Ideal for busy people who want to fit an in-depth Bible study into their schedule!
Under the Tree of Life concentrates on Old Testament Writings, the Gospel of John, the Epistles of John, James, Jude, and finally, Revelation. Emphasis on the Psalms as Israel\s hymnbook and prayer book leads naturally to an emphasis on worship in the study. Present through the entire study is the sense of living toward completion – toward the climax of the message and the promise, extravagantly pictured in Revelation. The image of the tree and the color gold emphasize the prod and promise in the Scriptures. The word under in the title is meant to convey invitation, welcome, sheltering, security, and rest – home at last.
This study manual spends 12 weeks focuses on John and Revelation. Daily preparation is manageable, with 3–5 chapters of the Bible to read each day. Two elements in the study manual represent special emphases in this study – the Psalm of the week and the radical disciple. The Psalm of the week will lead people into a deeper life of prayer using Psalms as a guide. It is to be prayed aloud both daily and weekly in the study group session. Study manual suggestions on experiencing the Psalm of the week pay attention to feelings as well as words.
The radical disciple focuses on thoughts or actions relevant to the weekly theme. Whether praying or taking steps toward radical discipleship, participants know they are not alone – the community is there.
Each member of the group needs a study manual and a Bible. The Bible is the text for the study and the study manual will guide group members in their study and preparation for the weekly group session. The study manual also includes suggestions for individual research and study-related activities. Space is provided for taking notes while reading Scripture, for recording thoughts and questions arising out of daily study, and for notes during the weekly group session.
The titles of the sessions along with theme words and theme verses, and major persons, events, and topics will set the sequence of the biblical story in the minds of the participants. The principal Scripture for each session follows the chronological movement of the biblical story.
Has the group completed the 12 week session on the Old Testament Writings? They will be eager to move to the next part of the study focused The Writings.
