I love inductive Bible studies. But, I often get burned out quickly when trying to process through them, simply because of the time they take. Don’t get me wrong – I could delightfully spend the hours each week digging deeply into Scripture. But, the honest truth is that I need to be able to dig in much less time than that.
Enter Sue Edwards’ Discover Together Bible study series. The newest addition to the Discover Together series is Philippians – Discovering Joy Through Relationships. Like other studies in the series, this Philippians study helps women dive deeply and quickly into the word through several integral components:
History
Rather than focusing on Philippians along, this study establishes context. Who is the author? Why is he writing the letter? To whom is he writing the letter? What is the historical setting of the recipients? This is information is critical to the true study of any Bible passage.
Admittedly, I’d encourage any believer to learn to research this information for themselves, just to know how to do it. But, as a wife and mom with a very full slate of responsibilities, I appreciate the blessing of having all the resources right here in one place.
Context
A true study of Scripture must also explore how a passage or book fits into the grander picture of the whole Bible. This study pulls passages from throughout Scripture to explore the message of Philippians in this greater context.
Scripture Memory
A memory verse is included in each lesson. Although the verses are not all from Philippians, they all correspond to that lesson’s focus.
Basic, Yet Thought-Provoking, Questions
The format of the questions makes weekly progress very manageable when studying with a group. But, there is also a depth to the questions that leaves some women desiring to slow down and spend two or three weeks on each lesson. And that’s just at the basic level.
In the margins, those processing through this study will find quotes from authors, pastors, and theologians as well as notes from Sue Edwards. But, they will also find “Digging Deeper” options, encouraging even more thought and processing regarding the application of lessons from Philippians. Feel free to take your time!
Supplements
Video supplements are available at discovertogetherseries.com or via QR codes embedded in the study. While the videos are not necessary, they do add to the fullness of the study.
Philippians – Discovering Joy Through Relationships can be completed alone, with a group, or even through Facebook chats with the author. There is also a general Discover Together series leader guide, offering tips for leading a small group. This will be considered by some as the drawback or negative, as there is not a leader’s guide for this specific study.
I went through this study quickly and on my own for the sake of this review. But, I look forward to going through it again more slowly, and hopefully with a group, in the future. I will be recommending it to any woman seeking a Bible study option.
Not Quite Ordinary 