by Rev Colin L Macleod (Minister, Lochcarron and Applecross Free Church)
At Lochcarron and Applecross Free Church of Scotland, a small group of men gathers faithfully on the first Saturday of every month for a time of fellowship which we have called “Breakfast, Blether, and Bible Study.” The setting is simple—the Manse becomes a place of welcome, where men enjoy a simple breakfast, meaningful conversation, and dive into God’s Word together.
For the past months, the group has been using the Free Church’s Healthy Gospel Church Characteristics Bible Studies, a resource that places Jesus Christ at the heart of every discussion. These studies focus on key characteristics essential for a thriving, healthy, gospel-centred church, including healthy preaching, worship, prayer, mission, discipleship, relationships, and leadership.
Each session is rooted in Scripture, with passages selected to reflect the theme of the study. This structure not only provides a biblical foundation but also sparks rich conversations about how these principles can be lived out in the local context. From healthy relationships within the church body to the vital role of prayer and leadership, the group has been able to reflect on how Christ’s model informs and transforms every aspect of their communal and personal lives.
The studies have been well received, prompting thought-provoking discussions that challenge and encourage everyone who attends. Whether exploring what makes preaching “healthy” or considering how worship can enable people to connect more with the Lord, the focus remains on keeping Christ at the centre.
The aim of the meetings is to foster spiritual growth and also strengthen the relationships among the men involved, uniting us in the shared goal of seeing the church flourish as a healthy gospel community. It’s been a time of honest reflection, prayerful consideration, and mutual encouragement.
For anyone looking to deepen their understanding of what makes a church truly healthy and Christ-centred, these studies are highly recommended. The blessings of food, fellowship, and following the Scripture into a deeper understanding of healthy gospel church are appreciated by us all, and we look forward to continuing our journey together in these studies.