Christianity Explored is an evangelistic Bible Study course with a difference. Fine-tuned by Rico Tice, minister for evangelism at All Souls Church in London, it uses Markās Gospel to explain the Christian gospel. It encourages the church to do evangelism as the church, and not merely as isolated individuals.
The materials for Christianity Explored come in an attractive package of DVDs with clear and well-produced study materials. Rico himself is a gifted communicator with a warm, gracious and infectious enthusiasm for the gospel and the church.
There are many reasons why Christianity Explored is such a helpful tool for our churches.
This kind of fellowship in evangelism stimulates our own people to search the Scriptures better themselves. It binds them together in real fellowship as they pray together, are nervous together, and as together they see God work. As the Lord draws people to himself through his Word, expectation is increased that, on an ongoing basis, the Lord will bring more people to himself. That in turn leads to greater expectation in prayer as we ask him to do just that. At least this was certainly our experience.
Christianity Explored is no more than a tool; but it is a fine tool. And since there is nothing in the world more important than exploring Christianity, it provides a most helpful way of doing just that.
A question on lots of peopleās lips at the moment is why God allows all the suffering and pain in the world.
What has been your response in the light of the earthquakes and tsunamis that have struck our planet over the last few months?
All responses welcome.
Over a thousand people went to Bible by the Beach on the south coast last weekend.
If youāve not been (or not heard of it before), itās a great few days in Eastbourne: top-notch Bible teaching, a great variety of stuff happening, plenty of chance to relax, and of course fantastic singing with a choir of a thousand. And children love the programme that's provided for them (see pic).
It's also very good value-for-money: though unfortunately the budget doesn't stretch to warming up the English Channel for swimmingā¦
May Bank Holiday 2012: Bible. Beach. Brilliant.
Which disciple wanted to see the imprint of the nails before he would believe?
ā¦for his hands were ______ like those of his brother Esau, so he blessed him.
How many chapters does Genesis have?
Which book starts, "Many have undertaken to draw up an account of the things that have been fulfilled among usā¦"
Matthew 5-7 is known as the Sermon on the ______
Which of these was not a brother of Joseph?
What is the average number of verses in each chapter of the Bible?
Some questions that people ask are tough. And thatās why weāre putting together a resource that gives short answers to the 11 most commonly-asked questions we face.
So, if you were asked āHow do you know that God exists?ā what would you say? Who or what would you call on as evidence? What stories, illustrations, sound bites have you found helpful?
For the LORD gives wisdom, and from his mouth come knowledge and understanding. He holds victory in store for the upright, he is a shield to those whose walk is blameless, for he guards the course of the just and protects the way of his faithful ones.
- Proverbs 2 v 6-8
It's sometimes quite weird working in publishing. Just as the temperatures soar, and everyone is walking round in shorts eating ice creams, what are we doing? Writing stuff for Christmas!
Been working with GBCs outstanding childrens' editor Alison Mitchell on a new tract for Christmas for children. I stopped short at the sentence that said:
"A bunch of angels showed up and started singing praises to God"
What exactly is the group noun for angels? Alison originally had "troop" but thought it sounded a bit too militaristic. Not a bad idea, as the host of heaven sometimes acts as an army. But a brief brainstorm in the office came up with some other suggestions:
Any suggestions to help us out are warmly welcome...
Which book starts, "The words of the Teacher, son of David, king in Jerusalemā¦"
For how many pieces of silver did Judas betray Christ?
Which Gospel contains the parable of The Good Samaritan?
Do you think I came to bring peace on earth? No, I tell you but _______
How many chapters does Titus have?
Where did Joseph go with Mary for the census?
Which book finishes, "They said nothing to anyone, because they were afraid."
Do you know anyone setting off into ministry in the Anglican church?
This is the conference for them.
More information, including speakers, programme, cost, etc, can be found over at the Ugley Vicar's blog.
The aim of the Conference is to identify and encourage the next generation of Anglican Evangelical clergy leaders who will take on the strategic challenges for the Church of England of the mid twenty-first century.
Iām a believer - leading public figures and scientists explain their faith
James's words from 2000 years ago still serve us well
China detains Protestant Shouwang devotees
China seizes Christians in Easter raid
What day was the Last Supper ā and should it really matter to us?
