Hear what God is saying… 

One simple definition of a disciple is “someone who hears from God and does what He says.” That’s actually pretty good.
 
But how in the world do I discover what God is saying? 
 
It doesn’t have to be complicated. Start here: grab a Bible and a few friends. Discovery Bible Study is an easy way to hear from God and help one another live it out!
 
Check out the quick start guide below (scroll down). 
 
 
Grab some friends, a few Bibles (we’ll gladly give you some this weekend), and pick a passage from last week’s message or one of the studies below:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
God is using Discovery Bible Study groups as safe places for people to experience Jesus — in our community and around the world. God can show up in some pretty powerful ways when we rally people together and move in the direction of Jesus. What are you waiting for? 

Here’s a quick start guide to Discovery Bible Study:

Discovery Bible Study (DBS) is about simple steps for hearing and obeying God together. We like to think about our study in three parts: look back, look up, look out.
 

LookBACK

*Start with simple sharing questions looking back at the last day/week to center our attention on God’s presence and invitation to respond.

ASK:

  1. How have you experienced God since we last met?
  2. What are you thankful for? What challenges are you facing?
  3. How did you do with your last “I will” statement?
 

LookUP

*Now open your scripture passage together to hear what God is saying. 

  1. READ: Read or listen to the scripture passage for the day. 
  2. RETELL: Have someone put the passage in their own words.
  3. ASK:

     a. What stands out to you?

     b. What does this teach us about God?

     c. What does this teach us about people?

LookOUT

*Don’t just be hearers of the Word; let’s put it into practice (Matthew 7:24-27; Luke 8:18-21; Philippians 4:9; 1 John 2:3-6; James 1:22).

ASK:

1. How is God inviting you to respond? How can you live it out today or this week? Create an “I will” statement — be specific.

2. Who are you going to tell about what you discovered?

 
Really, it can be just that simple. Grab some friends, jump into God’s word together, and put it into practice. “Hear from God and do what He says” – it’s a profound little recipe for spiritual growth.
 
 

Tips For Facilitators

Discovery Bible Study (DBS) is a simple pattern to help you listen to God together, obey His Word, and invite others to discover God’s voice in Scripture. 

It’s different than Bible studies that depend on a teacher, a lesson plan, and a lecture. Here are some tips to help you practice DBS:

Keep it simple.

You don’t have to be a Bible expert. Your role is to make space for God’s voice. Let Scripture and the Spirit do the heavy lifting. Read slowly; pray often.

> Principle: The Holy Spirit is the teacher.

 

Ask, don’t tell.

DBS thrives on discovery, not explanation. When someone discovers a truth on their own, they’re more likely to remember it and apply it in their lives. Use open-ended questions that invite reflection.

> Principle: People learn through discovery more than explanation.

 

Listen for obedience.

Every gathering should lead towards real-life response. The metric for success is not how much we know, but what we do with what God has shown us.

> Principle: Discipleship is obedience-based, not just about more knowledge. 

 

Don’t rush the “Look Out” section.

Every DBS ends with obedience and sharing, the DNA of mission. The last two questions (the “Look Out” section) and the follow-up each meeting are where we begin to live and love like Jesus.

> Principle: The mission is built-in—it’s Jesus’ idea.

 

*Need some coaching. We’d love to help or connect you in a coaching group. Reach out anytime: info@findcommunity.com