Mission Statement
In the Word Bible Study is dedicated to helping people become devoted followers of Jesus of Nazareth through the study of God’s Word in its historical and cultural context. This study is to help equip people to be more usable to God in fulfilling His purposes in our generation.
Our Philosophy
God’s Word tells us that His desire is to have a close and personal relationship with each one of us and that we would come to love and serve Him with all our heart, soul, strength and mind. We believe personal study of the Bible is how we get to know Him, and with prayer and reflection, how to have a personal relationship with Him.
The method we’ve chosen to use is a weekly lesson based upon the text, done at home followed by a discussion of that lesson in a small group and a lecture providing the background, culture and current application.
Foundations of In the Word include:
- Big Picture
In the Word is a journey through the Bible, from Genesis to Revelation, as one story – God’s story. Each study begins with the big picture of how God was working at that time to move His plan forward. - Culture and Context
The events in the Bible took place in a time and culture very different from our own. Therefore, one of the key components in the lecture time is to bring cultural background information that will help students understand the text as the original audience would have. - Keep to the Text
Another key component of this study is to stay in the text, keeping the whole text in mind. Whether a book or a letter, the original Scriptures did not have chapter and verse but were to be viewed as a whole. By keeping in mind the author’s intent, we are better able to grasp the truths of the Scriptures. - Application
With a clear understanding of the overall picture, as well as the culture and context, the most important step becomes the application. In the Word Study is designed to encourage application of the truth learned from Scripture in our daily lives and to be transformed into the person God designed each of us to be.
Our Goal
The goal of In the Word Bible Study is not just for information, but through understanding to be transformed into the likeness of our Savior and Lord Jesus Christ, as God intended. (Romans 8:29)