Imagine yourself standing on the second floor of a Christian education building. You look down at the parking lot and watch the people exiting their cars. Many carry Bibles. Some carry diaper bags. Some carry refreshments. People are smiling, joking and talking about sports and the events of the weekend. The multitudes headed for Bible study also bring with them other things. They bring stress and the need for direction, comfort, encouragement and hope. There must be excellent Bible study so that people will leave better than when they arrived. Preparing mentally and spiritually during the week for excellent Bible study will make an eternal difference in people’s lives. Here are some things to consider.

1. Consider Your Calling As A Teacher. There will never be another teacher in the church age exactly like you. Just as no two people have the same fingerprints, God has uniquely created you with personality, life experiences and a spiritual journey that gifts you to teach God’s unchanging truth.
2. Study The Teaching Methods Of Jesus. Jesus used a number of different teaching methods including lecture, discussion, parables, object lessons and varied types of questions. He illustrated His teachings with words and actions. He saw the uniqueness of people and taught them differently. He knew the Old Testament scriptures.
3. Use Valuable Principles Of Lesson Preparation. Evaluate last week’s lesson. Read the scriptures early in the week as God teaches you. Meditate on the passage during the week. Pray each day. Study the teacher and learner’s material and helps such as commentaries. Develop a teaching plan. Consider something to create interest as you begin. Develop key questions. Plan the presentation and learning activities. Plan for a good application. Teach directly from your Bible with notes and other material to the side.
4. Be A Constant Student Of The Bible. Sharpen your skills by constantly reviewing the Bible. A free resource entitled, “Discover the Treasure” is available at www.alsbom.org/ss. It is a simple overview of the structure, people, places and message of the Bible. It is a good review for teachers.
5. Understand That God Is At Work As We Teach. God is active in the heart and mind of every believer as we teach. Have you ever had someone thank you for teaching something that you didn’t communicate? Who taught them? It was the active power of the Holy Spirit at work in their life.

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Rick Ellison is a Sunday School associate for the Alabama Baptist State Board of Missions. In addition to his ministry to Alabama Baptists, Rick has also carried the Olympic Torch at the 1996 and again in 2002 Winter Games along with his wife, Sheila.