Q. Why did DTI undertake a two-year long process transitioning all of the Scripture verses in the DTI manual from the NASB version to the Holman Christian Standard Bible (HCSB) version.
A. Most people find the resources available from DTI on our webpage www.disciplers.org and many are from countries where English is not the primary language, therefore, having a translated Scripture version that is easier to read benefits the majority of people using our materials.
However, having a version that is easier to read is not our only concern. The literalness of the translation was taken into consideration, and when we look at the HCSB version we concluded that we were comfortable on the scale of versions that are literal to the original text, compared to less literal versions or paraphrases. See the accompanying chart (link is below).
Looking at the chart you can see the HCSB is on the high side of being literal as was the NASB version that we had previously used, however the reading "grade level" of the HCSB was lower making it easier for the majority of our users.
We constantly strive to maintain accuracy.
We also want you to know that we love to hear your testimonies on how lives are being transformed by the Holy Spirit through the DTI materials. If you have a story to share please use the Contact Us link in the upper right hand section of our web page and let us know how we can join in praising the Lord for transformed lives.
Click here to visit a web page that evaluates English Scripture translations. (Information on the Holman is towards the bottom of the page)
Q. How long should it take me to complete each "Phase" of the manual?
A. The short answer is, it depends.
Here's some guidelines:
- Arrange to meet together at least once each week for about 1½ hours or so. The time can vary depending on their spiritual hunger, assimilation of Biblical concepts, and maturity level.
- Plan on spending at least 3 to 9 months with a disciple, meeting regularly.
- The purpose of the meetings is to explain Biblical truth and principles, and to give the disciple opportunity to ask questions, share spiritual struggles, and discuss related topics.
- It is important for you to be a thoughtful listener; it’s the best way to identify gaps in their spiritual understanding.
- Be flexible enough to allow the Holy Spirit to change the direction of the study or conversation, yet orderly enough so the time is not squandered on less significant matters.
- Teach at the disciple’s pace.
The disciple should be encouraged to look to the Lord to apply Biblical principles to his life.
A goal is for the disciple to increasingly understand and be able to clearly explain those Biblical principles to others.
At some point the disciple should be ready to start mentoring another person, with your assistance.
