A group of MDiv students at Olivet Theological College & Seminary has developed “A Study of 32 Bible Topics” Guidebook under the mentorship of senior faculty Dr. Tom J. Cowley. Scheduled to be published this month, the book will be available for churches as a useful resource in discipleship.
“A Study of 32 Bible Topics” Guidebook is the fruit of OTCS’s project-based course Theological Independent Study. 15 students have worked together on this book project since summer quarter 2016. The book consists of 32 chapters. Each chapter includes key Bible verses, synopsis, real-life examples and discussion questions to address a selected topic such as “Love”, “Faith”, “Glory”, “Courage”, “Joy”, “Suffering” and many others. Readers are encouraged to conclude each study with a short suggested prayer.
In the busy and chaotic world that we live in, young Christians often struggle to find bible messages relevant to their daily lives. Generation Z and Millennials are being identified as the most un-churched age groups. This is why MDiv students in the Theological Independent Study course came up with the idea to prepare a topical Bible study guide for young people.
“We live in a world of information explosion. What is true and what is questionable? We believe one can ground their lives in the truths of the Bible,” Cowley stated in the introduction of the book.
“Our goal in writing about the Bible has been to assist lay people recall and share the Bible in daily life. We view the BIBLE as God’s word and instruction book for humans- Basic Instruction Before Leaving Earth.”
Each student wrote two bible topics of their choice. They researched on relevant bible verses, explained the meaning of the selected topic and provided a real-life testimony as a practical reference. Cowley has been working closely with each student to make sure the contents are theologically sound.
“This is a very practical course. We have learned how to convey the message of the gospel with personal testimonies. We produce the guidebook as a result. We are planning to put the contents on social media in order to share with more unreached people in our generation,” commented one of the students.
“A Study of 32 Bible Topics” Guidebook is recommended for personal study, small group discussion and church discipleship. It is very easy to read, one can finish reading the entire guidebook by simply following one topic per day.
The first print is expected to be 1,000 copies. The book cover graphics is inspired by the bible verse: “Though youths grow weary and tired, And vigorous young men stumble badly, Yet those who wait for the Lord will gain new strength; They will mount up with wings like eagles, They will run and not get tired, They will walk and not become weary.” (Isaiah 40:30-3, NASB)
The book will be dedicated to Dr. David Jang, founder and chairman emeritus of Olivet University, for his love of Jesus and worldwide ministry.