Recommended Small Group Curriculum

The following are Bible studies that small groups have found helpful.  All groups are different, but chances are you'll find some options here that will help you grow in faith too.

Verse by Verse Bible Studies:

Life Application Bible Studies
One nice feature about this Bible study series is that the Scripture text is included in book, so you pack one book for your Bible & your Bible study.  All New Testament books are available in the NLT translation.  We like the application questions.

Life Guide Bible Studies
Life Guide covers nearly every book of the Bible plus several character studies and topical studies like "Women of the Old Testament".  These small study guides are very popular across many sizes and kinds of churches.  The questions vary from basic reading comprehension to application questions.

Life Connections by Serendipity
Life Connections covers most books of the Bible in a slow, careful way, giving the facilitator great commentary and historical context to share.  There is a plan for daily reading and reflection that usually consists of one verse and one question each day.  The study includes icebreakers, study questions, and application questions, as well as fill in the blanks.

Words of Faith by Serendipity
Most New Testament books of the Bible are covered in this series.  We like "Hebrews: The True Messiah".  The study includes icebreakers and study questions, and some good commentary.

Studies with a DVD or On-line Resources:

Faith Lessons series--by Ray Vander Laan
This series is heavy on history and archeology.  It is filmed in Israel, Greece, and Rome.

Prodigal God--by Tim Keller
The prodigal God is a book based on the Parable of the Prodigal Son.  It is a powerful look at the relationship between God and God's children, and it concludes with a challenging question about if we have each accepted the invitation to God's banquet.  The video includes one long video of a sermon, followed by 6 sessions with short videos.

Wired Word
This on-line resource considers what Scripture says about current events.  Each week is different.  Cornerstone church has an account based on the number of people using this resource.  To add your group to that list and learn the passwords to access weekly studies, call Lynne McCollum at 874-0910 ext 324.

A Hole in the Gospel--by Richard Stearns
A passionate view of the Scriptures wrestling with God's call to both make disciples and care for the poor.  This study comes with a book, study guide, and/or 6 week DVD study.
 

Books & Workbooks:

Boundaries--by Drs Cloud & Townsend
A true classic in life application studies.  Options include a DVD, workbook, as well as related books such as Boundaries in Dating.

Abiding in Christ--by Maxie Dunham
Dr Dunham writes several workbooks designed to help make the classic spiritual disciplines a reality in your life.  The books are challenging as well as inspiring.  This one is focused on prayer.

Disappointment with God--by Philip Yancey
This book is on Pastor Jeff's top 5 list.  It deals honestly and compassionately with the age old question, "How can a good God let bad things happen?"  If you've ever been disappointed that God didn't intervene, this is a great read.

Wild Goose Chase: Reclaim the Adventure of Pursuing God--by Mark Batterson
One of former Pastor Jennifer's favorites.  This is an engaging read about pursuing God's will for your life and the things that keep us from doing that.  It's filled with real life stories, Scriptures, and thought provoking challenges.  Each chapter has study questions for group discussion or individual reflection.

When the Game is Over, It All Goes Back in the Box--by John Ortberg
One of Pastor Jeff's favorites.  This book asks if we are seeking that which lasts.  We have multiple copies in the library.

Radical
Another one of Pastor Jeff's favorites.  This book asks what does authentic faith look like.

Surprised by Worship--by Travis Cottrell
Favorite of Kristen Tommer, Operations Manager.  Travis Cottrell shows you how to fully experience God's presence at surprising times and places. By joining Travis in this exploration of biblical and modern-day examples of people who were surprised by worship during life's travails and triumphs, you'll discover greater meaning in your own circumstances.