Unleashing the Word

Posted on corridor walls, it caused a stir. Turned into TV interviews, it brought new insights. This was God’s Word, unleashed.

In Armenia, although over 95% of people identify as Christian, the Bible often remains a closed book. But students in CICI, the IFES movement, have been opening it to others in bold and thoughtful ways.

Word on the Wall

Last October, CICI’s prayer event on World Student Day inspired students to intercede together for their campuses. That day, a fire was kindled in three students from one university in Yerevan: they felt compelled to see God’s Word read on site.

But campus Bible study groups are not permitted – those interested in reading Scripture must head off-site to the movement’s office. So, the students decided to write encouraging verses like John 3:16 and Philippians 4:13 on sticky notes and leave them on walls around the university building. Peers were soon reading, smiling, and discussing God’s love and Christ’s strength.

The security guards weren’t happy. Having checked CCTV, they summoned one of the students to their office. She was questioned about her faith and forbidden from posting more verses. She respectfully agreed to stop doing so on campus but defiantly announced that they would continue their activity on public walls just outside it. And they did.

Staff in the movement said:

“This was all the students’ initiative – they had a passion and acted on it. It’s exciting to see Jesus giving them such boldness in their faith!”

Lights, Bible, Action…

Meanwhile – back in the office! – students are digging deeper into the Word. Since a visit from the IFES Scripture Engagement team last year, the movement has continued to develop and use a ‘participatory drama and TV interview’ approach.

After reading a narrative passage together, participants are invited to closely analyse the text in small groups by imagining themselves as one of the characters in the story. TV interview style questions then tease out the significance of what they are thinking and feeling – and how that applies to life today. (See the full process here).

Staff note that both committed believers and seeking friends love exploring the Word in this way and are often keen to dramatize the interview. At a recent study on Jesus washing his disciples’ feet, one student remarked:

“It was touching to read the story through Jesus’ eyes. It made me feel the love and care he had for his disciples – and also for us.”

Through students reaching students, a shut book is now open. The Word is unleashed – read and considered. Let’s pray for the response:

Pray

Give thanks for the passion and courage of the three students who shared verses on one campus. Pray that the interest sparked by the Word will generate meaningful conversations and lasting connections.

Ask that the drama/interview Bible studies will continue to engage seeking students and that the Spirit will lead them into a personal encounter with Christ, the Living Word.

Pray for CICI small group leaders as they grow in their handling of the Bible. Ask the Lord to bless campuses and churches through their regular, creative, and faithful study of Scripture.