Small group Bible studies form the core of GCF. During one of these weekly meetings, we typically have a Bible study, worship, and prayer. This spring semester (2012) there will be three Bible study groups meeting:
Colossians
Mondays at 7:30pm, at 103 Homestead Circle
We will be studying Colossians and particularly considering Paul’s instruction in light of the Roman empire of his time, and then considering how a similarly counter-cultural modern Church and Christian life might best embody the gospel. Contact Stephen Thompson or Paul Simonin for more info.
Christianity in the age of New Atheism
Tuesdays at 7:30pm, at 107 Oak Hill Place
We will be considering the perspectives of various prominent atheists as presented in The Portable Atheist, and discussing how these thoughts align with Christianity’s understanding of truth. We will consider how followers of Jesus might craft a gracious response to questions raised by new atheism. Contact Michelle Tong or Matt Farrar for more info.
Proverbs
Tuesdays at 7:30pm, at 700 Warren Rd. (Northwood Apartments, Apt. 11-2C)
We will be reading and studying Proverbs, loosely following the LifeChange Bible study guide. For more information, please contact Brad Westgate or Jon Steffens.
Below is a list of Bible study topics from previous years:
Fall 2011
Hot topics in modern Christianity
Mondays at 7:30pm, at 103 Homestead Circle
This study will explore current topics which are requiring careful discernment by the church. Members will take turns presenting the various stances held by modern Christians on a hot topic, or highlight modern Christian perspectives that differ significantly from secular perspectives. For more information, please contact Stephen Thompson or Paul Simonin.
Foundations of Christian practice and discipleship
Tuesdays at 7:30pm, at 107 Oak Hill Place
This study is designed especially for first-year students or new members of the Cornell/GCF community, however all are welcome to attend! The study will explore four foundations of Christian practice and discipleship: Spiritual formation, integration of faith & learning, Christian witness and service, and Christian community. Members are welcome to come and learn, share their experiences and connect with other new members. For more information, please contact Christian Guzman.
Obedience
Wednesdays at 7:30pm, ath 700 Warren Rd. (Northwood Apartments, Apt. 11-2C)
This study will focus on the topic of obedience. What commands (New and Old Testament) are we called to obey, and what should we do specifically to follow them? The study will also focus on praying for each other and building fellowship and accountability in our group. The study will start off with a discussion of the ”new commandment” from John 13:34. For more information, please contact Brad Westgate or Jon Steffens.
2010-2011
Isaiah
We explored the book of Isaiah in light of its Biblical historical context and its impact/relationship with the New Testament. We particularly sought to gain a clearer picture of God’s redemptive work in the world and our place in that process.
Parables
Why did Jesus tell parables? What did they mean to his original audience, and what do they mean for us? We discussed what makes the parables distinctive and what they have to say about living as a disciple of Christ. We began by studying some parables and parable-like passages from the Old Testament, informing our perspective on the parable tradition that Jesus took up and used in new ways. Since parables bring difficult spiritual or theological messages into the language and matter of everyday life, we also discussed on a very practical level how these parables apply to our own lives.
Spiritual Disciplines
We studied and practiced the spiritual disciplines. Geared toward helping first year students steer through the busyness, we aimed to build an encouraging community where people were heard, prayed for, and challenged to grow in their love of Christ. Our study of the spiritual disciplines, such as prayer, journal writing, and stewardship, served as tools for enhancing our spiritual walks.
