What You Should Look for in a Bible Class

Introduction:

Psalm 119:9-16. What an outstanding piece of scripture! It should be our goal to become more like the psalmist. Much of our time growing in the treasure of God’s word is should be spent in the home with family. While there can be no substitute for home bible study with our family, this church offers a wonderful asset to help each one of us grow stronger in the Lord. If I were looking for a church, I would take a long, hard look at their bible class program.  It will say a great deal about the overall spiritual health and outlook for the future of the congregation. What should you expect in a bible class?

I. Bible Classes that Glorify God.

A.     In our bible classes here, we stress respect and reverence for God.

1.     Matthew 22:36-40 – where we stress the importance of loving God and fellow man.

2.     Col. 3:1-2 – where fellow Christians stress to each other the importance of respecting God by seeking things above…

II. Bible Classes that focus on God’s word.

A.     The example has been set: Deut. 6:6-9 – with Israel of old.

1.     See also Deut. 11:18-21 – God & His teachings were discussed regularly.

B.     2 Tim. 1:3-5; 3:14-15 – what kind of impact did Lois & Eunice have on Timothy?

1.     Phil. 2:19-22 – Look at Paul’s praise of Timothy.

C.     While our bible classes will never replace the teaching that should be done in the home…

1.     From K-6th grade, our kids will go through entire bible 3 times.

2.     Adult classes – study in-depth scripture based classes – and study bible related topics that assist with spiritual growth.

III. Bible Classes that are high energy and enthusiastic.

A.     Philippians 3:7-8, 10 – Paul’s extreme desire to know God. It was his passion.

1.     Our bible class teachers find it exciting to feast on spiritual things… See Phil. 4:8-9.

B.     Our teachers work hard each week & spend many hours in advance of each class.

1.     It’s our teachers that make the difference. Let them know of your appreciation!

C.     Adult classes – teachers work hard to stress the essence of the biblical text, and…

1.     Work hard to bring in supplemental information…

2.     Work hard to bring in visuals that will help stimulate learning.

3.     Work hard to provide the best written class material available.

4.     Work hard to encourage discussion & participation…

D.    Enthusiasm that our teachers & leaders exhibit has a great effect.

IV. Bible Classes that are well planned &thought out.

A.     With each class, there is a definite goal.

1.     With our younger kids – to establish a solid foundation for Christian living.

2.     With our older kids & adults – our goal is to give participants practical & relevant instruction on how to apply Christian principles to everyday life.

B.     Each class is built around these goals. We truly want to equip people with the tools to transform their spiritual life.

1.     Romans 12:1-2

Conclusion:

A.     Tonight…we have discussed the importance of bible classes & have worked to present a picture of what a vibrant/healthy bible class program looks like.

B.     Would you like to be part of the future with this family here?

1.     Start, by becoming a part of God’s family. Obey the gospel tonight!