1) It will be in a format where a special forum here on CB will be for the Bible Study. It will be only for that purpose and access will be locked down (in the way of posting) to only those who are taking part. Others are free to join, and we can decide if we want folks to read. I personally favor a more open-viewing format, but we can discuss it.
The whole purpose of bible studies like this is for those who are already saved Christians to study and learn the Word of God. So having it open to just anyone would probably not be wise.
2) The study would hinge very much on the folks participating. It means that a lot of the bickering has to be put aside. I don't want to limit it to just the basics. I want to be able to talk about the topics we disagree on without one side or the other. It would be nice to have it where input could be given on this or that and that person would be able to say his/her piece and move on. In other words, I want the relationships developed to feel more like friends (who maybe disagree, but yet remain closer than just a couple members on a forum).
First, I would like to share this scripture...."Now I plead with you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that you all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions among you, but that you be perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgement." (1 Corinthians 1:10)
As believers we should all be on the same page, especially when it comes to studying and learning God's Word. There shouldn't be any bickering. True fellowship is that which is guided and directed by the Spirit. It is when people allow their flesh to interfere that we end up with..."For where there are envy, strife, and divisions among you, are you not carnal and behaving like mere men?" (1 Corinthians 3:3)
I always cringe whenever I see the "we can agree to disagree" type mentality. This is God's Word people. Are you Christians? Do you believe in Jesus Christ, God, the Holy Spirit, and His Word? Then let's all fellowship together and study and learn and
behave as we know we should.
3) I'd like it not to be too hierarchical. If someone has done study or would like to ask about something, the floor is open.
That should go without saying.
4) The idea behind the study would be to go through the Bible and not just topic to topic. I haven't decided if we should do a linear read or perhaps pick a book at a time. That doesn't mean we can't branch off a bit when something comes up that drags our attention to other verses.
I believe that because it is God's Word you really can't read it as a "linear read-the-bible-in-a-year" type manner. I mean you could, but then it would just be a bunch of people reading a book. One person should be the head of the study. That person should pray and ask God what He wants the group to focus on. God knows each of us and what each of us needs from His Word and when. If we don't pray and ask God then there's really no point.