"No-nonsense without being no-content.'

That's the aim of the new range of Pathway Bible Studies from Matthias Media. Being aimed at groups of Christians who are new to studying the Bible or those who might find other studies too much of a stretch, they combine a no nonsense structure and format with a high level of Biblical and theological content.

Two new releases in the range, Getting to Know God: Exodus 1-20 and Church Matters: 1 Corinthians 1-7 brilliantly manage careful and thorough study material with user friendly and highly accessible packaging.

Each booklet contains eight studies that lead the user systematically and thoughtfully through easy to digest chunks of text, continually encouraging the reader to look to the word for answers.

There are several "no-nonsense' features that make for "simple without being simplistic' studies.

These include:
- Stimulating "getting started' questions that helpfully encourage appropriate topical discussion.
- "Light from the Word' sections that subdivide the passage being studied into smaller sections, making it clear where in the passage participants should be focussing.
- The direction of questions to particular verses, thus aiding comprehension.
- Regular questions that encourage the piercing of the word into our present lives.
- Helpful "to finish' questions that invite participants to review what they have learnt and encourage prayer.

Included in the booklet is an accompanying set of leaders notes that for each study provides commentary on the passage, relevant cross references, comments on theological themes and tips for preparing and leading the study.

The nature of the studies is that they are brief and don't have time to dwell on "purple passages' (eg: there are three short questions on the Ten Commandments). However, the big picture which these studies paint provides the perfect springboard for closer, more detailed study at another time.

The studies are designed to be used in a small group context, however could easily be used in one-on-one meetings or for personal reading and reflection.

The complete package of accessible, word focussed studies combined with abundant and thorough leader's notes, means the Pathway series is not only excellent for people who are new to participating in Bible studies, but those who are new to leading them. Other titles include Luke 9-12, Romans, 1 Thessalonians and Genesis 1-12.