The Discipleship Bible School—known as DBS—is an intensive 12-week journey through the entire Bible.
From Genesis to Revelation, you will discover how every book contributes to one unified story. Through teaching, personal study, small-group reading, and practical application, you will grow in your understanding of God’s character, His redemptive plan, and your place within His story.
DBS is not simply about gaining more biblical knowledge. It is about encountering God through His Word and allowing truth to transform the way you think, live, and serve.
You don’t need to be a Bible expert. You need curiosity, commitment, and a heart that is ready to be shaped by the Word of God.
Read the entire Bible in community and discover how its 66 books come together to tell one story of creation, redemption, and restoration.
Read the entire Bible aloud in small groups
Follow the chronological flow of Scripture
Explore the historical context of each book
Recognize different biblical literary genres
Discover God’s character throughout the story
Learn a practical method for studying Scripture carefully, understanding it within its original context, and applying biblical truth to your everyday life.
Observe what the text actually says
Understand its historical and cultural context
Identify important themes and biblical principles
Apply Scripture to your character and decisions
Learn to prepare and facilitate a Bible study
Each week explores a different portion of Scripture. You will receive teaching, examine the biblical text, and connect every book to God’s greater redemptive story.
By the end of DBS, you will have a clearer understanding of the Bible, practical tools for lifelong study, and greater confidence in communicating God’s Word to others.
DBS is a full-time, immersive school. Learning happens through teaching, personal study, reading Scripture aloud, group conversations, mentorship, and practical application.
Small groups are at the heart of the DBS experience. Together, you will ask honest questions, compare observations, discuss what you are learning, and encourage one another to respond to God.
Teaching on each section of Scripture
Reading the Bible aloud in small groups
Personal study and homework
Inductive Bible study
Group discussions
Worship and intercession
One-on-one mentorship
Preparing and leading Bible studies
Yes. Successful completion of a YWAM Discipleship Training School, including its outreach phase, is a prerequisite for DBS.
DBS builds upon the foundations of discipleship, community, and mission developed during DTS.
No. You do not need formal theological education or an extensive knowledge of Scripture.
DBS is designed to help you understand the Bible’s overall story and develop practical tools for studying it. You should, however, come prepared for a focused and academically intensive season.
Yes. During the 12-week school, students read all 66 books of the Bible.
Much of the reading happens aloud in small groups, creating space for shared discoveries, discussion, questions, and personal application.
DBS is a full-time course. Homework includes Bible reading, studying passages, identifying God’s character and redemptive plan, developing application principles, and preparing to facilitate group discussions.
Students should expect to dedicate significant time and attention to the school.
For students participating in YWAM River City’s Year of Missions, DBS prepares you for the final missions deployment.
This practical phase gives you the opportunity to apply Scripture, ministry experience, leadership, and cross-cultural skills in a local or international setting.
DBS also provides a strong foundation for continued training with the University of the Nations, leading Bible studies, discipling others, serving in missions, and communicating God’s Word wherever He calls you.
We want to hear your story, answer your questions, and help you discern whether DBS is the right next step in your journey.