New from Bill Hybels: Wiser Together Is a Very Good Addition
Worked my way through a new study from Bill Hybels. Wiser Together: Learning to Live the Right Way “challenges you and your small group to make doing life together a priority, exploring from the book of Proverbs the inseparable connection between experiencing community and growing in wisdom.”
DVD-driven, Wiser Together is a short study, just 5 sessions. Featuring teaching by Bill Hybels, the founding and senior pastor of Willow Creek Community Church, the sessions are classic examples of his style. Each segment is a manageable length, the average time is 13 to 18 minutes.
The study guide includes all of the elements needed for a very good time together. Along with a video viewing guide, each session includes a warm-up question or two designed to get your group engaged and talking. A good set of discussion questions pulls members into a better understanding of the wisdom of scripture and a deeper study section provides another question or two if you have time to go further.
The study guide also includes a personal journal section designed to provide a daily experience. Each day offers the opportunity to reflect, respond and record your thoughts as you study the proverbs. It’s a short assignment, but will definitely help those new to group life to dig in and get the hang of spending time in the Bible.
In addition, the study guide includes a great set of leader and group resources. Tips for HOSTs, a group agreement, ideas for inviting friends, a group calendar and a group roster. While there isn’t a leader’s guide, these resources will certainly help less experienced leaders put together a very good experience.
Wiser Together is a very good addition to the recommended list. I can definitely see this study becoming a “go to” resource for new groups looking for a good starter study. I can also see it working very well to establish (or re-establish) a healthy group culture.
