International Bible studies: Are they worthwhile?

Once you’ve got to know one or more internationals, why not offer them an English-language Bible study, in a group or one to one? We’re going to look at the practicalities of how to do this. But first, there are a couple of reservations about international Bible studies that are worth addressing.

A. Isn’t it better that people learn the Bible in their own language?

Even with a high degree of fluency in an additional language like English, most people understand most effectively what is communicated in their “mother tongue”. However, for many nationalities in Britain, there are few, if any, churches, Bible-studies or even Christians ministering in their first language. This is true of even major nationalities, eg: Japanese.

Also some internationals may actually prefer an English-speaking group, even when one in their own language is available.

• Some want to investigate Christianity away from the watchful eye of others in their community. Ex-pat communities can be claustrophobic, with news travelling fast back to friends and family.
• Some have had bad experiences with Christians in their own country, but are still intrigued by the Christian message. An English-speaking Bible-study allows them to investigate further free from pressure.
• For those who are wary of Christianity, an English-speaking group can qualify as a sort of cross-cultural contact, educating members in the customs and culture of the host country, and therefore less likely to provoke criticism from family or colleagues.
• A Bible-study in English can attract language students, keen to practise and improve their English. Learning English may not be the best reason for doing Bible-study but it’s an opportunity for contact with God’s word.

B. Is it really possible to teach different cultures in one group?

One-to-one Bible studies are probably the best of way of bringing the gospel to an international friend. Everything can be tailored to your friend’s level of English-language and Bible knowledge, their situation and their questions. However, it can seem intimidating—there’s no one else to answer the questions!

The social side of a group will attract some people. Also you can share this ministry with other British Christians. However, unless you have a large ex-pat community of one nationality in your area, it’s likely that your group will include a mix of races.

Obviously there are differences between people of different cultures—different religions, different ways of learning; different understandings of God, sin, or Christianity; different experiences that affect their responses. But there are more things common to all of us. The Bible addresses human nature and experience, and never confines its message to just one culture.

What’s key is your relationship with the group members. Friendliness, warmth, interest, humility, gratitude, respect and compassion are easily communicated cross-culturally. Once a relationship of trust is established, cultural differences become a source of fascination and fun.

This afternoon we turn to setting up and running an English-language Bible-study group for internationals.