When most of us who lead Bible studies talk about the most important aspect of the study we land on the application part of the experience. That is, the part of the study that determines what is demanded of us after we have gained new knowledge. In most instances we try to get those in our group to leave the study to go do something. Because of our “application tunnel vision” we often miss pointing those in our group to other aspects of application. Application should go far beyond just going and doing to…
1. Rethinking… What biblical assumption had a group member embraced that contradicted biblical reality that has been cleared up during this study? Lead the group member to replace incorrect understanding with truth.
2. Realizing… What did the group member realize that was not in her/his understanding prior to this study? Did they realize there is an expectation that had been overlooked, an historical fact that had been missed, a word of wisdom that had been missed, a characteristic of God that had gone unnoticed, etc… Help the group member concrete in their minds what has been realized for the first time.
3. Accepting… What belief, idea, or teaching had a group member been unwilling to accept that has been vividly pointed out during the Bible study? Help the group member to assess why they have chosen to refuse to embrace the truth and then guide them to set aside their stubborn heart and accept what God says over what they had chosen to believe.
4. Expecting… What did a group member find out that they can expect from God and/or the community of believers? Give the group members hope and help as they realize that God and the group will be there for them. As they realize God’s promises guide them to pray for His assistance. As they realize the group’s responsibility help them feel comfortable to verbalize their needs.
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