Peterborough Quakers

*'Friendly Bible Study' as the name suggests, is an approach to studying the bible by applying Quaker understandings, insights and tradition. It focuses on the notion of that of God in everyone and that spiritual revelation is ongoing. Personal experience is central to our spiritual lives and the Bible is used to test these experiences. Each participant’s contribution is equally welcomed as an important to the whole. Finally we are encouraged to take our inward spiritual understanding out into our Quaker and wider community.

At the Peterborough Meeting’s Quiet Day at Little Gidding we had a taster of this form of study which seemed to be well received. Subsequently a group of us met regularly for 6 weeks to consider the Epistle of James. We tried to discipline ourselves to one hour’s study each evening – and mostly succeeded. We used the New Revised Standard Version (Anglicised) Bible as our basic source and quickly discovered that other versions of the Bible could lead us to significantly different meanings in the text. The subjective approach to Bible study using this method was a challenge for those used to more academic Bible criticism.

For each member of the group at different times the faith and behavioural requirements asked by James of this early Christian community seemed beyond our own capabilities. We found much in the Epistle that must have spoken to the first Quakers and were heartened by James’ assertion that faith must be tested by ‘Works’. We were prompted to deep reflection on the Quaker Testimonies to spiritual truth, earthly integrity, equality and peace. Equality in particular made us question how far we are influenced by our early life experience and also our responses to those who live disadvantaged lives today.

We were encouraged to consider holding further studies and we hope to commence studying ‘The Revelation to John’ beginning on 11 January 2011.

December 2010

*Based on 'Friendly Bible Study' by Larry and Joanne Spears