The Anchor Course is a 9-week study designed to bring seekers and believers together to discuss the basics of the Christian faith.
I’m sure you have people in your circles of influence who are asking, “What do Christians believe about God and his relationship to us? Why is the Bible is so important to believers? Who is Jesus? What is his vision for the world and how can we make that vision a reality? What about heaven and hell? And why does the cross stand as central symbol of Christianity?”
The Anchor Course is especially designed to help you lead a weekly discussion with seekers who want to explore the faith and with believers who want to explain the faith. Anchor Course groups have been held in church buildings, homes, and even in office boardrooms.
I’ve prepared a way for you to “test drive” the Course for yourself. But first, here are some quotes from those who have already experienced the Course:
From a believer struggling with doubts: “If you have any kind of curiosity in your life about your relationship to God or with God (or your lack thereof), I'd say try going to this class. I've never been in a setting until this one where people--me included--could openly talk about Christianity. It was a wonderful experience for me.”One of my greatest joys is to gather seekers and believers together to discuss the Christian faith. The Anchor Course will help you lead these conversations in your own community.
From a believer who has tried to share his faith: “It seems that each and every time the Gospel comes up in conversation, every person has an opinion on things. I've always felt a little timid stepping into the conversation with both feet, mainly due to a lack of self confidence around some of the issues. This book has provided me with valuable information that can be incorporated into the witnessing process.”
From a small-group leader at First Baptist Church in Victoria, Texas: “We just finished our first Anchor Course at FBC Victoria. Your illustrations are of tremendous help in conveying the message. The message presentation in whole and part is very non-threatening for Christian and seeker alike. This should be considered for all new converts and new church members. We will encourage our church to offer this periodically as the message will not grow old.”
From a small-group leader at Fellowship Presbyterian Church in Tallahassee, Florida: “Many folks in the class have commented on how helpful the examples relating to movies, books, or shows of ‘today’ are to them. The DVD’s are wonderful.”
From a small-group leader in a prison aftercare ministry: “I have had the privilege of leading a small group through the Anchor Course and watched God use it to break the chains of unbelief.”
From a Jewish participant: “Coming from another faith, I wanted to explore what Christianity means. The history, the context, and the message. The Anchor Course was a wonderful, intelligent, and safe place to explore, learn, and understand. If you are seeking knowledge for your heart, your life, your soul, or just your curiosity, this is the right place to be."
The week after Easter would be a perfect time to begin your own study. Interest in the Christian faith is higher at Christmas and at Easter than at any other time of the year. By starting the Course the week after Easter, the study would end before school is out in May.
http://www.hbcaustin.org/anchortestdrive/
Here you will find the introduction and two chapters from the book, one of the DVD lessons, a page of discussion questions to preview, and step-by-step instructions for starting your own Course. Of course, I’d be glad to answer any questions you may have. Write me at call me at 512-345-3771.
Please help me get the word out about this helpful resource by forwarding this blog post to ministry leaders you know!
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