Bible Study Ideas

Looking for great bible study ideas? If your group is made up of new believers you may want to do a study that covers the fundamentals of the faith, or an apologetics bible study , or a study on the life of christ. On the other hand, if most of the members are Christians looking to deepen their faith, a bible study on christian living or an evangelism study might be more appropriate. There are also many more targeted studies such as recovery, forgiveness, and end times bible studies that can help Christians understand what the Bible says about a particular topic.

 There are many available ladies bible studies or bible studies for mens groups as well. Popular women's authors include Beth Moore, Priscilla Shirer, Lysa TerKeurst, Kay Author, and the women of faith series. Men's groups might prefer studies from Josh McDowell, John Piper, Tony Dungy, or the men of character series. If your group is made up of couples you might want to consider a bible study on relationships, a marriage study, or a bible study for parents.

 To look for general Bible study ideas from all series, authors, and audiences you can view the most popular bible studies or bible studies with videos. Finally, no matter what you choose make sure the study has you reading and thinking about the Bible. There is no substitute for the focused study of God's word to help a Christian grow and flourish in their faith.

Should Christians Want The American Dream?

Recently, many best selling bible studies have focused on what it means to be a Christian in today's modern American culture. It seems the comfortable living standards and consumerist attitudes that permeate culture have caused concern. Many christian thought leaders have begun to question what a truly sold-out christian would look like in modern America. Should Christians be satisfied with just the house, picket fence, 401K retirement plan? Examples of these studies include John Piper's 2009 study "Don't Waste Your Life", which encourages participants to live the biblical reality: "to live is Christ, and to die is gain." The more recent  "Radical Small Group Study" by David Platt suggests Christians have changed the God-centered gospel to fit human-centered preferences. Other examples include the 2011 "Living Crazy Love Study" by Francis Chan. Chan's study encourages participants to pursue the crazy, relentless, all powerful love of God.  In 2010 former corporate executive turned president of World Vision, Richard Sterns, published "The Hole in our Gospel" which chronicles his struggle to obey God whatever the cost, and his passionate call for Christians to change the world by actively living out their faith. With so many leaders from a variety of backgrounds addressing the same issues, perhaps we should take notice and ask ourselves- are we truly living a sold-out life for Christ?

John Stott Bible Studies

John Stott was a prolific writer and major evangelical figure until his passing in July 2011. He published over 50 books in his lifetime many of which were translated into more than 60 languages. John Stott bible studies are filled with straightforward teaching of the gospel and resonate with a global community of believers.  In addition to writing books and studies he also founded Langham Partnership International and in 2005 was ranked by Time Magazine among the 100 most influential people in the world. Go here for a full list of John Stott bible studies.

Radical Bible Study by David Platt

David Platt's best selling book Radical has been popular with small groups this past year. Small groups would cover the book together chapter by chapter. Recently however, Lifeway put out a dedicated small group video curriculum featuring a DVD and workbook that help group participants through the key concepts found in the book. In the Radical Bible Study David Platt encourages christians to come to Christ on His terms and to acknowledge the supremacy of Christ by surrendering to Him, not by comparing ourselves to others. Platt encourages the Christian not to chase after the comfortable living of the American dream, but instead focus on Christ and His mission. If Christians choose the cross and not comfort they will have a greater love for the lost and poor. You can view more details and see a video preview of the Radical Bible Study here.

Top 10 Bible Studies of 2012

The top bible studies of 2012 featured some not so surprising names like Beth Moore and Nancy Leigh DeMoss. But there were some new names as well. Kelly Minter made her way onto the list with her new study on Nehemiah not doubt benefiting from LifeWay's ability to market to the popular women's segment. The men and women's version of 'The Resolution', a bible study intended for use with the movie Courageous appears on the list and it's popularity is no surprise given the early 2012 release of the film. Liz Curtis Higgs follows up her successful 'Bad Girls of the Bible' with a new study on the book of Ruth. Here is a list of the top 10 bible studies of 2012 sorted by their popularity, you can click on the thumbnail for more information on each study.

1. James: Mercy Triumphs Beth Moore	2. Nehemiah: A Heart That Can Break Kelly Minter
3. The Resolution for Men Stephen Kendrick	4. The Resolution for Women Priscilla Shirer
5. Crazy Love: Overwhelmed by a Relentless God Francis Chan	6. Made to Crave: Satisfying Your Deepest Desire with God Not Food Lysa TerKeurst
7. The Girl's Still Got It: Study on Ruth Liz Curtis Higgs	8. True Woman 101: Divine Design Mary Kassian and Nancy Leigh DeMoss
9. So Long Insecurity Group Experience Beth Moore	10. Unglued: Making Wise Choices in the Midst of Raw Emotions, Study Guide Lysa TerKeurst

Looking for more ideas? Check out the updated Top 10 Bible Studies of 2013

Unglued Study by Lysa TerKeurst Review

Lysa TerKeurst released her newest study on August 7 titled Unglued: Making Wise Choices in the Midst of Raw Emotions. This new in-depth study covers a lot in 192 pages. Similar to Lysa's previous study Made to Crave, Unglued is designed specifically for use with women groups. Unglued encourages women participants to face thier raw emotions like anger, frustration, bitterness, and resentment and through practical biblical guidance live peacefully.

The Ungluded bible study is a video based bible study with each session video running 15-20 minutes in length. Leaders can use either a one or two hour group meeting format, the only difference being two hours allows members more time to discuss each question and answer more fully. It's also recommended that each member have their own unglued study guide, and even though the material encourages you to have a separate copy of the Unglued book, participants could still manage the study without it. This study is a relatively high commitment study, in addition to the weekly session time there is 6 days of personal study, which include Bible studies and recommended chapter readings from the Unglued book. Lysa TerKeurst has a great ability connect with women by sharing from her heart the struggles women face, and most importantly what God has taught her in the midst of these struggles. You can see all the details and materials needed, including a video preview, of the Ungluded bible study here.

Newest Bible Studies

With the amount of bible studies released throughout the year it's often hard to stay on top of the full range of new studies and materials available. New bible studies are great for small groups looking for their next idea and topics to studies. Popular authors like Beth Moore, Kay Arthur, Andy Stanley often release several studies a year so this list of new bible studies is a good place to survey what's new and get topic ideas for your study.

Ruth study by Liz Curtis Higgs

Liz Curtis Higgs has a new study out covering the Old Testament character of Ruth, titled The Girl's Still Got It: Take a Walk with Ruth and the God Who Rocked Her World. Although relatively short, the book of Ruth is filled with drama and plot twist that read like a modern day novel. Liz Curtis Higgs navigates the book of Ruth in her characteristic, direct style of writing. This style of writing and insight will resonates with the many women who loved her teaching in "Bad Girls of the Bible".   This study focuses on God plan through life's ups and downs, and encourages women to draw near to God, the one that knows and loves them completely. You can view all the details on the new ruth study by Liz Curtis Higgs here.

Nehemiah, Kelly Minter Bible Study

Kelly Minter recently released a new bible study on Nehemiah, the Jewish leader who in the 5th century BC lead the Israelites back to Jerusalem and rebuilt the walls of the city despite many obstacles and setbacks. Like her other studies in the Living Room Series, minter mixes in-depth bible teaching with lighter touches like food recipes. Although an Old Testament cup bearer may not seem like a relevant example for the modern Christian women, Minter successfully uses his example to encourage Christians to have a heart for the lost world around them and like the example of Nehemiah, follow the Lord through action. This is a video based series and features 7 sessions, you can see more details on the Nehemiah study here.

Heaven, Bible Study by Randy Alcorn

Randy Alcorn has long had an interest in the subject of eternity and his new bible study on heaven builds on that history with great biblical research into the subject. Often not addressed from the pulpit at length, the subject of heaven is one of the least understood and yet most thought of topics in the Christian life, especially when loved ones die. Unfortunately heaven, for many christians, consists of glowing figures, coral music and other niceties gleamed from TV and movie depictions. But Alcorn goes much deeper into the subject of our eternal destination and judgement, of course he approaches it with a style that leaves room to imagine the blessings God has for us and ultimately give us courage here on earth. You can see more details, including a video preview of Randy Alcorn's heaven bible study here.

Crazy Love Bible Study by Francis Chan

Francis Chan once again delivers a great bible study that is bound to cause the comfortable christian to question, "am I too comfortable"? He delivers, in an honest style, key question and insights from his personal journey that encourages participants to a higher level of commitment. Going through the study, a Christian can't help but question their purpose on earth and seek God for an expanded vision and plan for thier lives. Your can view more details on the Crazy Love Bible Study Here.

Kay Arthur Bible Studies

Kay Arthur bible studies are best known for the inductive bible study method. This method focuses on the text of the Bible to draw out meaning and lessons from the scripture. Study participants learn to apply the who, what, when, and where into personal application. Go here for a full list of Kay Arthur bible studies

In addition to writing bible studies, Kay Arthur founded Precept Ministries International with her husband Jack and is often heard on national radio and television programs.

Beth Moore James Study Guide And Video

Beth Moore recently released her newest bible study covering the book of James. Like Beth Moore's other small group bible studies, "James: Mercy Triumphs" is a video study with an accompany in-depth workbook. Beth Moore's James study covers things like social justice, faith, joy, and hardship. Wisdom and Prayer are also covered. Below is a video preview. You can see all the details on Beth Moore James study here.

Bible Study Topics for Small Groups

Looking for your next individual or group bible study topic can be overwhelming. The amount of bible studies available number in the thousands. One good way to gauge if a study might be right for you is to see what if others have found it interesting. BibleStudySearch.com has a list of the most popular small group bible studies covering a wide range of topics:

Andy Stanley Couples Bible Study

Looking for a great couple's bible study from Andy Stanley? We recommend either the "iMarriage Study Guide" or Andy Stanley newest "Staying in Love". iMarriage is a great 6 week study that can speak to marriages of any length. The study, published in 2006, has a companion DVD that you can use in a couple's small group study, but it's also not necessary as the study stands on its own. "Staying in Love" is great for those looking for a low commitment couples study since each session has suggested Bible reading in order to prepare, but doesn't require a detailed workbook to work through. It's also a relatively short study with only 4 sessions but combined with the 15-20 min a week DVD video, the study feels in-depth. Click on the covers below for more details:

Andy Stanley iMarriage

Andy Stanley Staying in Love

Priscilla Shirer Jonah Study Review

Priscilla Shirer's Jonah study is a workbook and DVD designed for group bible studies. The workbook is 7 sessions and each session has 5 days worth of ready material, the readings are relatively short but this isn't a low commitment study by any means. This study focuses on the biblical character Jonah from the old testament who tried to run from what God told him to do. Shirer relates the Jonah example to the christian life and teaches that interruptions are sometimes God's invitation to do a great work in our lives. You can see more details and a video preview on the Jonah small group bible study here.

Best Women's Video Series Bible Studies

Looking for video series for your womens small group bible study? BibleStudySearch.com has list of the best video bible studies for women's small group bible studies, here are a few highlights, click on the cover image to learn more

Warren Wiersbe Bible Studies for Small Groups

Bible studies by Warren Wiersbe are designed for small groups and individuals looking for an in-depth bible study from trusted and beloved Bible theologian and scholar, Warren Wiersbe. The wiersbe bible study series are based on Wiersbe's very popular "BE" commentary series of 50 books covering the entire Bible. Each session in the Wiersbe Bible Study Series includes introspective questions on the passage of scripture and insights and excerpts from the "BE" series. Each bible study is made up of anywhere between 8-12 sessions depending on the topic selected. Visit this link to see full list of Warren Wiersbe bible studies

Easy Small Group Studies

Looking for an easy bible study? One that doesn't require a high commitment from your small group or devotion time? Well, here are some recommendations for you. First the Walk thru the Bible Series offers a comprehensive but low commitment and features character studies from the old and new testament and popular topics like the love study  or faith study. If you're looking for a low commitment women's bible study check out the Women of Faith Series. Finally, the LifeGuide Series is a very popular option, LifeGuide is one of the most established series and feature of huge selection of study topics. Go here to see more easy and low commitment bible studies.

"Women of Faith" Small Group Bible Studies	Walk Thru the Bible Series	Lifeguide Small Group Bible Study Series

John MacArthur Bible Studies for Small Groups

When it comes to in-depth bible studies, no one brings it like John MacArthur. His expositional style is employed to great effect in his studies.  You'll find out exactly what the passage is saying with a verse-by-verse break down of the content and meaning of the original text. Be prepared though, John MacArthur bible studies are high commitment/high reward. Here is a full list of John MacArthur bible studies.

"Women of Faith" Bible Studies

The Women of Faith series has a unique combination of personality and truth and offers fresh messages to women interested in growing in intimacy with God. These in-depth bible studies are perfect for small groups and individual study and feature insights and quotes from the 'Women of Faith' conference speakers. Each book contains 12 sessions and includes a leader's guide for small group bible studies. Here is a complete list of available "Women of Faith" Bible Studies

Ray VanderLaan Small Group Bible Studies

Ray VanderLaan is beloved for his engaging style and ability to make the the stories and places of the Bible come alive for the believer today. Participants in his small group studies are taken on video tours of the Jewish lands featured in the in Bible. Depending on which bible study curriculum chosen VanderLaan video studies cover everything from the Old Testament kings, to the Messiah, to the founding of the early church. VanderLaan links cultural information and the Bible and encourages christians to follow God's call to be a transforming influence on their culture. Here is a full list of Ray VanderLaan bible studies.

"Walk Thru" Small Group Bible Studies

Walk Thru the Bible Series is a comprehensive bible study series that feature character studies from the old and new testament as well as topics like love and faith. The studies are either 6 or 8 sessions and usually can be completed in 1-2 hours per session. Currently there are 16 total studies to choose from, you can view a full list of walk thru bible studies here.

Bible Studies on Apologetics

Apologetics, in short, is the defense of the Christian faith. Small Group bible studies focused on the subject of Apologetics help participants to understand the uniqueness of Christianity and how it stands up rationally against criticism. These types of studies are also helpful to new believers and seekers since they explain why Christianity stands out in today's world where moral relativism and atheistic arguments are increasingly common. Notable autors from this category include Lee Strobel, Andy Stanley, Chuck Colson, and Ravi Zacharias. See a complete list of bible studies on Apologetics here.

Lifeguide Bible Studies

Many people like Lifeguide Bible Studies. With over 5 million copies in print, the LifeGuide series is one of the most popular. These studies cover a variety of topics using an inductive study approach which focuses on studying the text of the Bible and drawing out the meaning with insightful questions. Leaders notes are included with each study and the studies are low commitment, each session can be completed in 1-2 hours. You can find a full list of Lifeguide Bible studies here. Below are some of the most popular, click on the cover to learn more.

Lifeguide Thessalonians Bible Study	Lifeguide Christian Leadership Bible Study	Lifeguide Colossians & Philemon Bible Study
Lifeguide Bible Study on exodus	Lifeguide Bible Study on Women of God	Lifeguide Bible Study on Jesus' Final Week

Inductive Bible Study

Often people will want to study the bible but they don't know how. One great methodology is the inductive method. This method focuses the reader on the text of the bible to draw out the meaning. This method allows the one studying the bible to better remember better the who, what, when, where as well as the application for their personal life. This is because they have had to find the meaning themselves instead of reading someone else interpretation of the text. Some great authors of inductive studies include Kay Arthur bible studies or John MacArthur bible studies.

Andy Stanley Bible Studies

Andy Stanley's bible preaching and small group studies resonate with a large number of audiences. This down to earth preacher from Alpharetta, Georgia founded North Point Community Church as well as North Point Ministries, a worldwide Christian organization. Most of Andy Stanley's small group bible studies are video based and cover a wide range of topics. You can view a full list of Andy Stanley bible studies here

List of Beth Moore Bible Studies

Beth Moore is one of the most popular authors of women's bible studies. Almost all her bible studies have companion videos and her high energy delivery of God's word makes her popular with young and old alike. Here is a complete list of Beth Moore bible studies.

David: Seeking a Heart Like His	Esther: It's Tough Being a Woman	Living Beyond Yourself: Exploring the Fruit of the Spirit	So Long Insecurity, Group Experience

Best Bible Study Guides

Introducing our new site BibleStudySearch.com featuring over 500 of the best bible study guides listed and categorized to help you find your next study. It's great if you're looking for materials or bible study topics for your small group or sunday school class.