ADULT SPIRITUALITY

At Willow Glen United Methodist Church, each individual will define the meaning of spiritual growth at this point in their life and take the next step on their spiritual path.

As a congregation, we will renew our efforts to support and assist one another along the journey.

COMPREHENSIVE BIBLE STUDY

Becoming Disciples Through Bible Study is a 34-week study of the whole Bible, calling on persons to submit themselves to examination by God’s Word, to put themselves under the power of God’s Word, and to be changed by God’s Word.

This study is the foundation course to further studies that will be offered. We currently have a class that started on September 10. The next class will begin in September 2008.

WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING
The 2007/08 class speaks out

How great it is…The Disciple class has given me joy and a spiritual deepening. Strange as it seems, previously I’ve read only selected passages – never the books in their entirety – with little understanding of the context or cultural, social and economic mores of the times in which they were written. The Disciple curriculum provided this; as well as an opportunity to read and study the Bible, insight from learned Biblical scholars, and discussion questions for our group.

Our Monday night coming together and sharing in a fantastic Christian group has become so meaningful to me that my week feels incomplete when I have to miss. As we puzzle over passages, members often provide missing points and different points of view. It has truly been a life-changing event.  -- Gerri Hodson –

Disciple has been a wonderful experience. As a group we are a very diverse set of folks, and I believe that we've come to Disciple with just as diverse a set of aspirations for how this class will enrich our lives.

Many are here for literary reasons, seeking some continuity to stitch together the time honored Bible stories within their historical and chronological contexts, while others are here to search for purpose and deeper meaning among the scriptures. As a group we are all very respectful of each other's opinions and interpretations, even when we disagree.

One of the best aspects of this class for me is the opportunity to talk things through, to try to make sense of what the authors of the various books were really trying to teach us. The class environment is very safe and caring, giving everyone the opportunity to voice their opinions and question long-held interpretations of certain passages that we may not have felt comfortable discussing in other venues.

This has been a wonderful chance to get to know some folks with whom I had never really crossed paths before, and to learn more about and grow closer to those I already knew. It has been a great growth journey in both faith and personal relationships for me. I consider myself to be very blessed to have been a part of it for the past year.  – Debbie Clayton –

Most of us know about the obvious benefits of attending a comprehensive bible study class such as Disciple.  As Christians, our relationship with God is improved by bible study and fellowship with other believers.  Our walk as Christians is improved by the camaraderie and the insights of others offered in a group setting.   In theory, most of us Christians want to delve deeper into the bible and give more time to our spiritual life.  So why isn’t everyone signing up for Disciple?  I believe we let our busy schedules get in the way and become daunted by the time commitment.  Are you wondering where you will find another hour in your busy week for yet another meeting, much less the extra time and energy required to do the Bible readings and devotions?

If these are your concerns, then I assure you Disciple is not what you might expect.  Disciple revives you; Disciple refreshes you; Disciple invigorates you!  I have approached a Monday afternoon discouraged, fatigued, ill, overwhelmed, or downtrodden.  But each time I have picked myself up and driven to Disciple class, I have been rewarded with blessings beyond measure.  I have never left Disciple without feeling spiritually, emotionally, and physically charged and renewed!

So many of us are overextended in our work and personal lives.  This is true for me too, but Disciple never fails to give abundantly back to me. So if you are considering signing up for Disciple, instead of worrying if you have the time and energy to give to the class, ask yourself if you have the desire to receive the abundant blessings of this class.  I always receive the gifts of a restored spirit and a cheerful heart; and for that I am always grateful. --- Kristin Kufeldt ---

Thinking about signing up for the next Disciple Bible Study but not sure if you can make the time, or if it’s worthwhile? That’s what went through my mind, but I pushed those thoughts aside and signed on -- and I’m glad I did. I’ve tried to read the bible on my own several times, but stalled every time. Here’s an engaging way to learn about life, God, your congregation---and you.

The approach here works for me because it “chunks” the material out into themes every week that bring understanding. Words and stories stir ideas that challenge my thinking. The diverse set of ideas and views that come to the table each week add an important dimension to the learning. We have a great group of people each with their unique perspectives that help us all gain insights and stimulate our collective thinking. The time we’re together zooms by because it’s interactive and always interesting, and we have fun as a group.

Getting to know the bible is important, here’s your opportunity to learn in a fun, structured way that will challenge you. So when Ingrid starts planting seeds to inspire you to sign up, instead of trying to rationalize why you can’t afford the time I urge you to stop thinking and act: mark your calendar and go to the first session – and the second and the third. Nothing ventured, nothing gained—you have nothing to lose and everything to gain. --- Tom Grubb ---