Why bother with the Bible?

The Navigate resource is free to download (Photo: Methodist Church)

The Methodist Church and Bible Society have teamed up to help young people navigate the Bible.

They have created a new series of short videos tackling questions like why young people should bother with the Bible, whether it is trustworthy and what difference it makes to life today.

The Navigate resource has been designed for use by youth leaders working with 11 to 15-year-olds and offers five interactive sessions in addition to the video animations.

"As Christians we take for granted that we should read the Bible, but we often don't ask why or consider the challenges it presents," said Methodist Youth President Tamara Wray.

"This course is a fantastic introduction for young people to the most world-changing, exciting and significant book the world has ever seen."

The launch of the new resources comes just a few weeks after the Bible Society published new research revealing that although 80 per cent of parents agree it is important for their children to know Bible stories, a third of 15-year-olds have not read, seen or heard the Nativity story.

The research prompted the Bible Society to launch the Pass It On campaign encouraging parents and children to engage with Bible stories.

James Catford, Group Chief Executive of Bible Society, said, "Our research indicates that the Bible's brilliant and engaging stories could be lost to future generations unless people take action. The Bible's contribution to our culture – language, literature, the visual arts and music – is immense.

"It doesn't matter who you are or where you come from. The Bible enriches life, and every child should have the opportunity to experience it. The Navigate course is a great way of doing that."

Navigate is available to download for free here

News
US criticises prosecution of pro-life campaigner over silent prayer near abortion clinic
US criticises prosecution of pro-life campaigner over silent prayer near abortion clinic

The US State Department has said it is closely monitoring the prosecution of a Christian woman who prayed silently in an abortion clinic buffer zone. 

Over £900,000 awarded to help UK churches stay open amid growing funding pressures
Over £900,000 awarded to help UK churches stay open amid growing funding pressures

Hundreds of churches across the UK are receiving vital financial support to remain open and safe, as rising repair costs and shrinking funding streams place historic buildings under increasing strain.

How to make the most of the quiet period between Christmas and New Year
How to make the most of the quiet period between Christmas and New Year

Make the most of these last days of the year to slow down, reflect, and reconnect with God.

US carries out strikes on Islamic State in Nigeria over violence against Christians
US carries out strikes on Islamic State in Nigeria over violence against Christians

The US military has conducted airstrikes against Islamic State (IS) militants in Nigeria over the violent "targeting" of Christians.