Discovery Bible Study (DBS) is a powerful tool for encouraging group discussions and spiritual growth through God's Word. The key to a meaningful DBS lies in the questions you ask, as they guide participants to discover truths in the Bible for themselves while fostering personal reflection and action. 

Is there a need to adapt Discovery Bible Study (DBS) questions for different audiences? It's entirely up to individual group leaders and it depends on contexts. Ultimately, you would like to see all participants fully and deeply engage with God’s Word. 

People come from different backgrounds, carry unique struggles, and have questions that matter deeply to them. For seekers, questions might highlight God’s love and how He invites us into a relationship. For new believers, they can guide growth and discipleship. In family or workplace settings, questions can focus on living out faith daily. By thoughtfully shaping the discussion around the needs of the group, we create a space where everyone can connect with God in a way that speaks to their heart and life.


Core Discovery Bible Study Questions

These can be used universally and ensure a God-centered discussion:

  1. What does this passage teach us about God?
  2. What does this passage teach us about people and our relationship with God?
  3. How does this passage show us God’s love, mercy, or promises?
  4. What is God inviting us to believe, trust, or do in response to this passage?
  5. How can we apply this truth to our daily life and relationships?
  6. Who in my life needs to hear about what I’ve learned today?


Here are some optional adaptable questions for various contexts and audiences: 

For Groups Exploring Faith (Skeptics or Seekers)

  1. What does this passage reveal about God’s nature (e.g., His power, mercy, or wisdom)?
  2. How does this story show God reaching out to people?
  3. What does this passage say about how we can approach God?
  4. How does this story challenge or confirm your current beliefs about God?
  5. What would trusting God in this way look like in your daily life?


For Muslim Audiences

  1. What does this passage teach about God’s mercy and His closeness to humanity?
  2. How does this story show God inviting people into a relationship with Him?
  3. What can we learn about God’s promises and faithfulness in this passage?
  4. How does this story address the question of how we can be right with God?
  5. What is one thing in your life that this passage encourages you to trust God with?


For New Believers

  1. What does this passage teach about God’s guidance and care for His people?
  2. What does this story reveal about how we can grow closer to God?
  3. How does this passage encourage us to live in a way that pleases God?
  4. What is one specific way this truth can shape your prayers or decisions this week?
  5. What can you do this week to strengthen your relationship with God based on this passage?


For Youth or Teen Groups

  1. What does this story teach us about how God loves us personally?
  2. How can this passage help us trust God when life feels hard or confusing?
  3. What does this story say about how we should treat others (friends, family, or enemies)?
  4. What does this passage show us about relying on God in daily decisions?
  5. How can we invite God into the challenges we face this week?


For Families

  1. What does this passage teach us about how God cares for His children?
  2. How can our family grow closer to God based on this story?
  3. What does this passage show about how we should treat one another in love?
  4. What can we do together as a family to live out this truth this week?
  5. How can we pray for one another based on what we’ve learned today?


For Workplace or Professional Settings

  1. What does this passage teach about God’s character and how it shapes the way we work?
  2. How does this story encourage us to trust God in our work or decisions?
  3. What does this passage say about how we should treat others (colleagues, clients, or employees)?
  4. How can this passage guide us in being honest, humble, or diligent in our work?
  5. What is one way we can reflect God’s character in our workplace this week?


For Cross-Cultural Groups

  1. What does this passage show about God’s love for all people, regardless of background?
  2. How does this story challenge us to trust God in building relationships across differences?
  3. What does this passage teach us about unity and reconciliation in God’s family?
  4. How can we reflect God’s character by loving and respecting others in our community?
  5. How does this passage encourage us to share God’s love with people from different cultures?



Other useful closing questions

  1. What is one thing you’ve learned about God today, and how will it change your relationship with Him?
  2. What is one way you can trust or obey God this week based on what you’ve learned?

By centering on God’s character and His invitation into a deeper relationship with Him, these questions help participants focus on knowing Him better and applying His truth to their lives.