Precept Ministries

Week Six - Romans 8: Learning and Living the Will of God

2011-07-27T14:48:00.001-04:00

Is it just me or has our online time together simply flown by this summer? I want you to know how grateful I am to have had the opportunity to walk alongside of you as we’ve studied Romans 8 (and then some!) together!

I also want to encourage you to keep pressing into Jesus in these next weeks before typical Bible studies begin again in the fall. My heart breaks when I hear people tell me that they walk well with Jesus when they’re in a study but lose their footing between organized classes.

What do you do when a study ends?

I love the rhythm of being in a Bible study and learning along with others but I relish those weeks between studies, too. I love having “vacation” time with God—time to read just for the sheer enjoyment of the relationship; time to be in the Word without doing word studies or parsing verbs. It’s often during those times that I read broadly and see how the Word connects in ways that I don’t notice when I’m up to my elbows in a single passage. I hope you’ll discover this joy for yourself, too!

Will you join us in bring the Word to others?

If God has used this study in your life, I want to invite you to join me in supporting Precept Ministries financially. One of the ways you can do this that is SO helpful to Precept is by giving electronically. When you click on the red “Give” button on the right of this page, the link will take you to Precept’s home page where you can give a one-time gift or choose a recurring donation. Recurring donations, even in small amounts, help Precept in their ministry planning. We believe it is important to give first to your local church but ask that if you are already faithfully giving there that you’d ask God if He would have you partner with us as well.

Will you help me cheer others across the line?

I’m so proud of each one of you who is finishing this study and crossing the line to complete what you set out to do! When we started off, I told you that I didn’t want to lose anyone along the way. I think it would be great for those of you who have finished to drop in on the previous weeks from time to time to help encourage those who aren’t running as quick of a pace, to come alongside and cheer them on! Would you do that with me?

Thank you again for studying with me, chatting with me, and walking the path together! Can’t wait for our next time online together!

Many blessings

pam

Week Five - Romans 8: Learning and Living the Will of God

2011-07-20T13:34:00.001-04:00

It’s good to be home but in all honesty the Chicago area is every bit as steamy this week as Orlando was last week! Thanks for bearing with me while I was on the road and trying to type my comments with my thumbs. I’m better with the thumbs than I used to be but don’t think they’ll be able to keep up with all ten digits any time soon!

A Peek at What’s Next . . .

Had a great treat on the way home as we stopped in Chattanooga to cut some video promos with Jan Silvious and Kay Arthur for an upcoming inductive Bible study on mentoring. It was overwhelming to say the least but I didn’t throw up and I didn’t pass out, so that’s pretty much a success in my book! Seriously, Kay and Jan are both such pros and both so gracious that even though I started off on the dangerous side of nervous it ended up being a lot of fun. Had a lot of people praying that I’d be able to breathe and didn’t feel short of breath once! God cares about even the little things!

The book will be releasing this October, so keep your eyes opened for it! Just like the Chocolate studies, it will flex to meet you in the homework department.

Keep Flexing . . .

I know I sound like a broken record (for those of you old enough to remember records) but I have to remind you to keep flexing. Romans 8 is such a sweet piece of Scripture and I want so much for you to enjoy every single minute you spend in it. Sometimes that means slowing it down, sometimes it means speeding it up. Just keep letting it flex to the pace that works in your life . . . and let it flex differently from week to week when you need to!

Keep the Comments Coming . . .

I can’t tell you how much I’ve enjoyed discussing with all of you during this study! It is my joy to read your comments and to comment back, so keep ‘em coming and if you have time to drop back and encourage people who have started later that would be a great, too!

The more I get to know you all, the harder time I’m having keeping these blog posts short! Mercy, I need my editor!

Love to you all!

pam

Week Four - Romans 8: Learning and Living the Will of God

2011-07-13T09:28:00.000-04:00

Im writing to you all this week from steamy Orlando, Florida! I know, wrong time of the year to be here but were just grateful to have some time to spend together as a family away from the regular routine of life.

On Monday we spent the evening at one of the most relaxing places in the world Jackie Robinson Ballpark, home of the Daytona Cubs. Well, at least it was relaxing for me. The kids on the field, though, were playing for their baseball lives. Every day they go out and try to prove that they belong, that eventually they should be playing not in Daytona . . . but in Chicago.

Reminds me how good it is to know that in Jesus Christ I am accepted by God! Im not fighting everyday to make His team. Dont you love knowing that? With that in mind, as you go about studying this week remember to let this study flex in whatever direction you need. You can do a little less or you can do a little more!

Try Adding a Little . . .

If youve been keeping up and feeling good with the main portion of the study, this may be the week to turn the dial up a notchmaybe add a sidebar, maybe a Digging Deeper.

Try Subtracting a Little . . .

If youre feeling overworked, overwhelmed, or just outnumbered and you need to lighten up the study load, do it. Lighten it for now and reassess next week!

Keep on Running . . . or Walking . . .

I was serious when I said I dont want to lose anyone this summer. I know that were going to hit different paces but whatever stride is right for you lets keep moving the same direction and meet at the finish line! Im still interacting with all of the weeks on the blog and am thrilled to be able to cheer you on along the way!

Many blessings,

pam

Week Three - Romans 8: Learning and Living the Will of God

2011-07-06T14:04:00.000-04:00

It’s hard for me to believe that we’re already at the halfway mark of our study! The finish line is in sight but I know that for some of us, life in the past couple of weeks has become unbelievably crazy and we’re wondering if finish line is a mirage.

Let it Flex . . .

If that’s you, my prayer is that you will remember to let the study flex and then keep on walking one step at a time. One of the reasons that I’ve designed Chocolate! studies to flex is that I don’t want to lose people when life goes bananas. It breaks my heart to see people give up because of circumstances, so this study will flex to crazy times—times when God’s Word is so very needed!

Some is Better than None . . .

Just this week I spent time with my dear friend, Diane, who years ago taught me a phrase that has brought me and countless others hope in study: “Some is better than none.” So many of us fall into all-or-nothing thinking when we run into stressful times and decide that if we can’t do it all, we’re going to do nothing at all. What a tragedy. Some Bible study is always better than no Bible study. This is not a lazy, cop-out excuse.

What you have to understand about Diane is this: there is nothing about her that is lazy. The first day I met her was in a Precept class I was teaching. She was new to the class and new to the area. At that time she had three children under the age of three, two of whom were adopted, and she’d study her Bible every day during their naptime. Sometimes when you have the equivalent of triplets, stuff happens. Know what I mean? During this time, Diane learned those words that have given hope to me and so many others over the years.

Typing with my Thumbs . . .

Finally, I want you to know that I’m on the road this week, which means I’ll have less robust Internet access than I usually do. I’ll still have my phone and will be reading posts as they come in but a good part of the time I’ll be limited to typing responses with my thumbs so if my comments seem more brief than usual, know that’s the reason. Hey, some is better than none, right? ;)

With much love,

pam

Week Two - Romans 8: Learning and Living the Will of God

2011-06-29T16:00:00.000-04:00

What we think always matters but sometimes we feel the impact more. Last week was one of those times for me. Within 12-hours I learned of the accidental deaths of two children—one a precious 15-year old girl from my own church family, the other a 3-year old who attended the church of a dear friend.

When news like this comes along, it’s easy to start wondering if God is really in control. It’s easy to start asking “Why?” It’s easy to give in to fear if you aren’t grounded in truth. This week truth made all the difference in the world to me personally and to my church family.

I wasn’t able to attend Taylor’s funeral because I was on the road but I heard the accounts—accounts of celebration of a girl who loved Jesus and is with Him now. We can rejoice in that truth! Oh, there was grief and there is grief—I’m tearing up as I write this—but as follows of Christ we do not grieve as those who have no hope. Truth matters.

I’m so proud of all of you who have been interacting on the blog! I know it’s a different experience for some of us. Keep pressing on. We’ve started together, by God’s grace let’s finish together.

With much love,

pam

Week One - Romans 8: Learning and Living the Will of God

2011-06-23T08:23:00.002-04:00

I’m so thrilled to be studying together with you this summer! As we get started I want to go over a few quick points that I think will be helpful during our journey.

Lesson First, Video Second . . .

If you can, try to work through your lesson before watching the video. I know there are weeks when that’s just not going to happen but do what you can to dig first and watch second. The videos will stay up for a while, so no worries about getting there too late.

Let’s Connect . . .

I’m usually in northern Illinois but our class reaches around the world. I’d like for us to connect as much as possible. Discussing on this blog, connecting on Facebook or Twitter, or making friends at connect.precept.org, are just some options. Part of the beauty of this study is that it is not one-way communication. We can all dialogue with one another and get to know each other—I love that!

Be Nice . . .

One of the things that has thrilled my heart about the Chocolate! blog studies so far has been the kind and gentle spirit of the postings. Of all of the posts since we’ve started, only one entry has been pulled for being cranky. I bring this up for a couple of reasons. First, communicating online is still new to all of us. We’re all still learning how to properly interact without the benefit of visual clues. For this reason it’s so important to err on the side of grace. Second, I believe that letting people know we value being kind to one another online makes it easier for those who aren’t so sure about posting to actually get in the game.

Can’t wait to start the dialogue! I’m actually in Chattanooga today and am looking forward to talking with you!

Many blessings,

pam

This summer, take a flexible approach!

2011-06-13T16:11:00.001-04:00

This summer, join people all over the world as we study Romans 8 and learn God’s sweet Truths about how to think and live in a way that pleases Him. As you study, we invite you to take advantage of the flexibility of this summer study –

It’s summertime and the living isn’t always easy. In fact, summer can be hectic as we try to balance vacation, activities, chores and family. Many Bible Study groups take the summer off for this very reason. But what if we took a more flexible approach to our summer Bible study?

Choose your homework level – one week you may dig in and work every assignment on the page. The next week, you may opt to work only the center column of the book. You choose. The more you do, the more sweet insights you’ll gain.

Work at your own speed – Yes, you can still go on vacation, host your extended family, or get ready for that picnic. If you miss a week, just pick right up where you left off and join us. Pam’s posts and videos will stay up through the fall, and she will continue to read your comments on all six lessons and respond to questions. You may choose to take two weeks per lesson. That’s perfectly fine. You’ll find a lot of people from Singapore to Great Britain, from Maine to Mexico, all studying at their own pace and commenting on the lessons with you.

New Summer Online Study!

2011-04-08T14:36:00.005-04:00

We're excited to let everyone know our new online study will begin June 23rd!

We'll be studying Romans 8 using Pam's newest Sweeter than Chocolate! study entitled Mindset - Learning and Living the Will of God.

Pam writes, "Romans 8 delivers the heart of biblical theology in one power-packed chapter and answers questions that make all the difference. Where can I find the power to follow God? How do I know God hears my prayers? What does it mean to be called by God? Can I ever be separated from God's love?

Mindset - Learning and Living the Will of God dives deep into Romans 8 and takes us on a journey across the pages of Scripture to discover truth for ourselves and wrestle with how knowing truth and thinking biblically will change how we see the world and live in it.

We can't stop with knowing truth...we need to press on and live it!"

No registration this time -- just buy your book and meet Pam here on June 23rd!

Week Eleven– Hebrews 11: The Sweet Story Unwrapped

2011-03-30T00:01:00.000-04:00

Therefore, since we have so great a cloud of witnesses surrounding us, let us also lay aside every encumbrance and the sin which so easily entangles us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of faith, who for the joy set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. For consider Him who has endured such hostility by sinners against Himself, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.

–Hebrews 12:1-3

I’m finishing off this last blog entry from a hotel room in Florida. We travel down almost every year with my folks who bless us with their timeshare. Some years we fly while others, like this year, we drive. Back in the day when our van was younger, we’d pack her up for our annual trek. Since she’s more in the “senior” category now, we rent a van for the drive. Usually that works out just fine.

This year, though, when my Dad went to pick up the Dodge Caravan or “other comparable model” all the dealership had on hand was something that was definitely not comparable. Oh it seats seven people. Problem is it only seats two suitcases and the six of us are on the road for 11 days. All of the sudden our thinking had to change. We had to consider what was important to bring and what was not; what would be helpful versus what would just weigh us down. All of the sudden we were dealing with very real limits. It made me think of Hebrews 12:1-3 yet again.

How often do I “pack the van” of my life with things and commitments and stuff that doesn’t matter? How do these encumbrances hinder me as I seek to follow God’s call and run the race He has set before me? What can I throw off so that I can run better?

I’m so proud of you for finishing the course of Hebrews 11! I hope you’ll join me again this summer for Mindset: Learning and Living the Will of God. This study on Romans 8 is the newest title in Precept’s Sweeter than Chocolate™ series. We’ll dive deep into Romans 8 and journey throughout the pages of God’s Word as we learn to think biblically and live out the truths we’re learning!

In the meantime, let’s keep in contact on Facebook and keep pursuing God with whole hearts through His Word.

And before I close, I’d be remiss if I didn’t ask you this one last question: What are you packing in your van today?

Hope to see you this summer!

With much love,

pam

Scripture quotation taken from the NASB.

Click on "comments" and view the comments from others and leave one of your own.

Remember, you can watch the video and post responses anytime day or night! Don’t be shy!

Week Ten-- Hebrews 11: The Sweet Story Unwrapped

2011-03-24T00:01:00.000-04:00

Scripture interprets Scripture. This is a key principle in Bible study. The Word of God will not contradict itself. We need to remember that when we come across hard passages. You know what I mean, right? Passages where you want to avert your eyes—passages like Hebrews 11:35-40 that talk about temporal outcomes you wouldn’t wish on your worst enemy much less think about happening to God’s chosen ones.

One benchmark truth from God’s Word that I find myself coming back to over and over again is from Psalm 119:68—God is good and does good. Bad things may happen in life, but that doesn’t alter the truth that God is good and does good. The circumstances of a fallen world cannot call into question the character of a good God.

God knows the whole story and while we sometimes act like life ends at the grave, God’s perspective far exceeds our often short-sighted view.

Even in the hard times our good God works all things together for good for “those who love Him and are called according to His purpose.” (Romans 8:28, NASB)

So proud of you for your endurance and looking forward to hearing your thoughts this week!

Blessings,

pam

Scripture quotation taken from the NASB.

Click on "comments" and view the comments from others and leave one of your own.

Remember, you can watch the video and post responses anytime day or night! Don’t be shy!

Pam's next video will be posted on March 31st at 12:01 AM!

Week Nine– Hebrews 11: The Sweet Story Unwrapped

2011-03-16T16:20:00.004-04:00

DyNasties!! If you can remember that about the Northern Kingdom, you have a stable piece of information you can use to help you as you reason through the Word of God. Can’t remember if a king was from the North or the South? Ask yourself “Was he ever mentioned as being good?” If so, he’s almost certainly from the South, because only Jehu in the North had a brief bout of obedience.

My Hebrew teacher often reminded our class that “Always is a very big word.” It sure is! When you have an entire group that falls into a category, your reasoning leverage goes way up. Because we can essentially categorize all of the Northern kings under “bad,” we have additional reasoning power. Run across a good king? He will be from the Southern kingdom. Bad might be North or South, but good will always be South.

Don’t forget this one, okay? It’s a little bit of information that goes a long way. When one fact yields a disproportionate amount of reasoning leverage, it’s worth remembering the fact. This is one of those facts.

Looking forward to hearing from you this week!

pam

Week Nine - Hebrews 11: The Sweet Story Unwrapped from Pam Gillaspie on Vimeo.

Week Eight– Hebrews 11: The Sweet Story Unwrapped

2011-03-10T00:01:00.000-05:00

Do you ever get confused by the history of the Old Testament? If you do, you’re not alone. In fact, some people are so lost they’re not even aware of it! This week and next week we’re going to look at the time of the kings in Israel. It’s where everything gets messy, but we’re going to clean it up enough to get a handle on it.

Since we’ll already be in the deep end of the pool, we’re also going to throw in a little biblical geography for good measure. Trust me, though, when I say we’re going to take it slow. We’ll do the baseball equivalent of hitting a series of singles instead of going for the homerun.

This week we’ll focus on David’s family in the South. Next week we’ll take some time looking at the dyNasties in North! Getting a grip on the division of the kingdom is one of the highest leverage pieces of information in understanding the Old Testament. It’s one of those places where a little understanding goes a long way and pays big dividends.

I’m looking forward to discussing with you this week!

Blessings,

Pam

Week Seven– Hebrews 11: The Sweet Story Unwrapped

2011-03-03T00:01:00.000-05:00

Last week we looked at the positive legacy of Rahab. This week I’ve been thinking a lot about the negative legacy of Gideon. He’s included in the Hebrews 11 faith roster, but in spite of a great moment of faith he finished with a fizzle.

Finishing well doesn’t “just happened.” I love the words of the author of Hebrews in chapter 12 (which we’ll be looking at soon)!

“Therefore, since we have so great a cloud of witnesses surrounding us, let us also lay aside every encumbrance and the sin which so easily entangles us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of faith, who for the joy set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. For consider Him who has endured such hostility by sinners against Himself, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.”

Let’s fix our eyes on Jesus today and run!

pam

Scripture quotations taken from the NASB.

Click on "comments" and view the comments from others and leave one of your own.

Remember, you can watch the video and post responses anytime day or night! Don’t be shy!

Pam's next video will be posted on March 10th at 12:01 AM!

Week Six– Hebrews 11: The Sweet Story Unwrapped

2011-02-24T00:01:00.001-05:00

Do you ever find yourself acutely aware of how much God has used others in your life? This week I’ve been up to my earlobes in a manuscript called Under the Influence: An Inductive Study on Mentoring. It’s a joint project that I’ve been working on with Jan Silvious. As I’ve been going back through the pages and looking at the accounts of mentoring relationships in the Bible I am continually struck by the importance of legacy—both of passing things on to the generation that comes after us and receiving from the generation that has gone before.

Some of us have had great legacies passed on to us and others of us have not. I love that Rahab is included in Hebrews 11 because while she was given a legacy of idolatry and rebellion, God rewrote her story and changed her into a woman who passed on a legacy of faithfulness!

Many blessings,

pam

Click on "comments" and view the comments from others and leave one of your own.

Remember, you can watch the video and post responses anytime day or night! Don’t be shy!

Pam's next video will be posted on March 3rd at 12:01 AM!

Week Five– Hebrews 11: The Sweet Story Unwrapped

2011-02-17T00:01:00.001-05:00

We’re quickly approaching the halfway mark in our study together. I want you to know how proud I am of you for pursuing God through His Word! Studying online can be both easier and harder than a live-and-in-person class, don’t you think? Since you have the opportunity to pace differently, it can be easy to wonder things like “Am I totally off-pace from everyone else? Should I even bother posting?”

No, you’re not totally off-pace! People have different paces in study just like they do in running races. Some of you have little kids, others have exhausting jobs, some are taking multiple studies, others have health issues or elderly parents or other challenges I can’t even think of!

Have you ever watch the Iron Man Triathlon on television? Men and women of all ages and life situations swim 2.4 miles, bike 112 miles and run a full 26.2 mile marathon all in the same day. Each one has a different pace, but all are running with endurance the race set before them.

Whatever pace you’re keeping, I want to encourage you to keep on keeping on! When you post, know that I’ll be reading and interacting and if you’re a little behind, chances are your post will give someone else the encouragement to keep on keeping on, too!

Let’s continue running with endurance the race set before us! I’m looking forward with anticipation to hear what God has been teaching you through His Word!

Many blessings,

pam

Click on "comments" and view the comments from others and leave one of your own.

Remember, you can watch the video and post responses anytime day or night! Don’t be shy!

Pam's next video will be posted on February 24th at 12:01 AM!

Week Four– Hebrews 11: The Sweet Story Unwrapped

2011-02-10T00:01:00.000-05:00

Life is beginning to pile up as fast as the snow here in the Midwest. After a wonderful season of Sabbath over Christmas, the responsibilities and deadlines are re-emerging! I’m sure you can relate. If you aren’t there now, you’ve no doubt been there before.

In the midst of it all, I’m so encouraged by the account of the call of Moses and the power of God in Exodus 3. Watch all of the statements God makes about Himself before even bringing up what He’s calling Moses to do.

I am the God of your father . . . Exodus 3:6

I have surely seen the affliction of My people . . . Exodus 3:7

[I have] given heed to their cry . . . Exodus 3:7

I am aware of their sufferings . . . Exodus 3:7

I have come down to deliver them . . . Exodus 3:8

[I have come down] to bring them up from that land . . . Exodus 3:8

I have seen the oppression . . . Exodus 3:9

Do you get the feeling this is about God and His people? I sure do! God gives all of this to Moses before He even mentions how He wants Moses to participate. Finally He says . . .

I will send you to Pharaoh . . . Exodus 3:11

Certainly I will be with you . . . Exodus 3:12

What a privilege to be called and allowed to participate in the work God is doing . . . for Moses then and for us today!

I’m so looking forward to reading your comments and discussing our lesson together!

Many blessings,

pam

“Scripture quotations taken from the NASB."

Click on "comments" and view the comments from others and leave one of your own.

Remember, you can watch the video and post responses anytime day or night! Don’t be shy!

Pam's next video will be posted on February 17th at 12:01 AM!

Have you seen our 2011 Digital Catalog?

2011-02-04T13:50:00.005-05:00

We are excited to announce that our 2011 Digital Product Catalog is finished!! Check it out. Flip through the pages and find links your new favorite Bible study!

Week Three– Hebrews 11: The Sweet Story Unwrapped

2011-02-03T00:01:00.000-05:00

We’re three weeks in! Are you learning to let the material flex to meet you? Are you feeling comfortable with the big picture view of God’s incredible revelation?

My prayer is that you aren’t allowing yourself to become overwhelmed, but are learning how to flex with the study. I know that not filling in every box can make some people a little crazy—trust me, I have those tendencies! That’s why I want to remind you that the workbook (and every workbook for that matter) is just a tool to help you discover truth for yourself.

Even if you finish the workbook cover to cover there will still be more to learn—and that is a beautiful thing! We will never, ever exhaust the depths of God’s Word!

Enjoy the sweetness today . . . and keep the comments coming. I love discussing what God is teaching us as we study together!

pam

Click on "comments" and view the comments from others and leave one of your own.

Remember, you can watch the video and post responses anytime day or night! Don’t be shy!

Pam's next video will be posted on February 10th at 12:01 AM!

Week Two– Hebrews 11: The Sweet Story Unwrapped

2011-01-27T00:01:00.001-05:00

I’ve so enjoyed reading your comments on the blog this week! I hope you’ve gotten your RSS feed running so you’ll know whenever a new comment posts . . . this little detail makes interacting so much easier!

I’ve been answering a lot of individual questions this week about the blog study so I thought I’d address a few of those right here in case others are having the same questions:

Is it too late to start?

No! Jump on in! Once the videos post, they’re up for quite a while. No worries about starting a little late.

How do I find the page?

The easiest way here is to use the address: www.precept.org/onlinestudy. It’s called a vanity URL and will take you to the longer address of www.preceptministriesinternational.blogspot.com which is a pretty long name to remember. Since you’re here right now, the best thing to do is bookmark it!

When should I watch the video?

It’s best to watch the video after you finish the lesson. That way my observations won’t influence your approach to the text and you’ll be in context for what I’m talking about. Then we’ll discuss on the blog.

Where do I order the book?

You can order the book direct from Precept's eStore at this address: http://bit.ly/hzQmag

What can I start on while I’m waiting for my book?

You can download the first lesson here: http://bit.ly/fp3IbB

Where do I sign-up?

You can register for the class at www.precept.org/chocolate

The book has six lessons. Why is the class eleven weeks?

Sweeter than Chocolate! studies flex to meet people at different levels. Because there is so much content, we’re flexing the time frame and taking a little slower pace to be able to smell more of the roses along the way.

How much are we covering each week?

The first week we’re looking at lesson one, after that we’ll take about a half lesson per week. Click here for the syllabus.

I’ve heard from a number of you this week via Facebook messages with questions. Please know you can always get me over there. I may not be able to respond to every message, but do know that I read them all and always do my best to respond.

If you have a chance, touch base this week with me via Facebook so I can get to know you a little better. If you haven’t “friended” me yet, I’d love for you to do that and message me with a little something about yourself.

Many blessings,

pam

Click on "comments" and view the comments from others and leave one of your own.

Remember, you can watch the video and post responses anytime day or night! Don’t be shy!

Pam's next video will be posted on February 3rd at 12:01 AM!

STC – Hebrews 11: The Sweet Story UNWRAPPED Pam's Review of Lesson 1

2011-01-20T00:01:00.002-05:00

I’m so glad you’ve decided to jump into Sweeter than Chocolate! Hebrews 11 as we UNWRAP the story of the Bible together in this online study! Hebrews 11 is all about faith over the ages. Many people just think of “faith” when they think of Hebrews 11, but it’s that and so much more. Because it tells us about the faith of God’s people over time, Hebrews 11 gives us an incredibly simple way to learn the basic structure of the whole Bible.

I’m all about simple. The psalmist tells us that the unfolding of God’s Word “gives light; it gives understanding to the simple” (Psalm 119:130, NASB). I love that!

Jesus, Himself, was all about breaking things down into simple pictures and concepts. While Judaism added extra laws to what God had already given, Jesus simplified. In Matthew 22 Jesus says that all the Law and the Prophets (i.e. most of the Old Testament) hangs on two commands . . . Love God with everything you’ve got and love your neighbor like you love yourself. That’s my paraphrase, but I trust you get the point. While the Bible is a big book, God has made it accessible through His Holy Spirit. He has made it so the simple can understand.

Each week we’ll learn a little more of the story. Each week we’ll review what we’ve learned. Each week we’ll learn more about what it means for us to walk by faith as the people who went before us did.

I’m so glad to be on this journey with you!

pam

Click on "comments" and view the comments from others and leave one of your own.

Remember, you can watch the video and post responses anytime day or night! Don’t be shy!

Pam's next video will be posted on January 27th at 12:01 AM!

Unwrapping the Sweet Story!

2011-01-18T16:43:00.001-05:00

I am so ready to get back into the Bible study swing! Up in the Chicago area where I live, we take the month of December and part of January off from classes. As a teacher this is precious time. It gives me significant leisure with the Lord, time when we can be together with no agenda. It has been a couple of sweet months for me to Sabbath and recharge.

Now, though, I’m ready to get back at it. I still want that leisure time and am learning to guard it more and more tenaciously, but I am ready to get back into the rhythm of regular study and community with others.

I hope you’re ready, too! This Thursday, we’re kicking off Sweeter than Chocolate! Hebrews 11. Yes, we did this study on the blog last summer, but this time around we’re taking eleven weeks instead of six to unpack and unwrap the storyline of faith.

Hebrews 11 isn’t just the faith chapter. I like to think of it as being like God’s Cliff’s Notes to the whole Bible! It’s the perfect chapter to get up to speed on the main storyline of the Bible and to give yourself a simple framework for further study.

I hope you’ll join me this Thursday and bring a friend along for the ride! I’m looking forward to a great journey!

In His Grip,

pam

Is It Time To Make A Spiritual Investment?

2010-11-22T11:36:00.003-05:00

Join Kay Arthur and the Precept Ministries International teaching staff for an epic journey into the land of Israel - the epicenter of Christianity. This incredible tour combines the best of Israel with teaching around the historic and spiritual significance of these biblical sites. You will find your faith enriched, your walk with God deepened, and your life forever changed!

This powerful study tour with Precept brings you an opportunity to see the full scope of God's plan for His people from Genesis to Revelation. Bible study will take on a new dimension as you experience firsthand places like the Garden of Gethsemane, the Sea of Galilee, and Megiddo —the biblical site for Armageddon. As you walk the paths of the prophets, our Lord Jesus, and His Apostles, the Bible's teachings and doctrines will come alive with fresh relevance. You will discover a richer passion and appreciation for His Word as you tangibly connect with the land.

The 2011 Israel Study Tour is a Bible study event. The tour features daily teaching in Israel's most significant locations by the Precept Ministries' International teaching staff, top accommodations, and an experience that will transform your life – your faith – forever.

This tour is slated to sell out! Book early and secure your space now as prices are subject to change due to possible exchange rate, airline, and hotel increases.

For more information please visit ---> http://bit.ly/cQjokH.

STC – Psalm 119: Pam's review of Lesson 6b

2010-11-18T00:01:00.002-05:00

Tav! Can you believe it? We’ve finally made it all the way through Psalm 119 from Aleph to Tav! My friend, I am so proud of you for rolling up your sleeves and digging into God’s Word for yourself. I have to tell you, I have spent oodles of time in Psalm 119 over the past couple of years, but this time with you has been especially sweet for me! I hope it has been sweet for you, too.

Please keep your eyes opened this coming week for an e-mail survey from Precept regarding this study. We want to know what you liked, what you didn’t like, what you think is working, and where we might be able to improve. I know that surveys often seem like much ado about nothing, but let me assure you that we are asking for your feedback because we want to know how best to meet the needs of the people we serve. Online blog studies are still very new for us and we need your feedback to help us improve and grow.

We’ll be offering Sweeter than Chocolate! Hebrews 11 again after the first of the year, but we really want to hear from you before we lock in on a six- or eleven-week format. Once we have your feedback, we’ll let you know more about the timing of this study that gives you a big picture look at the Bible and untangles the story line of Scripture! Next June we’ll jump back in with the brand new Sweeter than Chocolate! Mindset using Romans 8 as a guide to thinking and living on purpose.

I know I speak for the entire Precept team in saying how grateful we are that you have chosen to study God’s Word with us and that you’re willing to be pioneers alongside of us as we learn to use new technologies in the best ways possible to reach people with God’s Word.

I am both humbled and honored to have had this time with you. Keep in touch and keep pressing into Jesus!

With much love,

pam

Click on "comments" and view the comments from others and leave one of your own.

Remember, you can watch the video and post responses anytime day or night! Don’t be shy!

STC – Psalm 119: Pam's review of Lesson 6a

2010-11-11T00:01:00.001-05:00

Revive me according to Your word . . .
Revive me according to Your ordinances . . .
Revive me according to Your lovingkindness . . .

I love the Psalmist’s focus on God in his prayer for revival. It’s not about programs or plans or the schemes of man. It is about God’s Word, God’s ordinances, and God’s lovingkindness.

I’ve seen God revive me through His Word and because of that I am passionate about helping others see both the splendor and the sweetness of the Word.

I have a question for you: Have you read all of God’s Book yet? If not, I hope you’ll ask God over the course of this next month if that is something you should consider doing (or at least starting!) this coming year.

If you decide to make that a priority for 2011, think about getting yourself a little ahead of the game by starting your reading in December! Go book by book and mark ‘em off in your table of contents as you finish. I’ve always found 1 Samuel to be a great place to start reading — especially if you already know the basics of the biblical storyline!

He revives us according to His Word . . . let’s study it deeply and read it widely!!

Blessings,
pam

Week Ten: Psalm 119 Video Blog Bible Study from Pam Gillaspie on Vimeo.

Click on "comments" and view the comments from others and leave one of your own.

Remember, you can watch the video and post responses anytime day or night! Don’t be shy!

Pam's review of Lesson 6b will be posted on November 18th at 12:01 AM!

Wrong Way, Jonah!

2010-11-04T08:58:00.003-04:00

Jonah and the big fish is a story we're all familiar with but Wrong Way, Jonah! puts your kids in the middle of the story as a newspaper reporters investigating the facts. Includes fun activities and games. A great study to start with younger children.

Click here for more information.

STC – Psalm 119: Pam's review of Lesson 5b

2010-11-04T00:01:00.001-04:00

There are things in life you never forget. One of those for me is the Greek word logizomai. It means to credit to one’s account or to reckon. I got it wrong on a test as a sophomore in college. The information I needed to answer the question had been hiding out in a footnote in the textbook. I was pretty ticked off at the time but now I’m grateful for having missed the answer then, because as a result God has cemented it in my head and heart ever since.

Why am I thinking about logizomai this week? Because whenever I encounter the word “righteousness”—as we do in the Tsadhe stanza—I am reminded that the only way I can ever be righteous in God's sight is when God credits it to my account. What a God! What a gift!

Looking forward to hearing what you’ve been learning this week and how God's Word is changing the way you think and act!

Blessings,

pam :)

Click on "comments" and view the comments from others and leave one of your own.

Remember, you can watch the video and post responses anytime day or night! Don’t be shy!

Pam's review of Lesson 6 will be posted on November 11th at 12:01 AM!

STC – Psalm 119: Pam's review of Lesson 5a

2010-10-28T00:01:00.000-04:00

A couple of summers ago I attended an event where the ever-hilarious Anita Renfroe was doing her thing. She sang the Momsense song that made her a viral sensation along with a line-up of other fall-over laughing stuff. In the middle of it all, though, she got everyone singing a little tune that has stuck with me more than any of the rest of it . . . and I loved the rest of it! The song’s key phrase was “You’ve got to think about what you think about.”

In the Samekh stanza we again see our psalmist in grave danger, but in the midst he continues to remember that God is his support, his hiding place and shield. Unlike the double-minded, he thinks about what he thinks about!

Looking forward to hearing what you’ve been thinking about this week.

Blessings,

pam

Click on "comments" and view the comments from others and leave one of your own.

Remember, you can watch the video and post responses anytime day or night! Don’t be shy!

Pam's review of Lesson 5b will be posted on November 4th at 12:01 AM!

STC – Psalm 119: Pam's review of Lesson 4b

2010-10-21T00:01:00.000-04:00

When my kids were little, one of our favorite authors was Dr. Seuss. We read the classics — The Cat in the Hat and Green Eggs and Ham — but we also had another lesser-known Seuss work called I Can Read with My Eyes Shut. As I’ve been thinking about meditating on God’s Word and specifically about memorizing Scripture, this book came to mind.

In our world of Kindles and iPhones and all things electronic and portable, we can read almost anywhere. When we memorize, though, we can essentially read with our eyes shut. We can “read” God’s Word as we lie in bed at night or as we go about our daily tasks. We can “read” without having a book in front of us or an iPod attached to us. I think that’s pretty sweet!

If God nudges you to try and memorize a little something this week, let us all know so our blog community can encourage you on the path! I look forward to hearing from you!

Blessings,

pam :)

Click on "comments" and view the comments from others and leave one of your own.

Remember, you can watch the video and post responses anytime day or night! Don’t be shy!

Pam's review of Lesson 5 will be posted on October 28st at 12:01 AM!

STC – Psalm 119: Pam's review of Lesson 4a

2010-10-14T00:01:00.004-04:00

Ever have one of those weeks? I feel like I’ve had about four of them strung together so far with a couple more leering at me from just over the horizon! Just about the time I feel like I’m caught up, I realize I was desperately mistaken.

It’s in busy times like these I realize how deep a need I have to just be still in God’s presence, to be in His Word without having to “produce” something. You know what I mean, right? Being in the Word without having to get the answer or fill in the blank or finish the project, but just to enjoy Him.

That is my heart in asking you to let the study flex to meet you. There are times when we are so ready to study and engage, but there are also times we need to slow down in His presence. I hope that you’ll use the sidebars and extra assignments in that way—that they will be places to linger longer and enjoy, not additional burdens to be met and weights to be carried.

I look forward to hearing what you’ve been learning this week in Kaph and Lamedh. I’m on my way to linger in Mem and Nun.

Blessings,

pam

Week Six: Psalm 119 Video Blog Bible Study from Pam Gillaspie on Vimeo.

Click on "comments" and view the comments from others and leave one of your own.

Remember, you can watch the video and post responses anytime day or night! Don’t be shy!

Pam's review of Lesson 5 will be posted on October 21st at 12:01 AM!

Where Can You Turn for Hope When the Hurt Runs Deep?

2010-10-13T09:08:00.014-04:00

Kay Arthur talks about her newest book, When the Hurt Runs Deep. Click here order your copy today!

Pam wants to “join” your Bible Study group!

2010-10-08T16:14:00.002-04:00

Our passion is establishing people in God’s Word. As a part of this passion, Pam offered a special opportunity to her Sweeter than Chocolate! friends who participated in group Bible Study -- a chance to win one of eleven of Skype sessions with Pam Gillaspie! Pam will call each of our 11 winning groups during one of their regular study times and “join” the group discussion!

Congrats to our Winners!

Debbie Willoughby
Tracy Schaller
Peggy Graves
Deb Macklin
Connie Bahner
Kim LeFebre
Kathryn Carter
Soo Fong Yow
Janet Fouts
Mary Vegh
Michelle Gale

If you haven’t scheduled your skype session with Pam, please email Mary Ann at Kiddolamm@aol.com!

STC – Psalm 119: Pam's review of Lesson 3b

2010-10-07T00:01:00.000-04:00

God is good and does good . . . every day, all the time. Oh, if we could just wrap our minds around that one!

How are you doing with remembering the flow of the psalm so far? We’re almost at the halfway point, so the stanza count is getting up there. One of the strategies I use to remember is to watch for similarities between stanzas that help me to group them for recall.

In Aleph, for example, the psalmist talks about how blessed people are who walk in the blameless way and in Beth he tells us how a person can actually do that . . . and it is by following God’s Word. So I use that to remember the Aleph/Beth content together. Keep your eyes open for groupings that you can remember together.

Keep those posts coming! It’s great to see what everyone’s learning and to encourage each other in the Word.

Don’t forget to check out the packages at Logos! One of the things I love about the software is that you can buy an entry-level package and keep adding on over time. It’s not something you have to jump into all at once. I’ve been building my library for several years now and I’m already making my list for this Christmas! Here's the link: www.logos.com/precept.

Keep enjoying the sweetness this week!

Blessings,

pam

Week Five: Psalm 119 Video Blog Bible Study from Pam Gillaspie on Vimeo.

Click on "comments" and view the comments from others and leave one of your own.

Remember, you can watch the video and post responses anytime day or night! Don’t be shy!

Pam's review of Lesson 5 will be posted on October 14th at 12:01 AM!

STC – Psalm 119: Pam's review of Lesson 3a

2010-09-30T00:01:00.001-04:00

Congratulations to “Susie” and “Prayer Pal”! Each won a copy of Israel, My Beloved signed by Kay. Please email Karen, at Precept Ministries (ksherrill@precept.org), with your full name and address, and they’ll be in the mail to you this week!

I’m so enjoying the posts and discussions. It’s so interesting to hear what words each of you are picking to help you remember the content of the stanzas. As we continue through our study, continue to recall those words and review both the content and application from each stanza. I can’t emphasize enough the importance of application. We need to both know God’s Word and live it!!

I have something exciting to tell you about! Logos Bible Software is graciously offering a special discount to our online study from now through the end of the year. You’ll get 20% off any base packages and a portion of the sale will benefit Precept. It’s a win-win! Here's the link: logos.com/precept. Be sure to check it out.

Let’s just say because of Logos, my family always knows what to get me for my birthday and Christmas!

Keep pressing into Jesus!

Many blessings,

pam

Week Four: Psalm 119 Video Blog Bible Study from Pam Gillaspie on Vimeo.

Click on "comments" and view the comments from others and leave one of your own.

Remember, you can watch the video and post responses anytime day or night! Don’t be shy!

Pam's review of Lesson 3 will be posted on October 7th at 12:01 AM!

STC – Psalm 119: Pam's review of Lesson 2b

2010-09-23T00:01:00.001-04:00

Are the stanzas of Psalm 119 starting to take on more clarity for you yet? The more time I spend in the psalm, the easier it becomes to remember how everything fits together, but it is most assuredly a process. Just like you don’t wake up one morning with a handle on how the whole Bible fits together, you don’t wake up one morning with Psalm 119 in your back pocket either. But trust me, as you keep soaking in it, it will keep coming little by little.

We’ll announce the winners of Israel, My Beloved next week. We wanted to give everyone a full week to post and get in on the fun!!

You all are a doing a great job with the posting! I so enjoy reading your comments and applications! Keep ‘em coming!

Many blessings,

pam

Week Three: Psalm 119 Video Blog Bible Study from Pam Gillaspie on Vimeo.

Click on "comments" and view the comments from others and leave one of your own.

Remember, you can watch the video and post responses anytime day or night! Don’t be shy!

Pam's review of Lesson 3 will be posted on September 30th at 12:01 AM!

Israel, My Beloved

2010-09-16T13:51:00.006-04:00

Israel, My Beloved by Kay Arthur

Go on the unforgettable journey of God's chosen people, beginning in the sixth-century B.C. and ending with the glorious return of the Messiah to Israel. From the wickedness of Roman rule to the horrors of the Third Reich, see a people caught in webs of sorrow and hopelessness, yet with God's promise of provision. This novel captures the heart of God's chosen people discovering His enduring love and provision and His promise for final redemption.

STC – Psalm 119: Pam's review of Lesson 2

2010-09-16T00:01:00.001-04:00

What a great first week together! I am so encouraged by your responses to the discussion questions and I’ve had a great time reading through the Facebook messages so many of you have sent me. I know we’re separated by miles, but we are still one body and we still journey together.

If you haven’t gotten into the discussion and posted yet, I want to give you two reasons to work up your nerve and/or resolve. This week, Precept will randomly select two “posters” to receive a signed copy of Kay Arthur’s historical novel, Israel, My Beloved. So when you post this week, be sure to include a first name and first initial of your last name if you want to be included in this part of the fun!

One last thing, if you have friends who are still interested in jumping into the study let them know they are always welcomed! There’s enough flexibility around her for latecomers, too!

Many blessings,

pam

Week Two: Psalm 119 Video Blog Bible Study from Pam Gillaspie on Vimeo.

Click on "comments" and view the comments from others and leave one of your own.

Remember, you can watch the video and post responses anytime day or night! Don’t be shy!

Pam's review of Lesson 3 will be posted on September 23rd at 12:01 AM!

STC – Psalm 119: Pam's review of Lesson 1

2010-09-09T00:01:00.005-04:00

I’m so glad you’re joining us for Precept’s second online study, Sweeter than Chocolate! Psalm 119. We’re doing some things differently from our study this summer including having a more structured registration. This is going to be so beneficial in helping Precept keep in contact with each of us on important topics, but it has left one gaping hole for me . . . a glimpse at your faces.

So as we get started, I have one request I want to make of you. If you’re on Facebook, “Friend” me and send me a short paragraph so I can get to know you. I can’t promise that I’ll be able to personally get back in touch with everyone, but I can tell you that if you can make the time to tell me a little about yourself, I can make the time to read it!

I also want to encourage you to get involved in the discussion! I love reading your comments and love seeing all of the interaction in our cyber-classroom. If you’re not completely comfortable with posting, remember this — no one else is either! We’re all learning new skills here in this online community and the way we learn how to do an online study is by just doing it.

If you find yourself in serious need of some digital help, though, your secret weapon is a pizza. Order a pizza and invite a couple of teenagers over for dinner. They are digital natives and should have you surfing and posting in no time!

Looking forward to a great fall together!

Many blessings,

pam

Week One: Psalm 119 Video Blog Bible Study from Pam Gillaspie on Vimeo.

Click on "comments" and view the comments from others and leave one of your own.

Remember, you can watch the video and post responses anytime day or night! Don’t be shy!

Pam's review of Lesson 2 will be posted on September 16^th at 12:01 AM!

Welcome to Sweeter than Chocolate! Psalm 119 from Pam Gillaspie

2010-09-02T08:49:00.000-04:00

What is a Flexible Study? from Pam Gillaspie on Vimeo.

Register Now!!

2010-08-20T15:39:00.003-04:00

Join us September 9th for Sweeter than Chocolate! Psalm 119. Invite a friend to join you, buy your books, and register at precept.org/chocolate. Then, on September 1, we will send the welcome video and 11-week study syllabus. See you online!

STC- Hebrews 11: Pam's review of Lesson 6

2010-07-29T00:01:00.001-04:00

I have to ask . . . How are you feeling on your biblical geography this week? I hope you shared the map of Israel with someone else, but if you haven’t yet it’s not too late. Talking about what you’ve learned is a great way to review and remember!

It’s hard for me to believe that this is our last blog thread for Hebrews 11, but I want you to know that I’ll be interacting with all of the threads for several more weeks at least since not everyone is on the same pace with the study. When you post a comment, I get an e-mail and I’m always eager to hear what you have to say so we can discuss!

Thanks SO much for joining me in this study and for supporting Precept Ministries with your book purchase. I hope you’ll ask God if He would have you partner with us with your continuing financial support. Here is a link if you’d like to join me in supporting Precept financially in bringing God’s Word around the world: www.precept.org/donate.

Hope to see you for Sweeter than Chocolate! Psalm 119 this fall!

Week Six - Hebrews 11 Video Blog Bible Study from Pam Gillaspie on Vimeo.

Nearly 1200 are taking this summer Bible study! Check it out and "Sign the guestbook."

To post a comment on the blog look for the line underneath this post that states how many comments have been made. Click on "comments" and view the comments from others and leave one of your own.

Remember, you can watch the video and post responses anytime day or night.

GIVEAWAY!!

2010-07-22T10:51:00.003-04:00

The GIVEAWAY has started!! Head over to -->http://www.facebook.com/precept.org, for a chance to win a free copy of Kay Arthur's newest book TURNING YOUR HEART TOWARD GOD. 5 winners will be announced tommorrow!!!

To learn more about Turning Your Heart Towards God, click here.

STC- Hebrews 11: Pam's review of Lesson 5

2010-07-22T00:01:00.002-04:00

Yes! You’re in the right place! Don’t you love the facelift Precept has given the blog page? We’ve all been learning together on this new adventure and part of what we’ve been learning on our end is how to make an online study easier to navigate.

We now have links on the menu so you can subscribe to the posts and comments through feeds or (for those of us who are a little less savvy) through e-mail! Just drop your e-mail address into the sidebar section and every time this blog updates, you’ll be notified! This is a great way to keep in contact with what is going on with this study and with Precept.

I’m praying that God will use this week’s video to help you break through some common barriers people face when dealing with the history and geography of the Old Testament. I’ll bet you didn’t know that on your hand is a reasonable map of the nation of Israel! Well, today in our video segment we’re not only going to untangle one of the most difficult sections in the Old Testament together, you’re also going to learn simple biblical geography on your very own hand. Today we’re going to make geography fun and I am praying that God will cement these basic facts in your heart so that you are better equipped as you read and study His Word!

Keep those comments and questions coming!

Week Five - Hebrews 11 Video Blog Bible Study from Pam Gillaspie on Vimeo.

Over 1100 are taking this summer Bible study! Check it out and "Sign the guestbook."

To post a comment on the blog look for the line underneath this post that states how many comments have been made. Click on "comments" and view the comments from others and leave one of your own.

Remember, you can watch the video and post responses anytime day or night. Pam's review of Lesson 6 will be posted on July 29 at 12:01 AM!

STC- Hebrews 11: Pam's review of Lesson 4

2010-07-15T00:01:00.006-04:00

I am amazed that at four weeks into our six-week summer study the number of participants continues to grow! Praise God!! When Precept stepped out in faith on this new type of study, we had no idea what the response would be and it as been thrilling to see the way God has worked and blessed!

We are SO excited that God keeps bringing people in! With that, though, we know not everyone is on the same week of study. That’s fine, but because of this I want to assure you that all of the discussions are still “live.” If you post to an older blog entry, I’m still getting e-mails letting me know that and will be interacting on all of the discussion threads. So if you’ve just joined in, have a little slower pace because of the summer, or whatever jump in and join the conversation!

I can’t wait to hear from you — whether you’re on Week 1, 2, 3, or 4!!

Week Four - Hebrews 11 Video Blog Bible Study from Pam Gillaspie on Vimeo.

Remember, you can watch the video and post responses anytime day or night. Pam's review of Lesson 5 will be posted on July 22 at 12:01 AM!

STC - Hebrews 11: Pam's review of Lesson 3

2010-07-08T06:01:00.000-04:00

It’s hard for me to believe that we’re already to week three of our study together. Summer can be a crazy time—it sure has been for me so far—and I want to encourage you to keep pressing on! If vacation or summer camps or who-knows-what else throws you off course, don’t stay off the path. Just dust yourself off and start up again. The videos will remain up on the blog so you can catch up and review to your heart’s content. Remember, our pursuit of God is a lifetime endeavor, so take a deep breath, let the study flex to meet you and ENJOY God’s sweet Word this week!

Keep those posts coming! I'm loving the conversation!

Over 1100 are taking this summer Bible study! Check it out and "Sign the guestbook"

To post a comment on the blog look for the line underneath this post that states how many comments have been made. It looks something like this:
Click on "comments" and view the comments from others and leave one of your own.

Remember, you can watch the video and post responses anytime day or night. Pam's review of Lesson 4 will be posted on July 15 at 12:01 AM!

STC - Hebrews 11: Pam's review of Lesson 2

2010-07-01T00:01:00.005-04:00

What a great first week! I’ve loved reading your comments and interacting with so many of you via your posts. For those of you who haven’t responded on the blog, go ahead and take the plunge—it’s really easy and you’ll bless the rest of us when you do. (See directions below.)

I know that some studies close to newcomers a week or two in, but I believe God can always do His work in His time. So if you have friends who want to jump in, invite them to come along for the ride. Although the Sweeter than Chocolate! Hebrews 11 workbooks are currently sold out, they will be back in this week and shipped by July 9. In the meantime, we’ve made Lessons 1 and 2 available via download (see menu to the right) so you can keep up if you’re waiting for a book. You'll also find the download for the leaders guide as well "how to" links on the right side bar menu.

I'm looking forward to hearing from you this week!

Over 1,000 are taking this summer Bible study! Check it out and "Sign the guestbook"

To post a comment on the blog look for the line underneath this post that states how many comments have been made. It looks something like this:
Click on "comments" and view the comments from others and leave one of your own.

You can watch the video and post responses anytime day or night. Pam's review of Lesson 3 will be posted on July 8 at 12:01 AM!

STC - Hebrews 11: Pam's review of Lesson 1

2010-06-24T00:01:00.014-04:00

Can you believe we're finally underway?! I'm so excited to start this online study together. If you're meeting with a group, take some time to get to know each other, watch the video, and discuss the questions I'll give you at the end of the video. And whatever you do, don't forget to post your responses!! You might be tempted to watch the video and lurk, but the more we can interact, the better it will be for everyone. If you know some stragglers who are still thinking about joining, invite them to come along! As long as you're breathing, it's never too late to start seeking God through His Word. It's also not to late to join Alison on her NING site at http://belovedtruth.ning.com/

Sweeter than Chocolate - Hebrews 11 Leaders Guide
How does an online blog Bible study work?
5 W's & H of summer online Bible study
How to register or "sign the guestbook"

See more helpful links at the top of this page on the right sidebar. Be sure to sign the below guest book (How to register or "sign the guestbook")

To post a comment on the blog look for the line that states how many comments have been made. It looks something like this:

Click on "comments" and view the comments from others and leave one of your own.

You can watch the video and post responses anytime day or night. Pam's review of Lesson 2 will be posted on July 1 at 12:01 AM!

Summer Online Study Update!

2010-06-18T21:01:00.004-04:00

Complete lesson 1 of Sweeter Than Chocolate - Hebrews 11 by June 24! If you are meeting with a group download the FREE LEADERS GUIDE. Remember you can view Pam's video and post anytime day or night. New videos will post each Thursday beginning on June 24.

• It's not too late to register! Simply "sign the guestbook" below by adding your first name, location and if you are registering as an individual or group. If a group, how many? You don't need to include your email address but adding a picture would be wonderful! Don't stress if you don't have a picture or if you're registering or signing the guestbook too many times. This is more about "seeing" you than keeping an accurate count!
• If you're on your own, think about joining Alison's online small group at http://belovedtruth.ning.com/
• If you want to find others in your area, post yourself as a class on the class locator at
http://www.preceptnetwork.org/classes/
• Check out the helpful links to the right under the heading FAQ's

ONLINE Summer Blog Bible Study - Starts SOON!

2010-06-10T00:01:00.004-04:00

Order your book, invite a friend to join you or spend time with your group! Remember, the wrap up video of lesson 1 will be posted on June 24 at 12:01 AM.

• It's not too late to register! Simply "sign the guestbook" below by adding your first name, location and if you are registering as an individual or group. If a group, how many? You don't need to include your email address but adding a picture would be wonderful! Don't stress if you don't have a picture or if you're registering or signing the guestbook too many times. This is more about "seeing" you than keeping an accurate count!
• If you're on your own, think about joining Alison's online small group at http://belovedtruth.ning.com/
• If you want to find others in your area, post yourself as a class on the class locator at
http://www.preceptnetwork.org/classes/
• Check out the helpful links to the right under the heading FAQ's

Summer ONLINE Bible Study - Sign the Guestbook!

2010-05-27T08:10:00.006-04:00

Here's how to "sign the guestbook" for Sweeter than Chocolate - Hebrews 11 (please read carefully). This isn't your typical registration!

1. Take a picture of your class or yourself and have it on your computer and ready to upload. (If you are unable to do this, find someone in your class who can help.)
2. To register, click on "sign this guestbook" below.
3. DO enter your FIRST NAME ONLY (for your protection)!
4. Enter your location or the location where your group meets (Example - Chattanooga, TN)
5. DO NOT enter your email address. Yes, they ask but we think you should protect your email address!
6. DO add a picture of yourself or your group. Please...we really do want to see you!
7. In the "message" section, please indicate if you are an "individual" or "group" studying. If a "group," please add the number. (Example - Message: Group (23) or Message: individual)
8. When you have completed the above steps it will take you right back to the beginning. Your instinct will be to enter the information all over again but don't. If you do - not to worry! We will go in periodically and delelte any duplicates!

Be sure to order your copy of Sweeter thank Chocolate - Hebrews 11. If you have any questions or concerns, post them as a comment below and Pam will answer by way of comment too! Can't wait to "see" you...

Ready? "Sign the guestbook" below!

How does an ONLINE Bible study work?
See the 5 W's and an H!
See how does an online blog Bible study work?
Or: http://deepandwide.org/Hebrews11_Blog_Study.html for the basics.

Oh, one other thing. If your group is open to others, consider adding your information to the class locator list!

Sweeter than Chocolate - Hebrews 11: Life Changing!

2010-05-13T00:01:00.004-04:00

SUMMER BIBLE STUDY: Beginning Thursday, June 24 - Join Pam Gillaspie every week - any time and any day - via this blog for her brand new study entitled: Sweeter Than Chocolate! Hebrews 11. In the video below, Pam shares her heart and prayer for you and why she believe this study can be life changing! You might also enjoy these awe inspiring testimonies.

How will this online Bible study work?
• The 5Ws and H of Sweeter than Chocolate! Online SUMMER BIBLE STUDY. . .
• A video message from Pam Gillaspie!

Next post: May 27!

What are you studying this summer?

2010-04-29T00:01:00.005-04:00

It's not too early to organize a summer Bible study! Grab one or two friends, set a weekly date, time and location that works for you. We invite you to join our summer online Bible study. So, pick up your copy of Sweeter Than Chocolate - Hebrews 11 by Pam Gillaspie. Then, beginning Thursday, June 24, you and your group can join Pam every week via this blog this brand new study! The below links will provide more details on how our first online Bible study will work.

• The 5Ws and H of Sweeter than Chocolate! Online SUMMER BIBLE STUDY. . .
• Another video message from Pam Gillaspie!

Next post: May 13 video message from Pam!

Sweet Testimonies

2010-04-15T00:10:00.004-04:00

SUMMER BIBLE STUDY: Beginning Thursday, June 24 - Join Pam Gillaspie every week via this blog for her brand new study entitled: Sweeter Than Chocolate! Hebrews 11. Purchase today at a special introductory price of $19.99 (regular price $24.99) - ends April 18.

How does an online Bible study work?
• The 5Ws and H of Sweeter than Chocolate! Online SUMMER BIBLE STUDY. . .
• A video message from Pam Gillaspie!

If you aren't familiar with Pam Gillaspie or her Bible studies, enjoy these "sweet" testimonies! Then, leave a note about what you are looking forward to learning in the study this summer! If you have questions, leave those, too.

janet
Pam Gillaspie’s Bible Study Sweeter Than Chocolate! Hebrews 11 was my first Precept experience. I was immediately “hooked.“ Her approach made the Bible come alive for me. Pam brought us to the very heart of faith through the lives of Noah, Abraham, Jacob, Joseph, Moses and so many others. Their struggles are our struggles, their faith helps strengthen our faith. Hebrews 11 is not only a demonstration of faith, but it leads us to the hope and joy that God provided in Christ. Pam has done a beautiful job of leading us to that truth through this study. Janet
Gurnee, Illinois

Sweeter Than Chocolate - Psalm 119...

melissa
This study on Hebrews 11 came at a time of great uncertainty and displacement in my life. After a few years of moving around the country with my dear husband who is in the military, he was deployed to the Middle East to help fight in the Global War on Terror. Our newborn son and I had temporarily relocated to the Great Lakes area which is "home" to us. When my Mom asked if I would like to come to this Bible study on Hebrews 11, I really wasn't sure that it would provide any fresh information having both Masters and Bachelors degrees in the field of Biblical Studies, but I knew I needed something.... I loved the study! Pam was able to expound on the text and to help us to apply it to life, it really was "sweeter than chocolate"! As a military spouse, often in transition and facing uncertainty, this study reaffirmed the importance of looking forward to that city whose builder and maker is God, who is the unchanging One in the midst of an ever changing and uncertain world. It is rare to find Bible studies that are formatted to allow students of varying levels of maturity and who have varying amounts of time to be challenged and encouraged. While "putting the cookies on the bottom shelf" for everyone to understand, she at the same time provided additional opportunities for those who like "digging deeper." I would highly recommend this study!
Melissa
Waukegan, IL

ellen
Sweeter than Chocolate! Hebrews 11 is a wonderful study! Taking Hebrews 11 and using it to study the storyline of the Bible was such a great idea. There are three levels of study, which means that there is something for everyone depending on your season of life. The landscape layout is very helpful, especially with enough white space not only to do the lessons but also to write extra notes as we were in class. Pam is such a dynamic teacher, motivating us to study, helping us through each lesson, and challenging us to live out what we have learned. In fact, I liked it so much that I am hoping to use this book in my own Bible study class!
Ellen
Mundelein, IL

Sweeter than Chocolate! Psalm 119 . . .

dawn
God’s word is the sweetest gift ever given and this study is sure to help you savor every word. One of the things that impressed me the most about the study was the depth it provided when I had time and the freedom I felt if I didn’t have time for depth. It was the perfect mix, providing me the opportunity to go back later after children are back in school to sit and adore the Father’s Word even more. The psalmist displays an intense desperation for the Word in Psalm 119, imploring God to continually pour out a desire for the Father’s Word and the study helped me adopt that type desperation when I ask God to shower me with the desire consistently for His Word. The study of this amazing Psalm WAS sweeter than chocolate and it helped point me, once again, toward my God and His Word with great intensity.
Dawn
Bristol, Wisconsin  

beth
Sweeter than Chocolate! Psalm 119 was one of the most impactful Bible studies I have done. Psalm 119 focuses on the timeless truth that all we REALLY need to face each day and each trial is God and His Word. Although I “knew” that already, this study helped clarify and cement this truth in my life. I felt this study had great application and relevance to my everyday life, and I will walk deeper with God because of it. An interesting point about this Bible study is that no matter how many or how few Bible studies you have done, you will glean benefit from it. I took this study with my friend who had never done a Bible study in her life. Both of us were challenged and enjoyed it thoroughly.
Beth
Gurnee, Illinois

joan
Sweeter Than Chocolate! is a Bible study for anyone, no matter where they are in their Christian walk. And, it adjusts to the amount of time you have available. It is easy to jump back in after a busy week but there are also wonderful opportunities to dig deeper into God’s word. I was challenged from the very beginning by the thought – What if I changed my life and lived it every day in light of the fact that God’s word is what it claims to be and does what it claims to do? Where would my worry go if I were clinging to God’s word? Do my actions align with my beliefs?Don’t miss this chance to truly taste the sweetness of God’s word. 
Joan
Gurnee, Illinois

Before you go, don't forget to leave a note about what you are looking forward to learning in the study this summer! If you have questions, leave those, too. Remember, posting now is spring training for the summer study!

Next post: April 29

A video message from Pam Gillaspie

2010-04-08T08:21:00.008-04:00

As you’ve seen from the video, Precept’s launching an interactive blog Bible study this summer on the brand new Sweeter than Chocolate! Hebrews 11. Now, I’m pretty sure many of you reading this are already skilled at observing the text, asking the 5Ws and H, picking out key words and such. What I’m not sure, though, is this:

Have you ever used a blog before for anything other than reading? Post a comment and let me know, okay? Also, let me know any questions you have about doing a blog Bible study.

This is a new baby so we're all going to learn together as we go! Can’t wait to study with you in June and am eager to hear from you now. Consider your posts now as spring training for our summer study! Looking forward to starting the conversation!

Next post: April 15!

In His Grip,
Pam

How does an online blog Bible study work?

2010-04-08T03:01:00.004-04:00

We've been receiving a lot of questions about how an online blog Bible study of Sweeter than Chocolate - Hebrews 11 will work. We hope the below helps. You might also check out the "how to" links at the bottom of this blog post.

1. Our simple definition of Summer “ONLINE” blog Bible study:
• Pam will post a video message EVERY Thursday at 12:01 AM (EST) starting June 24. EACH video will cover that week’s lesson – including discussion or personal application questions.
• As a participant, you and/or your group can access the blog by going to http://preceptministriesinternational.blogspot.com/ at any time (day or night) and watch the video together, discuss and then post your comments concerning that week’s lesson! You will post or comment at the end of that particular blog. Pam will also post her comments back to you here!
• Each week’s video will remain on the blog indefinitely. This means each video can be accessed at any time by scrolling down through the blog posts. They will be in date order with the most current blog post first.

2. Our definition of “REGISTRATION”
• It's not a typical registration! To register, go to the map feature found at: http://preceptministriesinternational.blogspot.com/2010/05/summer-online-bible-study-register-now.html and click on the “sign my guestbook” button on the map. Once there enter your:

• First name only
• Your location or the location of your group
• For your protection, do not enter your email address
• Upload a picture of your group or yourself.
• In the message box, let us know if you are studying as
an individual or with a group and how many are in your group!

• More detailed instructions can be found at:
http://preceptministriesinternational.blogspot.com/2010/05/summer-online-bible-study-register-now.html
• This “registration” or "sign my guestbook" is a great way for us to “see” each other and connect us as we study Sweeter than Chocolate – Hebrews 11 together.
• If you have a problem uploading a photo, just try again. We will periodically delete duplicate registrations. This is registration is more about connecting than keeping any permanent or perfect records!

• The 5Ws and H of Sweeter than Chocolate! Online SUMMER BIBLE STUDY
• More "How To" from Pam
• A video message from Pam Gillaspie!
• Register Now!

The 5W's and H of Sweeter than Chocolate ONLINE

2010-04-01T00:01:00.015-04:00

SUMMER BIBLE STUDY: Beginning June 24 - Join Pam Gillaspie every week via this blog for her brand new study: Sweeter than Chocolate! Hebrews 11. Videos will upload every Thursday, but once they're posted, you can view and post anytime day or night.

Hebrews 11, also known as “the faith chapter,” will get you up to speed on the story line of God’s Book in just six short weeks! But we won't leave it there. We'll take what we learn and wrestle with how it applies today!

The 5Ws and H of Sweeter than Chocolate! Online . . .

WHO?
You and a group of friends. (Yes, you can do it on your own, but we hope you'll bring some friends along for the ride!)

WHAT?
An informal, web-based summer study.

WHERE?
Wherever you like, but preferably somewhere with Internet access.

WHEN?
Starting Thursday, June 24 and running through July 29. Again, you can meet with your group, view, and post anytime day or night. New videos will post each Thursday beginning on June 24.

WHY?
To learn more about God’s sweet Word alongside others around the country and world. You'll get up to speed quickly on the main story line of the Bible and wrestle with application questions that will change how you think and act.

HOW?
This is the long answer! Let’s be honest here. We’re in uncharted territory for Precept—literally, as the book of Joshua says, we have never been this way before. We’re relying on God to show us the way and praying you’ll join us in pioneering this new avenue for study without borders.

Before we start . . .
1. Order your copy of Sweeter than Chocolate! Hebrews 11 and complete Lesson One by June 24.
2. Form a study group with friends or neighbors. You can join on your own as we’ll have online community, but nothing replaces face-to-face time with people for relationship and accountability.
3. Pick a time and location to meet—your house, the local coffee shop, whatever works for your group.
4. Sign up starting May 27 via our SlideMap. (You’ll be asked for your first name and where you’re from. If you’re studying with a group, we’d like to know how many of you there are! And pictures, we love to see pictures so everyone can get to know each other a little better even in cyberspace.)
5. Spread the word. We’re in new territory and need your help in getting the word out!

After we’re rolling . . .
1. Get together once a week to discuss your lesson.
2. Watch the video. Every Thursday from June 24 through July 29, Pam will facilitate the summer study via short videos of about 15-minutes each. She’ll share from her heart, give you discussion questions or activities that will enrich your group time together, and wrap up the week’s lesson. If possible, watch these videos at the beginning of your group time, if not catch them during the week. Remember, you can watch meet, watch the videos, and post anytime day or night. It doesn't have to be Thursday!
3. Post your progress! Finally, and most importantly, Pam will need to hear from YOU and you’ll need to hear from each other! Your way of checking in with Pam is after your group time. Every week leave a comment to tell her how God is working in your group though the study of His Word! We love it if you’d post your comments as a group before you wrap up your time together.

Today . . .
Get your book, get your friends, and get the word out! We’re can’t wait to see to you this summer at Sweeter than Chocolate! online!

Hope for those who hurt!

2010-03-24T00:01:00.001-04:00

On a few occasions, I've had the opportunity to travel with Kay as she's taught at various conferences across the country. So often during these times, I hear people telling Kay how their lives were changed after doing the Bible study LORD, Heal My Hurts. Just recently, a precious lady who checked us into a hotel was telling Kay how that study helped her through a very, very difficult time in her life. The next day, she had her well worn, marked up copy there for Kay to sign. So precious! I've overheard so many telling Kay their stories of pain and hurt and how the Precept Bible studies helped them turned their lives around! The truths I discovered from God's Word while personally working through LORD, Heal My Hurts and reading As Silver Refined moved me from a place of pain to a place of healing. Praise be to God!

Sally Hall
Special Assistant to Kay Arthur

Dirty Jobs - Conference "in a box" for students!

2010-03-14T00:01:00.006-05:00

Dirty Jobs student conference has been held across the country and the testimonies coming from the teens who've attended are AMAZING! Transform Student Ministries is excited to offer you the Dirty Jobs Conference "in a box." That's right - everything you will need to plan, promote and lead so that your teens can have the same life changing experience.

Dirty Jobs is an Inductive Bible Study to challenge teens in their God-given call to meet the needs of others and show them His great love. The study’s call to action comes out of Micah 6:8: “…To do justice, to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God.”

This kit contains: 1 Printed Leader Guide; 5 Printed Student Workbooks; 2 DVDs with: Audio Lectures; Sermon Outlines; Promotional Videos; Electronic Publicity Items; Digital Graphics, and more.

Boot Camp 2010

2010-02-22T00:01:00.004-05:00

What is Boot Camp and why would it be a GREAT Christmas gift for those devoted to God's Word and who are between the ages of 14 to 18?

Boot Camp is one of the most intensive Bible study and youth leadership programs in student ministry today!

What will students walk away with after attending Boot Camp? Read more and sign up!

Celebrate Precept's 40th Anniversary!

2010-02-17T00:01:00.002-05:00

Forty years ago, Precept Ministries began building a spiritual army that is being mobilized by God across the United States and 150 nations—an army built on inductive study of God’s Word that transforms and equips individuals young and old to be “good soldiers of Jesus Christ.” You are part of that army!

Celebrate with us this year by joining us in a prayer of thanksgiving for all God has done throughout the years.

Here are some other ways you may want to celebrate our anniversary...

- Go to Israel with Kay in April 27 – May 13.
- Post your Bible Study on our Class Locator. Let’s hit 4,000 classes on the list.
- Bring a friend to the Women’s Conference – April 16th.
- Bless your Precept Leader with flowers anonymously.
- Become a Fan of Kay’s Fan Page on Facebook and share your testimony.
- Get trained as a Leader.
- Come to on-site training in Chattanooga.
- Become a member of the e-Team.
- If you’re a Leader encourage a class member to become a Leader
- Pray for the ministry.
- Share a devotional with a friend in need.
- Read the Bible to senior citizens
- Start a 40 Minute Study at work during the lunch hour.
- Give to the Ministry.
- Buy your Bible Study Leader a new set of colored pencils.
- Join the Greece Study Tour with Kay and the staff.
- Bring a friend to Precept Training in your area.
- Give $40 a month to the ministry.
- Treat yourself to a new Bible.
- Give your church’s youth pastor the Problem with Evil Conference in a Box.
- Tell your pastor about Precept Inductive Bible Studies.
- Pray for our International ministry offices.
- Start a Bible Study for kids.
- Attend the Fall Women’s Conference
- Pray for more Leaders to be trained in 2010.
- Set up an appreciation dinner for your Bible Study group.
- Reach out to other Leaders in your area.

40 years of building an army - now what?

2010-01-22T00:01:00.002-05:00

"We believe that God has blessed us the past 40 years to build a spiritual army that must be further mobilized. " David Arthur

Precept Ministries began 40 years ago. Who would have thought that an in-home Bible study for teens and adults operated from a chicken farm would become an international ministry in nearly 150 countries and 70 languages? But although we praise God for every inch of progress, in this 40th year of ministry, Precept is not content—we must advance. Now is the time to intensify our efforts. We believe that God has blessed us the past 40 years to build a spiritual army that is being raised up “for such a time as this.” An army of people like you. Men, women, and even teens and children who are reviving the revolutionary idea that Christians can:

Discover Truth for themselves
Encounter God in the pages of His Word
Unleash spiritual transformation in America and across the globe

You may be a Precept veteran . . . or you may be someone just beginning to catch the vision of what God does when you know how to inductively study the Bible . . . or you may be somewhere in between. But wherever God has you, I pray that you realize you are in His army. You are on the front lines of an eternal Kingdom that knows no boundaries and has no competition (Daniel 2:44).

For our part, Precept is laying plans—which we will tell you more about in upcoming communications—to expand this Word-energized army. This movement will grow, by God’s grace. Empowered by His Word, you can influence others in ways you might never have dared imagine. Your sacrificial financial support is vital to this mission. As Christians, we are in a spiritual war, and we must adopt a “wartime mentality”— pouring resources into helping people learn how to study God’s Word so He can transform them and their world.

Too often, ministries and churches fall prey to the old adage: The first generation builds it, the second generation manages it, the third generation closes it. We have committed before God to follow a different path: Following Jesus, we will keep taking life-changing inductive Bible training into every nook and cranny of the earth.

God bless you as you join us in a spiritually pivotal 40th year of serving our King and His Kingdom. Watch this blog for updates!

Stay Connected>>

What does belonging to God look like?

2010-01-11T00:01:00.000-05:00

Why not take time this year to discover that holiness is not an arbitrary standard within today's church or an unreachable goal of sinless perfection. Holiness is about pleasing God — living in such a way that it's clear you belong to Him. Holiness is what makes you unique as a believer in Jesus Christ.

Come explore the beauty of holy living and see why true holiness and true happiness always go together. Living Like You Belong to God>>>

Are you looking for help to grow spiritually?

2010-01-02T00:01:00.002-05:00

Does life sometimes leave you feeling overwhelmed, confused, worn out, and empty? Do you desire a closer relationship with God? Are you looking for help to grow spiritually? God desires to give you a more abundant life.

LORD, Help Me Grow Spiritually Strong is designed to take you daily through the essentials for spiritual growth –God’s way. This practical study will help you:

• Know God better
• Experience the power of the Holy Spirit
• Pray effectively
• Learn to study the Bible for yourself
• Experience life to the fullest
• Stand strong and resist temptation

Learn how you can grow spiritually strong as you study these precepts for life. They Work!

2009 - Praising God!

2009-12-30T00:01:00.002-05:00

Thank you for partnering with us during 2009 to establish others in God's Word! Because YOU have given of your time, talents and treasure - TOGETHER, we ARE making a difference. We praise God and are excited about 2010! Why? In January, thousands of Bible study classes will start back up! Hundreds of training workshops and seminars are scheduled throughout the country as well as training workshops in Chattanooga, TN. Women's conferences, Boot Camp, Teen Conferences...and the list goes on.

People are hungry for God's Word! Below is a recap of what happened nationally. MUCH more going on internationally...
• In January, Kay spoke to 321 attendees at the International Biblical Exposition Conference held in Houston, TX.
• 102 people attended the Leaders Gathering at Sugar Creek Baptist Church held in Houston, TX.
• Kay spoke to 26 attendees at the Donor’s luncheon held in Houston, TX.
• 1,389 people attended the Worldview Weekend’s Code Blue Rally in Houston, TX.
• Kay spoke to 600 attendees at the Call2All Congress in Dayton, OH.
• In January, Kay spoke to 60 attendees at the GPWN (in conjunction with Call2All Congress), in Dayton, OH.
• Kay spoke to 110 attendees at the Women of Christian Media Conference held in Nashville, TN.
• Kay spoke at two different chapel services held at Tennessee Temple University in Chattanooga, TN. Approximately 365 people attended each service.
• 175 attended the Chattanooga Men’s Conference held at Precept Ministries, and 68 accepted the challenge to start a 40 Minute small group study.
• In March, Kay spoke to 820 attendees at the McLean Bible Church Women’s Conference held in Cambridge, MD.
• Kay spoke at the Youniquely Woman Conference in Scottsdale, AZ. Approximately 300 people attended.
• 1,500 people heard Kay speak at the Worldview Weekend’s Code Blue Rally held in Snellville, GA.
• Kay spoke to a combined total of 330 attendees at the Southern Evangelical Seminary held in Matthews, NC.
• In April, Kay spoke to 1,300 attendees at the Friend’s Church in Yorba Linda, CA.
• Kay spoke at the Worldview Weekend Conference in Branson, MO. Approximately 2,300 people attended.
• 328 women attended the Chattanooga Women’s Conference held at Precept Ministries.
• In May, 224 people attended Precept’s Israel Tour.
• In June, Kay spoke at the Gordon Conwell Theological Seminary in South Hampton, MA. 158 people attended the event.
• A combined total of 270 youth attended Boot Camps at Precept Ministries International.
• In July, a total of 378 attended training workshops held at Precept Ministries International.
• A combined total of 833 people attended Precept advertised training workshops held throughout the U.S.
• In August, Kay spoke to 11,270 attendees at a LifeWay Deeper Still event held in Greensboro, NC.
• A Precept Women’s Conference was held in August on the Precept campus. There were 287 attendees.
• In August, a combined total of 182 people attended training workshops throughout the U.S.
• A Precept Men’s Conference was held in Waxahachie, TX. David Arthur, David Lawson and Ritchie Johnson spoke to 258 attendees.
• In September, Kay spoke to 160 attendees at the Christian Product Expo held in Murfreesboro, TN.
• 10,147 attendees heard Kay speak at the Deeper Still Convention held in Orlando, FL.
• A Leader’s event was held in Orlando, in conjunction with the Deeper Still Convention. Kay spoke to 100 attendees at this event.
• In September, 115 people attended Precept’s Greece Tour.
• 608 people registered in September to attend Precept’s Fall PUP Bible study.
• In September, a combined total of 450 people attended various training workshops throughout the U.S.
• A Precept Women’s Conference was held in October on the Precept Campus. There were 210 attendees.
• In October, a combined total of 610 people attended various training workshops throughout the U.S.
• Kay spoke to 188 attendees at the Discipleship Conference held at Brainerd Baptist Church in Chattanooga, TN.
• There were 850 in attendance to hear Kay speak at the Riverland Hills Baptist Church Conference in Irmo, SC.
• A Leader’s event was held in Irmo, SC, in conjunction with Riverland Hills Baptist Church Conference. There were 64 attendees.

Boot Camp 2010 - great Christmas gift!

2009-12-10T00:01:00.001-05:00

What is Boot Camp and why would it be a GREAT Christmas gift for those devoted to God's Word and who are between the ages of 14 to 18?

Boot Camp is one of the most intensive Bible study and youth leadership programs in student ministry today!

What will students walk away with after attending Boot Camp? Read more and sign up!

Give the Gift of God's Word...

2009-12-04T00:01:00.008-05:00

Priceless and eternal is the gift of God's Word. Check out these staff recommendations:

Sandy Ellingson (Director Precept Network) is giving as gifts this Christmas - Lord, Is It Warfare? Teach me to Stand ($13.99); How To Study Your Bible for Kids DVD ($14.99) and With An Everlasting Love ($12.99)!

Cindy Gann (On-Site Event Registrar) has purchased these items as Christmas gifts - Having a Real Relationship With God ($7.99); How to Make Choices You Won't Regret ($7.99) and Lord, I Give You This Day ($11.99)!

Sally Hall (Special Assistant to Kay Arthur) has selected these as Christmas presents - The Names of God Bookmark ($1), The History of Israel Timeline ($9.99) and Lord, I Want to Know You ($13.99)!

You can save a few dollars by purchasing your next Precept Inductive Bible Study through a discount catalog or website. But did you know purchasing through Precept…
• Funds the translation of these studies into nearly 70 languages including Romanian, Russian, Chinese and Hindi to equip people with God’s Word in nearly 150 countries
• Supports the Bible study trainers on the ground in spiritually hungry countries around the world
• Provides a portion of the funds necessary to support the writers, and editors that are already at work creating the next study

No matter how far you have fallen...

2009-11-17T00:01:00.000-05:00

No Matter How Far You Have Fallen,..God Can Set You Free

"Just three months ago I chose to commit suicide. I grew up in a Christian home, but I believed Satan’s lies. The reality was I was anorexic, depressed, bitter, and rebellious. My morals were gone. Every time I dreamed of college, it always had fashion, alcohol, studies, and sex in it." Listen to Joy’s remarkable story...

How can Christian students live in this broken down world, filled with sin and distractions at every turn, and not compromise?

2009-11-07T00:01:00.004-05:00

Is it even possible?

What’s the balance between using the world as an opportunity for sharing Christ and just being dragged down? It’s a hard balance to strike, but one that God has prepared us for with the example of a teen named Daniel.

How do we RESOLVE to live in the world but not be of it? Join Transform Student Ministries for the only conference that puts students into the Word for themselves as we search God’s Word for real answers to real problems.

What's it worth?

2009-11-04T07:00:00.000-05:00

I’m Katherine Huske and I have the amazing privilege of working at Precept Ministries on all things web related. This morning on the way to work, I bought a Starbuck’s coffee… a skinny vanilla latte. I don’t do it very often, but it was so good! It cost me almost $4… and the coffee was great! As I enjoyed my java, God really spoke to my heart about how I spend my money. The few dollars I spend here and there add up…

I was looking at the cost of some of our products on the new eStore we just launched. A Precept Upon Precept class might look expensive… but when you get down to it, it only costs $2.25 per week! I can spend less than a Starbuck’s coffee and get a week’s worth of life changing Bible Study.

So check out our PUP studies. Do one. Take leader training… teach a class! I know the eternal benefits are sweeter than any latte you have ever had….

Bible encouragement from David Arthur

2009-10-27T00:01:00.000-04:00

Are you radical?

During the summer, I once again saw the future of Christianity in America. I stood before students at our teen Boot Camp and taught on the Sermon on the Mount. These are young men and women who are committed to knowing God through an intense week of inductive Bible study. But when I look at the appalling rates of churched youth who walk away from the church in adulthood, I feel heartsick because in many cases it is so preventable.

They live in a day when Christianity is presented as a mere sprinkling of religious sugar just to make life taste better . . . yet the Word of God counters with something entirely different.

Something radical.

Something not found in today’s self-help books, whether from a secular or religious bookstore. Something that won’t tickle their young ears but will satisfy their soul. Something that is difficult—no, impossible—but for which God supplies the power and the joy.

Jesus outlined this radical life in the Sermon on the Mount (Matt. 5–7). Let me share just a tiny bit of what I found and what I taught to the youth.

First, radical Christianity is Christianity. Just before He gave the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus “began to preach and say, ‘Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand’ ” (Matt. 4:17) and was “proclaiming the gospel of the kingdom” (4:23). It was in that context that He gave the Sermon on the Mount—a call to a radical lifestyle and identification with a radical Kingdom that was, no doubt, shocking to those who heard it. This was the “Gospel.” Literally, the Good News. And there isn’t any better news to deliver, no “Plan B.” This was Jesus’ core message on how to live as a member of God’s Kingdom—a Kingdom that is indeed good and that you should desire.

Second, radical—that is, real—Christianity requires repentance. When Jesus preaches “Repent” in Matthew 4:17, we see what He means in Matthew 5–7 as He outlines true spirituality. It’s not something you add to your life; it replaces your life. It’s not something to fulfill your self-directed desires; it requires that you give up your self direction— that you turn from sin and self-sufficiency. He told those in the crowd to give up their definition of being “blessed” and accept His (5:3–12). To give up their definition of righteousness and accept His (5:17–7:27).

Third, it involves a radical change of identity. Jesus lays out a standard that is impossible except for knowing your identity in Him and His life in you (see 2 Cor. 5:14-17). He doesn’t say “Give light,” but rather, “You are the light” (Matt. 5:14a). When you are in Christ, with Christ in you, then you have the power to be who you are as His new creature.

In Him, you can stand.

May God bless you for standing strong. And may He bless you for your prayers and support for Precept, as God uses you to help others—including our young people encounter His radical and eternal Kingdom.

David Arthur
VP Teaching & Training

Calling all leaders!

2009-10-17T00:01:00.000-04:00

“As each one has received a special gift, employ it in serving one another as good stewards of the manifold grace of God. 1 Peter 4:10

Do you and members of your church want to go deeper with God?

Are you looking for a great way to share your faith with friends, neighbors, and co-workers?

Do you have the gift of teaching, but aren't exactly sure how to use it?

Then Precept Leader Training might be right for you! Precept Training Workshops are offered around the country in 1- and 2-day formats. Longer workshops are held at our training facility in Tennessee, including an upcoming workshop in August!

Precept Ministries International - Chattanooga, TN
Onsite Training Workshop, Seminars and Study Programs

What you can expect from leadership training?

If you’re ready to start leading Precept Upon Precept Bible studies, our Precept Training Workshops will equip you with skills to help you study and lead with confidence! We offer a variety of leader training tracks, including these one-day courses:

• Basics of Precept Upon Precept: This workshop is for those who want to know how to study a Precept Upon Precept (PUP) course and the basics for leading PUP Bible study courses. This workshop uses the Genesis Part 3 workbook, “Becoming a Friend of the Faithful God: A Study on Abraham” and covers the first lesson. Students receive their workbook at the workshop.

• Precept Leader Training: This workshop focuses on leadership, planning lessons, and leading more effective and lively discussions. There will be hands-on lesson planning and opportunity to observe a discussion led by the Precept trainer as the students study the Word of God through the PUP 2 Thessalonians workbook. Each student will be sent a workbook and homework instructions.

• Advanced Leader Training: This workshop allows the student to experience three very different kinds of PUP lessons: an Old Testament history study from the book of I Samuel, a New Testament topical study from the Sermon on the Mount, and a detailed Old Testament prophecy lesson from the book of Daniel. The class will evaluate together the best approach
for each type of lesson. The student will be sent three lessons to complete before the workshop and must meet prerequisites.

• Discover 4 Yourself—How to Teach Kids to Study the Bible: This workshop will teach the students how to teach kids the basic skills of Inductive Bible Study. The student will learn how to teach kids to observe, interpret, and apply God's Word by marking key words, asking the “5-W’s and an H,” and making lists while working through one of the Discover 4 Yourself study books. The student will also be equipped with other practical ideas. Each student will receive one of the Discover 4 Yourself books at the workshop.

To register visit http://www.precept.org/ today We look forward to seeing you in Chattanooga!

Sharing the Vision!

2009-10-07T00:01:00.001-04:00

Focus on Leadership Training

For the past thirty-seven years, training leaders has been the central ministry of Precept. Trained leaders know how to teach God’s Word through the Inductive Bible Study Method, facilitate meaningful discussions, ask good questions, and assist people to mature in their spiritual journey. It’s a multiplying ministry—leaders help to establish believers in God’sWord; believers are strengthened and share what they learn with even more people.

A Foundation of Leadership
There are now approximately 1,600 active Precept leaders across the United States. But in the next three years, we want to significantly increase that leadership core. And it all starts with dedicated believers like you. Teaching people to discover truth is what we’re all about. This organization’s role in the Kingdom of God is to help people read and study God’s Word in a way that enables them to dig deeper in the passage, hold on to what they learn, and apply it to their lives. This results in a changed life for that person, and ultimately impacts the family, the church, and the community.

Increasing Access to Training
One way Precept is working to knock down barriers to leadership training is through developing new training methods, specifically with online and DVD training. For people who want to become leaders, but cannot physically attend a workshop, these new teaching methods will give anyone access to Precept leadership training. While there are already scholarships available for individuals who need financial assistance, Precept is diligently assessing how to reduce the cost of training, as well. No one should ever consider cost a hindrance.

Understanding Precept’s Eternal Value
In order to see God’s Word exalted and lived out, notably in the U.S., but also around the world, we are looking for a core group of leaders who will join us in an urgent sense of mission. We want to see a groundswell of Bible studies going in the U.S., but we must first establish a core group of trained leaders who will champion the charge! You have probably heard the conspicuous line in Isaiah 59:14 that ‘truth has stumbled in the streets,’” I believe that this is happening here in the U.S. today. We want to engage people in the study of God’s Word, to see their lives transformed through Bible study, so that they can live out truth in these times.”

Kay's YouTube Video Hits a Nerve

2009-10-01T12:01:00.002-04:00

Over 40,000 people have viewed Kay’s video on YouTube since 9/11. Kay passionately shared from God’s Word regarding the spiritual condition of our nation.

Because of the high number of “views” it was rated in the “Top Viewed” videos, which put it on the front page of YouTube. This created a wonderful opportunity for many people to see it that have never heard of Precept Ministries.

The response was mixed… sometimes hostile. But the LORD was in control. We caution you before you read the comments on YouTube, as some of them are so disrespectful. But the Good News is that “Viewers” heard the Truth… and we know that God’s Word will not return to Him empty, without accomplishing what He desire, and without succeeding in the matter for which He sent it”. Isaiah 55:11

Ask Ritchie!

2009-09-18T00:01:00.000-04:00

Hear from one of Precept's key team members, Ritchie Johnson, director of Transform Student Ministries, along with two of our summer 2009 interns.

Question: How do you respond when someone says, “Teens today generally can’t, or won’t, respond to deep Bible study”?

Answer: Ritchie: First, it’s biblically false. David was a youth. Daniel was a teen when he went to Babylon. Jeremiah was a youth. Timothy was young. Experience is important, but the biblical facts are that young people can learn God’s Word—and God has used them as leaders and catalysts for great movements. Teens are not “kids” to us—they are disciples. Ryan: And as a student and intern, I’ve seen the power of God’s Word in young people! A lot of friends my age are asking “why” questions about God and don’t want Sunday school answers. I gave a 40 Minute Daniel Precept study to a friend, who said, “This rocked my world!” Emily: At the University of Georgia, Precept studies are rippling through dorms. And in my own life: I did not want to come to my first Boot Camp! My parents made me. But inductive study allowed God’s Word to grab my heart! We often underestimate youth and God’s Word.

Question: What is it about the inductive Bible study method that works so dramatically with young people?

Answer: Ritchie: Scripture has innate power to explain the answers young people need (Heb. 4:12; 2 Tim. 3:16). Rather than give them standard apologetics, we’ve found that one-on-one contact with God through the Scriptures is intellectually satisfying and spiritually transformational to young people. We give them tools to filter everything—everything—they hear and see in the culture using the Scriptures. They aren’t passive recipients of information, but active explorers of spiritual Truth. Ryan: In fact, we’ve seen a lot of students use the Scriptures—because they’ve learned them inductively—to bring people to Christ. They don’t need to debate. The Scriptures, when learned, speak to situations and give answers. Emily: God really gets you when you go straight to Him . . . when you’re learning from His Word yourself. Teaching is good, but there’s no substitute for God’s Word—it’s as real as it gets, and that’s what many teens are looking for.

www.transformstudent.org

RESOLVED! No recession of faith...

2009-09-07T00:01:00.000-04:00

The question before every Christian is this: Will the recession in the economy produce a “recession” in our faith in God? To answer, let’s remind ourselves of some unchanging facts:

The recession cannot reverse the fact that God is God.

The recession cannot reverse the fact that you are “crucified with Christ” (Gal.
2:20).

The recession cannot reverse the fact that “Christ lives in” you—and that you can live “by faith in the Son of God,” who loves you and gave Himself up for you.

The recession cannot stop God from supplying “all your needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus” (Phil. 4:19) as you help expand His Kingdom.

Precept Ministries, like most others, has seen a steep drop in income these past months. We have reorganized to ensure stewardship and efficiency. We have passed up some “good” projects to focus on the “best.” We continue to fervently petition God to keep providing funds to teach people how to study the Bible. . . because demand for our ministry is higher than ever.

But we have not panicked—and never will. Why? For all the reasons listed above and more. We have resolved never to succumb to a “recession” of faith. What about you? Are you standing firm on the truths of what the recession can’t do to you?

Believe me, I realize it's not easy. We at Precept experience the same emotions you do as we see the bank account running low. But if Christian faith were easy, why should it make the unbelieving world turn its head and take notice of our God? In their eyes, Christian faith is crazy—impossible. Especially in a recession.

For example, the churches of Macedonia were in economic difficulty. They were in “a great ordeal of affliction” and “deep poverty” (2 Cor. 8:2). Yet they did something that was not normal by the world’s fear-based standards: “According to their ability, and beyond their ability, they gave” (2 Cor. 8:3). What? Gave? In a recession? Yes, they did.In fact, they gave generously, “begging . . . with much urging for the favor of participation in the support of the saints” (v. 4). They “begged” Paul to let them give more than he asked (v. 3)!

The key to their generosity was that “they first gave themselves to the Lord” (v. 5). They knew that the Pure Giver—the One who “gave His only begotten Son” (John 3:16)—actually lived in them through Christ. Their sacrificial giving was not a grudging “to do list” but rather a joyful echo of their indwelling Master’s passion.

By their giving, they spit in the eye of their financial difficulties. No “recession” of faith for them! Their God—His promises, His Kingdom—was bigger. May it be so with us.

Join Kay Arthur on Precept for Life!

2009-08-27T00:01:00.003-04:00

Return to Me
Jeremiah Part 1 (September 14 – November 13)

“Return to me, faithless ones!” What a promising command this is! Think about it: God is ordering faithless people to return to Him. You’d think He’d say, “Get lost, away with you!” But no, His order is a promise of wideopen arms willing to receive a people ripe for captivity, a people who have filled up their sins, if they just repent and return to their Fountain of Living Waters. Such was Judah’s spiritual condition in Jeremiah’s day, and such is our nation’s spiritual condition today. And so Jeremiah’s message is relevant for us because our nation is at a crossroads. Like Judah, it has had some bad “kings,” leaders at every level who endorse and promote abortion, gay marriage, and other offenses to God. But the door hasn’t been shut. There are still a great many believers like you praying for national revival. This study of Jeremiah will stir you up, Faithful One, to persevere against the odds. And it will give you eternal hope that lies beyond cities that don’t continue (Heb. 13:14). Join Kay in learning at our Master’s feet from this compassionate, unrelenting prophet. We have two inductive Bible study resources for you to engage with the Bible and study along with the broadcast.

Jeremiah Part 1 - Precept for Life >>

Precept Portuguese Ministries

2009-08-17T12:01:00.000-04:00

I start thinking about what I should share with you and my thoughts went back to eighteen years ago even before I ever came to USA. I guess you are curious now to know what in the world did happen? I will make it short but it is fundamental…

Eighteen years ago my husband (Osnir) as a businessman decide that he would come to USA and negotiate a big stock of shoes which he had stored here and if everything would go well he would call for us to come. So my son at that time 7 years old, my daughter a 4 year old and I stayed back in Brazil, as he keep on doing his business here, and the months went by, business were good but he could not be sure if he should bring all of us to a new country and leave all behind.

There was I, back in Brazil without any hint on what would happen to our family if we would stay or if we would go, six months had already passed and of course, I was very tired and lonely taking care of the kids and wanting just get my things together and come.

It was the month of March and my sister-in-law invited me to go to a conference that would take place at her church, to tell you the truth I was not very excited to go as I said I was sad and tired, but finally I decide to go just to be nice to her.

What a wonderful surprise as the speaker started giving his message I was captivated by it. It was on the gospel of John chapter 5, and he was taking about the crippled man at the Bethesda tank, and he said: “Let’s think about this man, it is not that he didn't have a plan, he did…and what was his plan?… he have been there for 38 years and his plan was, as the angel would come someone would drop him to the thank and he would be healed. But God had a better plan, many of you here tonight also have plans and it is not that your plans are not good; they can be good plans but are you willing to exchange them for God’s plan? And trust that He knows what is the best so if you do, come to the front and lay down your plans at His feet, tell Him that you accept His plans for your life.”

So I did…I must confess that I was a little disappointed when two days later my husband called saying that he was coming home the next week. Oh, Oh, I wanted to go and didn't want to stay but I had already made my decision to trust no matter what, so my husband came back and I spent the next months remodeling our home, changed furniture, got beautiful things and I was happy… my husband came two more times for a short period of two weeks and everything was going so well…

But the next test was not so far… a year and a half later after one of his short trips here my husband told me: “By the end of the year we will move to USA for good, the business is going well, and I feel that all of us should just go this time, all together. I will not and I am not thinking about what we are leaving behind. Now I had other plans I didn't want to leave I was participating in a wonderful ladies group on my neighborhood, a very sophisticated place with those very nice homes how could I just leave and go for something I did not even know. I thought: “No I can’t, now I don’t want to, I am very happy here it is all I always wanted…”

But God brought back to my mind the message I had heard before: “Are you willing to exchange your plans and accept His plans?” So I had to bow down and admit that He always knows what is better…In five months we moved and left all behind…Somehow I knew in the back of my mind that it was not just my husband’s business, that was bringing us here, there was something else yet to be revealed even though I didn't know what it was at the time.

It was here in Raleigh, North Carolina, that my husband and I found Precept and through His hands we are now having the privilege of taking Precept not just to Brazil as I once thought but to all the Portuguese speaking countries…and as we go God always have to remind me of the old message: “Are you willing to exchange your plans for His plans, to wait on Him, to trust even when you can’t see the whole picture?”

As we work at Precept all of us must understand that what we are doing it is not our own work, it is not our own plans but His plans and He knows what He is doing, it is all planned out, we just must be willing to lay down our own plans and accept His plans.

Portuguese Ministries was born on God’s heart so we go on, accepting daily His direction. Helping others discover, go deeper, disciple! For international Bible studies including Portuguese, click here!

Eleni Leite
Precept Portuguese Ministriees

Are you interested in breaking the power of the past?

2009-07-18T12:01:00.002-04:00

2009 Men's Conference
August 21–22, 2009
Waxahachie, Texas

Everyone has a past and a future. What you do with the past impacts your future.

If you want to move on with God’s agenda and are willing to do what it takes to go below the surface and take a hard look, then this weekend is for you! We will look at forgiveness, fear, salvation and issues that keep us from being all we can be. Come and lose the shackles of your past!

Speakers for this event include: David Lawson, Ritchie Johnson

Praise and worship led by In His Grip.

Conference schedule, registration & hotel information>>

Sorting Out Life!

2009-07-09T13:36:00.006-04:00

2009 Summer Women's Conference
August 21–22, 2009
Chattanooga, Tennessee

What has your constant attention and devotion?

Work, husband, cell phone, children, Facebook, parents, bills, church, soccer, friends, PTA and then there’s dinner! Join Kay Arthur and others as they discover what the Bible says about Worship leader: Alicia Garcia Williamson.

Register today>>

Introducing any of Precept's study series

2009-07-08T00:01:00.007-04:00

...to your small group at home or church as a topical tool or a discipleship curricula will help you fulfill your calling to “go and make disciples.” It will even better prepare them for your pastor’s teaching. The chart below shows you how to begin. If you’re a pastor, you’re already on your way.

Always begin your preparation with prayer. Then explore the many and varied Bible study types Precept has to offer, and choose the one that best suits your needs. Order a workbook for yourself and begin working through the lessons if you have time. If you plan to lead a Precept Upon Precept study, allow time to attend Precept Training Workshops at least 3 months in advance. Talk with your pastor about taking the class you already teach through a Precept study or starting a new study group on or off campus. If you’re starting a new class, start small, then grow as the Lord leads. Get the word out by using our publicity materials available for all Precept Inductive Bible Study series. Visit class promotion.

Place your materials order and begin your study. If you’re planning to lead a Precept Upon Precept study, consider hosting an orientation the week before your study begins. This allows you to distribute workbooks to students early so they can start homework. It will also give you some valuable practice time in front of your group.

Read these tips for leading and how to chart your course!

Join the fun ... spread THE WORD!

2009-06-25T15:02:00.011-04:00

Back in spring we asked all those leading Precept Bible studies (LORD, PUP, 40-Min. etc) to post class pictures and share class details on the Precept Ministries International Facebook page. But, this was before we knew about the below! Seeing your pictures and posts on Facebook was amazing and such an encouragement for us here at Precept in Chattanooga. But, when you sign our guestbook below, we can see your faces, hear about your classes, AND "pin point" exactly where you are throughout the WORLD!

Sign up as an individual, leader or as a class! PLEASE BE SURE TO INCLUDE WHAT PRECEPT BIBLE STUDY YOU ARE CURRENTLY STUDYING OR WILL BE STUDYING!

As you join the fun and spread the word, we can literally see THE Word spreading!

PS. Watch for details on the Precept Network – launching soon.

Choices, Choices, Choices!

2009-06-19T00:01:00.000-04:00

Oh how I love a buffet!

I can take a little of everything and not have to make a choice! Choosing a Bible study is more like ordering from a menu; you have to pick just one! That can be a daunting chore. We look at our busy schedules, worry about people not coming, consider the cost of materials and agonize over when and where to have the class before we pick an actual Bible study course. Yet even after all that, we’re still no closer to deciding on a Bible study course. Here are some simple suggestions.

• Pray – Seek the Lord’s guidance and meet with your pastor.
• Use the chart below to become familiar with the different Precept study series.
• Consider your students’ needs, study habits, interests and group dynamics. Choose a book of the Bible or a topical study that addresses issues of interest, and generates eagerness to study God’s Word. And choose a Precept study that fits your group’s personality, time and setting.
• Consider your qualifications to lead and choose a Precept study series accordingly and/or attend training to help you study and lead with confidence!

For more help in choosing your next Bible study or a detailed list of workshops you can take visit http://www.precept.org/

Rev. W. Robert Gilbert Jr.
Director of Training

How is your faith?

2009-06-07T12:01:00.005-04:00

We read an amazing story in Mark 4:35-40. You recall it – the disciples are crossing the sea of Galilee after a hard day of ministry. Jesus is so tired that he falls asleep in the stern of the boat. A wild storm comes upon them quickly. The boat is filling with water from the waves crashing over the sides. Panic sets in the hearts of the disciples.

Jesus is asleep.

The disciples – after working hard to bail out the water of the boat in order to keep from sinking and perishing in the storm decide its time to wake up Jesus.

Here is where they go wrong. It was not that they woke up the Savior but how they woke him up. “Teacher, do you not care that we are perishing?”

Not care? Really? Is that what the disciples believed? Did they really think that Son of God, the Messiah, The Son of David – was going to let them drown in an accident on the sea of Galilee – without achieving the God given mission?

Lets review what they had experienced with Jesus up to this point: Healings – supernatural, amazing, unexplainable healings – paralyzed people, blind, lepers – DEAD PEOPLE! Casting out of demons – only to hear the demons proclaim that Jesus is the Son of God!

With all this in mind – they thought Jesus didn’t care if they all perished? Or was there something more in their accusation? Could it be that were struggling to REALLY BELIEVE that Jesus was the Son of God? After all – he was exhausted from ministry and asleep in the boat… what kind of “God” sleeps?

Being awakened Jesus, says to the wind and waves – “Hush. Be Still.” And it worked! Mark’s account tells us that it became perfectly calm. Perfect. But Jesus wasn't finished. He turned to them and said – “Why are you afraid? Do you still have no faith?”

Faith. It means to trust God. It means to REALLY BELIEVE that He is God – able to hush the winds, heal the sick, feed and clothe His Children.

How is your faith? How is it holding up in your economy? Your ministry? Your family? In your own heart? Do you really believe that Jesus is WITH YOU? That He loves you and will never leave or forsake you? (Hebrews 13:5)

Just remember - when you have cause for fear – remind yourself who is in the boat with you. “What manner of man is – who then is this – that even the winds and the sea obey Him?” May God bless you richly as you serve alongside the Man – the very Son of God – Jesus!

Study the Bible for yourself.

David Arthur
VP Teaching & Training, Author and Bible study teacher

Taking Precept to Pastors!

2009-05-28T00:01:00.007-04:00

An interview with David Lawson, Director of Church & Ministry Relations.

Our pastor’s initiative at Precept has one specific purpose: to empower pastors in equipping their congregation with tools to discover truth for themselves. We recently asked David Lawson, former pastor and our Director of Church and Ministry Relations, to discuss the importance of this initiative.

How have you reached out to pastors so far?

We've distributed “minister’s kit” to over 120,000 pastors. The kit included sample Bible studies and a DVD to help pastors get to know who we are, what Bible studies we offer and how we can help them accomplish their mission of growing people to become more like Christ. Information found in this "minister's kit" can be found on our website at Precept: Serving the Church.

What do you hope pastors gain from the kit?

The purpose of the kit is to help pastors learn about the variety of Bible study tools that we have available.We want to show pastors that we can assist them in bringing new growth to the people in their church. Besides Bible study materials, Precept offers pastors training for their small group leaders. Our training workshops can help them become more effective in their personal Bible study and in preparing for leading and facilitating Bible study groups.

How do pastors benefit from working with Precept?

We can help simplify a pastor’s life. For example, one pastor I know uses Precept’s 40-Minute study on marriage in marital counseling, because it takes people straight to God's Word. Another counseling resource is the 40-Minute study on Forgiveness, because it provides opportunities to study, meditate on and apply God's Word to an area that can become a root of bitterness and strife.

How can pastors learn more about Precept Bible studies?

Pastors can order samples by going to our website and visiting the “for Pastors” section and then following the links to sample Bible Study.

Share Precept with Your Pastor!

Help your church grow from the inside out by introducing your pastor to Precept’s Inductive Bible Studies. For more information on how to help your brothers and sisters in Christ discover truth, go deeper in faith and carry out the Great Commission to disciple others! Visit Precept: Serving the Church.

What pastors are saying:

“God is using Precept in the life of our church to bring about something that’s amazingly wonderful.” - Mike Sellers, Associate Pastor of Education - Tabernacle Baptist Church, Ennis Texas

“We want people to know who God is and they won’t know Him unless they really get in deep to His Word and Precept helps us do that.” - Larry Newberry, Pastor

Why youth are leaving the church

2009-05-18T00:01:00.006-04:00

Youth ministry is not working.

Many know the statistics about a generation leaving the church in droves never to return once they escape the oversight of their upbringing. Transform’s answer to the question is simple, but not easy – establish teens in the Word of God. Provide them with a foundation from which they can filter their education, emotions, and the ever-changing culture they find themselves in. Put them in the Word, and God will stir their hearts!

How to do this is another matter altogether. How can you help? Yes you! I ask because it’s just not the biblical responsibility of youth pastors across our country to lead our teens in the right direction. We need to go back to the tenets of Deuteronomy 6, passing down the Word of God to our own families and inspiring others to do the same. You don’t have to be called to work with teenagers to have a place in this fight…mentor your own sons and daughters, teach them how to pass on the Word to their children, and share the vision with others!

When the music fades, what will they do?

Ritchie Johnson
Director, Transform Student Ministries

NEW! School Curriculum from Precept Ministries

2009-05-13T00:01:00.014-04:00

DID YOU KNOW?

Precept Ministries International offers....
Inductive Bible Study Curriculum

Fulfill God’s calling in your life to train up your children to know and serve God with faith, courage, integrity, holiness and truth. These turnkey courses outfit teachers and parents to teach children the Inductive Bible Study Method while learning foundational biblical truths from key books of the Bible. Visit www.precept.org/SchoolCurriculum for more information.

Children love to learn

2009-05-08T00:01:00.002-04:00

Children love to learn especially when it involves adventure! So what better stories to teach them than the ones found in God's Word? Precept’s Kay Arthur, along with Janna Arndt, have written a fantastic selection of children’s books that teach kids how to discover the Bible for themselves. The action-packed Discover 4 Yourself series also helps kids learn how to put God’s Word into practice at any age. “It changes their perspective when they find it themselves,” Janna notes. “Kids can learn the Bible at a young age. They are curious and love to dig it out!” Since each child learns differently, Discover 4 Yourself books are created to be useful in a variety of formats. For example:

• Parents can use the books as a family or one-on-one with their children. Janna remarks, “One of my boys liked to study on his own first and then come back together to talk about what he’d learned.”
• You can start a small group at your home with kids in the neighborhood.
• These books are also great for Sunday School or for Christian Schools. Currently, Precept is developing Teachers’ Guides to help make the books more user friendly in a school setting.

The vision for these studies is for kids to learn how to read and study the Bible on their own! As Janna adds, “When they find it themselves, they are more inclined to take it to heart. It changes their lives.”

Josh is one example of a changed life. After studying about Abraham letting God choose the best land for him, this young boy took the lesson to heart. One morning he and his mother and sister stopped at a market to get biscuits. Three were left. He and his sister eyed the same one. Remembering his lesson, Josh opted to let his sister choose. He told his mom he wanted the biscuit God wanted for him! Like Abraham, he only wanted God’s best for his life.

Many of the Discover 4 Yourself books are already best-sellers: How to Study Your Bible for Kids (86,000 copies), Jesus in the Spotlight (68,000 copies), Boy Have I Got Problems (50,000 copies), and Wrong Way Jonah (45,000 copies). For a complete list of titles or to order, visit http://www.precept.org/ today!

My heart has been struck lately

2009-04-30T00:01:00.000-04:00

I'm heading out for Israel in a few days for our annual tour. Before I leave I wanted to tell you about how Matthew 6:21 has taken on new meaning lately – not new as in a change in the text – but new as in application. Jesus said, “Where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” I think this means that where my money goes there my heart will follow… and where my heart is – there my attention and agenda will be.

My heart has been stuck lately with the economy and its rapid decline.

Gary Hoag, from Denver Seminary, reminded me the other day that Joseph opened up the storehouses in the time of trouble in Egypt. It seems like the opposite is what is happening now. Giving is down.

Personally, I know in my heart that the best antidote to greed or financial fear is - generosity. But what I know to be true and what I do with it can seem like miles apart.

So back to what Jesus said: Where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. Lord, where do you want my heart? Help me to give my treasure to lead my heart.

Maybe, just maybe now is the time to “open the storehouses” and give instead of cut back and hoard.

What do you think?

David Arthur
VP Teaching & Traning

Vasile follows Christ with intensity...

2009-04-28T09:01:00.010-04:00

The Great Commission isn't a suggested task or an extracurricular activity Christians have as an option to perform - it is a commandment directly from Jesus to all His disciples. Your spirit will be stirred as you hear the inspiring stores of our Precept leaders and teachers around the world who are working diligently to obey this commandment! God is using Precept to equip and grow Christians around the world!

Hear Vasile's story: An Olympic Takewondo champion follows Christ with intensity and grows through Inductive Bible Study:

Precept Leaders are paying the ultimate price.

Sweeter than Chocolate

2009-04-15T00:01:00.002-04:00

Nothing in life is sweeter than the words of God. Sweeter than Chocolate! will tantalize your spiritual taste buds as it opens up Psalm 119—the definitive chapter in the Bible about what God’s Word is and does. You will take a six-week inductive journey through this virtual box of God’s delights—words that will meet you where you are and cheer you on. You will develop a gourmet’s sensitivities as you ‘taste and see’ that God’s Words are rich and wonderful beyond all other words on earth—and be assured you will only long for more!

Sweeter Than Chocolate is available beginning April 15, 2009 at a special introductory price of $19.99. (Limited Time Only. Ends: 04/30/2009)

A preview of Lesson 1 can be found at the bottom of the Sweeter Than Chocolate page.

Biblical Illiteracy Alert!

2009-04-12T03:01:00.000-04:00

Survey: One of Three Evangelical Christians Believes Non-Christian Religions Can Save

When asked to name religions that can save, 37% of evangelical Christians surveyed said yes to Judaism (64%), Islam (35%), Hinduism (33%), and even Atheism (26%). Dr. Al Mohler, President of Southern Theological Seminary, called the findings a “crisis.”

What does God say?

“And there is salvation in no one else; for there is no other name under heaven that has been given among men by which we may be saved” (Acts 4:12).

Thank YOU for all the ways you partner with Precept Ministries International to help Christians escape Biblical illiteracy. Discover the Bible for yourself, go deeper in Bible study with others, disciple others using the Word of God!

Ask David

2009-04-08T18:03:00.000-04:00

Answers to questions frequently sent to Precept Ministries

Q. So you're saying that the easter message goes beyond the cross and the empty tomb?

A. Exactly—in the sense that Christ’s work means that Christians are Christ-followers who should “no longer live for themselves” (2 Cor. 5:15) because they have exchanged their life for His life living in them. New power. New motives. New mission. New direction. In the here and now. Jesus Himself came “preaching the gospel of God, and saying, ‘. . . The kingdom of God is at hand; repent and believe in the gospel’ ” (Mark 1:14–15). Paul said we preach “Christ Jesus as Lord” (2 Cor. 4:5). He is Lord of a Kingdom to which we now belong! God uses our transformed life to draw people as they see that a house built on a Rock is infinitely better than one built on sand (Matt. 7:24–27).

Study the Bible inductively! Discover, go deeper, disciple!

Easter gifts for children

2009-04-03T15:00:00.005-04:00

God, What’s Your Name?
D4Y–Discover 4 Yourself Series for kids! 6-week study. 192 pages—softcover. $10.99

“I wrote this book with Janna Arndt, our wonderful children’s teacher at Precept. If you want your 8-12 year-old son or daughter to really get to know God, they can join Max and Molly as they use fun activities to learn the inductive method of Bible study. They will get to know God as Creator, Protector, Provider, Healer, and Shepherd. This could change their life!”

When kids finish and send the enclosed card, they get a letter from Kay!

How to Study Your Bible for Kids D4Y–Discover 4 Yourself Series for kids! 6-week study. 185 pages—softcover. $10.99

“Janna and I wanted to take the essentials of How to Study Your Bible and plant it into a child to change their lives forever. Your kids, grandkids, or Sunday school students will learn how to discover God’s powerful truths from the Bible for themselves! They’ll become an ‘Inductive Bible Detective’ with an ‘Inductive Detective’ card and a 40% discount on the New Inductive Study Bible, when you mail in a card included in the book! I love to see children learn to love God.”

What is the true message of Easter?

2009-03-30T07:00:00.004-04:00

The core of the Easter message is that death is defeated, and we praise God for that! But the Easter message is so much more. The “gospel” of “first importance” that Paul proclaims in 1 Corinthians 15:1–4 embraces more than the forgiveness of sins that leads to heaven— it proclaims that the Kingdom is advanced in the here and now.

In Paul’s second recorded letter to the same church, he describes the Gospel this way: “He made Him who knew no sin to be sin on our behalf, so that we might become the righteousness of God in Him” (2 Cor. 5:21). Christ takes our sins—and we receive His righteousness now, not starting in the future. Leading up to this verse, Paul says that for true Christians, “the love of Christ controls us” (v. 14). True Christians are to “no longer live for themselves, but for Him” (v. 15). You are made a “new creature” (v. 17).

In other words, our old, dead lives are replaced with a new life with a new mission. On that basis, we are “ambassadors for Christ” for a Kingdom that has broken into this world and offers something so much better. For the Christian, Easter radiates into every area of your new life, every day of the year.

Discover the truth for yourself, go Deeper in Bible study with others, Disciple others through Bible study!

David Arthur
VP Teaching & Training, Author and Bible study teacher

Precept Ministries International

Are people looking for answers?

2009-03-28T08:00:00.007-04:00

Biblical illiteracy is indeed a crisis. But it is also an opportunity that we can seize for God’s glory. That’s why, last year, I left a fast paced, highly challenging 38-year career that took me to the top of the lucrative fashion district at 40th and Broadway in New York City to accept Jack and Kay Arthur’s offer to become Executive Director of Precept.

I’m humbled and excited to be Christ’s servant here. My role is to formulate a strategic plan for Precept to reach more people with the amazing, life-changing inductive Bible study method—and to make sure that Precept maximizes the impact of every dollar we receive from God’s people.

God changed my life through Precepts, and that of my wife, Sally. We spent years as volunteer trainers and teachers. We’ve seen what God does when He speaks to people through His Word. People are looking for answers today—and inductive Bible study can give them these answers! Thank you for being part of this exciting movement and this opportune moment in history.

Tom Hall
Executive Director
Precept Ministries International

Discover TRUTH for yourself!

2009-03-26T18:00:00.005-04:00

Discovering truth for yourself, going Deeper in Bible study with others, Discipling others through Bible study is something anyone can do. Really. Trust me. You don’t have to go to seminary to learn to study the Bible. You don’t have to be a genius, specially talented, or gifted. All you need is the Holy Spirit in you, a desire to learn God’s Word—the Bible, and a few tips and techniques that anyone can learn.

Studying the Bible is like learning to ride a bicycle—you can do it, but you need some practice with someone holding on to steady you. Once you’ve gained balance, you’re ready to pedal off in confidence.

Training Workshops are offered all over the U.S. and in many countries to help you learn how to study the Bible so you can live a life based on God’s Word. And for those who are gifted and called to lead Bible studies, we have workshops to teach you how to lead effective and dynamic discussions so others can discover truth for themselves. Here’s a sample of what you’ll learn:
Read the following verses from 1 John 4, and circle the word “love”:

7 Beloved, let us love one another, for love is from God; and everyone who loves is born of God and knows God. 8 The one who does not love does not know God, for God is love. 9 By this the love of God was manifested in us, that God has sent His only begotten Son into the world so that we might live through Him.

Now read over the passage again, and each place you marked “love,” ask what we call the 5 W and H questions, who, what, when, where, why, and how. Just like an investigator, interrogate the text; make it confess the truth.

In verse 7, what are we to do? Where is love from? Why are we to love? What is true about everyone who loves? Simply look at where you’ve marked “love” to find the answers.

In verse 8, what do we learn about God? Who does not know God? In verse 9, how is God’s love manifested?

If you make a list of the answers to these questions, you’ve started learning three basic techniques of Observation, the first step of study. These three are: 1) marking key words to see their repetition and thus their importance to the message, 2) asking the 5 Ws and H to read with a purpose, and 3) listing what you learned.

In Training Workshops we’ll hold on while you practice these until you’re confident, and we’ll introduce you to other techniques too. We’ll train you in careful observation, accurate interpretation, and powerful application to your life. Then you can put these into practice in your study and discover truth for yourself!

Our Training Workshops will help you develop study and leadership skills and will equip you to disciple others. We encourage you to attend a workshop at Precept Ministries campus in Chattanooga, or to find a Training Workshop in your area.

Pete De Lacy
VP, Author of the New Inductive Study Series and Bible teacher
Precept Ministries International

Student Conference 2009 - Still Time to Sign Up for March Event in Washington and April Event in Illinois

2009-03-21T00:02:00.004-04:00

How can God co-exist with all of the evil and suffering we see in the world? It's a question that many are afraid to ask, and one that those who deny the Christian faith use to attack the church with. Does God really exist? If He does, then is He just not strong enough or good enough to stop the horrors that we see?

Transform Student ministries is hosting two upcoming student conferences entitled “The Problem with Evil.” These events are designed for teens 13-18 years old and will take place in Bothell, WA on March 27 & 28 and Carlock, IL on April 24 & 25. Registration is open all week for the conference in Bothell, and this is the last week the early registration discount is available for the Midwest conference. Visit www.transformstudent.org for more information!

There's still time to sign up for the Seattle Student Conference!

DATE
March 27 – 28, 2009

LOCATION
Canyon Hills Community Church
22027 17th Avenue SE
Bothell, WA 98021

Register >>

2009 Paul’s Epistles Study Tour in Greece

2009-03-18T14:46:00.003-04:00

September 25 - October 5, 2009

Join Kay Arthur and Precept’s teaching staff as we trace the Apostle Paul’s second missionary journey, his first in Europe.

Step back in time to Paul’s ministry as he challenged peoples' beliefs and clashed with their culture. God will inspire and transform you through on-site Bible study and teaching of Paul’s letters to churches in the first century. The reality of Scripture will leave an indelible mark on your life as you sit in theaters and walk through ancient ruins--the same stones Paul saw as he delivered the life-changing gospel from Philippi to Ephesus.

You will visit these and other important sites:
• Study Philippians in Philippi
• Study Thessalonians in Thessaloniki
• Study Acts in Athens
• Study Corinthians in Corinth
• Take a 3-day cruise on the Aegean Sea
• Study Revelation on the Isle of Patmos
• Study Ephesians in Ephesus

Special Blessings of This Tour:
• Daily teaching on-site by Kay and the Precept Ministries International teaching staff.
• This is a tour with the “personal touch.” Every aspect of this tour has been customized.
• First-class tour guides working hand-in-hand with Precept Ministries’ Greece team.
• Finest quality hotels with minimal hotel changes.
• All meals, including lunch, included in tour price (beverages not included).
• Tour study guide specially prepared by Precept Ministries for your tour.
• Personal bus host from Precept Ministries’ training staff will accompany you during the tour.
• Emphasis on in-depth Bible study.

Precept Bible Study Classes

2009-03-17T15:02:00.000-04:00

Precept Ministries offers Bible Study classes at our training facility in Chattanooga, Tennessee. Participation is free with the purchase of the study materials. To register for Precept Classes, fill out a Registration Form and bring to our Resource Center.

More information >

Going Deeper?

2009-03-16T14:53:00.000-04:00

In our three phase plan for you—Discover, Go Deeper and Disciple—the second phase describes doing Bible study with others—in order to Go Deeper in your understanding of God’s Word and with others in relationship.

The application of truth assumes community.

It’s a basic principle of Bible study—we need each other. Examine what Paul instructs us to do in Colossians 3:12-17. As you read this passage, simply ask this question—“Can I apply this truth by myself—with only me in the picture?” It may also help to circle the words that describe “other people.” After marking this phrase—ask—what does Paul say about “One another”?

12 So, as those who have been chosen of God, holy and beloved, put on a heart of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience; 13 bearing with one another, and forgiving each other, whoever has a complaint against anyone; just as the Lord forgave you, so also should you. 14 Beyond all these things put on love, which is the perfect bond of unity. 15 Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body; and be thankful. 16 Let the word of Christ richly dwell within you, with all wisdom teaching and admonishing one another with psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with thankfulness in your hearts to God. 17 Whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks through Him to God the Father.

“But I am listening to you on the radio, or watching you on the TV; how am I supposed to go deeper with others in my Bible study?”

Start by asking God: Who do you want me to study with? Who do you want me to begin “one-anothering?” Then order the PFL Study Companion and invite others to join you as you study together. Or if you need help in finding others to study with, visit our website to find people in your area who are studying. Go to precept.org/preceptclassfinder or simply call us 888.734.7707 (Radio listeners) or 888.763.1990 (TV viewers).

The application of God’s Word is abundantly fruitful when experienced with the body of Christ. Start today! Go Deeper! You will be glad you did.

David Arthur
Vice President, Teaching and Training
Precept Ministries International

Get to Know David Arthur

2009-03-15T14:34:00.000-04:00

Meet David Arthur, Precept’s Vice President of Teaching and Training. Did we also mention that David is the son of Kay and Jack Arthur, founders of Precept Ministries International? David spent his childhood on the Precept Ministries property, so it is no surprise to find him today on the same location, building upon the legacy of the Arthur Family’s involvement in the Inductive Bible Study Method.

David joined the Precept staff full-time in 2006 after a varied professional history consisting of serving as a pastor and working in the corporate realm. Facts about David ArthurDavid is looking toward the future and continuing the legacy his parents started. “When you watch a relay race, it’s not just a quick hand off of the baton. There’s a period of time when the teammates run side by side. I see my current role as running with my parents as they pass me the baton.

In fact my highest calling is to continue the legacy that God has raised up through my folks the past 38 years,” David said when asked about his recent transition into leadership.

David shares the same passion for the Word of God as his parents. His focus and drive in the ministry is to help train men to be biblically-based leaders in their homes, churches, and communities. Recent surveys show that women are more likely to read the Bible than men. David’s passion is to extend that audience to include men. “Once a man tastes the Bible for himself and sees the reward of listening to God directly through His Word, it’s contagious. It whetted my appetite 15 years ago and I can’t shake it. The more I get to know God directly through His Word, the more I get out of it.”

David’s passion for the Word and Precept Ministries is evident, as you may have noticed from his appearances on Precepts For Life. David is excited about the future of the ministry and envisions God widening the Precepts For Life audience through advances in technology. David explained, “Our main goal is to expose, engage and invite our viewers to use the Inductive Bible Study Method themselves. We want to reach out to the masses, not just build a crowd. We hope our viewers take the method they have learned and share it with others in small group settings.”