Pastor Mark has created a number of Bible study resources that you’ll find in our “Books” Section. The study below, “Sacred Ground: A Bible Study to Help You Discover God in Creation” is our special study, focused just on the Bible and creation. It’s composed of a book (you can purchase below) supplemented by a video overview that compliments each session. The study is great for individual and group use.
The Bible does not begin in a sanctuary. It begins in a garden.
From the soil of Genesis to the river of life in Revelation, Scripture tells a story deeply rooted in creation. God forms humanity from dust and breath. Prophets speak of land that mourns and rivers that carry justice. Jesus teaches from hillsides, prays in wilderness, calms storms, and rises in a garden at dawn.
And yet many modern Christians have learned to treat creation as scenery rather than sanctuary.
Sacred Ground: Discovering God in Creation, Christ, and Community invites readers to return to a fully biblical vision of faith—one where earth, body, justice, and worship are inseparable. This is a Bible study both for individuals and groups, and contains a leader’s guide in the appendix.
In twenty rich and accessible sessions, Mark David explores:
- The theological foundations of creation in Scripture
- The meaning of “dominion” as stewardship rather than domination
- The prophets’ connection between justice and the health of the land
- Jesus as outdoor teacher and embodied Savior
- Sabbath for both people and the earth
- The cosmic vision of reconciliation in Christ
- Practical ways to integrate prayer, worship, and discipleship outdoors
Each session is deeply grounded in the Bible, offering a careful explanation of primary texts, engaging discussion questions, spiritual practices, and reflection prompts suitable for individuals or groups.
Written with pastoral warmth, gentle humor, and theological depth, Sacred Ground is especially resonant for progressive Christians seeking a faith that is biblically rooted, socially aware, and embodied in everyday life. It is equally helpful for church study groups, outdoor faith communities, and leaders exploring expressions such as Church of the Wild.
This is not a call to abandon the church building. It is a call to expand our imagination of where God meets us.
The Christian story does not end with escape from the world—but with its renewal. Christ is reconciling all things. The earth is not disposable. Bodies matter. Justice matters. Water, soil, bread, and breath matter.
If you long for a faith that walks gently, loves deeply, and sees creation as sacred gift, Sacred Ground will guide you into a more rooted discipleship.
The earth is the Lord’s.
And every step you take is on holy ground.