Discipleship

We take discipleship seriously. Helping people grow in their faith, in their understanding of the Bible and growing deeper in their walk with Jesus is not only part of our mission, but it is also a privilege. When a person becomes a Christian for the first time, the journey ahead can look exciting and daunting, so helping others become mature Christians is a key responsibility the church has towards its people. There are various opportunities for this to happen:

Prayer Group

‘Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name,

10 your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.
[Matthew 6:9-13]

We seek answers for our practical needs, our spiritual needs and even protection from everything that is evil in this life, but first and foremost we simply come to Him in praise and worship. He is our Father, the Creator of all things and the Sustainer of all things and for in Him we live and move and exist [Acts 17:28]. Long before we address anything related to our needs or heart’s desires, we simply worship. This is what prayer is about. Knowing we come before our Father in Heaven because He is God and we are His creation … His children. Then when it comes to asking … Jesus said, And whatever you ask in My name, this I will do, so that the Father may be glorified in the Son [John 14:13]. Even our asking brings glory to God, because it’s His desires that we pray for and therefore when He acts He alone is worthy to receive all the glory, praise and worship. This is why Prayer at Bethany is crucial … this is why we meet on a dedicated day to pray together.

Prayer at Bethany happens in many contexts, but Wednesday prayer meeting continues to be the dedicated time for God’s people to come together in worship, petition and thanksgiving. We have tried to make it accessible for everyone by holding one service in the morning and the second of the month in the evening. We MUST keep praying together. Rejoice always, 17 pray without ceasing, 18 in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God for you in Christ Jesus [1 Thessalonians 5:16-18].

If you would like to know more or would like to request prayer, please get in touch and we will be honoured to pray with you and/or for you.

Ladies Bible Study

We have a wonderful opportunity every Tuesday morning to open the pages of the Bible and explore more of who God is, what He has done for us and the promises that lay ahead for each one of us. As a Bible believing church, we know the Bible is the source of God’s revelation to us and while we study, the Holy Spirit brings the words alive in our hearts and lives. We study verse by verse through whole books of the Bible – in the past 4 years we have looked at Philippians, Hebrews and Revelation. We have just finished an 18 month journey through the Book of Acts which ran alongside the sermon series ‘Staying the Course’ on Sunday mornings. Currently the ladies are studying ‘Twelve Extra Ordinary Women of the Bible’ by John MacArthur Jr.

Along with our Bibles we provide a sheet of supporting scriptures. What is so amazing about scripture is that it always backs itself up – it testifies about itself and to be signposted to these extra scriptures is always helpful. The Bible is God’s gift to us – it is His revelation to us which is inspired by Him, it is inerrant, authoritative and sufficient for all matters of faith and conduct. and has been given for our benefit. During the study the passage will almost always draw out different questions of how to apply these scriptures and it also encourages testimony of what the Lord has already done in people’s lives.

This is what three individual writers who were inspired by God to write portions of the Bible says about God’s word:

The Law of the LORD is perfect, restoring the soul; the testimony of the LORD is sure, making wise the simple. Psalms 19:7

‘Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path’ Psalm 119:105

‘All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work’

2 Timothy 3:16-17

‘For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart’ Hebrews 4:12

Here are some testimonials from our faithful, theological scholars!

Tuesday bible study is one of the highlights of my week. We go in deep and learn such a lot, freely contributing if we want to. All very relaxed with good fellowship and a few laughs along the way. Olive.

Love it, a great time of laughter, sharing and fellowship. But most of all a deeper look into God’s word which is such a joy, challenging, encouraging and life changing. Ang

It has been such a positive and encouraging experience for me. As a new Christian, it’s been really helpful to have a safe and welcoming space while I’m learning and growing in my faith. Laura

It is a privilege to come up to church to study the Bible in depth and be able to ask so many questions of you and get good instruction. Carolyn

I’m so blessed to be a part of the ladies Bible study group. Learning more and hungry for more. We’re never too old to learn. Mary

Refreshing, uplifting and informative. Happy bunch of ladies. Bruno is the icing on the cake! Jen

This group is welcoming and always enjoyable. Great teaching from Jon and we are able to ask questions. Joy

One of the highlights of the week. The in depth discussions are really inspiring and thought provoking. I am learning so much and I marvel at what we discover week by week. Thanks so much, Anne-Marie