Bible Study FAQ: Come GROW at Shalimar United Methodist!
(other questions, contact Kim Margold at 651-7621 or Renee Crosby at 368-5107)
Q. I’ve never been to a Bible study before. Do I have to know anything about the Bible?
A. No- nothing.
Q. So, what’s it like- the format?
A. Most Bible study groups have a general format they follow- the leader opens with prayer, then there is discussion on the topic for the day, it may be from a book we are reading- and then the leader closes with prayer, and we’re done. The Sunday school classes are an hour long from 9:30-10:30.
Q. Do I have to be saved or believe in Jesus? Or will they ask me if I do?
A. No
Q. Will I be asked to talk about things I don’t feel comfortable with?
A. No
Q. Do I have to pray aloud?
A. No
Q. How much knowledge is required to attend?
A. none
Q. Well let’s say I go one time- do I have to commit to weeks or months? Or will they call and badger me to go back if I don’t?
A. No
Q. What if I don’t connect with other members, or what if I do share and others look down on me for my lifestyle or beliefs?
A. No one is there to judge you, your lifestyle or beliefs. We just there to learn from each other.
Q. What if I do share something personal- are the other members gonna talk about it and everyone will know?
A. No.
Q. What if I do have questions about faith and God and Jesus and others?
A. It’s kind of cool to go and bounce some ideas or questions off of people- there are all kinds of backgrounds and levels of knowledge in our groups. It’s kind of like at your job- you might be an engineer- but you have a specialty in boat engines and your best friend from college has views and skills about manufacturing plants, or one with knowledge on city planning.
Q. Can I bring my spouse? Or is this a men’s/ladies only group?
A. Well, we have all kinds of groups at our church, check with the group leader or the GROW Adult Bible Studies Brochure in the FLC or online.
Q. What about my kids? What do I do with them?
A. The church has organized coverage for all children for all Bible studies. You can find a green shirt person with a big “?” on their shirt- they can help you figure out where to take them. See children’s handout!!
Q. Summary: So, you’re telling me that I don’t need to know anything about the Bible, I won’t be expected to change my friends and lifestyle, I don’t have to talk or share if I don’t want to, and no one will judge me, and it’s just about learning from each other, and the church will watch my kids while I go for an hour?
A. That’s right- you got it! And remember, if you decide to not go this week, but decide you might later- you can always find a green shirt and ask them!