Need to Know
Grateful for God’s Provision
We are thankful.
Since the beginning God continues to show His faithfulness by providing the finances to deliver these materials around the world at a cost this year of $150 per person.
Last month, our Board of Directors approved BSF’s budget for the 2021 fiscal year. In a season of global pandemic that includes uncertainties about in-class giving, the board has wisely been led to reduce BSF’s budget as we pray for His continued blessing.
Hundreds of thousands of men, women, boys and girls continue to be blessed by His Word every day. We look forward to sharing some of those stories in a video to all of our members in the upcoming days. Coming to your inboxes soon!
(TLs: Please communicate this to your members when you have the opportunity.)
PRINTED LESSONS for Those in NEED
Due to the impact of COVID-19, a work stoppage at HQ caused BSFs inability to print and ship lessons for the Genesis study. While many class members can access and print their own digital lessons, Helping One Another is a worldwide class ministry opportunity employed for classes to intentionally care for those who need a printed lesson due to an inability to access digital or pay for printed lessons. The options for meeting these needs are:
- CA/ALs print (or send to a print shop) individual lessons from Mybsf.org or print the BSF Genesis Lesson Booklet (PDF) as the primary resource for lessons.
- The printing and/or mailing costs for those in need of a printed lesson are expensed through your class bank account. If your funds are insufficient to pay the printing expense, or if funds are required up front, please contact your AP for assistance. NOTE: Authorized printing expense for the printing of lessons during Genesis may exceed the prescribed budget in the Staff Core Module, based upon your class size.
(Please refer to Helping One Another in the All Class Staff Genesis Resources in the Genesis Dropbox Showcase.)
BSF Genesis Study Artwork
We hope you have been enjoying the Genesis-inspired artwork found in our gallery (https://bsf-leadsub-app-prod2023.azurewebsites.net/gallery). There has been an overwhelming response as these pieces bring another layer of reflection to each week’s lesson.
To respect the time, talents and copyrights of these amazing artists:
- Do not copy/alter/distribute the images (no Zoom backgrounds, PPTs, or social media created by class members).
- Reposting of BSF HQ’s artwork social media posts is allowed and encouraged. You will find a new post with artwork each Sunday.
- CLs and TLs have permission to use the artwork in class. All artwork and instructions for use have been shared in a PowerPoint file posted to the CL Materials Showcase and Class staff downloads.
- Please contact an artist only to purchase their work. These professionals are receiving an overwhelming amount of requests to replicate/reproduce their art.
BSF HQ has all the artwork needed for the Genesis study year. If you know an artist who would like to be considered for the Matthew study, please have them contact submission@bsfinternational.org to let us know they are interested.
American Sign Language Lectures
American Sign Language (ASL) Lectures have been added to the Optional Lecture Access Instructions. Existing Sample Lectures have been translated and recorded in Cantonese and Mandarin and are included in the Optional Lecture Access Instructions. If the Cantonese and Mandarin lectures from Chinese classes get out of sync with your schedule due to holidays or scheduled breaks, use the Sample Lectures. Note: Sample Lectures are audio only.
BSF Online – Study Genesis Online All Year
BSF Online is for leaders and members who want in-depth Bible study online for the entire study year. BSF Online has a different schedule from local classes, with consideration for global participation when scheduling breaks and fellowships. The resources and training are provided to equip those who have chosen to participate online all year, as opposed to those who may be temporarily online due to COVID. Online Trainers, Assistant Online Trainers, Online Group Leaders and their Online Group Members have access to all the resources needed to participate through https://www.bsfonline.org with their specific BSF Online accounts.
Discrepancies in Lesson Questions
Please accept our apologies for some minor discrepancies you may find between the Adult Genesis English and Chinese Lesson Questions. An example would be the eighth question on Lesson 5, where Scripture references are present on the Chinese lessons only.
CL Recertification and Zoom Safety is non-negotiable!
The Genesis Starter Guide states that all CLs must be recertified before attending the first leaders meeting whether in person or online. Compliance is non-negotiable. Effective immediately, CLs with an expired Recertification using the Regular Volunteer Information (CP 111) may not serve in a classroom. Instructions for collecting the CP111s can be found in the Genesis Starter Guide.
Student safety is our top priority. Please ensure all required safety settings are implemented on every Zoom meeting in the School Program. A consolidated list can be found here and also in your downloads. If an incident occurs in a Zoom meeting, follow the recommended response plan, and notify your Class Staff and AP immediately.
AP Validation
The deadline for validating the TL Checklist has been extended to November 1. On November 1, CLs with an expired Recertification date will be REMOVED from the classroom in the database. Please advise TLs to promptly attend to the safety protocols as reflected in the TL Checklist.
AP Approval of RRF Submissions
IMPORTANT: Upon AP Approval of an RRF, IMMEDIATELY SUBMIT information on the classes/locations using the link in the Regathering Guide: https://bit.ly/BSFMeetingLocationChange
Immediate submission keeps HQ informed and restarts Online Giving in Monthly Financial reporting.
2021 AP Meeting and TL Institute – Hyatt Regency Riverwalk, San Antonio, TX
The 2021 AP Meeting and TL Institute are tentatively scheduled for:
- AP Meeting – June 9 to June 13, 2021
- TL Institute – June 13 to June 17, 2021 (TLs only)
These dates are tentative due to COVID-19 with current travel and safety restrictions subject to change. Please mark your calendars for these dates. More information will be provided in January 2021. Please do not book airline tickets until further instructions are provided.
Thank you for Sample Videos
Thank you to all the Children’s Leaders who prepared sample videos for the Preschool and School Programs! We are grateful for your willingness and vulnerability to provide a powerful resource for all leaders, children, and their Registering Adults.
“Hard Topics” in TIP Sheets
Look for the “Hard Topics” TIP Sheets in your Downloads and in the CL Materials Dropbox. This new resource will help Children’s Leaders have productive discussions with students on the hard topics in Genesis.
Who is watching the Preschool lesson videos?
While these videos were created for Preschoolers, they are excellent training tools for parents since they provide wonderful examples of how to engage preschoolers in age-appropriate, faith-building conversations. Encourage RAs to use these videos to begin conversations to disciple their little ones throughout the week. And don’t forget about the BSF Kids YouTube channel which will add new videos for every lesson in Genesis.
BSF Social Media Posts
You may have noticed that HQ has been sharing a three-minute clip of Dr. Mark Strauss’ teaching on social media each week. These videos have consistently been top performing posts, helping to reach many who are unfamiliar with BSF, as well as encouraging current members to go deeper into their Genesis lessons.
TL’s have been asking if they should include information from these clips in their lectures, since CM’s are seeing the videos online.
Yes! Studies show that repetition is a good thing! People need to hear a message between 7 to 14 times before they “get it.” The lecture is not meant to deliver brand new information, but to reach hearts with God’s Word. Quoting a theologian brings credibility and authenticity to your lecture.
We hope you continue to enjoy the Dr. Strauss videos. Please join us in praying that these videos continue to reach many with great Bible teaching!
Dr. Strauss’ October Social Media Posts
| Session | Clip Title | Timecode |
| Session 4 | God Created Men & Women Equal | 3:48 – 5:08 |
| Session 4 | What does “subdue the earth” mean? | 6:24 – 9:44 |
| Session 5 | Why Did God Put the Tree in the Garden? | 9:28 – 11:00 |
| Session 5 | Did God Make Women Subordinate to Men? | 11:57 – 13:33 |
| Session 5 | Is it Sinful to be Single? | 14:40 – 15:46 |
| Session 6 | Where did Satan Come From? | 02:51 – 05:41 |
| Session 6 | How Satan Tempts Us | 06:57 – 10:11 |
| Session 7 | Why Did God Reject Cain’s Offering? | 04:04 – 05:57 |
| Session 7 | Our Common Responses to Sin | 08:43 – 11:01 |
Building Relationships for Spiritual Development
We encourage you to watch three micro learning videos on Building Relationships for Spiritual Development. These videos were provided to your AP, and we trust they will equip you as you serve and grow spiritually together.
The videos are also available in class.bsfinternational.org under “Resources – Media – Class Staff Training.”
https://vimeo.com/showcase/7553845 Password: ClassVid20
2021 TL Institute – Hyatt Regency Riverwalk, San Antonio TX
The 2021 TL Institute is tentatively scheduled for June 13 to June 17, 2021. These dates are tentative due to COVID-19 and current travel and safety restrictions are subject to change. Please mark your calendars for these dates. More information will be provided in January 2021. Please do not book airline tickets until further instructions are provided.
Thank you for Sample Videos
Thank you to all the Children’s Leaders who prepared sample videos for the Preschool and School Programs! We are grateful for your willingness and vulnerability to provide a powerful resource for all leaders, children, and their Registering Adults.
“Hard Topics” in TIP Sheets
Look for the “Hard Topics” TIP Sheets in your Downloads and in the CL Materials Dropbox. This new resource will help Children’s Leaders have productive discussions with students on the hard topics in Genesis.
Who is watching the Preschool lesson videos?
While these videos were created for Preschoolers, they are excellent training tools for parents since they provide wonderful examples of how to engage preschoolers in age-appropriate, faith-building conversations. Encourage RAs to use these videos to begin conversations to disciple their little ones throughout the week. And don’t forget about the BSF Kids YouTube channel which will add new videos for every lesson in Genesis.
Building Relationships for Spiritual Development
We encourage you to watch three micro learning videos on Building Relationships for Spiritual Development. These videos were provided to your AP, and we trust they will equip you as you serve and grow spiritually together.
The videos are also available in class.bsfinternational.org under “Resources – Media – Class Staff Training.”
https://vimeo.com/showcase/7553845 Password: ClassVid20
Lecture Upload
Mybsf.org allows one lecture upload per class week, on class day. Please review your Class Calendar during the year to ensure class dates are correct for members accessing lectures, materials and resources. For additional clarification, please refer to W200 in your Class Forms Book located on your CA downloads.
Materials and Resources
If your class is meeting online temporarily due to COVID-19, members access materials and resources on mybsf.org. Care for your class members well by ensuring they can access their materials (lectures, notes and questions). Refer to the W201 in your Class Forms Book located on your CA downloads.
Monthly Financial Reports
Reminder: Submit a monthly financial report each month, even if there is no class bank account activity. The Online Giving Report will display an amount ($0.00 for those classes meeting online and $0.00 or greater for those regathered at their Host Church) for the current month.
Student Registration for Mini-studies
The VPC may be used to register students in the School Program for the mini-studies. They must have a Registering Adult, but they are not required to complete a child registration.
Building Relationships for Spiritual Development
We encourage you to watch three micro learning videos on Building Relationships for Spiritual Development. These videos were provided to your AP, and we trust they will equip you as you serve and grow spiritually together.
The videos are also available in class.bsfinternational.org under “Resources – Media – Class Staff Training.”
https://vimeo.com/showcase/7553845 Password: ClassVid20
Thank you for Sample Videos
Thank you to all the Children’s Leaders who prepared sample videos for the Preschool and School Programs! We are grateful for your willingness and vulnerability to provide a powerful resource for all leaders, children, and their Registering Adults.
Student Registration for Mini-studies
The VPC may be used to register students in the School Program for the mini-studies. They must have a Registering Adult, but they are not required to complete a child registration.
“Hard Topics” in TIP Sheets
Look for the “Hard Topics” TIP Sheets in your Downloads and in the CL Materials Dropbox. This new resource will help Children’s Leaders have productive discussions with students on the hard topics in Genesis.
Who is watching the Preschool lesson videos?
While these videos were created for Preschoolers, they are excellent training tools for parents since they provide wonderful examples of how to engage preschoolers in age-appropriate, faith-building conversations. Encourage RAs to use these videos to begin conversations to disciple their little ones throughout the week. And don’t forget about the BSF Kids YouTube channel which will add new videos for every lesson in Genesis.
2021 AP Meeting – Hyatt Regency Riverwalk, San Antonio, TX
The 2021 AP Meeting is tentatively scheduled for June 9 to June 13, 2021.
These dates are tentative due to COVID-19 with current travel and safety restrictions subject to change. Please mark your calendars for these dates. More information will be provided in January 2021. Please do not book airline tickets until further instructions are provided.
BSF Online Training Dates: Please contact the BSF Online Training Team if you are available to coach during these trainings.
Doctrine Discussion for AOTs (August trainees)
- October 3, 8:00-9:30am CDT
- October 6, 7:00-8:30pm CDT
- October 8, 7:00-8:30pm CDT
AOT Training: Deadline to register is October 12
- November 12, 6:00-9:00pm CDT
- November 14, 8:00-11:00am CDT
OT Orientation (OTO): Deadline to register is November 5
- Intro to OTO: November 6, 6:00-7:30pm CDT and November 7, 8:00-9:30am CDT
- Concentrated Sessions: December 7-10
Doctrine Discussion for AOTs (November trainees)
- December 1, 7:00-8:30pm CDT
- December 5, 8:00-9:30am CDT
BSF Online Global Lectures
BSF Online provides the audio version of global lectures for leaders and members. Due to the current limitations of our website, we are only able to offer one lecture each week for men and women. We trust that everyone will listen to and benefit from this excellent teaching.
Click here to download the lecturers’ biographies. Please share this information with your OGLs to share with their members. These short bios provide connection points between the listeners and the lecturer.
BSF Online Training Dates: Please Ask Your Online AP for the Link to Register
Doctrine Discussion for AOTs (August trainees)
- October 3, 8:00-9:30am CDT
- October 6, 7:00-8:30pm CDT
- October 8, 7:00-8:30pm CDT
AOT Training: Deadline to register is October 12
- November 12, 6:00-9:00pm CDT
- November 14, 8:00-11:00am CDT
OT Orientation (OTO): Deadline to register is November 5
- Intro to OTO: November 6, 6:00-7:30pm CDT and November 7, 8:00-9:30am CDT
- Concentrated Sessions: December 7-10
Doctrine Discussion for AOTs (November trainees)
- December 1, 7:00-8:30pm CDT
- December 5, 8:00-9:30am CDT
Building Relationships for Spiritual Development
We encourage you to watch three micro learning videos on Building Relationships for Spiritual Development. These videos were provided to your AP, and we trust they will equip you as you serve and grow spiritually together.
https://vimeo.com/showcase/7553845 Password: ClassVid20
Tips
Tip #2 – Community through Zoom: It’s no surprise most of our classes around the world are meeting online providing us opportunities to try a few new ideas. One idea recently shared was a men’s class utilizing their Zoom Pro license for the class meeting time. Members log into the Zoom ID and are greeted by the TL and STL. They give any announcements or updates, then the pre-recorded lecture is played. After the lecture, class members are sent to a breakout room with their GL. To help facilitate this, each GL is assigned a number, which class members are given ahead of time. The class members put the number in front of their name after logging into Zoom (for example, 2 Ryan Hubbell). The CA can easily identify class members and assign them to the right breakout room while everyone is watching the lecture. It takes a little getting used to, but those who have tried it found it’s a great way to keep the community feel of a physical gathering.
Note: This only works for classes with enrollment under 300. Classes need a CA who is savvy with Zoom, able to quickly navigate breakout and waiting rooms.
HAPPENING
SOON
-
December TL/OT Application Deadline
November 6 – Approved Application Deadline for December TL/OT Orientations
PRAYER
REQUESTS
- God’s provision for the financial needs of our ministry.
- Unity between Area and Class leadership around BSF’s Mission, Vision, Core Values and Aim
- God will raise up more leaders for classes in Asia who are experiencing growing numbers of adults and children for the Genesis study.
- God’s supernatural protection of leaders and their homes from the wildfires in California and Oregon and Washington State.
- God’s equipping for the AP and leaders serving new men’s groups in the Europe, including the UK and the Middle East.
- God would reveal the next leaders who will carry on the mission of penetrating the hearts of men with His truth.
- BSF Online members and leaders would have full access to the website and resources when they need it.
- BSF Online groups would be engaging and encouraging for all members and leaders.
- BSF Online leaders would be equipped by the online Leaders Meeting and resources provided to them.
- All who desire to join would find a group that meets their schedule.
Stories from the field
BSF School Program
Praise God for BSF Online’s Growth
Praise God! BSF Online is growing to meet the demand for online groups. There are currently over 1000 online groups and about 14,000 members settled into those groups. God continues to add leaders and members every day! We are thankful for all of the support and prayers! As of the end of September we have:
14 men’s classes including a Spanish and Mandarin that serve our men’s online group Leaders Meetings
63 women’s classes, including Spanish, Mandarin, Romanian and Arabic that serve our women’s online group leaders.
Praise God for Growth in BSF Online! We continue to pray for more OGLs to lead more members who desire to study BSF online this year.
BSF Online Brings People Together Worldwide
“My young adult daughter, who lives in Colorado, will be in an online group with her childhood friend, who still lives in Indiana. God is using BSF Online to draw them, not only to Himself, but also back to each other.
I’m praising God for BSF Online! My young adult son had his first Online Leaders Meeting with men from Nigeria, Australia, Switzerland and Germany. He was blown away. He’s leading a group of his Texas friends while he’s in school in Connecticut. God is so awesome!”