Foundation studies cover the basic beliefs of the Christian faith. Unlike Discovery Studies, they contain content. They can be used by those who are a bit intimidated by the Discovery Study format or those who just want to review the basics of Christian belief. They are useful evangelistically as well as for equipping those who already believe. At some point, every Christian should become familiar with the content of Foundation Studies. Foundation Studies 1-10 work best when using the steps described below. Foundation Study 11 and following work best in a read through format.
- Pick a study. There are several studies. Work through each study from beginning to end.
- Read a verse. Only the questioner should be looking at the answers in the Foundation Study; ask each member of the group to read the verse in the study they’re doing.
- Ask the question, what does this verse say about (the subject you are studying)? For instance, if your study is about God, ask, “What does this verse say about God?
- Let the students respond. Allow time for the student(s) to formulate an answer. Don’t fear silence. Encourage personalized answers.
- Read the comments. Do this after people are finished responding. Since the leader is not the expert, you can rotate leaders. Give others a chance to read the teacher notes.
Foundation Studies
Studies 1-10 contain Student and Teacher formats. The student format contains only Bible verses. The Teacher format contains both verses and comments.
“What comes into our minds when we think about God is the most important thing about us.” — A.W. Tozer |
Studies 11 and following are designed to be read in their entirety.
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11. Bible summaries
13. The Canon of the Bible (How was it put together?) 14. Baptism 15. The Trinity |
“Everyone is a theologian…and therein lies the problem.”— Charles Ryrie |