How do you picture the Holy Spirit? A vague fuzzy cloud? An invisible, impersonal force? The Bible is clear that the Holy Spirit is a person. Scripture gives us strong word pictures of the Spirit as wind, fire, a counsellor, anointing oil and more - and these eight Bible studies will help us explore those. 8 sessions: Wind/Breath, Ezekiel 37:1-14 Water, John 4:1-14, 7:37-39 Fire, Acts 2:1-4 Pledge, Ephesians 1:11-14 Counsellor, John 14:15-27 Advocate, Romans 8:26-27 Anointing Oil, Luke 4:14-21 Giver of Gifts, I Corinthians 12:1-11

In the busyness and challenges of daily life, it's easy to put showing gratitude low on our priority list. Yet Scripture continually reveals how important gratitude is for God's people-in good times and bad. In this eight-session LifeBuilder Bible study guide, Dale and Sandy Larsen help us explore how giving thanks reminds us of what God has done, reorients us around God's grace, and helps us enjoy the gifts we have received instead of taking them for granted. Drawing from both the Old and New Testaments, Gratitude encourages us to grow in trust and joy as we hold tight to God's goodness in life's ups and downs. Gratitude features questions that can be used both individually or in small groups, and its ready-to-use Bible studies are perfect for the busy homegroup leader. It is a brilliant resource for anyone wanting to understand Biblical teaching on gratitude better, and for those looking for guidance in expressing Christian gratitude and ways to give thanks.

A deep look at Scripture-God's very words-is never wasted. In fact, not only is it never wasted; it's richly rewarded. The more deeply we dive into the riches of the Bible, the more deeply we can experience and serve God, the giver of all truth, wisdom, love and understanding. The new LifeGuide (R) in Depth Bible Studies help you do just that, taking you further into themes and books of Scripture than you might have gone before. As you see new connections between the Old and New Testament, gain an understanding of the historical and cultural background of passages, engage in creative exercises, and concretely apply what you've learned, you'll be amazed at the breadth of the knowledge and wisdom you gain and the transformation God can work in you as you meet him in his Word. Each session provides enough material for a week's worth of Scripture study along with a weekly group discussion guide that pulls all of the elements together. This guide is based on and includes the inductive Bible study Fruit of the Spirit from the bestselling LifeGuide (R) Bible Study Series--only now it has been expanded for a new kind of study experience. In A Deeper Look at the Fruit of the Spirit, specifically, you'll discover what your biggest barriers to joy might be what biblical writers meant by "peace" (hint: it's more than an absence of fighting) what to do when you realize you're not as nice a person as you thought you were what the Old Testament teaches us about God's gentleness and much more. If you're longing to go deeper in your understanding of God and his Word, LifeGuide (R) in Depth Bible Studies are for you. These new studies will meet your need for both rich, solidly researched content and personal application. They'll meet your need for Bible study that challenges your head and your heart. Most of all, we pray you'll meet God in them.

"The ultimate reason for getting to know Peter is so together we might better know Jesus. For the story of Peter is the story of Jesus. Perhaps, if you and I do our best, the same will be said of us someday"--Michael Card. In A Fragile Stone, songwriter and musician Michael Card explores the dynamic, contradictory life of the apostle Peter. The fruit of years of careful study, A Fragile Stone revisits well-known passages and discovers unexpected insights, painting a portrait of Peter that is both familiar and jarring. With a scope spanning the entire New Testament, Card reveals how the impetuous fisherman of the Gospels was transformed into the pivotal leader of the early church. The life of Simon Peter thus serves as a model for Christian discipleship, offering hope that we likewise can be changed as Jesus calls us to follow him. This companion study guide, written by Michael Card with Dale and Sandy Larsen, provides nine inductive Bible studies on the life of Peter, with discussion questions for group study or individual reflection.

"Only he who believes is obedient, and only he who is obedient believes," wrote Dietrich Bonhoeffer in his classic work, The Cost of Discipleship. What does it mean to be a disciple of Christ? Is it enough to believe? What part does obedience play? These are the questions that Dietrich Bonhoeffer wrestled with for the whole of his life. Sorting through Bonhoeffer's questions and the answers he found will profoundly enrich your Christian life. As you work through Dale and Sandy Larsen's Christian Classics Bible Study based on Bonhoeffer's thought and teaching, you'll have the opportunity to grapple with Scripture and answer for yourself "What does it mean to be a disciple?"

Explores the stories of couples and marriages found in the Old Testament Leads you to discover important lessons about love, marriage, God and yourself! More than 110 titles available! Features the popular inductive study approach Includes helpful notes for group leaders Convenient workbook format for groups or individuals Approach questions help get you thinking or start group discussion Application questions help you to act on what you have learned Field-tested by individuals and groups prior to publication

This nine-session LifeBuilder Bible Study covers some of the surprising and interesting questions Old Testament characters heard from God, such as when he asked "Where are you?" of Adam and Eve. As we consider the questions God asked others, we are guided inward to reflect on the same questions in our own lives.

Many Bible studies of the book of Ruth focus on the life and character of Ruth herself. Ruth takes a more comprehensive view of the book as a whole. While the book is named for Ruth, and she is prominent in the action, other significant players populate the drama: Naomi, Elimelek, Mahlon, Kilion, Orpah, Boaz, an unnamed guardian-redeemer, reapers, elders, neighbors. All have their share of importance in the historical narrative.What does the book of Ruth have to do with us today? Although Ruth and Boaz are mentioned in the New Testament only in Matthew's genealogy of Jesus (Matthew 1:5), Christians have long seen in the book of Ruth a foreshadowing of our redemption through Christ. As Ruth and Naomi were destitute, with no status and no hope, we were in spiritual poverty and could not rescue ourselves. Like them, we were in need of a guardian-redeemer who would come to our aid. As Boaz in love intervened and took responsibility to save Ruth and Naomi, Christ in love has become our ultimate Redeemer who assumes the burden of our need and gives us a place in his kingdom.

This nine-session LifeGuide Bible study covers some of the surprising and interesting questions Old Testament characters heard from God, such as when he asked "Where are you?" of Adam and Eve. As we consider the questions God asked others, we are guided inward to reflect on the same questions in our own lives. For over three decades LifeGuide Bible Studies have provided solid biblical content and raised thought-provoking questions--making for a one-of-a-kind Bible study experience for individuals and groups. This series has more than 130 titles on Old and New Testament books, character studies, and topical studies.

We are surrounded by a society that idealizes quick results and stimulating experiences. The Christian life, however, calls us to be not tourists but pilgrims-disciples committed to a long journey of faith. These six studies, based on Eugene Peterson's bestselling A Long Obedience in the Same Direction, provide an accessible guide for growing in perseverance. Find encouragement in the Psalms to press on with qualities such as hope, repentance, patience, and joy. As companions to the IVP Signature Collection, IVP Signature Bible Studies help individuals and groups explore and apply biblical truths found in classic books. Each session features quotations from A Long Obedience in the Same Direction matched with Scripture passages, reflection questions, and application ideas that will equip readers to connect the text to their own lives. A leader's guide and list of suggested resources are also included.

We live in times of insecurity. New nations are coming to birth. Social and political patterns are evolving. Violence, terrorism, and war threaten the very foundations of civilization. These external insecurities are reflected in the internal world of the mind and of the spirit. There is widespread distrust of Christian faith and a preference for agnosticism or free thought. Many church members are confused and uncertain. Against this background, to read the letters of John is to enter another world marked by assurance, knowledge, confidence, and boldness. The certainty of Christian people is twofold: objective (that the Christian religion is true) and subjective (that they have been born of God and possess eternal life). Both are expounded by John, who takes it for granted that this double assurance is right and healthy. Today we urgently need to hear and heed his teaching about the nature of these certainties and the grounds on which they are built. John Stott was one of the world's leading and most-loved Bible teachers and preachers. In this Bible study guide you can explore Scripture under his guidance, enhancing your own in-depth study with insights gained from his years of immersion in God's Word.

Study Scripture with John Stott Christ has died. Christ is risen. Christ will come again. For centuries Christians have proclaimed these central truths. The gospel that began in space and time will ultimately be fulfilled at Christ's return. And as we wait and long for Christ's return, this gospel gives us encouragement and a reason for hope. These ten studies on Paul's letters to the Thessalonians open our minds to the truth, lift our hearts to hope, and cause us to worship our faithful, victorious God. John Stott was one of the world's leading and most-loved Bible teachers and preachers. In this Bible study guide you can explore Scripture under his guidance, enhancing your own in-depth study with insights gained from his years of immersion in God's Word.

False teachers had infiltrated the churches in Galatia, attacking Paul's authority as well as the gospel he preached. So Paul's letter to the Galatians is not only a defense of his authority as an apostle, but also a celebration of the remarkable grace offered through Jesus Christ. John Stott's teachings from The Message of Galatians are offered here as brief devotional readings suitable for daily use. Designed as a church resource for small groups, this book includes nine weekly studies that take us passage by passage through Galatians, allowing readers to enjoy the riches of Stott's writings in a new, easy-to-use format.

We live in a land where truth is subjective, individualized, and culturally conditioned. That same troubling thinking had invaded the churches led by Timothy and Titus, so Paul's pastoral letters to them focus on the objective and universal truth revealed in Jesus. John Stott's teachings from The Message of 1 Timothy and Titus and The Message of 2 Timothy are offered here as brief devotional readings suitable for daily use. Designed as a church resource for small groups, this book includes thirteen weekly studies that take you passage by passage through the pastoral letters, allowing readers to enjoy the riches of Stott's writings in a new, easy-to-use format.

This six-session LifeGuide(R) Bible Study of Ruth we meet not only Ruth herself but also other significant players who populate the drama: Naomi, Elimelech, Mahlon, Kilion, Orpah and Boaz. In addition there are other unnamed characters: a kinsman, reapers, elders and neighbors. Like us, each of these characters in their own way needs the Redeemer who is foreshadowed here.These six studies follow the popular inductive study approach that has marked LifeGuide Bible studies for the past thirty years. For over three decades LifeGuide Bible Studies have provided solid biblical content and raised thought-provoking questions--making for a one-of-a-kind Bible study experience for individuals and groups. This series has more than 130 titles on Old and New Testament books, character studies, and topical studies.

A study of 10 scriptural images given to Christ - Shepherd, Lamb of God, Suffering Servant, Branch, Vine, Light of the World, Bridegroom, Head of the Church, Bread of Life, Cornerstone. Some of these come from the Old Testament, others are word-pictures that Jesus himself used. The focus of each session is on the relationship with the reality behind the image: eg the Good Shepherd remains only a sentimental picture if we do not follow him; Christ is our Cornerstone only if we allow ourselves to be built into his house. The studies in this book are: Good Shepherd (John 10:1-18) Lamb of God (Revelation 5:6-14) Suffering Servant (Isaiah 52:13-53:6) Branch (Isaiah 11:1-9) True Vine (John 15:1-8) Light of the World (John 1:1-9) Bridegroom (Ephesians 5:25-33) Head of the Church (Colossians 1:15-20) Bread of Life (John 6:25-51) Cornerstone (1 Peter 2:4-8)

IVP Readers' Choice Award Paul's letter to the Romans has for two thousand years been a touchstone for all who want to understand the power of the gospel and the righteousness of God revealed from heaven. The truth in Romans transforms our thinking and convicts our hearts as we discover the power of the gospel for every area of our life and our world. In this volume, the first half of John Stott's The Message of Romans is offered in brief readings suitable for daily use which take us passage by passage through the Scripture text. Including ten weekly studies for individuals or groups, this book covering Romans 1-8 allows readers to enjoy the riches of Stott's writings in a new, easy-to-use format. The remainder of Romans is presented in the companion to this volume. John Stott was one of the most beloved and masterful Bible teachers of the last fifty years. His books have sold in the millions. Christians on every continent have heard and read his instructive and inspiring expositions of Scripture. The books in the Reading the Bible with John Stott series offer the essential message of Stott's teaching, largely drawn from his Bible Speaks Today volumes, and present it in a format suitable for daily reading. Questions at the end of each section make these books even more useful for individuals or groups.

Paul's letter to the Romans has for two thousand years been a touchstone for all who want to understand the power of the gospel and the righteousness of God revealed from heaven. The truth in Romans transforms our thinking and convicts our hearts as we discover the power of the gospel for every area of our life and our world. In this volume, the second half of John Stott's The Message of Romans is offered in brief readings suitable for daily use which take us passage by passage through the Scripture text. Including eight weekly studies for individuals or groups, this book covering Romans 9-16 allows readers to enjoy the riches of Stott's writings in a new, easy-to-use format. The remainder of Romans is presented in the companion to this volume. John Stott was one of the most beloved and masterful Bible teachers of the last fifty years. His books have sold in the millions. Christians on every continent have heard and read his instructive and inspiring expositions of Scripture. The books in the Reading the Bible with John Stott series offer the essential message of Stott's teaching, largely drawn from his Bible Speaks Today volumes, and present it in a format suitable for daily reading. Questions at the end of each section make these books even more useful for individuals or groups.

A deep look at Scripture-God's very words-is never wasted. In fact, not only is it never wasted; it's richly rewarded. The more deeply we dive into the riches of the Bible, the more deeply we can experience and serve God, the giver of all truth, wisdom, love and understanding. The new LifeGuide (R) in Depth Bible Studies help you do just that, taking you further into themes and books of Scripture than you might have gone before. As you see new connections between the Old and New Testament, gain an understanding of the historical and cultural background of passages, engage in creative exercises, and concretely apply what you've learned, you'll be amazed at the breadth of the knowledge and wisdom you gain and the transformation God can work in you as you meet him in his Word. Each session provides enough material for a week's worth of Scripture study along with a weekly group discussion guide that pulls all of the elements together. This guide is based on and includes the inductive Bible study Sermon on the Mount from the bestselling LifeGuide (R) Bible Study Series--only now it has been expanded for a new kind of study experience. Drawn from John Stott's Sermon on the Mount LifeGuide Bible Study and his The Message of the Sermon on the Mount commentary, A Deeper Look at the Sermon on the Mount will help you discover how powerful meekness is how you can influence the desolate places of society (hint: it has to do with character) how to experience God's law as delightful how to treat your enemies and much more. If you're longing to go deeper in your understanding of God and his Word, LifeGuide (R) in Depth Bible Studies are for you. These new studies will meet your need for both rich, solidly researched content and personal application. They'll meet your need for Bible study that challenges your head and your heart. Most of all, we pray you'll meet God in them.

Nine studies concentrating on Biblical characters such as Abraham, Naaman and David, who exercised faith and dependence on God. These are complimented by studies on different aspects of faith such as asking in Jesus' name. The revised titles feature questions for starting group discussions and for meeting God in personal reflection, as well as a 'now or later' section in each study.

Study Scripture with John Stott In Christ we have salvation as a gift of grace. But what is our responsibility? Maybe you're confused about the various requirements different Christians say accompany being a follower of Christ. Galatians raises questions of law: What rules should a Christian follow? Are we exempt through Christ? These studies from Galatians help us understand what God-not others-requires of his followers and how we can live out our faith in both obedience and freedom. John Stott was one of the world's leading and most-loved Bible teachers and preachers. In this Bible study guide you can explore Scripture under his guidance, enhancing your own in-depth study with insights gained from his years of immersion in God's Word.

Study Scripture with John Stott The center of history, the focus of Scripture, and the heart of Christian mission is one unique person: Jesus Christ. This newly updated classic study guide is designed to help you explore the Christ of the New Testament. Through studying different aspects of Christ revealed in the Gospels and letters, readers will discover him as the proper object of worship, witness, and hope-the incomparable Christ. John Stott was one of the world's leading and most-loved Bible teachers and preachers. In this Bible study guide you can explore Scripture under his guidance, enhancing your own in-depth study with insights gained from his years of immersion in God's Word.

Study Scripture with John Stott Readers' reactions to the book of Revelation are remarkably varied. Some Christians are obsessed with it, viewing it as a kind of secret history of the world and seeking the key to decipher it. Other Christians go to the opposite extreme of neglect. They are mystified and even intimidated by the unfamiliar, so they ignore the book or give up reading it in despair. The truth is that Revelation is a part of God's holy Word, and with a bit of help and sound interpretation it has much to offer to nurture our spiritual lives. John Stott was one of the world's leading and most-loved Bible teachers and preachers. In this Bible study guide you can explore Scripture under his guidance, enhancing your own in-depth study with insights gained from his years of immersion in God's Word.

Study Scripture with John Stott The beatitudes reveal to us eight qualities that bring God's blessing: meekness and mercy, poorness in spirit and purity of heart, mourning and hunger, peacemaking and persecution. Jesus highlighted these to offer both encouragement and instruction on living distinctly as his followers in a world with values much different from God's. As we study these qualities and integrate them into our lives, we will receive the blessing Jesus promised to his followers then and now. John Stott was one of the world's leading and most-loved Bible teachers and preachers. In this newly updated Bible study guide you can explore Scripture under his guidance, enhancing your own in-depth study with insights gained from his years of immersion in God's Word.