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Three Elements of an effective Bible Class
Three Elements of an effective Bible Class
In my last article I presented three attributes of an effective Bible teacher. In this article we will hone in on the elements a successful Bible class. Again we will consider three things. Each one of these elements must be present for any Bible class to be truly effective.
1. Information
The basic definition of teaching is to impart information. As this applies to a Bible class, the information imparted must obviously be Biblical information. Illustrations, visuals and life lessons can enhance the learning experience but must not take the place of teaching the word of God itself. It is crucial that a Bible teacher provides real substance, not just stories and moralisms. Otherwise, the students will not be learning God’s word but the teacher’s word. Only the Gospel has the power to save souls (Rom. 1:16), therefore an effective Bible class must first and foremost impart sound, clear Biblical information.
2. Application
Once a given section of Scripture is taught, it is often helpful to make practical applications to the daily lives of the students. This can be accomplished by using illustrations, personal examples or hypothetical scenarios. In order for an application to be legitimate and meaningful, it must be well thought out and based firmly on God’s word. Done correctly, the students will come away from the class better equipped to serve God in the 21st century and to face the challenges of life in our modern culture.
This doesn’t mean the Bible isn’t practical in itself. God’s word is “living and active” and is “able to judge the thoughts and intentions of the heart” (Heb. 4:12). It is a mirror that reveals our imperfections (Jas. 1:23) and a lamp that illumines our path (Psa. 119:105). The fact remains, though, that some portions of Scripture are more informational than practical; and even the portions that are inherently practical can be brought to life in a fresh way through modern applications.
Just one warning to teachers: do not rush through Scriptures to get to your applications. The bulk of time in any Bible class should be spent on God’s word. Applications are secondary.
3. Interaction
Class time is not lecture time. Conducting an effective class requires interaction with the students. Ask questions. Take questions. Facilitate discussion. If you’re teaching young children, interaction may mean marching around the room with your students like Israel did around Jericho, or some such activity. The idea is to get the students involved in one way or another. Sadly, some teachers are far too serious or controlling to allow their students to interact in any way. This is not effective. At the same time, teachers should not allow class to become discussion hour or playtime. Balance is key. And the word of God must remain the top priority.
Teaching is an art. Conducting a good Bible study requires far more than reading from the workbook like it’s a teleprompter. It requires digging into the word of God, drawing practical applications and interacting with the students. If you do this, your students will not only benefit from what they have learned, they will enjoy the process.
