Student DBS consists of three questions, making it suitable for the shorter time frames of lunch breaks on campuses. The key is to keep the answers brief. The smaller the group, the easier it is. Also, students can also opt for the regular DBS format when time permits, such as before or after school, at a local coffee shop, or at home. Regardless of the setting, it's crucial to consult the Facilitator Notes and DBS Story Sets for guidance on conducting the study effectively. Facilitating a Student DBS without adhering to the principles outlined in Facilitator Notes will not yield the desired results. The student DBS process includes the following steps:
Question #1: "Could someone briefly share about the story from our last meeting and how your 'I will' statements went?" (This begins with the second meeting and each meeting thereafter)
Keep your responses brief. If the group collectively didn't fulfill their 'I will' statements, revisit the story from last week. This reinforces obedience-based disciple making. It's common for groups to require this review periodically, and it yields more truths to harvest.
Next, choose a story from the DBS Story Sets and have everyone listen or follow on their own devices while someone reads the story aloud. Then, have at least one person summarize the story from memory without looking at the passage. Recount the story as if they were present at the event. Group members can contribute at the end, by filling in missing details or pointing out additions not in the story.
Question #2: "What does this story say about God and man?"
Keep your answers brief and anchored to the passage. If someone states something not found in the text, the group can say, "Where does that appear in the text?"
Questions #3 "What are you going to do and who are you going to tell?"
What observable acts of obedience can you engage in this week that are prompted by this story or brought to mind by God? Think of a specific behavior God wants you to begin or continue. Consider individuals whom God may be prompting you to share the Bible story with or start a Discovery Study. These actions should be stated as "I will" statements, ensuring they are specific, observable, and achievable within the next 24-48 hours. Avoid vague commitments and instead focus on tangible actions. For example:
"I will read my Bible three times this week."
"I will memorize a key verse from the story and meditate on its meaning throughout the week."
"I will reach out to my friend [name] and share this story with them this week."
"I will invite [names] to explore the Bible together with the aim of starting a Discovery Group this week."
"I will join others this week, in helping make disciples by participating in team prayer, and discovery."
Have students write their "I will" statements on their personal devices for accountability and remembrance, ensuring they remain committed to their stated actions and can easily track their progress. This practice reinforces accountability and encourages proactive engagement in their spiritual growth and discipleship journey.
Question #1: "Could someone briefly share about the story from our last meeting and how your 'I will' statements went?" (This begins with the second meeting and each meeting thereafter)
Keep your responses brief. If the group collectively didn't fulfill their 'I will' statements, revisit the story from last week. This reinforces obedience-based disciple making. It's common for groups to require this review periodically, and it yields more truths to harvest.
Next, choose a story from the DBS Story Sets and have everyone listen or follow on their own devices while someone reads the story aloud. Then, have at least one person summarize the story from memory without looking at the passage. Recount the story as if they were present at the event. Group members can contribute at the end, by filling in missing details or pointing out additions not in the story.
Question #2: "What does this story say about God and man?"
Keep your answers brief and anchored to the passage. If someone states something not found in the text, the group can say, "Where does that appear in the text?"
Questions #3 "What are you going to do and who are you going to tell?"
What observable acts of obedience can you engage in this week that are prompted by this story or brought to mind by God? Think of a specific behavior God wants you to begin or continue. Consider individuals whom God may be prompting you to share the Bible story with or start a Discovery Study. These actions should be stated as "I will" statements, ensuring they are specific, observable, and achievable within the next 24-48 hours. Avoid vague commitments and instead focus on tangible actions. For example:
"I will read my Bible three times this week."
"I will memorize a key verse from the story and meditate on its meaning throughout the week."
"I will reach out to my friend [name] and share this story with them this week."
"I will invite [names] to explore the Bible together with the aim of starting a Discovery Group this week."
"I will join others this week, in helping make disciples by participating in team prayer, and discovery."
Have students write their "I will" statements on their personal devices for accountability and remembrance, ensuring they remain committed to their stated actions and can easily track their progress. This practice reinforces accountability and encourages proactive engagement in their spiritual growth and discipleship journey.
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