Program Guide
Below are simple introductory and transition statements, along with some instructions, for using the DVD menu. You can adapt this program guide to go with the option you have chosen. Possible discussion questions are also provided. Readers and the equipment operator will need to practice ahead of time if the program is to move smoothly.Introduction to the Bible Visit program:
LEADER: During this time together, we are going to focus on the Bible: the old German Bible [or a framed page from the Saur Bible] that has been loaned to us and also the Bible each of us owns. The reason the Saur Bible is here today is stated in your handbook (or some other sheet provided) Turn to page 1, and let's read the purpose together.
ALL: The purpose of the Bible Visit is to...
- encourage Brethren to become faithful readers of the Bible, increasing their appreciation, study and application of it;
- acquaint them with Christopher Saur, Jr., a colonial Brethren printer, and our biblical heritage;
- create a spirit of unity and renewal as the traveling Saur Bible links us with those of the past and with each other.
LEADER: It is hoped that from this Saur Bible Visit you will take a concrete step toward making the Bible more important in your life. At the end of this DVD program we will be offered a challenge and some practical suggestions for meeting it. As you go through this event, ask God what he wants to teach you and how you can respond to what you have learned.
Let us pray:
Almighty God, we thank you for the Scriptures and for this opportunity to give them our attention. We are grateful for our biblical heritage, and ask that you would help us grow in our love and use of the Bible. In Christ's name we pray. Amen.
Introduction to "The Saur Story"
Have the menu on the screen before the program begins. The screen will show an arrow pointing to "The Saur Story". Press "play" and the "The Saur Story" will begin. If you are using the shortened version of this program, you should skip this introduction as well as the discussion time.
LEADER: Today you have seen a Saur Bible (or a page from it). Now you can learn about the Brethren elder who printed it. After the video you will have time to share your thoughts about his life and work.
Using the provided handbooks (if you have time for discussion) direct participants to the page which contains questions for this segment. You can access the handbook by clicking here. If handbooks are not available, provide your own questions or use these: 1) Why did separatists seek religious freedom in Pennsylvania? 2) Was Saur, Jr. a coward or did he exhibit courage during the Revolutionary War? 3) What biblical convictions do you hold for which you would be willing to give up everything to live out? Give instructions that will help the small groups get started quickly.Introduction to "Psalm 23 in German"
You can either have someone read the 23rd Psalm in German or hear it read from the Saur Bible on the DVD.
LEADER: The Bibles of most early Brethren were printed in German. Listen to how the 23rd Psalm would have sounded when read out loud from the Saur Bible. The text will be on the screen.Introduction to "Early Brethren"
LEADER: Since their beginning in 1708, Brethren have always taken the Bible seriously. Three scholars tell us how the early Brethren viewed the Bible. Following the video we will have time to respond to what they have shared.
If you are using the shortened version it is suggested you remain in the large group and allow three to four minutes for brief responses to what the scholars share. If you are having a small group discussion after the video, following are some questions you might use: 1) Why did the early Brethren view the Bible as very important? 2) Why was studying Scritpure together so crucial? 3) What did the "inner Word" and the "outer Word" mean to them?Introduction to "Precious Bible"
LEADER: "Precious Bible" is an early hymn used by Brethren. It appeared in the first English hymnal printed in 1791 by the Brethren printer, Peter Leibert. Then only the words were printed. It continued to be used by Brethren for the next 144 years. It has been adapted slightly and set to a tune that was used in the 1872 Brethren hymnal. The first verse will be sung for you so you can hear the melody. Then you are invited to sing along as the words appear on the screen.
(Add this sentence if you will be singing the contemporary version.)
The praise version has been adapted to give it a contemporary flavor.
Depending on the option you have chosen, the menu will give you the choice of two renditions of the hymn. Choose the one you prefer, or if you have the time, sing them both.Introduction to "Hearing God Speak"
LEADER: "He who has ears to hear, let him hear," Jesus said. It takes more than just an ability to read to hear from God in the Bible. It takes a true desire and a right spirit.
If you have time for discussion following this segment, possible questions are: l) What makes it hard for you to read the Bible regularly? 2) What makes it even harder to apply what you read? 3) Why is having a living relationship with Christ important for understanding what you read in the Bible?Introduction to "Personal Stories"
LEADER: Like early Brethren, Brethren today have found the Bible to be a precious gift from God. Listen as some contemporary Brethren share what the Bible means to them. You will then get a chance to share your own thoughts about the Bible in your discussion group.
Following are suggested questions: 1) What Bible stories have you come to appreciate most? 2) If you had been interviewed for the video, what might you have said about the Bible? 3) How has Scripture made a difference in your life? These are in the handbook but you may use your own. Close the discussion at a predetermined time so you will have enough time for the "Challenge" before the program ends. The "Challenge" will take10-15 minutes, depending on the program option you choose.
Introduction to "Challenge"
Begin the introduction after the quiet music has started. Continue to play it as folks are instructed on what to do with their challenge sheets and as they fill them in. Click here to down load the challenge sheet.
LEADER: Brethren have always sought to be a people of the Book. They have known God speaks through it. But the time pressures and distractions of our day have kept many of us from giving the Bible the place and time it deserves.
In the back of your handbook, (or on a sheet you have been provided) you will find a challenge sheet with two identical check lists. During the next few minutes of quiet time, as the music is playing, read over the list of practical suggestions in a thoughtful and prayerful spirit. Ask God what step or steps he would like you to commit yourself to for at least the next three months. After you have decided how he would like you to respond, mark each of the forms the same. Sign the upper one and keep it for yourself. Tear off the bottom unsigned one and hand it in. The unsigned form will help the church leadership know how to support and encourage you and others during the next three months.
When you are ready to move on press "play". The next menu will appear.
Introduction to "Break Thou the Bread of Life"
LEADER: "Break Thou the Bread of Life" is a familiar hymn that shares our desire to be fed by God's Word. Sing along as the words are shown on the screen.
If you are using the shortened version you should skip the hymn and move on to the closing prayer.
The pastor or leader should close with a prayer (either a personal one or one like the short prayer below). If there are two minutes to view the "Credits", have people remain seated for the prayer.
LEADER: Lord God, we thank you for giving us the Scriptures and a heritage that has emphasized them. Thank you, too, for the challenge of this hour. Help us to be faithful to what we have heard you calling us to do. May we grow in our love for you and the Bible, planting your Word in our hearts as it points us to Jesus Christ. In his name we pray. Amen.Introduction to "Credits"
Make time, if at all possible, to see the credits. If you must dismiss before the credits are shown, play them anyway for those who might want to remain and see them.
LEADER: Volunteers have produced this Bible Visit program. Those who have made it possible have done so in the spirit expressed in a motto in German that hung in the Saur printing shop: "TO THE GLORY OF GOD AND MY NEIGHBOR'S GOOD."
To get the credits press "menu" and scroll down to "credits".
