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Interactive Bible studies
The IBS series was born out of a ministry need. We saw a need for ready-to-use small group Bible studies that:
- didn't bounce off the Bible passage into topical discussions, or read our theology into the passage, but actually dug into the text of Scripture to understand what it was saying
- worked on understanding the passage and then application, rather than simply getting group members to share opinions or personal experiences
- provided enough background (historical, geographical, contextual) to enable small groups to make the most of their time studying the passage
- put each passage into the context of the whole story of the Bible, focusing on Christ (that is, a ‘biblical theology’ approach)
- had sufficient ‘through-line’ or direction to enable groups to come to some conclusions within an hour or so of Bible study
- were of consistently high quality and biblical faithfulness so that the whole series was trustworthy.
The result was the ‘IBS’ series, now in its 20th year, with 34 titles in use in small groups throughout the world.
We often describe our Interactive Bible Studies (IBS) as being like a guided tour through an old city. You get to see the highlights and learn some background information, and you're given directions on what to explore next in your own time. They're studies designed to stimulate interaction with the Bible, with each other, and with your current thoughts and attitudes.
Ministry tip:
A number of pastors use our IBS series to integrate their preaching and small groups content. Once a year (or more often) they get all the groups in the church to study an IBS title, while preaching through the corresponding book of the Bible at the same time. Those who do this report that there are benefits on both sides—the small groups are helped in their weekly studies by the input from the sermons; and the sermons have added impact because those listening are familiar with the passages.
Quicklinks
Old Testament studies
Full of Promise
Old Testament Overview
Take a whirlwind tour of the whole OT and fit all the pieces together. 8 studies.
Beyond Eden
Genesis 1–11
Unwrap the significance of the big opening events in the Bible. 9 studies.
Out of Darkness
Exodus
The extrodinary story of God's rescue of Israel and how this story points to Christ. 8 studies.
The One & Only
Deuteronomy
Come to grips with the awesome God who keeps his promises. 8 studies.
The Good, the Bad & the Ugly
Judges
A guide through the turbulent history of the judges and its significance. 10 studies.
Famine and Fortune
Ruth
Discover how God uses Ruth in his plan to save his people. 4 studies.
Renovator's Dream
Nehemiah
One leader's experience of restoring holy living among God's people. 7 studies.
The Eye of the Storm
Job
Examine the heart of Job and what it teaches us about life. 6 studies.
The Search for Meaning
Ecclesiastes
In a world obsessed with pleasure, this book challenges us to live with hope and faith. 9 studies.
Two Cities
Isaiah
Understand the message of this key Old Testament prophet. 9 studies.
Warning Signs
Jonah
Follow Jonah's journey to Nineveh and hear what God teaches him. 6 studies.
Kingdom of Dreams
Daniel
Vivid imagery and stories teach us much about the King of kings. 8 studies.
Burning Desire
Obadiah/Malachi
Learn what these prophets reveal about the unchanging character of God. 6 studies.
New Testament studies
The Good Living Guide
The Beatitudes
Unlock the meaning of some of the most famous words of Jesus. 9 studies.
News of the Hour
Mark
Investigate “the gospel of Jesus Christ, the Son of God”. 10 studies.
Proclaiming the Risen Lord
Luke 24–Acts 2
Jesus is both the content of and the reason for our proclamation. 6 studies.
Mission Unstoppable
Acts
Explore the explosion of the gospel into the world. 10 studies.
The Free Gift of Life
Romans 1–5
God shows us his justice and mercy in putting us right with him through the death of Christ. 8 studies.
Free for All
Galatians
Paul helps us understand our true freedom in Christ. 8 studies.
Walk This Way
Ephesians
Discover God's great purposes for us, and how we are to walk in them. 8 studies.
Partners for Life
Philippians
How can Paul say that “to live is Christ and to die is gain”? 8 studies.
The Complete Christian
Colossians
What should we expect the Christian life to be like? 8 studies.
To the Householder
1 Timothy
How should we live and relate together as God's holy household? 9 studies.
Run the Race
2 Timothy
Encouragement to persevere as a Christian in this world. 6 studies.
The Path to Godliness
Titus
How can we live a life that is pleasing to God? Titus gives us clear answers. 6 studies.
From Shadow to Reality
Hebrews
Strong encouragement to remain faithful and keep our confidence in Jesus. 10 studies.
The Implanted Word
James
Practical advice about real life, including joy, suffering, and use of the tongue. 8 studies.
Homeward Bound
1 Peter
Unpack some glorious teaching about our salvation in Christ. 10 studies.
All You Need to Know
2 Peter
What (or who) do you need to know? 2 Peter sets out clear answers. 6 studies.
The Vision Statement
Revelation
Charts a clear, life-changing course through this fascinating book. 9 studies.
Topical studies
Woman of God
What does the Bible say about being a woman? 8 studies.
Bold I Approach
Prayer
Biblical sense about the why and how of prayer. 6 studies.
Cash Values
Money
Understanding the Bible's attitude to money is a key topic for Christians to grapple with. 5 studies.
The Blueprint
Doctrine
Explore the great biblical themes at the heart of Christian belief. 10 studies.
