Review | Gospel Revolution: A New DVD-Driven Study from J D Greear

Looking for a study that will take your groups deep into a better understanding of the gospel?  You’ll want to take a look at Gospel Revolution: Recovering the Power of Christianity by J.D. Greear, the dynamic senior pastor of The Summit Church, one of the 20 fastest growing churches in the United States.

Based on Greear’s newest book, Gospel: Recovering the Power that Made Christianity Revolutionary, the teaching centers on the idea that “the gospel is not just the way we begin in Christ; it is also the way we grow in Christ.”

Gospel Revolution is a DVD-driven 8 session study.  Each of the sessions is a combination of live teaching and studio segments that enhance the message.  At 18 to 23 minutes long, the session length works because the teaching is very compelling and will keep group members engaged.  In addition, the Member Book includes a Video Guide (note-taking section) and Video Feedback (an opportunity to process and discuss the video).

The Member Book provides a challenging set of scripture based discussion questions designed to help group members develop an authentic understanding of the whole gospel.  I think it’s important to note that this study really is a “dig into the Bible” kind of study.  There is even space for members to write down their answers for further study and reflection.  And I need to add that I love the Mix It Up section!  There is plenty of seriously good group practice in the Member Book! (That’s probably because my friend Spence Shelton, the Small Group Pastor at The Summit Church, played a big role in the Member Book!)

In addition to the Leader Note section in the back of the Member Book, there is also a Leader’s Guide on the CD-ROM that is included.  You’ll find everything you need to pull off a great discussion there, with additional notes and discussion stimulating ideas and suggestions.

The CD-ROM also includes a basic Campaign Guide for those churches interested in using Gospel Revolution as a church-wide campaign.  While not elaborate or comprehensive, the Campaign Guide provides the essential ingredients.  In addition to the Campaign Guide, you’ll also find a Sermon Ideas pdf, complete with suggested texts, ideas, references and quotes that will make sermon preparation easier.

Whether you use Gospel Revolution as a recommended study for groups looking for a challenge or a church-wide experience, I think you’re going to find a great resource here.  Although perhaps not ideal for every small group or every church…there are many, many groups and churches that will mark Gospel Revolution as the inflection point where their lives changed.