Reading the Bible & Contextual Bible Study

Reading the Bible is a key aspect of living and growing as disciples of Jesus, but it can feel hard to do. The Bible (as we use it) is a library of 66 books which includes different types of literature (eg poetry, history, myth, wisdom literature, songs, letters…), written and edited over hundreds of year in lands and cultures very different to 21st C Scotland. As disciples of Jesus we are invited to read scripture as a way of encountering God’s Living Word for our lives and world today. This involves using our whole being of intellect, perception and feelings as individuals, but critically also in relationship with others. It is an never ending process of both understanding and discernment.

There are many diverse resources available to help us engage with the Bible which come from very differing theological interpretations. Enterthebible.org is a free and excellent starting point with a wealth of resources and courses.

Contextual Bible Study Groups

Wednesday 7:30 – 8:30pm and Thursdays 12 – 1pm
Online via Zoom

Contextual Bible Study was developed through the struggle against apartheid in South Africa. At Augustine, we use it as a clear and simple method of group bible study, which inspires good discussion and thoughtful reflection. CBS aims to listen to the stories and wisdom of the scriptures speaking from within their contexts to ours, discerning God’s message of salvation for individuals and for social transformation.

Everyone is welcome to join in this group and no knowledge or experience is required. Please send an e-mail to minister@augustine.org.uk to get more information about Contextual Bible Study and to get the link for Zoom.

Upcoming passages to be used during Contextual Bible Study:

  • 2026
  • Jan 14 &15 Matt 13:31-33 & 45-52
  • Jan 21 & 22 1 Cor 1:10-31
  • Jan 28 & 29 Micah 6:1-8
  • Feb 4 & 5 Matt 5:1-12
  • Feb 11 & 12 Psalm 119:1-32
  • Feb 18 & 19 Isaiah 49:1-21
  • Feb 25 & 26 Matt 4:1-11
  • Mar 4 & 5 John 3:1-17
  • Mar 11 & 12 John 4:5-42
  • Mar 18 & 19 John 9:1-41
  • Mar 25 & 26 John 11:1-45
  • Apr 1 & 2 OFF
  • Apr 8 & 9 OFF
  • Apr 15 & 16 Genesis 32:22-32
  • Apr 22 & 23 Psalm 16
  • Apr 29 & 30 1 Peter 2:2-10
  • May 6 & 7 Song of Songs 2:1-17
  • May 13 & 14 Genesis 11:1-9
  • May 20 & 21 1 Peter 3:13-22
  • May 27 & 28 Psalm 104
  • Jun 3 & 4 Romans 1:1-17 BL
  • Jun 10 & 11 Acts 1:1-15
  • Jun 17 & 18 Matt 10:24-33
  • Jun 24 & 25 Matt 11:20-30