True to His Word: The Story of Bible Study Fellowship

by Gregg Lewis, Deborah Shaw Lewis

This gripping story history of Bible Study Fellowship (BSF) begins more like an ending when an unknown, single, middle-aged, British-woman Missionary, was forced to flee China when Communists moved in. Grieving the heart-breaking conclusion of what she'd believed was her life-long calling, Wetherell Johnson's journey home to England collided with a Divine appointment when five California women asked her to teach them more about the Bible.

She agreed and that Bible study with five women grew into an organization which exploded into a movement that now ministers to hundreds of thousands of students every week and has impacted the lives of millions of people in countries around the world including the Republic of China. Told through a big family photo album pasted together and held in place with a fascinating narrative thread, God's faithfulness through His plans, will touch your heart and renew your passion for His Word.

Genres: Christian, Biography

497 pages, Kindle Edition

First published August 1, 2010

About the author

Gregg Lewis is an award winning author or coauthor of 40 books, including Tom Landry: An Autobiography, The Big Picture with Dr. Ben Carson, Forgiving the Dead Man Walking with Debbie Morris, Jesus M.D. and Safe at Home.

Reviews

[Carrie Ann · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lots of amazing, inspiring, God glorifying stories, interspersed with some rather dry facts. Going into BSF I had the feeling that I was getting involved in something special, something operating in God's Spirit, so to read the actual history with all the facts laid out of His provision and multitudes of sacrifices from joyful service, really solidified why I felt that way. It is also very convicting, because I think my generation really needs the discipline of getting off social media and into the Word and serving like the stories of the people in this book. It must be the Lord having me read this and finish it literally right at the turn of the New Year when I'm thinking about making new years resolutions, because now I'm really resolved to take better advantage of their materials, especially for children, and implement it in my home as a family devotional.
I would really like to visit the headquarters someday because there are just so many stories of God miraculously providing for the land and buildings. Reading this book solidified my desire to make BSF a lifelong commitment, and be involved as much as God calls me.

[Emily · Rating 5 out of 5]

A wonderful history of Bible Study Fellowship. This book is a great example of how BSF became and is today. It provides an indepth account of the beginning with Wetherall Johnson and leads up to present day with Susan Rowan as the Executive Director. There are detailed accounts of the organization throughout the years from past staff members, discussion leaders, teaching leaders, group members and foreign ambassadors bringing BSF to international status. This book is an excellent example of Christ work through his people.

[Gaye Maxson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Some dry parts you may skim, but very interesting account of how a small home study became an international phenomenon.

[Miranda]

An incredible testimony of God’s provision throughout the history of Bible Study Fellowship. Challenges me to trust God to provide and guide in my own life.

[Leslie · Rating 2 out of 5]

After five years of BSF and my first year in leadership, it seemed like the time to read "True to His Word". I'm glad I did. It was a great review of how Bible Study Fellowship began and evolved into the international program that it is today. Now I have a better understanding of the guidelines and why this training ministry is run the way that it is. I appreciate insight and this lends a lot of perspective and background on BSF.

[Jan · Rating 3 out of 5]

Interesting to learn more of BSF's history and it was fun to see some people I used to know mentioned as being involved before I'd even heard of BSF. Would've been better it the author's had used their own words more often instead of using so many quotes from various people who were involved in BSF from the beginning.

[Scott · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very interesting look into the first 50 years of BSF. Truly inspiring book to anyone who has ever been a part of BSF. Particularly if you are a leader in BSF you will be motivated like never before, and encouraged to give your best to God in BSF.

[Celine Ooi · Rating 5 out of 5]

A highly recommended book. Very inspiring and helped me alot in my spiritual walk. This book is special to me because I have just completed my third year in BSF. Reading about BSF's history and its growth made feel so thankful to be a part of BSF!!

[Elizabeth · Rating 5 out of 5]

very interesting review of BSF since its beginnning.

[Auntie]

Just started the BSF class. Would LOVE to read this....

[Brenda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Good reading. Good stories. Learned alot.

[Steve Thomasma · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a fantastic book. There is a miracle on every page. If you know about BSF or are involved, this should be required reading.