Christian Education Studies

These studies include Bible studies in addition to studies of the basics of the Christian faith and United Methodist studies. They are all intended for adults, though one of the studies also is available in versions for children and for youth. Studies marked with * are available to borrow from the United Media Resource Center.

Introductory Level

*Three Simple Rules: A Wesleyan Way of Living                                                                                   Bishop Rueben P. Job     2007      5 sessions               DVD (2008), guide, book                           A presentation of John Wesley's General Rules, Three Simple Rules invites us all into a more faithful way of living as disciples of Jesus Christ. Versions of this study are also available for children (Three Simple Rules for Following Jesus) and youth (Three Simple Rules 24/7).

*When Christians Get it Wrong                                                                                                              Adam Hamilton                2010      6 sessions               DVD, guide, book (2013)                            When young adults talk about the problems they have with Christianity and the church, they often name certain attitudes and behaviors they believe are practiced too often by Christians: judging others, condemning people of other faiths, rejecting science, injecting politics into faith, and being anti-homosexual. Adam Hamilton tackles these issues and addresses the hows and whys of Christians getting it right when it comes to being Christ in the world.

*You’ll Get Through This: Hope and Help for Your Turbulent Times                                                Max Lucado                       2013      6 sessions               DVD and guide                                           In this six-session DVD study, Max Lucado explores the story of Joseph and offers refreshing assurance for anyone facing trials.

Intermediate Level

*Invitation to Psalms                                                                                                                               Michael Jinkins                 2008      10 sessions               DVD, guide, participant book                  A short-term DISCIPLE Bible Study, with sessions designed to last 60-90 minutes.

*Making Sense of the Bible: Rediscovering the Power of Scripture Today                                    Adam Hamilton                2014      6 sessions               DVD, guide, book                                         This study addresses the hot-button issues that plague the church and cultural debate, and answers many of the questions frequently asked by Christians and non-Christians alike.

*Women Speak of God                                                                                                                            Amy Oden                          2005      8 sessions               DVD/VHS, guide, book                               From the earliest days of the church, women have spoken and written of their faith. In this eight-session study you will hear their stories of how God works in difficult times and places. An eye-opening mid-level course for men as well as women; especially appreciated by those with an interest in history.

Advanced Level

*Serious Answers to Hard Questions: Ten Theologians Confront Ten Challenges to Faith        Bishop Kenneth Carder     2002      10 sessions        DVD/VHS, participant guide, leader guide   Ten leading Christian and Jewish theologians each address a single tough issue, such as the existence of evil or the relationship between religion and science. These ten issues are obstacles to faith for many both in and outside of the church. This course encourages the energetic discussion and sustained reflection that is key to a life of informed discipleship.