8 Practical Tips for Teaching a Bible Study
Want to lead a Bible study but not sure where to start? Whether you’re leading a small group, mentoring new believers, or teaching a class at church, having the right tools and mindset can make all the difference. That’s why we’re going to go over some helpful tips for teaching Bible studies that will help you engage your audience, deepen understanding, and create a space where spiritual growth can thrive. You can feel “ready” to take on the spiritual task of teaching others more about Christ, so let’s get started!
1. Prepare Yourself Spiritually
One of the most important steps to preparing for a Bible study is to make sure you have been in communication and alignment with the Lord. This includes, and may not be limited to, prayer, fasting, and daily study of your own.
During your prayer time, focus on compassion and love for others, as this will help prepare your heart for reaching people with his Word. Study and fast to gain proper guidance, confidence, and leading from the God. He will make you feel sure about how to proceed or even answer certain questions that may arise from your attendees.
Remember: The enemy likes to attack when he knows the Lord’s work is being done, so these steps will help protect and strengthen you from such attacks.
2. Know Your Audience
Think about who you want to give a Bible study to and what their spiritual needs are. Are they new believers needing basic understanding of foundational truths and salvation? Or are they long-time members who need encouragement and accountability for their daily walk?
If they need help understanding foundational truths, find (or create) a topical Bible study that focuses on the biblical authority, the life of Jesus, and the salvation message. If they need overall strengthening in their walk, studies that focus on faith, God’s grace, and spiritual warfare might be good areas to explore.
3. Gather Your Resources
Parkway Church has many resources for Bible Study teachers to prepare for teaching sessions. This includes:
Foundations Series materials on the Church Center app under the Bible Studies button. Videos of past sessions are available for viewing, as well as a Foundations Study Guide.
Sticky Notes from previous sermons, which are short small group lessons that focus on the topic of the previous Sunday’s sermon. Find one that focuses on the target area that you want to base your study on.
Right Now Media, which is a website that provides a library of available topic-based Bible studies. These often come in the form of video sessions with a study guide to follow along.
Create your own Bible study that’s aligned with Biblical truths using your own giftings. Above all, stick to the Word of God and you won’t be led astray.
For help gathering these resources, email 4u@parkwayoc.com.
4. Be “Real”
This is key when teaching a Bible study, as being open and honest helps your attendees feel comfortable and supported. Be open about your own experiences, testimonies, and salvation story as they relate to the study to help create a safe and honest space for your attendees.
5. Create an Inviting Environment
When teaching a Bible study, it is critical to make people feel welcome and comfortable. Remember that some may not be comfortable entering a church, and this could be the first step to show them that God’s people are welcoming and loving. This can be done by being conversational and casual rather than using formal, rigid tones that may feel cold and distant. Also, provide comfortable seating and refreshments to help make attendees feel more at home. Always remember to be both timely and prepared to keep the atmosphere focused and organized, leaving less room for distraction.
6. Seek Help from a Leader
Many of Parkway’s leadership team members have a wealth of experience and familiarity with teaching Bible studies. They are useful tools, so reach out to a pastor or Bible study leader with any uncertainties or questions you may have. You can get help preparing for your study or keep an open line of communication throughout your teaching to address any questions you or your attendees might have. Stay in alignment with leaders throughout your sessions to prevent confusion and division.
7. Follow Up
Once your Bible study is concluded, make sure you follow up with your attendees. Show them you’re there to support them on their faith journey but also keep them accountable in what they’ve learned. This could include sending them encouraging Bible verses, asking about their week, or grabbing a cup of coffee to see how they are doing and answer any questions they may have.
Again, being vulnerable during this time can also show them that they are not alone on their journey and you are there to help them. Your attendees should know they are loved and that God will never leave nor forsake them.
8. Keep a Mission Mindset
Teaching a Bible study is all about fulfilling The Great Commission. God has called us to “Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations,” (Matthew 28:19), and this mission is the entire purpose of teaching Bible studies.
Don’t let intimidation keep you from teaching a Bible study. The Lord is with you, and he can help drown out any fears or insecurities you may have. We are all called to “Go therefore,” and giving up could potentially mean a missed opportunity.
Ready for Teaching Bible Studies?
When it comes to teaching Bible studies, these helpful tips ensure your attendee feels loved, accepted, and supported by Christ and the church. If you’re new to Bible study teaching, it can be nerve-racking, but with the help of spiritual leaders, guidance from the Holy Spirit, and access to the proper tools and resources, you can develop a smooth process that helps grow and develop new believers and long-time members alike.