Churches can use this as a teaching series between "Purpose-Driven" campaigns. This study of the New Testament characters celebrates the themes of worship, service, outreach, discipleship, & fellowship.

• George Gallup, the foremost religion pollster in the United States, maintains "We revere the Bible, but we don't read it." In a recent survey, 64 percent of those questioned said they were "too busy" to read the Bible. The average household has three Bibles but less than half the people in the United States can name the first book in the Old Testament.
  
  One survey among Christians found less than half knew specifics about Jesus’ miracles or teachings. About 12 percent thought Moses was one of the twelve apostles or identified Noah's wife as "Joan of Arc!" (Bible Literacy Report).

This book can be used as...

•  A individual or small group "Character-based" Bible study.

•  A sermon series (along with small group studies).

•  This is not a complete campaign. Consider using it after (or between) 40 Day Campaigns from Saddleback.

• “The Bible is composed of numerous stories of men and women and their relationships with the loving God who created them. To study the lives of these individuals is meaningful and uplifting. We can learn both what to do and what to be by looking at the positive attributes of hundreds of people who fill the pages of scripture. We can also gain vast knowledge and wisdom by observing and avoiding the tremendous failures and negative aspects of people mentioned in God’s Word.”

• Rick Warren, Personal Bible Study Methods, 1981

The Sermon & Study section has additional links and resources for a sermon series and/or small group study. We welcome your suggestions and additions. Please note there are discounts for multiple copies of the book for small group or congregational use.

In Christ,

Pastor Robert Driver-Bishop