Add “Praying with Paul” to Your Recommended List

Spent some time this week with a new study from D.A. Carson and Brian Tabb. Praying with Paul: A Call to Spiritual Formation, based on Carson’s 2015 book by the same title, is an 8 session DVD-driven study that “leads group members into the Epistles to see what Paul taught in his ‘school of prayer.'”

DVD-driven, the video sessions feature the teaching of D.A. Carson, research professor of New Testament at Trinity Evangelical Divinity School in Deerfield, Illinois, an active guest lecturer in academic and church settings around the world and co-founder (with Tim Keller) of the Gospel Coalition. Carson’s is a gifted communicator and while there is a hint of the academic aspect, he easily grabs and holds our attention as he talks us through the prayers of Paul. At 9 to 18 minutes in length, all of the video segments feel like just the right length.

The Member Book, written by Brian Tabb, “freely adapts and uses material from D.A. Carson’s Praying with Paul: A Call for Spiritual Reformation (from the acknowledgments).” Each of the 8 sessions include section to be read in preparation. The preparation section includes (1) an introduction that “lead into the scripture text,” (2) a short commentary section that “explain the text and highlight important theological and practical themes in Paul’s letters,” and (3) reflection questions that “reinforce key points noted in the commentary and promote honest self-examination and application of God’s word.” The Member Book also includes a well-written Group Discussion guide and a Take Home component that will help group members “put flesh on the discussion and apply it during the week.”

Building a recommended list for the groups in your small group ministry should include some studies that directly encourage  members forward in spiritual growth and development. Praying with Paul is that kind of study. I found it very helpful and I know your members will too.

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