How to Choose a Bible Study
Not all Bible studies are created equal. Facing an aisle full of Bible Studies or page after page in a catalog or onscreen can be daunting. We've synthesized a list of questions that will help you choose the right study for any application.
Ask yourself
- Do I want to address an issue with a topical study or build a biblical worldview through a systematic study of the whole counsel of God?
- Am I a reader, listener, viewer or attender?
- Do I want something for individual study, group study, or sermon preparation?
- Do I want a study to grow and develop believers in a group or on a mission that I lead?
Ask about the study
- Is the author a follower of Christ?
- Do you agree with their doctrinal statements?
- Does the study place more emphasis on the author's commentary or on the Bible text?
- Does the study balance solid exegetical techniques with actionable life-application?
Choosing a Precept Study Series
Below you will find a convenient chart to help assist you in choosing a Precept study series.
You can even try a sample study before you buy knowing you have picked the right Bible study tool for your group and individual needs.
Topical
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| Exegetical
40 Minute Bible Studies
 |
These revolutionary, no-homework, 6-week studies are an easy
introduction to inductive study. They have proven great for small
groups and have a unique format that includes Scripture
alongside the text.
Zoom in on the issues you care about and learn to think about
them as God does. These focused, self-contained studies
guide you into God's Word one topic at a time, 6 weeks at a
time, with no homework. Learn to think biblically and discover
what God has to say about your real-life questions. These
softcover workbooks include Scripture alongside instructions,
questions and informative insights to aid your inductive study
experience.
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| Personal Study Time |
In class only |
| Discussion |
40 minutes |
| Lecture (optional) |
N/A |
| Training for Leaders |
Not Required |
| Continuing Education Units |
N/A |
"LORD" Study Series
 |
Topical inductive Bible studies that apply God’s Truth right where you need it. Encouraging and enriching messages that can transform your life. There are companion lectures on CD and DVD for most studies.
How do you tell God what's on your heart? How do you prepare yourself to hear His answers? Dig down to the rock-solid foundation of God’s Word and let Him meet your deepest needs. These encouraging and topical teachings are straight from Kay Arthur’s heart. They will touch you at your core. The “Lord” series trains you in sound Bible study and inspires you with its intimate, day-to-day devotional format.
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| Personal Study Time |
1-3 hours |
| Discussion |
1 hour |
| Lecture (optional) |
1 hour |
| Training for Leaders |
Not Required |
| Continuing Education Units |
Select Studies |
Discover 4 Yourself (Inductive Bible Studies for Kids)
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A great way to introduce inductive Bible study to kids with challenging, creative and fun studies for all children old enough to read.
Start kids on a journey toward being students for life! Young people of any age will learn how to dig into the Bible for themselves with this fully-biblical, fully-exciting study series. Seven to 12-year-olds will find Bible study really “worth it” as they journey into God’s Word. Fill-in-the-blank questions and fun activities challenge kids while teaching important truths. Lively narratives and illustrations make it fun and bring the Bible stories to life. This series will whet a lifetime appetite for truth.
|
| Personal Study Time |
2-3 hours |
| Discussion |
Optional |
| Lecture (optional) |
N/A |
| Training for Leaders |
Not Required |
| Continuing Education Units |
N/A |
New Inductive Study Series (NISS)
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Get the "big picture" in these concise yet rich studies presented in an easy-to-follow format. Find God's Truth for each book of the Bible in a survey format .
Want to get your arms around a book of the Bible? NISS studies take you on an inductive survey of an entire book of the Bible with just 15 minutes of homework each day. Study by yourself or lead a group in life-changing Bible study. You don’t even need training to lead!
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| Personal Study Time |
1-3 hours |
| Discussion |
1/2 - 1 hour |
| Lecture (optional) |
N/A |
| Training for Leaders |
Not Required |
| Continuing Education Units |
Select Studies |
In & Out Study Series
 |
Streamlined Precept Upon Precept Studies that parallel Precept Upon Precept content. Ideal for those with less time.
What if you want to go deeper, but you aren't ready for Precept Upon Precept? In & Out is a streamlined approach to the same material—unfiltered and straight from the Bible. It's ideal for those who thirst for the Word but have less time. Studies parallel PUP but require fewer hours of study time per week. You can lead In & Out without training to become a Precept leader. Companion lectures are available in CD and DVD format.
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| Personal Study Time |
1-3 hours |
| Discussion |
1 hour |
| Lecture (optional) |
1 hour |
| Training for Leaders |
Not Required |
| Continuing Education Units |
Select Studies |
Precept Upon Precept
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In-depth inductive study in an easy-to-follow daily format. Companion lecture CDs and DVDs are available. Training required for leaders
When you’re ready to go deeper and understand the whole counsel of God, you’re ready for Precept Upon Precept. Unfiltered and straight from the Bible, Precept Upon Precept studies help you discover the life-changing power of God for yourself through the daily study of His Word. Training is required to become a Precept leader.
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| Personal Study Time |
5 hours |
| Discussion |
1 hour |
| Lecture (optional) |
1 hour |
| Training for Leaders |
Required |
| Continuing Education Units |
Select Studies |
