The Best Part of Bible Study is When it's Over!

Okay, okay, I think I got you hooked by the title.  How else was I going to get you to read this book?  Before I start, I think I should give you a little background on how it came into being.  I’m going to try to keep it short (both this introduction and the book)!  That way it will be a little more manageable for you to read and maybe even use.

When I first finished seminary I naively thought the world was ready for me.  Now I didn’t plan on becoming a Billy Graham or someone like that.  I was already an employed clinical psychologist and had studied theology to enhance my practice.  However, I just thought I might use my new degree in other ways.  So, I sought out some denominational leaders (which and who shall remain unnamed, for obvious reasons) and volunteered my services as a fill-in for churches in need of a pastor.  My enthusiasm was met with blank looks and, usually, a stuttered reply somewhat along the lines of, “U-h-h…oh.  Well…um…uh…sure….”  I’m not certain which of us was more under-whelmed.  I’ve always said

I was a frustrated comedian, so maybe my unique sense of humor was a bit of a put off.

After a few months of no calls (thankfully my bread and butter didn’t depend on it), I said, “Okay, God, what else do you want me to do with this degree?”  Now, I’m not saying God spoke to me (I just work with disturbed people…I’m not one of them…at least I don’t think I am, but don’t ask any of my relatives….), however, I had a sense of Him saying, “Teach Christians how to study the Bible.  It’s the most neglected aspect of the Christian life.”  My response was, “Well, I agree with that, but what about prayer?  I know someone [probably an old woman] is going to challenge me with that.”  The answer came back, “Teach Bible study!”  About a month later, in a casual conversation, I commented that Bible study is the most neglected aspect of the Christian life.  Sure enough, someone (an old woman) snapped, “What about prayer?”  Thankfully God had prepared me.  I agreed (if you agree, how can they argue?), but added, “Of course, I believe God hears the little shotgun prayers we shoot up to Him each day like, ‘Please remember Aunt Twyla, who’s having surgery’ or ‘Take care of sister Sue and brother-in-law Jim on their trip.’”  While that was a successful interchange, I still didn’t hear from any denominational leaders for an opportunity to start teaching.

Surprise; surprise…within a few weeks the hospital where I work asked for unpaid volunteers to fill a vacant

chaplain position!  Interestingly, after a few months some of the chapel attendees asked for copies of my notes to study a little more closely.  From there developed a small literature ministry that God has blessed with studies being sent throughout the states and even to military members in the Middle East!  So why am I writing this book? I’m still not convinced I’m really teaching Christians how to study the Word of God…maybe you’re the one I’m meant to teach….  Check it out to see if it’s for you, and as my favorite waitress always says, “Enjoy!”