The Role of a Womens Bible Study Group - Essay Example

Women’s Bible Study Group s Inquiry question: What is the role of a women’s Bible study group. Abstract Since most women are the foundations of their homes, they carry a lot on their shoulders daily. They also face so many challenges on a daily basis thus making it important for them to stick together and encourage one another. Therefore, most of the Bible study sessions are for spiritual nourishment, although the women use it as an avenue to share their personal problems. Bible study is viewed as a devotional act; thus its benefits are inevitable. The studies are often in form of in informal small groups, as well as groups within para-church organizations. The Bible study groups set their main biblical topic to be studied during these study times. The major purpose of Bible study is to collectively grasp an understanding of God’s word, even though there is some existence some form of worship and prayer. Background info There exists a traditional belief that mothers ought to stay at home at home and look after their children. The Bible, for example in Titus 2: 4-6 and Timothy 5:14, focuses on the role of women role as ‘house keepers’, who ought to bear children and raise them in a manner that the Lord wants. In Proverbs 31: 28-31 women generally are given praise for the successful raising of children and home. In that respect, women have biblical roles that can be enhanced through bible study groups to be well behaved and more righteous. This has led to the formation of cell groups that mainly comprises of women either married or single. Therefore, even cultures degrade, distort and debase women, the Bible exalts them. The women have numerous challenges which they need to address as women alone. Method: The methods that was used to collect data was through observation and key informant interviews with close-ended questions Observation It was observed that the cell groups which comprised of both single and married women commences by taking off their shoes, greeting each other, having refreshments, taking of the prayer request, an opening prayer, getting of the bible study session, and finally it ends in prayer again Interview The interviews were conducted on the cell groups to ascertain the significance of Bible study groups with specific reference to women. Results The interviewees reported that Bible study brings unity for women who are not used to fellowshipping with each other. They also reported that they meet at Theresa Burns house so women can feel more comfortable being in a home setting verse in a church, so they are not discriminating against any faith. Outside the group, some of these women are coworkers. Others attend the same church thus fellowshipping together fellowship together. They also reported that their group was non-denominational group. The cell group consists of all kinds of women. The Bible study is led by Theresa Burns because she is regarded as a mediator, although they are no qualifications to lead the group. The group has several spin-off studies. They also reported that each is asked to be respectful, non judgmental, to be open, to remain consistent and prompt, dedicated and committed, and also to keep everything confidential. The group has no cost. The cell group is not just a typical bible study because it acts as uniting factor for the women. The group meets for two hours every Saturday morning for an eight-week period. Discussion The importance of study is so involving to be regarded as the Christian’s work of a lifetime (Lilly, 2011). The women can handle each other with love and respect through the Bible study. Therefore, Bible study is a safe place for women no matter what they are going through since nothing leaves the walls they are within. It cal also act as place where the women can come together and share their personal problems and be assisted accordingly. From the interviews and observation it can be deduced that those individuals who fully appreciate the importance of studying the word of God are typically involved in the process of being altered from being earthly-minded to spiritual-minded in order for their lives to nearly reflect the character of Christ. Such individuals like the women in the study project accepted the invitation to become the Disciples of Christ by means of sacrifice and self-denial. They found their God’s acceptance manifested by an increasing capability to "not conformed to the world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind (Rom. 12:2). The important components of good women’s Bible study group comprise of the following: first, a good leader who has integrity and wise with her words. She needs to be God loving and be praying for her group every day; second, a good Bible study book; third, consistence is very crucial since the ladies need to show some commitment; fourth, prayer needs to be done together because from the research study some women reported sharing too much or too long. Therefore, it is the leader’s job to manage this time; next, the women need to be confident during the Bible study time; lastly, some cookies, coffee and fellowship for 15 minutes is considered good in the beginning and again at the end can of the session (Courtney, 2011). From the interviews it can be determined that people are encouraged to read the Bible effectively and then put what they have actually learnt into practice. As a consequence, women leave the Bible study cell group feeling confident in life Conclusion Summarily Bible study groups are very beneficial for spiritual growth. Besides, it assists women to realize they are not alone with the different obstacles they may face. The formation of cell groups makes it easier for one to engage with one another. The formation of these small groups acts like communities for the members to share their personal journey and establish the importance of building a personal relationship with God. People do engage in Bible study due to their desire to know the Lord better. This is because the interviewees reported that the Bible has a direct relevance to their lives. Regardless of race, face, or even sexuality Bible study group creates a homogenous environment for everyone. References Courtney. (2011, August 9). 6 Essential Elements to a Thriving Women’s Bible Study Group: http://womenlivingwell.org/2011/08/essential-elements-to-a-thriving-womens-bible-study-group/ [Retrieved March 30, 2014]. Lilly, S. (2011, December 15). Why is Studying the Bible So Important? : http://www.moodychurch.org/news/why-studying-bible-so-important/ [Retrieved March 30, 2014] Read More