OPINION

Bible Studies for Life offers preview lessons

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NASHVILLE (BP) -- As LifeWay Christian Resources prepares to launch a new and improved Bible Studies for Life curriculum series in the fall, individuals and churches can preview three of the sessions through free online downloads.

"By giving away three sessions of the new Bible Studies for Life, we are excited for people to give them a try and send us their feedback," said David Francis, managing editor of Bible Studies for Life. "The three lessons give full access to every adult, student and kids resource, 13 different age groups in all. It is a ton of material."

The free sessions are available at LifeWay.com/FallPreview.

While the new Bible Studies for Life aims to reach many people for the first time, Francis said the 30,000 churches and 1.5 million individuals who already participate in Bible Studies for Life each week will see "it's everything they liked about Bible Studies for Life and Bible Teaching for Kids, plus a lot of improvements and enhancements."

"And, it will help groups connect the unconnected," Francis said. "This material will get your groups talking."

Bible Studies for Life also will challenge kids to apply the lessons to their lives, he said, adding that the downloadable sessions for kids and students include optional videos that can be used at the introduction and conclusion of the lesson, while life application videos will show kids how the Bible applies to their lives. But, Francis noted, the Bible Studies for Life curriculum will have impact with or without the videos.

Bible Studies for Life is designed to present the same biblical concept across all age levels each week for the purpose of strengthening families, connecting the unconnected and discipling people with wisdom, Francis said.

"We say 'biblical concept' because different Scriptures may be used across the age spectrum," Francis said. "Participants in the adult, student and kids sessions will all relate to the material and be able to apply it to everyday life.

"Having a family on the same topic leads to deeper spiritual conversations at home," he said. "Bible Studies for Life truly does help unite a church in discipling people with wisdom."

Francis also noted, "One of the best things about the new Bible Studies for Life is how easy it is to use to start new groups. A new leader can be successful the very first session and the members will enjoy a great Bible study experience from the very first session."

At the same time, "veteran leaders will find tons of supplemental material to keep them challenged," Francis said. "I am so thrilled about how the materials will enhance Bible study in groups new and old."

Russ Rankin writes for LifeWay Christian Resources of the Southern Baptist Convention. Get Baptist Press headlines and breaking news on Twitter (@BaptistPress), Facebook (Facebook.com/BaptistPress ) and in your email ( baptistpress.com/SubscribeBP.asp).

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