Disciple Bible Study at FPC Sumter
The Disciple Bible Study series is an opportunity for Christian growth and community-building. The studies are intensive 8 or 9 month studies of the Bible in the context of application to daily living, hence the term “disciple.” Each study group consists of people who commit themselves to daily, structured bible reading using a study guide (workbook) and a weekly meeting. The meetings are facilitated by a Disciple Bible Study leader.

This class is designed for those at any level of Christian experience and maturity who are looking to deepen their faith, increase their understanding of scripture, begin to understand the claims of the Gospel on everyday living, and draw closer in fellowship with other believers.

Disciple 1: Becoming Disciples Through Bible Study
Large, but manageable, portions of Scripture are read each week. Students completing this study often report that they now understand the “big picture” and see the Bible in its unity. This study is intended to be a life-altering opportunity where growth as a disciple of Jesus Christ is nurtured.

Disciple 2: Into the Word Into the World
This study encourages persons to open themselves to hearing God’s call and to be guided into service in the world. This study selects specific texts, primarily in Genesis, Exodus, Luke and Acts and delves deeper into them. Participants are encouraged in the practice of spiritual disciplines.

Disciple 3: Remember Who You Are
The driving idea in this study is the connection between remembering the biblical story and our identity as the people of God. The word You in the title is heard in its singular (the individual) and plural form (the community). The emphasis is on faith-community building, our relationship with God, and mission to the World. A unique set of resources are used to help put the often confusing names and places into perspective and gain a better understanding of the flow of biblical history.

What Participants are Saying:
“A great way to know fellow church members at a deeper level…”

“…an intensive bible study which caused us to strengthen our faith and dependence upon Jesus.”

“It is an opportunity to grow in love with the Bible, with our loving God and with our new church friends. ‘Church family’ takes on a whole new meaning and importance. The walk from being one of God's children to one of His disciples is a wondrous thing to witness and to experience. It is visible evidence of God at work in our world.”

“Disciple Bible Study causes you to look at your faith in ways that never occurred to you before.”

“A wonderful "fringe benefit" of the Disciple Bible Study groups is the warm friendships that develop over the weeks of study and sharing.”

“The single most important step I have ever taken towards strengthening my faith was taking the Disciple I class. It was challenging and humbling and I loved it. It taught me a lot about myself and my obligation to my fellow man – my neighbor. To love my neighbor and allow myself to be loved…to forgive and to be forgiven…I would recommend this program to everyone.”

 

First Nights at First Chapel Bible Study
On Sunday evenings we gather for in-depth Bible study at 6 p.m. We open with a couple of hymns, receive an offering, and then spend 50 minutes together searching the Scriptures. At the close of the Bible study we invite you to join us for a simple supper, prepared by one of the church’s groups, and a time of fellowship, conversation, and just ‘hanging out together.’ Child care is provided, making for a perfect time for parents to find an hour for a little intellectual stimulation and adult conversation in a relaxed, child-friendly atmosphere.

Tuesday Morning Men’s Bible Study
The Tuesday Morning Bible Study Group, so named because it meets every Tuesday morning in the West Youth Center, gathers from 7:00 A.M. until 8:00 A.M. for coffee, fellowship, devotional / Bible study, prayer, and guidance. There is no set curriculum, but we tend to follow a planned 6-8 week study and focus on scripture or scriptural based topics. Often, the class will view a Christian film with discussion after the segment. The group is small, talkative, somewhat agreeable, thought provoking, and nurturing of each other.

All men are invited to attend. This group has found, especially with such busy schedules, that setting aside time for study and fellowship reaps benefits far beyond the time spent.

Helen Murray Bible Study
The Helen Murray Bible Study meets on Tuesday mornings at 10:00 a.m. in the McLaurin Berean Bible Class room (except for the first Tuesday of each month, the meeting day for most Presbyterian Women’s circles). This group’s study focuses on one book of the Bible for a period of time and works through that book in detail.

Those who gather for the Helen Murray Bible Study also spend much time in prayer. In particular this group lifts up needs of the church, our community and the world as well as the known needs and concerns of the members and friends of this congregation. Anyone interested is welcome and encouraged to join this group or call the office for more information.