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Deeper Studies

GCBI Bible School

GCBI is a ten-month discipleship program located in Central Florida geared towards young adults and designed to create a solid understanding of God’s Word along with a broad experience in discipleship and ministry. Through biblical studies courses and involvement in ministry with the local church, GCBI prepares men and women for the next step- be it vocational ministry, furthering their education, or entering the work force or mission field.

The core of all GCBI study is the study of hermeneutics (the method of interpreting Scripture). We instruct in a technique called the “Principle Approach to the Bible” in which we use utilizes the literal, grammatical viewpoint with a particular focus on the historical cultural context. The GCBI Bible School was founded by Pastor Randy and Dottie Smith. Devon and Caroline Fox are the directors and Leroy & Lacey Miller are the discipleship directors.

About GCBI Study Onsite About Pastor Randal

The Superior Word

The Superior Word Church in Sarasota, Florida, is a non-denominational Christian church known for its in-depth Bible teaching and emphasis on verse-by-verse exposition of Scripture. Under the leadership of Pastor Charlie Garrett, we focus on understanding the original context and meaning of biblical texts. We value doctrinal accuracy and clarity, fostering a community centered around faith, fellowship, and the study of God’s Word. Though located in Florida, we have listeners all over the world. Our congregation is diverse, welcoming all who seek a closer relationship with Jesus and a deeper understanding of God’s Word.

The Superior Word

Genesis

Genesis is the first book of the Bible, beginning with God's creation of the world and humanity. It recounts the fall of Adam and Eve, the flood and Noah's ark, and the scattering at Babel. The narrative then follows the patriarchs—Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, and Joseph—highlighting God's covenant, promises, and guidance. Genesis sets the stage for the story of Israel and explores themes of faith, sin, and divine purpose.

1 Hour 1 Book The Bible Project Summary The Superior Word Verse by Verse Study

Exodus

Exodus tells the story of Israel's liberation from slavery in Egypt. God calls Moses to lead the people out, confronting Pharaoh with plagues until he lets them go. After crossing the Red Sea, the Israelites journey through the wilderness, receiving the Ten Commandments at Mount Sinai. God establishes a covenant and gives instructions for worship and building the Tabernacle. Despite their struggles and disobedience, God remains faithful, guiding them toward the Promised Land.

1 Hour 1 Book The Bible Project Summary The Superior Word Verse by Verse Study

Leviticus

Leviticus is a guide for holy living, given to the Israelites after their exodus from Egypt. It outlines laws for worship, sacrifices, purity, and moral conduct, emphasizing the holiness of God and the need for atonement. The book introduces the priesthood, rituals for forgiveness, and festivals like the Day of Atonement. Its central theme is: “Be holy, for I am holy.” Leviticus shows how Israel is to live in covenant relationship with God, set apart from other nations.

1 Hour 1 Book The Bible Project Summary The Superior Word Verse by Verse Study

Numbers

Numbers recounts Israel's journey from Mount Sinai to the edge of the Promised Land. It begins with a census and details laws, organization, and preparations for travel. The people repeatedly rebel, leading to 40 years of wandering in the wilderness. Despite setbacks, God remains faithful, guiding and providing for them. The book ends with a new generation poised to enter Canaan, emphasizing obedience, leadership, and trust in God's promises.

1 Hour 1 Book The Bible Project Summary The Superior Word Verse by Verse Study

Deuteronomy

Deuteronomy is Moses' final speech to the Israelites before they enter the Promised Land. He reviews their journey, restates God's laws, and urges faithfulness to the covenant. The book emphasizes love for God, obedience, and justice, warning against idolatry and forgetfulness. Moses appoints Joshua as his successor and blesses the tribes before his death. Deuteronomy calls Israel to choose life by walking in God's ways.

1 Hour 1 Book The Bible Project Summary The Superior Word Verse by Verse Study

Joshua

Joshua recounts Israel's conquest of Canaan under Joshua's leadership. After crossing the Jordan River, the Israelites defeat cities like Jericho and Ai, claiming the land promised to them. The book details battles, divine victories, and the division of territory among the twelve tribes. Joshua urges faithfulness to God and renews the covenant before his death. It's a story of courage, obedience, and fulfillment of God's promises.

1 Hour 1 Book The Bible Project Summary The Superior Word Verse by Verse Study

Judges

Judges chronicles Israel's turbulent period between Joshua and the monarchy. After settling in Canaan, the Israelites repeatedly turn from God, leading to oppression by neighboring nations. God raises judges—leaders like Deborah, Gideon, and Samson—to deliver them. Each cycle includes sin, suffering, repentance, and rescue. The book highlights moral decline, tribal conflict, and the need for righteous leadership. Its closing line sums up the chaos: “Everyone did what was right in his own eyes.”

1 Hour 1 Book The Bible Project Summary

Ruth

Ruth is a story of loyalty, love, and redemption. After losing her husband, Ruth, a Moabite woman, chooses to stay with her Israelite mother-in-law, Naomi, declaring, “Your people shall be my people, and your God my God.” In Bethlehem, Ruth gleans in the fields of Boaz, a kind relative who later marries her. Their union leads to the birth of Obed, grandfather of King David. The book highlights God's providence and the inclusion of outsiders in His plan.

1 Hour 1 Book The Bible Project Summary The Superior Word Verse by Verse Study

1 Samuel

1 Samuel marks the transition from Israel's tribal leadership to monarchy. It begins with the birth of Samuel, a prophet who anoints Saul as Israel's first king. Saul's reign falters due to disobedience, and God chooses David, a shepherd, as his successor. The book follows David's rise, including his defeat of Goliath and growing tension with Saul. Themes of divine authority, leadership, and faith run throughout, setting the stage for David's future kingship.

1 Hour 1 Book The Bible Project Summary

2 Samuel

2 Samuel follows David's rise as king over Israel and his reign from Jerusalem. It begins with Saul's death and David's anointing, then recounts his military victories, political consolidation, and the establishment of a united kingdom. The book also explores David's personal failures—most notably his sin with Bathsheba—and the resulting family and national turmoil. Despite these struggles, God's covenant with David endures, promising a lasting dynasty. Themes of leadership, repentance, and divine grace shape the narrative.

1 Hour 1 Book The Bible Project Summary

1 Kings

1 Kings chronicles the transition from King David to Solomon, who builds the majestic temple in Jerusalem and leads Israel during a time of prosperity. However, Solomon's later idolatry sparks division. After his death, the kingdom splits into Israel (north) and Judah (south). The book follows the reigns of various kings—some faithful, many corrupt—and highlights the prophetic ministry of Elijah, who confronts idolatry and injustice. Themes of covenant loyalty, divine judgment, and prophetic authority run throughout, showing how leadership affects national destiny.

1 Hour 1 Book The Bible Project Summary

2 Kings

2 Kings continues the story of Israel and Judah’s monarchies, detailing the decline of both kingdoms due to persistent idolatry and disobedience. It opens with Elijah’s ascent to heaven and Elisha’s prophetic ministry, then chronicles the reigns of various kings—many corrupt, few faithful. The northern kingdom (Israel) falls to Assyria, and later the southern kingdom (Judah) is conquered by Babylon, leading to exile. Despite judgment, glimpses of hope remain through prophetic voices and God's enduring covenant. The book is a sobering reflection on leadership, faithfulness, and divine justice.

1 Hour 1 Book The Bible Project Summary