfast