In addition to improving the worship and edification of our assemblies, we need to evaluate the effectiveness of our Bible classes. The principles we have considered regarding the assembly of the church must also be applied to the distributed effort of edification in each classroom. While preaching and teaching in the public assembly is vital to our spiritual growth, there is also a need for instruction in a more personal setting (Acts 20:20). Saints at different stages of spiritual growth and with different roles in the body have unique needs when it comes to spiritual nourishment (Tit 2:1-10). Separating into Bible classes is an opportunity to address these needs more directly. In this article we will discuss the distinct purpose of our Bible class period and evaluate how we can most effectively use this time for the edification of the body.
We first need to consider our purpose. Why do we separate into Bible classes? Why not just have another sermon? There is obviously unique value in the more intimate discussion-oriented setting of a Bible class. We need to take full advantage of this class format. We must evaluate the division of our classes, the focus of our study, the style of teaching, and the participation of all involved if we want to be purposeful and effective in this effort.
This starts with organization. Classes need to be divided into groups with similar spiritual needs. It is understood in secular education that a 1st grader and 5th grader do not learn at the same level or in the same way. Spiritual education does not eliminate this type of distinction, neither for children or adults. A newborn Christian does not learn most effectively the same way that a life-long Bible student does. Granted, the facilities available and number of capable teachers in a local church may limit the organizational options. Yet, as much as we are able, we need to be purposeful in the division of our classes.
The topics studied in each of these classes must also be chosen thoughtfully. The shepherds of a local flock must strive to be in-tune to the spiritual needs of all the sheep and guide them each to the type of nourishment they need most. Some will need milk and others will need meat; neglecting either would do harm to the body (Heb 5:12-14). Some issues may also be more pressing or applicable to certain groups (Tit 2:1-10). Yet, we all need a balanced diet for proper spiritual growth (Acts 20:20, 27). This takes serious planning and forethought. The collective nourishment of pulpit preaching and individual nourishment of personal study factor into this spiritual diet as well.
Once classes are organized, the responsibility falls to the teachers to conduct each of these studies in the most effective way. This responsibility is not one to be taken lightly (James 3:1). It is the teacher’s duty to make sure things do not digress into “fruitless discussion” (1 Tim 1:6). While the Bible class setting is not intended to be a monologue, neither should it be a discussion free-for-all. The teacher must strive to lead the discussion in the most profitable direction. While certainly encouraging participation and striving to engage everyone in the study, he must always maintain control of where the class is moving. Yet, a teacher cannot lead other students where he has not first been himself. A teacher must put in the time and effort to have a firm and deep understanding of the topic or text he is teaching (1 Tim 1:7).
The teacher is not the only one who must prepare if we want to have an effective Bible class, however. What distinguishes a class from a sermon or lecture is the participation and input of all the students. Yet, for this participation to be uplifting it cannot just be thoughtless contributions of whatever happens to come to our minds in discussion. We must all “consider” how best to stir up and build up one another in our Bible classes, just as we do in our assembly (Heb 10:24). We must strive to offer comments and questions that are “good for edification according to the need of the moment, so that it will give grace to those who hear” (Eph 4:29). It is important that we all seek to be actively involved in our classes, but we must be involved in a way that is well thought out, edifying, and fruitful.
In conclusion, we must all work together to raise the bar in our Bible classes. We must strive more and more to take full advantage of this personal teaching format. In organization, leadership, and participation we need to keep our standards high. The building up of the Lord’s body is too important to cut corners or simply maintain the status quo. Our goal must always be “the measure of the stature which belongs to the fullness of Christ” (Eph 4:11-13). The edification of our Bible classes is a vital part of working toward that aim.