Through the Bible in a Year

Internet Explorer users will notice that the reviews are organized in a collapsible outline.  Simply click on a question and the answer will appear below it. 

Resource:
  Through the Bible in a Year

Published by:   Virgil W. Hensley, Inc.  

  1. What are the central learning goals of this Bible study?
    The title of this resource is suggestive of its goal.  The goal is to lead you in walking through the Bible in one year.  In this process you will learn the central Bible themes, key verses and central messages as you study God's message as it unfolds from beginning to end.  

  2. What parts/how much of the Bible does it cover, and how does this resource organize the Bible (for example, by themes, by books, by lectionary, etc.)? 
    Through the Bible in a Year is a three-volume resource.  As we examine Vol. I of this three-volume resource we find that it provides an overview of all 66 books in the Bible, covering major themes, central purpose and chief verses of each book. Vol. II deals with 61 of the scripture's most fascinating characters; 29 of those scriptures are located in the Old Testament and 22 in the New Testament.  Vol. III teaches fundamental principles of Christian faith and covers all cardinal truths every Christian should know.
  3. For what age group(s) is this Bible study material intended? 
    This material is intended for all age groups from 4th grade to the oldest adult. The learners can come from a large range of vast backgrounds, friends and scholars.  The best setting for teachings this material is in the church setting.  Although it can be used at home, the discussion portions of the lessons require discussion and interaction with other students. The material is adaptable from a church setting; this course can be used for mid-week Bible Study or Sunday School, or work on the lessons can begin at home and brought to the church for more in-depth study.
  4. As this Bible study resource sees them, what are the learners like?  (this is probably implicit rather than explicit…) 
    See response to #3.
  5. In what setting(s) would it best be used  (for example in Sunday School, at home, in a long-term covenant group, etc.)?
    See response to #3.
  6. How adaptable is the material,  for use in other settings or groups??
    See response to #3.
  7. What is the time frame:  
    For each session?
    For each unit (for example, if the resource covers each book of the Bible separately, how long do you spend on each book)?
    For the entire series?
    Each session should take 55 minutes of teaching at the church.  However, each student should spend 2-3 hours a week for reading scripture and for doing homework as assigned.  The entire series takes 52 weeks.
  8. What is the structure of a session/lesson in this Bible study, and what kinds of learning activities are typical within that structure?
    We will outline Lesson 31 of Vol. I; "The book of John" to show you what is included in a typical lesson (although there are some variations in each lesson).  Lesson 31 begins with an introduction of what the book of John is about.  There is a very brief biography on the author followed by the Central Truth, structure of the book, prologue, Jesus' public ministry, His private ministry, His suffering and death, His victory over death, major differences, How much do you remember (?) and the assignment for next week. 
  9. Theologically speaking, as this Bible study resource understands and treats it, just what IS the Bible (for example, a book of eternal truths, the story of God’s work in the world, etc.)?
    Theologically speaking, this Bible study resource understands and treats the Bible as God's Word which must be examined and understood by each and every Christian.
  10. In this Bible study resource, who interprets the Bible (for example, the writers of the resource, the teacher, the learners, etc.?
    Teachers guided by the Holy Spirit interpret the Bible.  The teacher's responsibility is to impart that knowledge to their pupils.  It is recommended that Pastors, Ministers of Education and Sunday School Superintendents, teach the lessons.
  11. In this resource, HOW does one interpret the Bible (for example allegorically, literally, through historical-critical study, etc.)?
    In this resource, the Bible is interpreted literally, in a historical/critical context and should strengthen our relationship with Jesus.   
  12. What is the relationship of the Bible to our lives, as this resource treats is?
    The Bible should be seen as a guide for our lives.  It teaches us to depend on the Holy Spirit.
  13. What is the explicit or implicit stance on Biblical authority, inspiration and inerrancy, within this Bible study?
    The stance of this resource is for us to understand that the Bible is a progressive revelation into the mind of God.  The Bible is the divine authority and the expression of communication is human.
  14. Are there any unique or distinctive features about this Bible study resource?
    Each lesson features review questions which are quite provocative.  However, the most distinctive features are the assignments for next week and the section on transition of scriptures to today's meaning on life. 
  15. What are the strengths and weaknesses of this Bible study resource?
    Strengths:
    Step by step plans
    Adaptable
    Good discussion material
    Note taking section good for students 
    Weakness:
    Content driven (maybe too strong)
    Adult Content (not all ages)
    Lecture driven little interaction for student
    Does not allow for variations or delays  

 

 
             

The Media Resource Center is a department at the William Smith Morton Library of the
Union Theological Seminary and Presbyterian School of Christian Education.

Problems? Questions?  Please contact aknox@union-psce.edu.
Last updated: 10/05/04