Indepentant Bible Study w/o WTS!

sweetone2377

I've been interested in studying the bible, independant of any WTS publications. But I am at a loss for where to start. Also, I have no one, really, to discuss things with, such as what I'm finding or reading. No one else so I can "Pick their brain" or we can "pick each other's brains". Is there anyone else here in the Canton Ohio, USA area who would be interested in possibly starting a group? Not to discover a new religion, or to find one that already exists, but to help sort through the weeds and the wheat of the Bible and figureing out what really is the truth and what is not. Please email me and let me know...I will make my email public so you can.

"Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled." ~ Matt. 5:6

Kophagangelos

I am interesting and nosy what you do!

sweetone2377

Actually, at this point, I haven't a clue. Which is why it would be nice for those of "us" in my area to be able to meet together. Much like the independant study groups in Bethel during the 1970's. I would love to hear what other ppl's views of the Bible are without the WTS's influence (which is hard to fight). Maybe by reading it verse by verse and searching for true meaning. I find it hard to do it alone and having others involved would be a great help and we would have each other to lean on and to learn from.

"Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled." ~ Matt. 5:6

Trevor Scott

sweetone,

you may not know this, but most Christian churches have independent Bible study groups. When I say independent, I mean a study group that is organized by Christians in the church and not by the pastoral team per se. These are usually evening affairs, very casual, and it is *not* studying the Bible "through" the pages of the Watchtower rag, or any other pub.

Just a suggestion.

TS,

sweetone2377

Thanks, but I do have one question (I am new to the whole "thinking for myself thing" still). Wouldn't their studies still be greatly influenced by that certain Churches doctrines?

"Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled." ~ Matt. 5:6

Stephanus

Yes. Any Bible study group you attend will be influenced by the theological leanings of the group. So I would suggest you go to a Christian book shop and get hold of one of the "How to Study the Bible for Yourself" type books, sometimes categorised as "hermeneutics". The authors will still have leanings, but they will hopefully provide you with the tools to do your own study.

sweetone2377

TY Steph....I have to do a hunt for Franz's books also so I will look for that type of publication while I'm at it!

"Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled." ~ Matt. 5:6

Billygoat

Sweetone,

Yes, if you go to an independent bible study, you will probably get the flavor of that particular religion. But that is exactly what I did with several churches. After awhile it was interesting to me to hear different viewpoints and interpretations. It was only after hearing differences, could I see what made sense to me.

I think independent tapes are also good, but you can't really ask questions or interact with anyone else. Which is something I found helpful in discussion groups. I know it may sound scary to join one, but all of the ones I've been to are very casual and laid back. Usually, more than interested in "discussing" verses "preaching".

Good luck!

Andi

Mulan

My sister in law who lives in Sacramento, is an ex dub, and she has gone to a Bible study group for about 2 years, and enjoys it very much. She says they discuss it, and don't condemn for differing viewpoints, and she has actually been able to contribute quite a bit to it, because she knows so much about the history of the Bible.

Anyway, she loves it. It's through her daughter's Foursquarea Church. Nondenominational, or something or other. I can't keep them straight.

Marilyn (a.k.a. Mulan)
"Those who know, don't say, and those who say, don't know."

Trevor Scott

sweetone,

In my experience, differing of opinion on various things is permitted in a Christian church. I know, its hard to believe this after experiencing the borg...

If this is not for you though, something else you may want to consider is looking up an independent (non-denominational) Christian study and/or fellowship group; most cities will have such groups.

Also I agree with Stephanus' suggestion. This is worth doing either way.

TS,

Indepentant Bible Study w/o WTS!

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