Question 1

How much does CBS cost?

Accepted Answer

Attendance is free, and all material is provided free to classes. Some classes will charge a small fee or request a donation to cover printing costs.  Your class may accept freewill offerings from participants to cover class running costs if they are meeting in a church building or similar.

Question 2

Are the CBS leaders paid?

Accepted Answer

The US-based CBS Executive and Regional Directors are paid a salary as employees.  All other CBS leadership positions are voluntary roles. This means no payment for services is received. All Australian-based CBS leaders are volunteers.

Question 3

Which church/denomination does CBS come from?

Accepted Answer

CBS is an independent, non-denominational organisation.
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Question 4

How long is a CBS study?

Accepted Answer

CBS studies range in length from 6, 12, 18 or up to 30 weeks. Classes are typically made up of a combination of studies during one 30-week class year.

Question 5

Do I have to commit to the full 30 weeks once I start?

Accepted Answer

You are welcome to a trial period before committing to the full year. Chat to your leader(s) about what best suits your circumstances.

Question 6

Can I join a CBS class even if they are halfway through a study?

Accepted Answer

Of course! You are welcome to join a class at any time and may be able to catch up on the lessons you have missed.

Question 7

How can I find out what each class is studying this year?

Accepted Answer

Go to 'Find a Group' on this site, choose the class you're interested in, and select 'details' to see this year's study. Studies vary from class to class. You can also directly contact the class co-ordinator to find out more.

Question 8

Can I bring my children to CBS?

Accepted Answer

Children are welcome in classes that offer a Children's Program. All Children's Leaders have a Working with Children clearance and Safe Ministry training. Check your class details for the ages welcomed. Please note, the Children's Program is held concurrently with the adult class, and uses material and resources supplied by CBS.

Question 9

Which version of the Bible should I use?

Accepted Answer

You can use any version of the Bible you like. CBS uses the English Standard Version, ESV, in the study material, but we encourage you to bring along the translation you prefer.

Question 10

Do I have to share my answers with other members of the group?

Accepted Answer

Participation is key for a better experience in CBS, but of course there is no obligation to share with other class participants. CBS works hard to ensure that group participants are comfortable in order that confidence may grow in sharing insights as the Bible is studied together.

Question 11

How many people are in a CBS class?

Accepted Answer

In Australia classes range from a minimum of three people to classes of up to 100.

Question 12

Do I have to be a Christian to attend a CBS class?

Accepted Answer

The passion of CBS is 'Everyone in the World in the Word'. God's Word is open to everyone, and anyone who wants to study the Bible is welcome at a CBS class.

Question 13

When are CBS classes held?

Accepted Answer

Class times vary.  Some classes are held during the day and others in the evenings, some during the week and others on weekends. Most classes take a break over the school holidays.

Question 14

Can I just do the CBS study by myself at home and not be involved in a class?

Accepted Answer

Personal study is just one of the five essentials that make up a CBS class. The program is most effective when all five are working together: Individual Study, Encouraging Discussion, Effective Teaching, Insightful Commentary and a Caring Community. To achieve this, all members of CBS need to be involved in a class, even if the class is only 2-3 people.

Question 15

Can I give a copy of the CBS questions to my friend?

Accepted Answer

All CBS material is covered by copyright.  Encourage your friend to join your class or find one that suits them.

Question 16

Can I still be part of a CBS class if English is my second language?

Accepted Answer

CBS Bible Study material has been translated into over 90 languages. This means it may be available in your language. Ask your CBS leader if he/she is able to access copies for you.

Question 17

Is CBS available in other countries?

Accepted Answer

YES! CBS is currently active in 125 countries around the world, serving more than 1.3 million people. Check out the Global Community Bible Study website at https://www.communitybiblestudy.org/

FAQs

Frequently asked questions