How many times have you heard a pastor deliver all the great factual information you could ever want, need, or possibly ever use in Outburst: Bible Edition—yet wondered what in the world the Bible teaching has to do with you?
I have! I’m going out on a limb here, but I’m guessing you have too.
The reason this sort of teaching leaves us wanting more is simple—mere facts rarely connect with the heart. That’s why the application of a Biblical truth or a specific passage is so critical. Application is the stuff that brings life change!
That’s why Group Publishing places such a high value on creating study materials that are applicable. It’s an element at the core of their small group DNA. It’s the ‘A’ in R.E.A.L.
Remember, Group’s believes that: Learning that’s R.E.A.L. is…
Relational
Experiential
Applicable
Learner-Based
In this third blog entry, we’re going to look at the importance of application in group life. Are you learning more about God and His Word? That’s great! (And I mean that, not in some patronizing way. It truly is a good thing.) But the better question just might be this: Are you learning more about God and His Word and putting it into action?
This question is what drives Group’s efforts to not only deliver the facts in their small group studies, but take the next step and encourage you to do something with what you’ve just learned. They give you practical take-home ideas to put your faith into action. That is precisely where the power of community comes into play. You have the opportunity to encourage and challenge others to action!
Check out the exhortation of Hebrews 10:24, “And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds.” (NIV)
You and I play a significant role in the lives of those in our faith community. Each and every one of us is given a Biblical challenge to consider how we can stimulate each other to put our faith in motion.
Let me spin that truth into a couple of questions: Are you applying the reality of who you are in Christ into your daily life? Are you applying the Biblical teachings that you know to be true into your family situations, your neighborhood interactions, and/or your job dealings?
How is the ‘A’ being lived out in your small group? Share a story of how you are applying Biblical truth to those in your small group. Share it with me and with others. Give us a few new ideas!
The most creative application of Biblical truth will receive a copy of R.E.A.L.: Surprisingly Simple Ways to Engage Adults for everyone in their small group!
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