Let's Go Back to the Bible

You Can Have a Great Bible Class, Too!

Every three to four years, I have the great privilege to teach a tough subject to our Senior High Bible Class.  The topic of “Dating and Sexuality” is not your average “Bible class at church,” and yet, it is one of the most needful subjects for our teens to hear from a strictly Biblical perspective.  I believe this is my sixth time teaching this class, and it is always an experience—for the teacher and the students.  Each Wednesday night is unique, and last night was no exception.

I want to commend the teens who were in class last night and tell everyone what made the class, in my opinion, one of the best.  It was not the teacher last night who made it a great class.  It was not the topic alone (the account of David and Bathsheba in 2 Samuel 11-12) that made it a great class.  It was the students who were particularly “on” last night.

First, the class was great because of their Bibles.  Most of the students brought their own Bible to Bible class!  (Yes!  You read that right!) And those who didn’t, quickly grabbed one from the supply in the room or used an app on their phone!  When I said, “Turn your Bible to 2 Samuel chapter 11,” EVERY SINGLE ONE OF THEM DID!  I knew, at that point, it was going to be a good night!

Second, the class was great because they were respectful.  That’s not to say that they have been disrespectful other nights, but their level of respect seemed heightened last night—their respect for the Bible, their respect for the teacher, and their respect for each other.

Third, the class was great because they were engaged.  Each of them was listening and paying attention (more than they usually do already).  They already knew the story of David and Bathsheba, but they seemed as interested in it as if they were hearing it for the first time.

Fourth, the class was great because they were participating.  Beyond just being engaged, they were reading, they were responding, they were shaking their heads (“yes” and “no”).  They were participating even without commenting out loud.

Fifth, the class was great because they did not get up and run out when it was over.  They stood around and had fun talking with each other and laughing for several minutes after the final bell rang.

While I want to brag on our teens, I also want to share with all of us how to have great Bible classes.  (1) Bring and use your Bible.  (2) Be respectful.  (3)  Be engaged.  (4) Participate.  (5) Enjoy being with each other.  Sunday morning and Wednesday night Bible classes are wonderful times to be together with our fellow Christians.  Let’s make them the best!