CbW Study Experience

The Come before Winter experience includes practicing “biblical exegesis.” This type study is designed to let the Bible speak its own message. A foundational element of expository teaching, the process is sometimes called “inductive” or “contextual.”  

In this type Bible study, the student studies in context, so as to lead the meaning of the teaching straight out of the biblical text.

What would happen if we let God, through His Holy Spirit, be our teacher?

What if we did not consult other books or commentaries until we were almost finished with our study? What could we discover from simply reading the Bible–in context? Is it possible that the Word of God can become a fascinating, enticing teacher that will light a new fire in us, a new energy for Bible study?  

What we bring is not a “system” or a “new way to study the Bible.” Perhaps many of you study in this way already. What we propose is that we share in a study, using this “approach.” For those who have never studied in this way, we will share a few tools and ideas with you. However, we cannot “write the book” on this type of study. Further, you will not “learn” this type of study in the course of one week or one study. Rather, we will practice it together. Our hope is that we will help one another to enter into an adventure in which God leads the way as He provides us with the “ears to hear” and the “eyes to see” His message to mankind. 

Tess Cusi, the Philippines, studies the book of Mark at the Thailand renewal in August, 2003.

We teach this method, believing that if we invest in the Word of God–as it is written, in the context in which it is written–we will begin to hear God–individually, personally and “in His own words,” so to speak.  

During each renewal week, we will explore a specific biblical text within its context, considering its various contexts: its genre, structure, history, and theology. To date, our renewal curriculum include studies of the gospel of Mark, the epistle to the Philippians, and Psalm 103.  

Women at our renewals will engage in vigorous and challenging assignments and apply them to their lives during the course of a renewal. We believe that renewal is a gift of God that can be sought by spending time with Him and by prayer and meditation. We like to say that if you give God four nights and five days—the time invested in one of our renewals—He will work the miracle of renewal.  

Our online study is designed to lead you into God’s presence as you engage in daily individual study or a weekly group study. Call on Him, set aside time for Him, and open yourself to some honest reflection and uncommon experiences. Come to know that He is the author of Renewal.

Whether you are applying for one of our renewals or joining our online study, we invite you to enter into this great adventure with us and others around the world.