Welcome to the ultimate resource for everything related to Discovery Bible Study (DBS). Whether you're new to DBS or looking for specific tips, scripture lists, or questions, this guide organizes everything you need in one place. Explore the topics below to deepen your understanding and make the most of this simple yet transformative Bible study method.
What is the DBS method?
For an introduction to how the DBS method works, check out our page on "The Discovery Bible Study Method: A Simple Way to Understand the Bible."
The original DBS
The Discovery Bible Study (DBS) method was first developed in the context of Disciple-Making Movements (DMMs), with a focus on spreading the Gospel in areas with little or no access to traditional church structures. Its origins can be traced to missionary efforts in the early 2000s, led by practitioners like David Watson, who pioneered this approach in India and other parts of the world facing persecution or limited access to Christianity. The original scripture list includes:
Creation and God’s Sovereignty
- Genesis 1:1–25 (Creation of the world)
- Genesis 2:4–24 (Creation of humanity)
Humanity’s Fall and Consequences
- Genesis 3:1–24 (The fall of humanity)
- Genesis 6:5–22 (God's grief over sin and calling Noah)
God’s Covenant and Promises
- Genesis 12:1–8 (God’s promise to Abraham)
- Genesis 22:1–19 (God provides a substitute sacrifice for Isaac)
God’s Power and Deliverance
- Exodus 12:1–28 (Passover and God’s deliverance from Egypt)
- Exodus 20:1–21 (The Ten Commandments)
Prophecy and Preparation for the Messiah
- Isaiah 53:1–12 (The suffering servant)
- Micah 5:2–5 (The promised ruler from Bethlehem)
The Life and Ministry of Jesus
- Luke 1:26–38 (The birth of Jesus foretold)
- Matthew 3:1–17 (John the Baptist and Jesus’ baptism)
- Matthew 5:1–12 (The Beatitudes)
- Luke 10:25–37 (The parable of the Good Samaritan)
- John 3:1–21 (Jesus explains new birth to Nicodemus)
Jesus’ Sacrifice and Victory
- John 18:1–40 (Jesus’ arrest and trial)
- John 19:1–42 (Jesus’ crucifixion and burial)
- Luke 24:1–35 (The resurrection of Jesus)
The Early Church and Great Commission
- Acts 1:1–11 (The ascension of Jesus)
- Acts 2:1–47 (Pentecost and the early church)
- Acts 8:26–40 (Philip and the Ethiopian)
Living as a Disciple
- Romans 12:1–21 (Living as a living sacrifice)
- 2 Timothy 3:10–17 (The role of scripture in a believer’s life)
- Revelation 21:1–8 (The promise of a new heaven and new earth)
Specialized Scripture Lists for DBS
To help you tailor your study to specific groups, we've compiled scripture lists for different contexts:
- New Believers: A curated list for those just made the decision to follow Jesus.
- Hindus: Verses that resonate with the worldview of Hindu participants.
- Buddhists: Scripture selections that connect with Buddhist perspectives.
- Muslims: Passages chosen for discussions with Muslim seekers.
- For people living in war and conflicts: DBS with themes of hope, resilience, justice and vindication for those in some of the toughest circumstances.
Adapting DBS Questions for Your Group
Although DBS comes with its own set of discussion questions, you may sometimes find it helpful to adapt the questions to a specific audience. One of the strengths of the DBS method is its adaptability. Whether you're studying with children, teens, or adults, or exploring biblical genres, you'll find guidance for crafting questions that fit the context:
- Questions tailored for different age groups or education levels.
- Questions for various biblical literature genres (e.g. Torah, Law, narratives etc.)
- Tips for adapting questions to meet the unique needs of your audience.
Is the DBS Method for me?
Wondering if the DBS method is right for you?Our breakdown of the Pros and Cons highlights its strengths and potential challenges, helping you decide if it's the right fit for your spiritual journey or group.