Bible Study Fellowship Rewrites the Rulebook
Sounds a lot like what we’re discussing about BJU, though I can’t find a lot of details. There is some controversy over the use of the NIV, the recommended reading list, and even whether female leaders ought to wear skirts or slacks. I would dare say that the biggest controversy over BSF is simple; why aren’t churches hosting something like this where theologically trained men can answer some of these questions?
I can only imagine the dissonance as a participant who is a graduate of Bible college A with student handbook B, a member of church C with formal or informal cultural standards D, interacts with BSF and their current standard E. What a mess.
Aspiring to be a stick in the mud.
My wife has been involved with BSF a few times over the last 20 years. I have answered questions for her at times. But in general, the rules as she understands them prohibit her from reading any commentaries. Just Bible.
There are weaknesses about that. But the point is to put women from all parts of “Christianity” in front of the Word. For many Catholic participants she has sat beside, it was the first time they have read and understood God’s Word. The point is that you can’t ask your pastor and they can’t ask their priest. The former is a weakness, to be sure, but the latter is a strength.
Discussion