Disciple
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Disciple Bible Study Program?
Disciple Bible Study is aimed at transformation, not just information. As we grow in biblical knowledge by spending dedicated time in Bible study, we find greater meaning in our lives, deeper faith, and sharper life priorities. In addition, we develop deep and lasting friendships in the small groups where we study, pray, and grow together. In Disciple Bible studies, you can expect to grow in your knowledge of the Bible and its application to your life, to grow in your experience of Christian community, and to grow in your commitment as a disciple of Jesus Christ.
What are the different Disciple classes?
There are four classes in the basic Disciple program. The first, Becoming Disciples Through Bible Study, is aprerequisite to all other Disciple studies. The subsequent classes may be taken in any order. At this time, due to current demand, First UMC Bixby is only offering Disciple I and Disciple II. You may read about the other Disciple Bible Study classes at Cokesbury's product page.Disciple I: Becoming Disciples Through Bible Study
During the course of 34 weeks, Disciple I groups move through the Bible from Genesis to Revelation. The first half of the course focuses on the Old Testament and the second half on the New Testament. Disciple I participants will read more than 70 percent of the Bible. The Bible readings for each lesson follow the chronological movement of the biblical story. Groups consist of about twelve members and a leader, and meet weekly for about two hours. Each participant makes a commitment to daily preparation (30-45 minutes per day) and weekly attendance and participation in the group study sessions.Disciple II: Into the Word, Into the World
This 32-week group study encourages you to open yourself to hear what God has to say to you through the Bible and to be guided into your particular ministry in the world. The study selects specific portions of the Bible and goes more deeply into them. Equal attention is given to the Old and New Testaments, with concentration on four books: Genesis, Exodus, Luke, and Acts (eight lessons on each book). Appropriate connections are made to other parts of the Bible, both through reading and study assignments and through the commentary in the study manual. Participants' commitments are similar to those in Disciple I.What about course materials?
Each Disciple Bible study requires a study manual for each participant. The manual includes the daily assignments and material necessary to prepare for the weekly meeting. The cost for a study manual is $35, and participants are asked to cover that cost as they are able. Scholarships are available, so the cost of the course should not prevent anyone's participation at any level of the Disciple Bible Study program. For scholarship information, talk with Pastor Chris.How large is a Disciple Bible Study class?
Disciple classes are designed for groups of about twelve, plus a leader. A minimum of ten is needed to make each class, and most are held to a maximum of fifteen.Can a participant come in and out of a Disciple study, or join it late?
No. Disciple studies are designed around the commitments of the participants to study for and to attend the class for the entire 32- or 34-week period. Every group develops into its own community, which is necessary for the learning and sharing experience of the group—one of Disciple's greatest strengths. Classes are normally closed after the first few meetings. Participants who will have difficulty maintaining the regular commitments are encouraged to explore other Bible study options at FUMC during the coming year. Disciple classes begin each year, so if it isn't feasible for you this year, pray and plan for next!When and where do the classes meet?
Classes will meet at First UMC Bixby in the educational classrooms. Classes are scheduled to meet on Monday evenings beginning August 29th, 2011 and running through May. Disciple I is a 34-week program and Disciple II is a 32-week program. Class schedules may be adjusted based on the needs of class participants.