NEW BIBLE STUDY SERIES

Abingdon Press announced the launch of the “Faith and Fiction Bible Study” series. This is the first women’s Bible study series to combine Bible study and Christian fiction, using novels as a backdrop for exploring biblical themes. The first of this series will include studies from Melody Carlson and Barbara Cameron. Each study is six to eight weeks and includes a participant book for group members, a leader guide, and a DVD featuring interviews with the author.

The first study in the series, Healing Waters: A Bible Study on Forgiveness, Grace, and Second Chances (August 2012), is based on “The Inn at Shining Waters” trilogy, a series by award-winning Christian fiction author Melody Carlson, who has written more than 200 books for teens, women, and children. This study invites women on a journey to healing, a journey in which God walks with them and invites them to experience His love and mercy. Women will learn how to restore broken relationships and how to live in life-giving community. 

“In this study we are embarking on a journey of healing. Forgiveness, healing and grace are all factors,” says Melody Carlson. “The important thing to remember is that God will lead us on this journey, and he promises to walk every step of the way with us. My hope is that you come to know with all your heart that God is good. He forgives and heals.”

The second study in the series, Her Restless Heart: A Woman’s Longing for Love and Acceptance (March 2013), is based on a novel by acclaimed Christian fiction author Barbara Cameron, who also has written three nationally televised movies (HBO-Cinemax). The novel is Her Restless Heart, which is the story of an Amish woman caught between the traditions of her faith and the pull of a different life. As she struggles with her restless heart and seeks to find her place in the world, she finds herself faced with difficult choices in love and in life. The study draws upon the theme of the heart’s restlessness and the longing for satisfaction and fulfillment to explore the Bible’s answer to the universal human need for love. The study will equip and encourage women as they seek to know God’s plan for their lives and find satisfaction for the longing of their restless hearts. 

This refreshing approach of combining Bible study with narrative storytelling will enrich and enhance the study of God’s Word. The studies are perfect for women’s Bible study groups as well as book or reading groups looking for a little structure and help in exploring and discussing the spiritual themes of novels. The studies include plot summaries, character sketches, and key excerpts so that reading the novels is not required. However, those who enjoy reading may choose to read the books in tandem with the studies, enhancing the overall experience.