Free study guide · Robert J. Cottle · Bellbird Books

Kingdom & Scripture Study Guide

A humble, Bible-first companion for American readers exploring the Kingdom, Scripture, and biblical hope.

1. The Gospel Jesus Preached

Mark 1:15 records Jesus proclaiming: Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand. The Kingdom is God's reign — present and future — calling believers to repentance, faith, and obedience today.

Reflection: What would change this week if you prayed "Your kingdom come" and meant it?

2. Kingdom vs. Tradition

Institutions can help or hinder. Scripture distinguishes the Kingdom of God from mere religious habit. Read Matthew 13's parables slowly — the Kingdom often grows quietly, like seed and leaven.

Read next: Mark 1–4; Matthew 13

3. Scripture: Living and Active

Hebrews 4:12 describes God's Word as living and active — sharper than any human argument. Doubt and faith can coexist; bring honest questions to Scripture and let God speak.

Read next: Psalm 119:105; Hebrews 4:12–16

4. End Times: Hope Without Fear

Prophecy comforts and corrects — it does not license date-setting or panic. 1 Thessalonians 4:16–17 points to future gathering in Christ. Study with sobriety, not sensational headlines.

Read next: 1 Thessalonians 4–5; Revelation 1 (overview)

5. Righteousness in Real Life

Righteousness is alignment with God's character — integrity, humility, and love that costs something. Stories can confront the soul when teaching feels distant.

Reflection: Where is God inviting repentance and renewal this month?

6. Spiritual Fatherhood

Paul noted that believers may have many instructors but not many fathers (1 Corinthians 4:15). The church needs mentors who serve quietly — not celebrities who perform.

Read next: Judges 3; 1 Corinthians 4

7. A Simple 30-Day Rhythm

Week 1: Kingdom in the Gospels (Mark 1–4)
Week 2: Authority of Scripture (Psalm 119, Hebrews 4)
Week 3: Hope and gathering (1 Thessalonians 4–5)
Week 4: Leadership and calling (Judges 3, 1 Corinthians 4)

8. Which Book Should You Read First?

End-times questions? Eschatology 101
Kingdom clarity? The Gospel of the Kingdom
Scripture doubts? The Bible: True, Relevant or a Fairy Tale?
Story-driven conviction? Fifty Shades of White or Not Many Fathers

Explore the Full Library

All five Bellbird Books titles are available on Amazon and Audible.

Amazon Author Page www.robertjcottle.com