Goal
Reading the Bible can help a person understand more fully what it means to follow Jesus, bringing them closer to making a choice
Introduction
Deciding to follow Jesus is a big decision. Reading the Bible with someone may help them come to a greater appreciation and understanding of what it means to believe in and follow Jesus Christ. Hebrews 4:12 tells us, “For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart” (NIV). Share a story of how you have seen the power of God’s Word in either your life or a friend’s life.
Bible Passage & Questions
Luke 24:13-32
Retell the story in your own words.
- What did Jesus notice about his companions?
- Jesus knew the Old Testament so well he could talk about it and explain it in a conversation at a moment’s notice. How might knowing the Bible so intimately help you in making meaningful connections with people?
Consider & Discuss
Choose one of the three activities below that you feel you are weak in and practice that step.
- Practice using the PODS (a Bridges International tool for discipleship) with a small group until the passages and discussion questions become familiar.
- Choose a few of Jesus’ most famous stories, like the prodigal son or the good Samaritan. Practice telling it in your own words, as to a 5-year-old child.
- Use stories from your life to help illustrate the gospel theme (love, substitution, trust, etc.) in the passage you are discussing. Practice telling these stories with a partner.
Next Steps (Individually & Collectively)
Look at the PODS & DBS. Notice the topics and read through the discussion questions on the back.
- What topics do you think would interest a non-believer?
- Do you prefer to choose the topics for them or to allow them to choose the topics which most interest them? Name the advantages and disadvantages of each method.
Discuss your questions and observations with a friend, teammate, pastor, or ministry coach.
