A six-week Bible Study series on Intentional Discipleship has been prepared by the Diocese for use during Lent.
The Bible Studies, conveniently compiled in a booklet, were written by a team of ordained and lay persons under the guidance of The Rt. Rev. Robert Thompson, Suffragan Bishop of Kingston. They are designed to help members deepen their relationship with God; effectively nurture new believers; and live as disciples whose lives pattern that of Christ in his earthly ministry.
The series, which is supported by relevant biblical references and questions for reflection and discussion, explores the nature of God; discipleship as a way of life; and the cost of living a Jesus-shaped life, among other subjects. The Bible Studies also guide participants to develop their individual plan for Intentional Discipleship.
Bishop Commends Publication
In commending the publication to readers, The Rt. Rev. Howard Gregory, Bishop of Jamaica and The Cayman Islands, noted that the new Bible Study Guide was a direct response to a call by the Anglican Communion for member churches worldwide to adopt a clear focus on intentional discipleship and provide resources to facilitate effective disciple-making.
He emphasised that the Season of Intentional Discipleship, which was launched by the Diocese in November 2017, “calls us back to a focus on our baptismal covenant and what it means to be disciples of Jesus Christ in every sphere of life.”
However, while the study of Scripture is a critical element in the exercise of Christian discipleship, Bishop Gregory lamented that Bible Study gatherings in many congregations across the Diocese were attended by only “the faithful few.” He said the Lenten Bible Study Guide was suitable for a wide cross section of readers; and he expressed the hope that it will be used extensively across the Diocese.
Copies of the Intentional Discipleship Bible Study Guide will be available by January 26, 2018
Please click here for the full text of the Bishop’s message