In this recent post I hinted at an idea the Lord gave me while preparing for the introduction to our study Abiding in Christ, by Andrew Murray and Bo Stevens.
The idea bubbled to the surface as I imagined the disciples walking past a nearby vineyard following their last supper with Christ. The bread and the wine still lingering on their lips would become even more meaningful as Jesus taught on the Vine and the branches—a union that complements the Lord’s Supper beautifully.
As I closed out our introduction night, the juice and crackers were passed. We had a time of self-examination while David Teems (More Hope CD) played in the background. Afterwards, an amazing group of women from various backgrounds, denominations and churches came together as one to celebrate the One who makes an abiding relationship with a holy God possible.
I plopped down on Lifeway’s blue armless chair, arms filled with the latest bible studies, and bowed my head. I mean, one can’t go wrong in choosing a study as long as we’re in the Word, right? In the big picture, I believe this to be true—but I also believe God is in the details of our personal lives. So I pray.
Lord, You alone know who will attend this study. You alone know our true journey — where we are, where we desire to be, our strengths, our weaknesses, our everything. Pour out Your wisdom and direct me clearly in choosing our next study, as I am confident You have a purpose and a plan for each of us.
And pour out He did. Two hours, and nearly fifteen studies later, one study stood out: Abide in Christ, by Andrew Murray and Bo Stevens.
“It would be easy to study this parable to gain more knowledge, but this was not our Lord’s intent when He shared this parable with His disciples. His intent was for them to experience an abiding relationship in Him. He has the same intent for you and me today. He wants us to learn to abide, not simply learn what it means to abide.” -Bo Stevens
This modern-day version of Andrew Murray’s The True Vine invites us to dive in the Word throughout the week and come up for air on Tuesday nights at 6:30 p.m.
While the study itself is only 6 weeks, we will have an introduction the first week, and on our final week, we’ll come together for a very special Vine & the Branches tea party that you’ll not want to miss.
Begins: Tuesday, September 4th Ends: Tuesday, October 23 Time: 6:30-7:45 p.m. Place: Be Encouraged Ministry House, Simpsonville Led by Cathy Baker and Becky Kirby
We’d love to see you there!
Cathy Baker
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