> BIBLE READING


At the Church on the Heath we believe that reading the Bible is an important part of maintaining a relationship with God.


Why do I need to read the Bible?
 

1) It tells us everything God wants us to know about Himself and His Son.
And beginning with Moses and all the Prophets, he [Jesus] explained to them what was said in all the Scriptures concerning himself. [Luke 24:27]
 

2) It contains God’s perspective about how we should live.
All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness. [2 Timothy 3:16]
 

3) It provides us with defence and offence against temptation and trials
Therefore put on the full armour of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground,… with the belt of truth buckled around your waist …and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. [Ephesians 6: 13- 17, extracted]
 

Can I leave it ‘til later, when I have more time?
 

For any disciple of Jesus Christ, regular study of God’s Holy Word is vital. God speaks personally and relevantly into your own daily circumstances each time you prayerfully sit down to read it.
For the word of God is living and active. [Hebrews 4:12]
 

Does God really expect me to read the Bible every day, forever?
 

God wants to share your life, every day. There’s not a day when His grace couldn’t help you as the Holy Spirit teaches us love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control [Galatians 5:22]. God will speak words of wisdom to you about your day ahead – if you open the pages and open your heart and mind. Every day. Or as often as you can. Make it a priority!

Questions about the Bible? Try “The Story of the Book” by Terence Copley.

 

Questions about Christianity, prayer and "big issues"?  Why not take a look at some of the books on our reading list further down this page?

 
> SOME OPTIONS FOR BIBLE STUDY

1) Join the Church on the Heath Bible Reading Club – following a reading programme together book by book, with study notes
For 2010 we're continuing with Tom Wright's "For Everyone" study guides studying Matthew, Luke, 1 & 2 Corinthians, Galatians, 1 & 2 Thessalonians and the pastoral letters. Join in and benefit from some peer-group motivation and periodic get-togethers!

2) Use one of the “every day” dated Bible notes series
There are many series available, targeted at different age-groups or styles of study, including Every Day with Jesus, Topz for kids, Closer to God etc. Most are dated and publishers will send it to you automatically each quarter.

3) Read the Bible in a year
Bible Reading Club read the Cover to Cover chronological bible in 2008 – a different approach and useful for those already familiar with the Bible. Or try the NIV Bible in One Year – more suitable for the first time. Or just follow a plan – see for example the BiblePlan website or ask at Living Stones Christian Bookshop.

4) Join a Bible study small group
Ask Ginny about small groups at Church on the Heath.

5) Come to the monthly Bible Hour
Every fourth Sunday evening at 7:30 at church. This is a led study, with time for questions, and notes are provided for follow-up.

6) Attend an in-depth trainer-led group like EFM

7) No time to sit down for Bible study? LISTEN instead!
While you walk, jog, commute, or are recovering from an illness, listening to the Bible and Bible teaching using your computer or MP3 player is a great way to move forward in your personal walk.
George Simpson, member at Church on the Heath, recommends the wide resources of American preacher Ray Stedman. George says:
“For several years now, I have been listening on my MP3, tapping into the wealth of excellent bible teaching material from Ray Stedman, and I've invariably found his teaching to be solid and deep.”
The Ray Stedman website offers access to the full library of Ray's material in text and recorded form.
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> OTHER RECOMMENDED READING

Suggestions of books you might find helpful.

Inquiring about Christianity
Questions of Life by Nicky Gumbel
The Case for Christ by Lee Strobel
Your Verdict on the Empty Tomb by Val Grieve

Growing in faith
What’s so amazing about grace? by Philip Yancey
A life worth living by Nicky Gumbel (based on Philippians)
Why I am a Christian by John Stott
The purpose driven life by Rick Warren
Challenging lifestyle by Nicky Gumbel (based on the Sermon on the Mount)
Theology for amateurs by Alister McGrath

Bible reading and prayer
Thirty days by Nicky Gumbel
Mark for everyone by Tom Wright
Why trust the Bible? By Amy Orr-Ewing
The life you’ve always wanted by John Ortberg

Big issues
Searching Issues by Nicky Gumbel
Issues facing Christians today (4th edition) by John Stott

The above titles are available from Living Stones Christian Bookshop in Fleet, or may be available on loan via our minister, David Price.