Send Comments and questions to Jack H. Williams International Bible Studies
What Is International Bible Studies?International Bible Studies is an evangelistic work overseen by the elders of the
39th Street church of Christ in Independence, Missouri. Christians in several churches
labor together with those in the 39th Street congregation to accomplish a great many
beneficial works for the Lord's kingdom. Some of the areas in which labors are conducted
are: As with all materials produced in the I.B.S. work, these are distributed free of charge to congregations and individuals who request them. Currently we have 50 tracts available with several more in the planning stages. We have distributed multiplied thousands of tracts to individuals and congregations in over 12 states and in at least 10 foreign countries. In order to keep costs to a minimum the elders of 39th Street authorized purchase of a printing press in 1995. This allows all materials to be printed "in house" at the 39th Street building keeping costs much lower than commercial printing, though quality is the same. While the costs are lower, there are still substantial monies involved. These costs are covered by the supporting congregations as well as unsolicited offerings from congregations and individuals who receive the materials. Several tracts have been translated into foreign languages such as Russian, Estonian, Latvian, Romanian, Tagalog (Philippine language) and several Indian dialects. Translation has also begun in the Mandarin Chinese language, a language which allows communication with about one fourth of the world population. The Latvian translation of the book "That Ye May Grow" penned by Bill
Jackson has been completed and is in use in Latvia. We continue to expand our abilities to
provide sound Biblical tracts and other materials in the English language as well as many
foreign languages. By this means we can assist others, as well as ourselves, in taking the
saving Gospel to all nations as the Lord commanded (Matthew 28:18-20). As this work was begun, a need was seen for a sound, distinctive correspondence course. The IBS course was written to fill this need. It was written primarily for use in overseas works and is currently being used in 12 foreign countries, but is also being used successfully in the United States. The Russian language version should be completed soon. The series consists of an introduction lesson, three lesson booklets of six lessons each, and a thirteen lesson follow-up booklet. Lesson booklet one deals with the character and nature of God and His communication to us through His Word. It also addresses the question of division among the so-called "Christian religions." It ends with the demonstration of God's love by the crucifixion of Christ. Booklet two emphasizes the fact that God cares about ones salvation. It addresses the subjects of repentance, confession, baptism and the blessings of salvation God has given us. Booklet three sets forth the Bible teaching on the marvelous church of Christ. It addresses our responsibility in obedient living, worship and protection of the purity of the church. The follow up booklet has thirteen lessons designed to help the new convert become
closer to God and other Christians. The lessons help him to have the assurance that God
gives regarding self, the Bible and the church. Several of the preachers in the Kansas City determined to find a way to be involved in evangelism in their area in the United States. The idea was conceived to make available to congregations a series of lectures on the theme of "Does God Care?" The lessons are presented by faithful gospel preachers who labor in Missouri and Kansas. The speakers involved have committed themselves to provide their own expenses for these lectures to congregations who desire and would benefit from such a series. Approximately four lectures are conducted each year from May through August. All materials necessary are provided for the congregation (free of charge) for
advertising and door knocking. Speakers travel to the area ahead of the lectures to assist
the local congregation in their outreach effort if necessary. The congregation is asked
only to provide a place for the meeting, a noon meal on the Saturday of the lectures to
aid in getting to know visitors, and to commit to take care of follow up studies and
visits resulting from the lectureship. This is a brief overview of the work accomplished by those seeking to respond in
love to the commands of our Lord to take the saving Gospel to a lost and dying world.
There is much work being done and many doors of opportunity yet to be opened. Plans are
always underway to expand the work in every way possible and make it as beneficial to the
kingdom of God as it can be. If you have suggestions for the work or would like further
information feel free to contact us at the . . . 39th Street church of Christ |
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