Introductory Bible Studies

Sunday Scripture Study For Catholics:
Vince Contreras, 2011 Sunday Scripture Study For Catholics. At this site, you will find studies for each Sunday of the liturgical year, which include background information on the readings, a variety of questions for discussion, references to the Catechism of the Catholic Church, and a quote from Church Tradition. This site also has information for Catholics about how to read the Scriptures, where to find more information and background knowledge online, how to get started at studying Scripture, a format and tips for using these resources with small groups, and more.

 

Footprints Of God, The: Jesus, The Word Became Flesh:
Stephen Ray, 2003 Ignatius Press. Join Stephen Ray, best-selling author and popular Bible teacher, as he catches fish in the Sea of Galilee, camps along the Jordan, and explores the places Jesus lived and performed his miracles. Join the incredible journey through the streets of Jerusalem to Calvary and the tomb, to the Resurrection and Pentecost. Gain a deeper appreciation for our Savior and the salvation He purchased for the world. (Closed Captioned, subtitles in English and Spanish)

 

Great Adventure, The: Quick Journey Through The Bible – An Eight-Part Introduction To The Bible Timeline:
Jeff Cavins, 2007 Ascension Press. This learning system – using talks on DVD, workbooks, color-coded charts and aids, study questions and answers – is designed to give the participant a brief overview of salvation history, from Genesis through the Resurrection of Christ and the establishment of the Catholic Church. Participants will learn about the need for Bible study and how to enter deeper into “His-story” as they begin their study of the Scriptures. The program includes four sixty-minute DVDs with two sessions on each DVD. Includes fold-out Timeline of Salvation History, Leader’s Guide, and a Student Pack. DVD I Session I: Introduction, Session II: Early World (Genesis 1-11), DVD II Session III: The Patriarchs (Genesis 12-50), Session IV: Egypt and Exodus (Exodus) and Desert Wanderings (Numbers), DVD III Session V: Conquest and Judges (Joshua, Judges) and Royal Kingdom (1, 2 Samuel, 1 Kings 1-11), Session VI: Divided Kingdom (1 Kings 12-22, 2 Kings) and Exile (2 Kings 17-25), DVD IV Session VII: Return from Exile (Ezra, Nehemiah) and Maccabean Revolt (1 Maccabees), Session VIII: Messianic Fulfillment (Luke) and The Church (Acts).

 

Walking Toward Eternity: Making Choices For Today – Daring To Walk The Walk, Disc I:
Jeff Cavins, 2012 Ascension Press. Walking Toward Eternity is designed to help you live your faith more fully using a DVD series, which includes lectures and witness stories and a journal for daily Lectio Divina. Daring to Walk the Walk introduces seven key virtues and outlines practical steps for living them out in daily life. Hearing the Voice of God – introduces the practice of Lectio Divina with Psalm Twenty-three (52 min.). Walking in Love – reflects on agape love, the love of the Trinity, and choosing the best action for the sake of another at any cost (45 min.). (Includes Leader’s Guide, participant Journal, and bookmark)

 

Bible Blueprint, The: A Catholic’s Guide To Understanding And Embracing God’s Word:
Joe Paprocki, 2009 Loyola Press. The Bible Blueprint uses a blueprint metaphor to help Catholics gain a solid understanding of the structure and organization of the Bible, and to help them build confidence in navigating its pages. Among the topics covered are the different genres of biblical writing, key figures in biblical history, and the methods Catholics rely on to interpret the Bible. Readers are also shown how to consult commentaries, concordances, and other valuable tools of Bible study to deepen their understanding of God’s Word. (Includes Leader’s Guide)

 

Conversing With God In Scripture: A Contemporary Approach To Lectio Divina:
Stephen J. Binz,       2008 Word Among Us Press. Examples of the ancient practice of Lectio Divina using seven biblical passages are included as well as questions for reflection and discussion, making this book a useful tool for faith-sharing groups.

 

Introduction To The Bible: Overview, Historical Context, And Cultural Perspectives:
Rev. William A.   Anderson, 2012 Liguori Publications. Rev. William A. Anderson lays groundwork for the reader to gain insight into the Bible, understand the historical and cultural contexts, “hear” the oral traditions, and “meet” the writers of each book of the Bible. The reader’s understanding of Scripture will be deepened through an introduction to the spiritual practice of Lectio Divina (praying Scripture).

 

Threshold To God’s Word: A User-Friendly Guide To Scripture Study:
Stephen J. Binz, 2014 Twenty-Third Publications. Although this is a captivating and informative resource, it is also a deeply prayerful introduction to Scripture study. Reading the Bible is presented not primarily as an intellectual exercise, but as a devoted and passionate search, an enthusiastic and joyful discovery. The book was written for individual or group study and includes questions for reflection as well as steps for unlocking the door to God’s word.