Over a decade ago, Francine Rivers told me about BSF (Bible Study Fellowship). Her glowing recommendation for this eight year course of study (although it was only seven years back then) sent me looking for a BSF class in my area. I was thrilled to find an evening class only a couple of miles away. I completed one year (Matthew) and half of another (Life of Moses), and then life got in the way of the night class and I had to stop. When I tried to return later, there were no class openings. Fortunately for me, Beth Moore's wonderful studies were waiting for me to discover them.
But last year, when I heard that BSF had added Isaiah to their curriculum, I contacted BSF. Not only was there space in a local women's class, I learned that the class was held at a church less than a half mile away from my home! What an awesome study it was.
Well, next week begins this year's study of the Book of Acts. They call it "Acts of the Apostles," but I believe the more accurate title for this book of the Bible is "Acts of the Holy Spirit Through the Apostles." Don't you think so?
If you've never participated in BSF, I would give the same glowing recommendation to you that Francine Rivers gave to me. See if there is one in your area (they have classes around the world) and go if you possibly can. There is no cost for the study, although they take offerings to help with the curriculum expenses. Where I attend, I'm guessing there are 300 women at least. Individual discussion groups run a maximum of 12 to 15.
BSF studies consist of these four elements:
- Daily questions for individual Bible study
- Discussion groups
- Challenging lectures
- Study notes
In the US, the classes run from mid-September to mid-May with Christmas and spring breaks. The timing can vary in other parts of the world, but all BSF students are studying the same lessons, no matter the language. If you begin this year, you will study the Bible in this order (although I'm sure this could be subject to change): Acts, Genesis, Matthew, Life of Moses, Romans, History of Israel & the Minor Prophets, John, and Isaiah.
Please Note: The way BSF is set up, you can join in at any time as long as there is room for you in a discussion group. So don't let that stop you if you couldn't begin until October or November. Find out when there is a new member's class and go.
Don't wait. Join in. Dig deep into His word. You'll be so glad you did. (And if you're in the Boise area, maybe I'll see you there!)
~robin
