Hear what others say about Efird Bible Studies:

"Dr. James "Mickey" Efird studies are the foundation of our Spiritual Formation curriculum. We have the following studies which are currently circulating throughout our Adult Sunday School classes and Small Groups: The Passion Narratives, Genesis, Revelation, Psalms,John 2010 edition, Acts, Romans and Genesis thru Revelation. It is true that his studies are presented in such a way that someone new to bible study and a person who has spent a great deal of their lives studying the bible are both enriched and inspired by Dr. Efird."

Debbi DeMaris, Fuquay-Varina UMC, Fuquay-Varina, NC

"Great assistance in providing scholarly information to weekly Bible study. Group has been meeting for 15 years but Dr. Efird provides new insights."

Daniel Armstrong, Sussex Charge, Stoney Creek, VA

"I led a bible study on the Gospel of Mark conducted by Dr. Efird last fall. Many of our members were very pleased by Dr. Efird's teachings. They told me that Dr. Efird tried to teach us to see the bible based on common sense and faith. Thank you so much for providing wonderful materials to study the scrpture."

Rev. Hyung Kim, Shiloh UMC, Gibsonville, NC

"Our Sunday School class has been viewing and discussing Dr. Efird's Bible studies for several years, including the DVDs on Mark, John, the Psalms, the Passion Narratives, and Revelation.  Dr. Efird teaches from a strong, reformed background.  His scholarship gives rich historical context and fresh insights to the scriptures -- for those of us who are new to Bible study and for those of us who have been studying for a lifetime.  We are a class serious about studying the Bible, yet joyful about exploring the scriptures together.  Dr. Efird's teaching style is a great fit for our learning styles.  His down-to-earth approach and sense of humor reveal both the deep meaning and the present joy of Bible study."

Della Coulter, Eastminster Presbyterian, Columbia, SC

"Just finished the Revelation study. It was awesome."

Matt Kinnett, First UMC, Conway, SC

"We recently lost our pastor to retirement, and since he was our Bible Study Leader, our group drifted for a couple of months before we came up with the idea to use Dr. Efird's Study of the book of Luke that we borrowed. It has been such a success that our group has commissioned me to get the study on the book of Matthew. We started out watching a clip by Dr. Efird, and then responding to the discussion questions in the accompanying guide. Discussion was spirited and well participated, so much so that we have decided we would rather take the time to answer all the questions by following up before starting the next session. Dr. Efird's warm, relaxed, "down home" style fits right in with our group."

Earl Downs, Falling Springs Presbyterian, Glasgow, VA

"I just completed co-facilitating your study on Revelation with one of our ministers(a graduate of Duke). It was one of the most enjoyable Bible studies we have done and we are looking forward to our next Efird study."

Dan Pritchard, North UMC, Indianapolis, IN

"Our adult SS class used Professor Efird's dvd on Revelation about 3 years ago. It was the clearest explanation we'd ever heard about one of the most puzzling books in the Bible. Dr. Efird's lecture style is so enthusiastic and compelling he makes the verses come truly alive with totally understandable logic and very appropriate humor. We need to do this again with those who have not enjoyed the pleasure of his teaching prowess."

Herman Knieriem, Evergreen UMC, Pittsboro, NC

"My church loves Dr. Efird's Bible studies. They can hardly wait for the next one to be published! They watch the tapes over and over again and report that they are continually learning new information. Dr. Efird is so personable and friendly, yet his teaching sessions are crammed full of knowledge and teachings that "bloom" in the heart and mind of the student. Thank you Dr. Efird for making such valuable teaching available to us in the church setting."

Dianne Johnston, Montmorenci UMC, Candler, NC

"I was in a group that studied the book of John. I enjoyed the historical background and knowledge of the Greek that Dr Efird brought to the text. He was clear in presenting his ideas and he brought insights that were new to me."

Holly Kellogg, Grace UMC, Spencer, Iowa

"Our Bible Sunday School Class has completed 10 of Dr. Efird's Bible Studies and I and my wife have personally attended at least 4 or 5 of his studies held here in Cary at the various churches. We and our class have loved his series and hope he does many more. We are planning on doing some more soon. Thank you, Dr. Efird."

Roger Lear, White Plains UMC, Cary, NC

"I had the incredible privilege of being taught OT and the Prophets by Dr. Efird over 20 years ago as a Duke Div student, as did my husband (we met and married at Duke). I can honestly say that Dr. Efird formed both of us in profound ways. And we both continue, two decades later, to share a wonderful love for the OT, thanks to Dr. Efird's great talents as a teacher. No one can make the bible come alive like Dr. Efird! What a wonderful gift he was in our lives. So glad to see this series."

Alisa Larson, Eureka UMC, Eureka, Missouri

"We have studied 3 of Dr. Efird's lessons on video: Revelation, Genesis - Revelation and the Christmas One is upcoming. He is easy to understand, knowledgeable, spiritual and we love him! "

Virgina Wellington, Angier UMC, Angier, NC

" I used the Efird Bible study while appointed to Edenton UMC in Edenton NC. Now in retriement I am serving two small churches in Johnston County NC. I hope to use the Efird Studies here."

James Huskins, Micro/Fellowship UMC, Pikeville, NC

"I have taken Psalms, Revelation, Genesis and the Birth Narratives at Snellville UMC and just loved every minute. Very inspiring. WE are at a new church and I am anxious to expose our minister to your series and use one or more in our fall series of Bible Study. "

Beverley Godown, Grayson UMC, Loganville, GA

"I had the honor of studying under Dr. Efird at Duke. It is a joy to be able to bring this exciting down to earth material to the church I serve."

Paul Greer, Emmaus UMC, Bedford, VA

"I loved Efird's study on Revelation! The images that had confused and disturbed me--spiritually, were explained in a way that I could understand and accept. Fear of the Lord is good, but understanding the love of the Lord is even better!"

Peggy Wilkins, First Presbyterian Church, Garner, NC

 

Ray Jacobson, Wimberley UMC, Wimberley, Texas

 

"Our experience with Dr. Efird and the Efird series has been nothing but spectacular.  We find his knowledge of Old and New Testaments far exceeds our expectations.  His timing and humor add greatly to his presentations."

Judy Adams, Milford, DE, First Presbyterian Church

"My parishioners just LOVE Dr. Efird.  His studies are very easy to facilitate and he has a very personable style of teaching.  It's like getting a seminary education at a layperson's level."

Rev. Carolyn Poteet, Hendersonville, NC, First Presbyterian Church

"People appreciate the sound scholarship in an approachable manner.  Dr. Efird has an ability to present complex concepts in a way that is very easy to understand.  My members really enjoy his personality and presentation style."

Rev. Charles Jones, Rocky Mount, NC, First Presbyterian Church

"I love the Efird series because they are very affordable and loved by members of my congregation of all ages.  Some of my  younger members said they like the fact that he is a seminary professor but doesn't speak over their head.  Dr. Efird is very engaging and draws a large attendance and they commit to the entire study.  No one drops out.  I love the workbook layout and the way it's formatted."

Rev. Madeline Mercer, Independence, MO, First Presbyterian Church, Pleasant Hill

"I find that my members have a great time at all the studies I have offered them from Dr. Mickey Efird. They all go deeper into the meaning of the texts and the Holy Seasons' meanings. We are getting ready to to the Book of Revelation study, everyone is looking forward to that!"

Rev. Cindy Lunsford, Bostic, NC, Cedar Grove-Sunshine UMC

 

"My churches have used the Efird Bible Studies on Acts, Mark, Luke, Genesis, and Revelation. The people in my church have not only enjoyed these studies, they have also grown in their understanding of the scriptures. I am happy to say that whenever I have introduced these Bible Studies to people in my churches, they have wanted to do yet another study with Dr. Efird. Thanks for offering churches such great curriculum for studying God's Word."

Dr. Trevor Smith, First UMC, Sallisaw, Oklahoma

"I love the Efird Bible Study Program! My Sunday School class has used several of your workbook lessons (Revelation, Romans, Genesis, and currently Mark) and I've learned so much."

Ryan O'Leary, Davidson UMC, Huntersville, NC

"We have used several of the Efird Bible Study DVD's - Romans, Acts, Psalms and Revelation and feel we have benefitted greatly from them. Actually, when we finished Revelation, we said we'd like to start it all over again and this fall we plan to do so, as a review for those who participated and for those who did not hear it the first time. Thank you for this series - we love Mickey Efird!"

 Sandra Singleton, Montgomery Presbyterian Church Montgomery, WV

"At my previous church we used several of Dr. Efird's studies. The people loved the clarity with which he taught the many theological concepts, background cultural ideas and history he offered in the studies. His particular style of teaching is unassuming and encourages a depth of study and discussion that is fresh and exciting. I loved taking his classes in seminary and love having this opportunity to share his teaching with the churches I serve! I am ordering his studies to share with my new, current appointment."

Jenny Wilson, Wrightsboro UMC, Wilmington, NC

"We've just finished your Genesis study at a local assisted living facility. They loved it! Everyone appreciated your humor and insights in a book they were nervous about tackling. This study also attracted several Jewish residents who added some wonderful color to the discussions. They've already decided to use your studies on the birth narratives, Psalms, and the passion narratives in the near future. Thanks!"
 

Trip Lowery, Mighty Wind UMC, Kill Devil Hills, NC

"I went through the study on Revelation for my personal growth and learning and discovered that I didn't have a clue as to what was in the book of Revelation. My sunday school class ( a group of about 40) is now going to start the study after the first of the year. My small group that meets weekly, which my wife and I have been a part of for the past 15 years, are going to start the Efrid Acts of the Apostles study that I am going to order tonight. I hope to eventually go through many of these studies."

Bill Holubec, Sierra Vista UMC, San Angelo, TX

 "I participated in and co-led several of the Efird studies when I was serving at another church. I found them accessible, engaging and well received. They were also easy to lead, providing for some good discussion and Biblical and theological growth."

Rev. Denise Childers, St. George's UMC, Fairfax, VA

"We have used several studies with our Adult Bible Study Group (Mark, Acts, Revelation, and John). Dr. Efird exposes our people to good Biblical scholarship in a way that is challenging, yet is not so intimidating as to threaten."

R. Wright Turbeville, Jordan UMC, Manning, SC

"Our first study was the Revelation Series and we used it for an adult Sunday School Class . As a pastor, I was seaching for an alternative to traditional class material that would interest a group of young adults who for one reason or another did not enjoy the traditional material......With your DVD we experienced greater discussion from the participants - and they actually read the assigned scripture.... this was a wonderful way to reach people who do not enjoy traditional Sunday School Class material."

Rev. Dennis Calcote, Sartinville UMC, Jayess, MS

"Dr. Efird's studies have been a wonderful tool for me in my personal studies as well as in Bible Study groups. His way of teaching the scriptures is easy to understand and those who have participated have learned a lot and enjoy his style of humor and keeping things simple so they can be understood. I would recommend any of his studies."

David Brown, Potts Valley Charge, Covington, VA

"Dr. Efird's Revelation study gave me a deeper understanding of the meaning of Revelation. I felt there had to be more to this book of the Bible than milinialists preached. His insight gave me hope rather than the despair of end of the world teachings." 

J. Kirk Price, Powhatan UMC, Virginia

"We have been doing the Mickey Efrid studies for two years now and the groups have grown (in number and in spiritual depth). He is so understandable."

Mrs. Gloria Bishop, layperson, First United Methodist Church, Rockwall, TX

"I love your new web site! Especially the opportunity you give to actually hear Dr. Efird talk about the book of John. Our pastor, Duane Partin, introduced our congregation to Dr. Efird's Bible Study on Revelation. Dr. Efird answers all the concerns/questions we have had and puts a smile on our faces! He is humorous, down to earth and I would love to have been in one of his classes in college. He teaches directly from scripture - what a blessing he is to us all."

Mrs. Ginny Wellington, layperson, Angier UMC, NC

"Love your new web site! I love Dr. Efird and his approach to the scriptures. His open, honest yet "down home" approach to people has a unique way of bringing the word of God to many people. All he needs to do next is to create a Bible footnoted with all his comments by chapter. Thank God for Dr. Efird!"

Rev. Ben Lockhart, Locust Grove UMC, Salem, VA

 

"Your site is wonderful!  I was so glad to add this to my Favorites list!  But more wonderful is Dr. Efird!  I had heard so much about him, but after his beginning lecture/talk this evening at St. Michael's Episcopal church in Raleigh, I am truly enthralled with his knowledge and his delivery!  It was truly a blessing to be able to absorb some of his knowledge and begin to understand the Book of Revelation."

Kimberly Cadwallader, Raleigh, NC

 

"Our young adult class is enjoying the series."

Glenda Craft, Rocky Mount UMC, Dillwyn, VA

"Mickey Efird teaches with faithfulness, creativity and energy, opening the ancient texts in ways that are ever-new.  Clergy and laity return to the refreshing well of his teaching over and over again."

Rev. Hope Morgan Ward, United Methodist Bishop, Mississippi Annual Conference

  

"People respond very warmly to Dr. Efird.  He’s fun, clear and precise, and explicit.  The theology is palatable for laypeople, not too heavy and deep that you have to digest for a long time to understand.  Dr. Efird has a winsome southern style of lecturing and teaching that is very warm, and something people really respond to – a little of Charles Kuralt’s personality."

 Dr. Ivan Peden, First UMC, Charlotte, NC 

"Dr. Efird is truly one of God's elect, who was predestined to help people interpret the books of the Bible.   His style is comfortable and cozy, making the studies a real joy.  During the Acts of the Apostles Series, our group developed a deepened spiritual connection which led to making a church banner with a quote from Acts.  The Revelation Series was a distinct epiphany for me, bringing home the message of "hope" and releasing any misunderstood fear of the book.   Thank You, Dr. Efird!"

 Patricia Gordon - St. Christopher's Episcopal Church, High Point, NC  

  

“Mickey Efird is the best scholar in the world!  I have a layperson leading our study, and the attendance is amazing.  The video curriculum works well for us and we are enjoying it thoroughly.”

 Rev. Jim Goddard; Pleasant View UMC, VA

  
"The video study on John is great!  I am running it on Wednesday mornings and nights for over 20 people.  Anyone that knows Mickey knows that he is a great teacher.  Mickey is just a blessing.  He is such a nice fellow.  He truly cares.”

Rev. Allan Murphey; Brookneal UMC, Brookneal, VA

  

"We just restarted our Wednesday night Supper Study this fall with Mickey Efird's Revelation series.  Much to my delight we had more than double the attendees at this first session than we've ever had at our studies before.  AND-the word is spreading that it is an interesting and great (and fun) study.  I expect there will be even more people at our next session this week."

Pastor Susan Brack, Providence UMC, South Hill, VA
 

 "We did Revelation in the fall.  It opened our eyes so completely.  It is a book of comfort when you are going through hard times.  Everyone is so favorably impressed that they want to get more of this man!  We've done Disciple 1, 2, and 3 and this is what we need now. We can't get enough of his Bible study." 

 Retired Rev. Richard Benninghove who serves with his wife Rev. Lorertta Benninghove; Victoria UMC, VA

 

Comments about From Genesis to Revelation:  A Comprehensive Overview of the Bible 
"In this study, Dr. Efird answered questions that I have had for a long time.  His overview of the major sections of the Bible helped me understand better how all of the Scriptures fit together.  He puts into perspective how to interpret the Scriptures by applied practices, problems, and reasoning for what was happening during Biblical times. He shares overall information that gives you a new perspective in studying and interpreting the Bible.  Dr. Efird brings humor, depth, and understanding to difficult-to-understand Scripture and gives information on why things were written as they were, and how we can apply them today."

 
"Dr. Mickey Efird has spent a lifetime sharing his excitement and sheer joy in Bible study.  Both lay people and clergy will benefit from his mastery of what the Bible says and how it relates to us today.  Mickey Efird is a treasure.  Whether you know a lot, a little or nothing about the Bible, you will be blessed by studying it with him."

Dr. Denny White, Secretary, Western NC Conference UMC, Charlotte, NC

Return to Home Page