U.S. contributors to the site include Dr. Timothy Keller, pastor of New York’s Redeemer Presbyterian Church in Manhattan, and Kevin DeYoung, senior pastor of University Reformed Church, East Lansing, Mich

A sweeping revision of the internationally acclaimed “Christianity Explored” course officially debuts today in the United States.

“Christianity Explored” (www.christianityexplored.org) is designed to give people time and space to think about the big questions of life and explore the life of Jesus Christ through a seven-week journey through the Gospel of Mark. As participants explore the key themes of Mark — the identity, mission and call of Jesus — they consider the basics of Christian belief and come to understand what it means to follow Christ today.

The course, published by The Good Book Company, features a new DVD, revised material for leaders, an outstanding website for those with questions about the Christian faith, and a full range of supporting promotional and training material.

“‘Christianity Explored’ offers a highly effective way to help people consider the claims of Christ for themselves, and to voice their comments and questions in a context of learning and discovery,” said Alistair Begg, senior pastor, Parkside Church, Solon, Ohio, and host of the popular radio show “Truth for Life.” “It has energized and equipped many Christians to share their faith more effectively, and comes with study materials that are attractive, succinct and to the point.”

The real strength of “Christianity Explored,” however, is it allows people time to discover the “good news” of the gospel in an environment where they will not feel judged, belittled or pressured. “It is sensitive to the objections and fears of unbelievers, showing respect and consideration for honest doubts and questions,” Begg said.
Developments

This is the third version of the course developed by Rico Tice, a minister based at All Souls Church, Langham Place, in London, England, where evangelical leader Dr. John Stott is rector emeritus.

Tice said, “‘Christianity Explored’ is now seven weeks long, and the new format can be used in a wider range of settings. We have trialed the course in big groups with hundreds sitting down to dinner before they hear a talk and discuss around their tables,” he said. “But it also works really well in small groups, or even one-to-one.”

The new, high-quality DVD, shot by an award-winning director, includes illustrations, stories and extras that resonate throughout the world. “This film will enable churches to present the course in a relaxed, professional atmosphere,” Tice said.

The video-rich website (www.christianityexplored.org) includes the first week’s DVD episode and testimonies from those who have completed “Christianity Explored,” and answers to tough questions about faith and life. U.S. contributors to the site include Dr. Timothy Keller, pastor of New York’s Redeemer Presbyterian Church in Manhattan, and Kevin DeYoung, senior pastor of University Reformed Church, East Lansing, Mich.

An interactive “course finder” (www.christianityexplored.org/course/find) puts users in touch with churches offering “Christianity Explored.”

“I love the ‘Christianity Explored’ site!” said author and Pastor John Piper. “Absolutely amazing!”

International scope
This tried and tested outreach and Christian foundation course has a growing international following, and is being used in more than 50 countries worldwide. It has been translated into more than 20 languages, including Spanish, with additional translations in progress. At any given time more than 50,000 people are estimated to be taking the course.