Bible Curriculum Table of Contents Introduction: All of these studies are designed to specifically focus on certain books or people throughout the Bible. There are studies that dive into the stories, prophecy, and teaching of the Old Testament. There are studies all about discovering God through the stories, parables, letters, and prophecy of the New Testament. Finally, there are some specific studies all about better understanding Jesus, His life, His teaching, and what that means for us today. Old Testament: (Pg. 2-5) Daniel: Things to Come. 2 Facing the Unknown: A Modern Look at the Life of Abraham.. 2 Faith Lessons (Vol. 1): On the Promised Land. 3 Faith Lessons (Vol. 2): On the Prophets and Kings of Israel. 3 Faith Lessons (Vol. 8): God Heard Their Cry 3 Faith Lessons (Vol. 9): Fire on the Mountain 3 Joshua: Be Strong and Courageous.. 4 A Life Well Lived: A Study in the Book of Ecclesiastes... 4 Liquid: Crossing. 4 Liquid: Fork in the Road.... 4-5 The Sinai Code. 5 The Song of Solomon.. 5 New Testament: (Pg. 6-7) 3:16 The Numbers of Hope. 6 Faith Lessons (Vol.5): On the Early Church. 6 Liquid: Live at Five 6 Liquid: Mirror Image.. 6 Paul the Apostle.. 7 The Prodigal God 7 Life Of Christ: (Pg. 8-11) Deeper Connections: The Forgiveness of Jesus 8 Deeper Connections: The Last Days of Jesus.. 8 Deeper Connections: The Life of Jesus.. 8-9 Deeper Connections: The Miracles of Jesus.. 9 Deeper Connections: The Parables of Jesus.. 9 Deeper Connections: The Prayers of Jesus. 9 Faith Lessons (Vol.3): On the Life and Ministry of the Messiah 10 Faith Lessons (Vol.4): On the Death and Resurrection of the Messiah 10 Faith Lessons (Vol.6): In the Dust of the Rabbi 10-11 Faith Lessons (Vol. 7): Walk as Jesus Walked.. 11 The Jesus I Never Knew 11 1
Homework Rating: Every study is different and requires different amounts of group participation. As a result, we have made sure that there are a wide variety of studies that appeal to groups that like a lot or a little homework. To help, we have created a 4- star system for rating the homework found in each study (See Below). We suggest discussing the homework rating with your group before choosing a study. Also, it may be good to challenge your group to do a study with a little more homework every once in a while. Don't forget to do a lighter study after a heavy homework study. This will help refresh and renew the group. * No homework, only discussion questions ** Study guide for notes, questions, and answers that enhances the group time *** Study guide with optional daily homework (life application, book reading, devotions, Bible study) **** Daily homework required (life application, book reading, devotions, Bible study) Old Testament Daniel: Things to Come Summary: The key to biblical prophecy and how it can change your life today. Perspective is everything. Every Christian should know our Bible, and perhaps there is no more enticing and controversial topic than that of the End Times and knowing how it is all going to work out. This study of the book of Daniel is the key to unlocking all other biblical passages. This is not just about figuring out how it will all end, but it is about finding our place in this journey and how knowing the end gives even more purpose, peace and intensity to living for today. Tommy Nelson is one of America s premier teachers and one of the most gifted communicators in taking big pieces of Scripture and helping us understand them. Sessions: 12 * Facing the Unknown: A Modern Look at the Life of Abraham Summary: Many people feel like their life leads them from one path to the next with no certainty. Is this the right job? Is he or she the one? Is now the time to have kids? What do I do now? Am I even on the right path? In these four video sessions, viewers will experience cinematic short videos that show Abraham living in the 21st century. What might he think and feel with the incredible steps of faith God asked him to take? After each short video, Mark Batterson will teach on the Biblical principles from Abraham s story that apply to us today. Sessions: 4 or *** Study Guides: Can be purchased at www.bluefishtv.com 2
Faith Lessons (Vol. 1): On the Promised Land Summary: Filmed on location in Israel and Turkey, Faith Lessons is an in- depth video tour of the buried, distant, or otherwise forgotten places where the stories of the Bible actually happened. From this cultural perspective, teacher and historian Ray Vander Laan challenges long- held Western assumptions about even the most well known Scripture passages. The first Faith Lessons volume focuses on God putting his mark on a people and their land, a mark He has extended through ancient Israel to the faithful of today. Faith Lessons (Vol. 2): On the Prophets and Kings of Israel Summary: Filmed on location in Israel, Faith Lessons is a unique DVD series that brings God s Word to life with astounding relevance. By weaving together the Bible s fascinating historical, cultural, religious, and geographical contexts, teacher and historian Ray Vander Laan reveals keen insights into the Scriptures significance for modern believers. The second Faith Lessons volume focuses on God s faithfulness to His people in the wayward times of the kings and prophets, and now to us in our society today. Faith Lessons (Vol. 8): God Heard Their Cry Summary: Discover how God answered the cry of the enslaved people of Israel after 400 years in Egypt and revealed himself as Lord to them and their oppressors. Follow Ray Vander Laan on location in Egypt as he details a fascinating five- part story. Sessions include: Luxor, Egypt How Big is Our God?, Deir al Medina Israel in Bondage: God Heard Their Cry, Ramesseum Finger of God: The Plagues, Red Sea Watch With Me: Israel Leaves Egypt, and Red Sea The Lord Reigns Faith Lessons (Vol. 9): Fire on the Mountain Summary: When the Israelites left Egypt, they were finally free. Free from persecution, free from oppression, and free to worship their own God. But with that freedom comes a new challenge learning how to live together the way God intends. In this ninth volume of Faith Lessons by Ray Vander Laan, discover how God teaches the Israelites what it means to be part of a community that loves him and the lessons we can begin to live out in our lives today. 3
Joshua: Be Strong and Courageous Summary: Whether a slave making bricks or a leader of a nation, Joshua lived a life defined by courage, humility, prayer, and worship. His life serves as an example and encouragement to us all. Join author Todd Phillips in the heart of the nation s capitol as he uses American history to illuminate the story of Joshua in a way never before experienced. This 4- part series will challenge everyone to be strong and courageous. Sessions: 4 or *** Study Guides: Can be purchased at www.bluefishtv.com A Life Well Lived: A Study in the Book of Ecclesiastes Summary: How do I make the most of my life? It s an important question that we all struggle with. Even the wisest man who ever lived wondered as well. At the sunset of his life, he looked back and found that this question is answered only through discovering the answers to more questions. Questions like: Can prosperity fix all of my problems? Are hardships and difficulties the worst thing for me? How can I experience true joy and peace in this crazy and fallen world? How can I live a life without regrets? The man was Solomon, and he did find the answers to all of these questions. But, it wasn t an easy process. He acquired wealth hoping to buy happiness. He chased passion to find love. He sought wisdom to become enlightened. In the end, he found none of these answered life s questions or gave real meaning. (Tommy Nelson) Sessions: 12 * Liquid: Crossing Summary: Liquid is a DVD- based experience featuring five 10- minute episodes in each series. Each episode introduces present- day characters whose problems and struggles mirror biblical stories, illustrating that God s word is as true today as it was when it was written. Crossing features five stand- alone episodes based on stories from the book of Joshua. Each story illustrates a situation that could either be controlled by fear and insecurity, or where God can reach out and help His people cross to a better place. Crossing always calls for uncommon courage, faith, and obedience, just like Joshua exhibited when leading nearly two million people across the Jordan River. But the results are always beyond what was imagined before crossing. Liquid: Fork in the Road Summary: Liquid is a DVD- based experience featuring five 10- minute episodes in each series. Each episode introduces present- day characters whose problems and struggles mirror biblical stories, illustrating that God s word is as true today as it was when it was written. Fork in the Road is a modern retelling of the life of David. From his legendary triumph over Goliath to his greatest downfall with Bathsheba, 4
Fork in the Road portrays one man s crucial moments of decision that either lead him to victory or defeat. The Sinai Code Summary: Thirty- five hundred years ago Moses came down from Mt. Sinai with a short list of rules that has shaped the values of men and nations for centuries. We know them as the Ten Commandments, but do we really know them? Some would argue that it is the Ten Commandments that set the stage for mankind to feel as if we must perform our way into God s good graces, but was that the reason they were given? In this six- session study series, Andy Stanley dispels the common misconceptions about the Ten Commandments and reveals the role that they should play in our lives today. (North Point Resources) The Song of Solomon Summary: Romantic relationships affect everyone. Do we think that God has given us desire and passion without any instruction? Has God given us romance and tossed it to us like a grenade? Did He just say play around with it and you ll figure it out? No, He has given us an entire book, which deals with all of this and more. It s called the Song of Solomon. This study consists of 12 thirty- minute sessions, which address the art of attraction, dating, courtship, intimacy, conflict, romance, and commitment. (Tommy Nelson) Sessions: 11 * 5
New Testament 3:16 The Numbers of Hope Summary: Timeless and powerful, these words proclaim a message of love, a source of hope, and a promise of life. In this interactive study experience, based on his book 3:16, Max Lucado unpacks the incredible message of John 3:16, illuminating one of the most beloved Scriptures in the entire Bible. This study is for those who know these words, and for those hearing them for the first time. We all need its promise. Sessions: 12 Faith Lessons (Vol.5): On the Early Church Summary: Filmed on location in Israel and Turkey, Faith Lessons is an in- depth video tour of the buried, distant, or otherwise forgotten places where the stories of the Bible actually happened. From this cultural perspective, teacher and historian Ray Vander Laan challenges long- held Western assumptions about even the most well known Scripture passages. The fifth Faith Lessons volume transports you to locations in Israel and Turkey from which the early Christian church, on fire with the message of Jesus, literally changed the world. Liquid: Live at Five Summary: Liquid is a DVD- based experience featuring five 10- minute episodes in each series. Each episode introduces present- day characters whose problems and struggles mirror biblical stories, illustrating that God s word is as true today as it was when it was written. Live at Five is the story of Natalie Neff and her struggles to discover purpose and direction in her life. Just out of college, she s faced with daunting challenges both personally and professionally. Based on the book of James, Live at Five portrays the practical advice of James in a light- hearted, culturally relevant way. Liquid: Mirror Image Summary: Liquid is a DVD- based experience featuring five 10- minute episodes in each series. Each episode introduces present- day characters whose problems and struggles mirror biblical stories, illustrating that God s word is as true today as it was when it was written. Mirror Image is the story of a family from Orange County who faces dramatic events and must choose how to respond. Based on some of the most famous biblical parables, Mirror Image reminds us that Jesus teachings ask us to change the way we think in order to be salt and light in the world. 6
Paul the Apostle Summary: Ancient Rome was a culture obsessed with entertainment, achievement, and self. Sound familiar? Follow David Nasser to Italy, from the Roman Coliseum to the Mamertine Prison and let his passionate teaching on Paul s life inspire you to resist today s cultural norms and stand firm in Christ! Sessions: 4 Study Guides: Can be purchased at www.bluefishtv.com The Prodigal God Summary: The Prodigal God is a 6- session study featuring teaching by Timothy Keller based on Jesus parable of the prodigal son. This series captures the very essence of the Christian message, the Gospel, the extravagant love of the Father for both sons. Both younger and elder brothers in your community will realize that the only way home, the only way to finding a place at the table, is through the lavishly, recklessly, extravagant love of a prodigal God. 7
Life Of Christ Deeper Connections: The Forgiveness of Jesus Summary: We ve all done things we should not have done, so some of us carry guilt around; we think about it; it keeps us awake at night; we can t shake it; it drags us down; it keeps us from fully enjoying life. Jesus came to take away our shame, to forgive us allowing us to move from guilt and shame to freedom and forgiveness. As we examine the guilt- laden and burdened people Jesus encountered and set free, we will begin to see that he has the same plan for us today. He longs for us to fully understand the forgiveness and freedom for which he gave his life. Our lives will be transformed as we encounter this God who loves us so much that he runs to us. The Deeper Connections series is unique. Unlike any other Bible study available, this visually stunning DVD series is written and taught by biblical experts six professors with specialized areas of knowledge. Don t let the word deeper scare you. These engaging and accessible studies are for everyone who wants to deepen their understanding of God s Word and apply it more faithfully and effectively. In fact, a full one- third of each study is centered on modern application of Jesus life and teachings. Deeper Connections: The Last Days of Jesus Summary: Do you ever feel dead spiritually dead? Do you ever wonder, If Christianity is supposed to be so great and Jesus death was supposed to take care of everything, why is my life so messed up? It is only when we drink deeply from the life and death of Jesus and understand the main events of his death, that we can find a full life. These studies invite us to see the behind- the- scenes truth of the main events of Jesus death so that his death can affect our lives today right where we live in the midst of our weaknesses and failures. The Deeper Connections series is unique. Unlike any other Bible study available, this visually stunning DVD series is written and taught by biblical experts six professors with specialized areas of knowledge. Don t let the word deeper scare you. These engaging and accessible studies are for everyone who wants to deepen their understanding of God s Word and apply it more faithfully and effectively. In fact, a full one- third of each study is centered on modern application of Jesus life and teachings. Deeper Connections: The Life of Jesus Summary: What are we supposed to do when the new life Jesus promised doesn t seem so abundant? Sometimes Christians need a fresh reminder of the incredible power that raised Lazarus form the dead. This six- session DVD study explores the main events in Jesus life to understand what made him extraordinary and to learn how to draw on his transforming power. It is only when we drink deeply from the 8
life of Christ that we can be rescued from our failures and experience greater vitality in daily life. The Deeper Connections series is unique. Unlike any other Bible study available, this visually stunning DVD series is written and taught by biblical experts six professors with specialized areas of knowledge. Don t let the word deeper scare you. These engaging and accessible studies are for everyone who wants to deepen their understanding of God s Word and apply it more faithfully and effectively. In fact, a full one- third of each study is centered on modern application of Jesus life and teachings. Deeper Connections: The Miracles of Jesus Summary: Healer of diseases. Master of nature. Conqueror of demons and death. Jesus not only preached the Kingdom of God in word, but he demonstrated it in power through his miraculous deeds. In six engaging, interactive home life group sessions, this Deep Connection DVD gives you a unique, in- depth look at the miracles of Jesus will open your eyes to their impact on the lives he touched, what they reveal about God s heart, and their significance for us today The Deeper Connections series is unique. Unlike any other Bible study available, this visually stunning DVD series is written and taught by biblical experts six professors with specialized areas of knowledge. Don t let the word deeper scare you. These engaging and accessible studies are for everyone who wants to deepen their understanding of God s Word and apply it more faithfully and effectively. In fact, a full one- third of each study is centered on modern application of Jesus life and teachings. Deeper Connections: The Parables of Jesus Summary: Jesus communicated deep spiritual truths through simple, vivid, and engaging stories. Woven from the stuff of everyday life, the parables of Jesus made the kingdom of God understandable and accessible to his listeners. In six engaging, interactive small group sessions, this Deep Connection DVD gives you will gain new insights into his parables and their meanings that will help you to appreciate more fully their relevance for your own life. The Deeper Connections series is unique. Unlike any other Bible study available, this visually stunning DVD series is written and taught by biblical experts six professors with specialized areas of knowledge. Don t let the word deeper scare you. These engaging and accessible studies are for everyone who wants to deepen their understanding of God s Word and apply it more faithfully and effectively. In fact, a full one- third of each study is centered on modern application of Jesus life and teachings. 9
Deeper Connections: The Prayers of Jesus Summary: Take an inspiring and faith- building look at the prayers of Jesus in these components of the Deeper Connections series. Each DVD and participant s guide contains six sessions led by a different teacher filmed in various settings. Taught and written by Bible professors, this unique study series explores the historical background of the Bible, its text, and its application for your life today. The Deeper Connections series is unique. Unlike any other Bible study available, this visually stunning DVD series is written and taught by biblical experts six professors with specialized areas of knowledge. Don t let the word deeper scare you. These engaging and accessible studies are for everyone who wants to deepen their understanding of God s Word and apply it more faithfully and effectively. In fact, a full one- third of each study is centered on modern application of Jesus life and teachings. Faith Lessons (Vol.3): On the Life and Ministry of the Messiah Summary: Filmed on location in Israel and Turkey, Faith Lessons is an in- depth video tour of the buried, distant, or otherwise forgotten places where the stories of the Bible actually happened. From this cultural perspective, teacher and historian Ray Vander Laan challenges long- held Western assumptions about even the most well- known Scripture passages. The third Faith Lessons volume focuses on the birth of Jesus, His life, and His short but powerful ministry. Sessions: 8 Faith Lessons (Vol.4): On the Death and Resurrection of the Messiah Summary: Filmed on location in Israel and Turkey, Faith Lessons is an in- depth video tour of the buried, distant, or otherwise forgotten places where the stories of the Bible actually happened. From this cultural perspective, teacher and historian Ray Vander Laan challenges long- held Western assumptions about even the most well known Scripture passages. The fourth Faith Lessons volume focuses on the last week of Jesus life, his death and resurrection, and the Holy Spirit s visit on Pentecost. Sessions: 9 Faith Lessons (Vol.6): In the Dust of the Rabbi Summary: Attend a Bible study in the Holy Land without leaving home! Filmed in Israel, Ray Vander Laan s lesson transports you to biblical sites to help you better understand the Hebrew culture that gave birth to Scripture. Discover how to follow Jesus and what it means to be his disciple. The sixth Faith Lessons volume takes you to Galilee in Israel where Jesus called His first disciples to follow Him. Then on to Priene and Didyma in Turkey where their disciples learned what it meant to follow the Rabbi. 10
Faith Lessons (Vol. 7): Walk as Jesus Walked Summary: As disciples of Jesus, we ve discovered that following him demands a passion for the text and a complete devotion to Christian community. But there is more A disciple is consumed with a passion to be like the Rabbi Jesus. Come and discover the passion of our early Christian brothers and sisters. Follow in their footprints, as they loved the Messiah with all their heart, all their soul, and all their might every moment on the day. The seventh Faith Lessons volume takes you into Asia Minor (present- day Turkey), where disciples like Paul and Timothy traveled, spreading news of Jesus and bringing new disciples to follow Him. The Jesus I Never Knew Summary: In The Jesus I Never Knew, Philip Yancey reveals the real Jesus beyond the stereotypes, offering a new and different perspective on the life of Christ, His work, His teaching, His miracles, His death and resurrection, and ultimately, who he was and why he came. With a willingness to tackle difficult questions, Yancey looks at the radical words of this Jewish carpenter and asks whether we are taking Him seriously enough in our own day and age. From the manger in Bethlehem to the cross in Jerusalem, Yancey presents a complex character who generates questions as well as answers; a disturbing and exhilarating Jesus who wants to radically transform your life and stretch your faith; and a Jesus who is brilliant, creative, challenging, fearless, compassionate, unpredictable, and ultimately satisfying. 11