Lifted by Love
Of all the disciples, I find Simon (renamed "Peter" by Jesus) to be the most relatable. Like me, his impulsive exuberance sometimes gets him into trouble. Also, I share Peter's passion, his occasional tendency to respond in fear, and his imperfect but total captivation by Christ. Even though he was a disciple over 2000 years ago, his faith story is one of the most vulnerable and endearing of the early Christians.
So, I was intrigued when local author Patricia Clarke published Lifted by Love: Lessons from the Life of Peter. In this 8-week study, Clarke focuses on a different question for each session, such as "Who do I trust?" and "What is love?" taking lessons from the life of Peter and using passages from various books of the Bible. The study is structured for participants to complete short "homework" assignments that include an author reflection, Bible passage, and questions. Then, Clarke suggests "One Step" readers can take to apply what they learn. The second part of each lesson involves gathering as a group for sharing and discussion.
Over the years, I have facilitated many Bible studies, and I'm often amazed at how complicated the directions are. Thankfully, this is not the case with Lifted by Love. First, Clarke offers a clear and concise overview of the study format, followed by easy-to-follow guidelines for anyone wishing to host a group. Next, she provides excellent, step-by-step instructions for how to complete the study homework and group sessions. Finally, she includes helpful tips from her years of experience leading groups.
One unique aspect not often seen in Bible studies (I've only encountered it in Scripture Union's "LifeBuilder Bible Study" series) is the opportunity for different people to take the lead each week. I love this idea. Before each gathering, the host/organizer invites a group member to read that week's introduction and Bible passage. Additionally, the host may ask a teacher to provide additional instruction or a group member to share a personal story related to the lesson.
During the remainder of each session, group members simply take turns asking the discussion questions Clarke has included in the guide.
One of the challenges of leading groups is that not all attendees have the time or inclination to do homework. If the group discussion portion of a study is heavily dependent on homework answers, this can limit participation. Thankfully, Clarke sets up the lessons in a way that makes it possible for anyone to join the discussion, whether or not they completed the work at home.
Throughout Lifted by Love, Clarke seamlessly weaves together historical facts, personal observations, probing application questions, and Biblical truths. The personal story from the author at the beginning of each week sets the stage for authentic sharing and application. The eighth lesson offers a summary of each session and an opportunity to reflect on the key themes and takeaways with the group.
Clarke helpfully includes the longer Bible passages related to each lesson in the participant guide, preventing the distraction of flipping pages or searching on phones during discussions. However, members could be encouraged to read the passages in the Bible during homework to become more familiar and comfortable with using it.
I highly recommend Lifted by Love for believers at all stages of spiritual growth or those seeking to learn more about the Christian faith. The author’s well-crafted guidance and instructions make it particularly beneficial for those new to using guidebooks to study the Bible with others. In what feels like a nod to one of the stories the author included (when Jesus helped Peter walk on water), Clarke makes it easy for anyone to overcome their trepidation about diving into the Bible with this well-researched, engaging, and accessible study.
Additional Resources: Patricia Clarke has also produced a series of 9 podcasts to complement the teaching in the study guide. Find the Lifted by Love podcast on Apple or Spotify. Learn more on Clarke’s website: www.patriciaclarke.org.
Clarke, Patricia. (2022). Lifted by Love: Lessons from the Life of Peter. Bloomington, IN: Westbow Press.